One step closer

Lily May Humphreys led a group of 22 golfers into Final Qualifying for the AIG Women’s Open.

Humphreys stormed to a five-under-par 66 during Pre-Qualifying at Delamere Forest Golf Club on Sunday.

She finished three strokes clear of Delamere Forest club member Gemma Clews, who was the only player to shoot a two-under 69.

Ireland’s Annabel Dimmock, Australia’s Stephanie Bunque, Scotland’s Hannah McCook and England’s Ellen Hume all finished on one-under.

Five players finished level-par while eight signed for a one-over 72.

Kristyna Napoleaova, Nicola Slater and Kelsey Bennett all came through an eight-player play-off to take the final three places on offer.

Final Qualifying will take place at Crail Golfing Society on Monday 19 August, when a minimum of three players will earn their place in the AIG Women’s Open.

The final women’s major of the year is being staged at St Andrews – the home of golf – between 22-25 August and will feature live music from Tom Grennan on the Saturday night.