Young Eddie Pepperell equalled the course record on the way to a six-stroke victory in the Frilford Heath Gold Medal, writes Michael Knox.

The 15-year-old England junior international, who lives in Abingdon, went round Frilford's Green course in a six-under-par 63.

Six birdies meant that he covered the first nine holes in an astonishing 29 strokes, before parring his way home.

Following his morning round of 72 on the Blue course which included an eight at the 17th, Pepperell's stunning 63 gave him a two-round tally of 135 to clinch a convincing victory in this prestigious amateur tournament.

Pepperell, playing on his home course, finished six shots clear of runner-up Matt Johnson (Chipping Norton), while Ben Paterson, of Frilford, was fourth on 142.

Long recognised as an outstanding prospect, Pepperell, has been in a rich vein of form recently.

Only last week, he equalled the North Oxford course record with a six-under-par 62.

Following these excellent displays, his handicap is now plus 1.5, which, it is believed, makes him the top player of his age in England.

"I believe I can become the best golfer in the world that's the way you've got to think if you're going to make it," said Pepperell who will leave school at 16 to concentrate on golf.

At present, he attends John Mason School, Abingdon, who allow their star golfer a few lessons off during the week so he can practise.

Pepperell, whose is coached by Alisdair Barr, from the Lavender Park Golf Range at Ascot, is practising at least two hours a day as he prepares for a busy programme of events.

Despite his young age, he will be one of the favourites to win the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Amateur Championship at Ellesborough, Bucks, tomorrow and Saturday.

Next week, he will playing in the prestigious Berkshire Trophy, while he has already been picked in England's under 15 team for the Nations Cup at Worthing.

Pepperell, who took up the game as a four-year-old, is Oxfordshire golf's greatest prospect for at least 20 years.

He is hoping to find some sponsors to back his professional career, although he wants to stay an amateur long enough to compete in the Walker Cup against the USA.