GOLFER Lee Westwood will set a new record when a prestigious European Tour event comes to the district this summer. 

The Ryder Cup star will host the Betfred British Masters, which will see a host of the game's world class performers tee-off at Close House, from July 30 to August 2. 

Westwood, who is attached to the Heddon-on-the-Wall club as its touring professional, will host the event, just as he did back in 2017 when Close House staged the British Masters for the time.

In doing so, the 46-year-old will become the first player to host the event, which dates back to 1946, on two occasions. 

"I'm really looking forward to hosting the British Masters again,” said Westwood. "I had a great time hosting it in 2017.

"You are busy during the week and it is hard work as you haven't just got golf to concentrate on, you have to consider other things like keeping sponsors happy and different publicity things, but it is great fun. Last time it was a succesful tournament and hopefully it will be again.

"I think we got it pretty much right last time. We had a great turnout. Obviously it is earlier in the year this time so hopefully the weather will be better in July and August. We've also made a few alterations to the golf course, so hopefully that will be even better."

Tickets are now on sale for the event, and Westwood is backing North-East sports fans to turn out in force. 

"I'm sure it will be well supported again and there will be another great atmopshere," said Westwood, who has enjoyed an impressive start to 2020, winning the season's first Rolex Series event, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship last month, to claim his 25th European Tour title.

"Whether it is the football team or the Great North Run, they always come out in their droves up there. It makes a massive difference if there are a lot of people there creating an atmopshere."

For ticket information visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/betfred-british-masters-2020-tickets-61615091397?aff=ETWebsiteSchedulePage