Benn Barham has played in two previous Opens (Getty)

Kent golfer Benn Barham is preparing for his last opportunity to qualify for The Open at Royal Birkdale.

The 32-year-old needs to be among the top five finishers who have not already qualified, when he plays in this week's Scottish Open at Loch Lomond.

Barham has played in two previous Opens - most recently at Carnoustie in 2007.

"It'd be great to play there this year but if I don't then so be it, it's not something that is a necessity for me to play in," he told BBC Radio Kent.

"I've still got the last third of the season remaining so I'm just taking one week as it comes, if I play well there and get in The Open then it's happy days.

"The Open's the biggest tournament in the world and I've been lucky enough to play in two so far," Barham added.

Barham achieved his highest European finish earlier this year by coming fourth at the Welsh Open at Celtic Manor.

Two other Kent golfers have also qualified for Royal Birkdale.

Tom Sherreard who is an amateur at Chart Hills, near Biddenden, won his qualifying tournament at Southport and Ainsdale.

Meanwhile Wildernesse Golf Club professional Peter Appleyard also claimed a place.