CUMBERWELL Park professional Steve Surry had to change his travel plans after making it through to the final stage of qualifying for golf's European Tour.

Surry claimed the runner-up spot in last week's first qualifying stage with a superb eight-under-par finish at the Sherry Golf Club, in southern Spain.

The 24-year-old had booked a flight back to England for Sunday evening, but will now remain on the continent to compete in the final stage of qualifying at the San Roque Club.

Surry was back in the swing yesterday morning, when he teed up for the first of a possible six rounds he must play to earn his Tour Card.

Competition in San Roque will be fierce as players who failed to retain their card last year join the list of those dreaming of a first season with the stars.

The field will include Irish golfer Philip Walton, who sank the winning putt in the 1995 Ryder Cup, and Tiger Woods' best friend Notah Begay.

Surry played a practice round earlier this week with Sweden's Patrik Sjoland, a two-time winner on the European Tour who finished fifth in the order of merit in 1998.

The top 30 finishers this week will be invited to join the Tour, while those who make the cut after four rounds will earn a place on the Challenge Tour, the second tier of golf on the continent.

"It would be brilliant if I could make it through to the final two rounds here," said Surry.

"Whatever happens this has been my best season to date and the whole experience has been fantastic. All week I've been trying to watch some of the top players, to see how they approach the practice rounds and try to pick up a few tips."

Among the galaxy of stars competing at the San Roque Club are Spaniards Carlos Rodiles and Miguel Angel Martin, and Germany's Alex Cejka.

But Surry believes he could have at least one factor on his side this week - the weather.

Since the players arrived in Andalucia it has not stopped raining, and Surry says he feels at home already.

"This rain might not be such a bad thing for me.

"It's a bit like being back at Cumberwell Park," he joked.

"Most of the guys who competed on the Tour last year are used to playing in warm climates in nice locations - maybe I can take advantage of that."

Surry's results this season prove he has the potential to join the game's elite. He is the leading money-winner on the Jemega Tour, a competition for professionals and amateurs in the south of England with a handicap of scratch or better.

Speaking on Wednesdey night from his hotel in Spain, Surry told the Wiltshire Times he was determined not be star-struck when he stepped onto the first tee.

He said:"It's going to be a bit weird to play alongside guys you watch on the tele every week.

"There's a few really big names here. It was nice I was able to practice alongside Patrik Sjoland - he's been in the world's top 20 before.

"Now I won't be fazed if I have to peg up with any other ex-Tour players. I will just be able to relax and give it my best shot."