FIRST ROUND LEADERBOARD GB&Ire unless stated -6 James Heath, Miguel Angel Jimenez (Sp), Gary Emerson, David Lynn, Peter Senior (Aus), Benoit Teilleria (Fr) -5 Ian Woosnam, Stuart Little

The 22-year-old, a protege of Nick Faldo, only turned professional in November and is relying on invites.

He dropped a shot at the first but recovered to post seven birdies, while mentor Faldo carded an error strewn 72.

Veteran Peter Senior overcame a double bogey to join the leading group, while Ryder Cup captain Ian Woosnam is one back after five birdies in his 64.

Senior, winner of 26 titles around the world but who only just retained his Tour card in 115th place last season, is using former Olympic swimming champion Neil Brooks as his caddie.

"I've only had four birdies in two weeks and suddenly I have eight in one day," Senior said.

"When you don't play as much nowadays, as is the case with me, you find it hard to get your short game going. But I'm starting to get it back."

Heath revealed that a telephone conversation with Faldo last week has had a positive effect on his game.

"I was getting frustrated with finishing 40th and 50th in tournaments so I spoke to Nick and he cleared up a few things for me," Heath explained.

"It's nice to know you can make a call to him, he's a cool guy. It was just tiny stuff but, added together, it all makes a big thing."

The leaders also share a course record for the Roman Road lay-out, which is being used this week while the main Wentworth Hills course at Celtic Manor, venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, has some reconstruction work.