Tom Lewis named Rookie of the Year

Tom Lewis has been named as The Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year for 2011 by The European Tour.

The 20-year-old Englishman made history in October by winning his first professional tournament in only his third appearance at the Portugal Masters.

Lewis follows in the footsteps of six-time Major champion Nick Faldo, having both developed their skills at Welwyn Garden City Golf Club in Hertfordshire.

Lewis burst onto the scene as an amateur when he shot an opening round of 65 at Royal St Georges to lead The Open back in July.

It was the lowest round by an amateur in The Open's history and made him the story of the week behind the eventual winner, Darren Clarke.

Before turning pro in September, Lewis also played an integral role in the Walker Cup at Royal Aberdeen for Team GB&I in defeating the US.

On collecting the accolade, Lewis said: "I appreciate this honour very much. It certainly tops off what has been an amazing year.

"I think my dad is more excited about me winning this award than my first Tour victory in October! I am very proud to be named The Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year and I feel very fortunate as there were some strong contenders for this title who played consistently well all season.

"I might not even have been a golfer if it wasn't for my dad, but he has definitely made me into the golfer I've become. He is really the person who made this possible."