He claimed the clubhouse lead, with a one-shot advantage over Stephen Leaney and Kent's Warren Bennett who finished with five birdies in his last six holes for a 66.

Woosnam, who defends his World Matchplay title next month, was four-under after the first round and was keen to build on his promising start.

His success will come as a timely boost for Europe's beleaguered Ryder Cup team.

While Woosnam is not playing at the Belfrey, he is vice-captain of the European team.

And skipper Sam Torrance will be hoping this sudden up-turn in the Welshman's fortunes will have a knock-on effect with his out-of-form team.

Woosnam moved to the top of the leaderboard with a magnificent run of eight birdies in the first 12 holes as he took advantage of glorious conditions in Cologne.

At that point the course record of 63, set by Roger Davis four years ago, was well within his sights.

But having holed some huge putts all day, Woosnam inexplicably missed a two-footer for par and slipped back to 11-under, before another birdie saw him reach a half-way total of 132.

"The shakes on those little putts still haven't gone away but I holed some monsters so I can't complain," said Woosnam.

Woosnam also had words of encouragement for players worried about their form going into The Belfry encounter in two weeks.

"It only takes a couple of good rounds under your belt and you're away again," he said.