Royal Birkdale will be Simon Wakefield's fourth Open

Newcastle-under-Lyme's Simon Wakefield is excited to be a part of the 137th Open Championship, which starts on Thursday at Royal Birkdale.

"I think this is the biggest tournament in the world, the reason why I play golf," Wakefield told BBC Radio Stoke.

"It's fantastic. It's my first time as a player at Royal Birkdale so I'm really looking forward to it."

Wakefield has a late tee-off time alongside South African James Kingston and American Jay Williamson (1503 BST).

"I've known James for a few years," said Wakefield. "We get on well so hopefully we can have a good chat and enjoy the week."

Much has been made of the absence of world number one Tiger Woods, who is missing the event following knee surgery, but Wakefield says that should not detract any attention from the eventual winner.

"Whoever wins on Sunday will not be feeling disappointed because they haven't beaten Tiger.

"Tiger in or out of the field, there is still the Claret Jug to be won and come Sunday someone is going to be very excited."