Rookie Wood has already secured his Tour card for next year

Nailsea's Chris Wood says he is thoroughly enjoying the prestige of being at The Open as a professional.

As an amateur at Royal Birkdale last year Wood, 21, won the silver medal after securing a joint-fifth finish.

Wood tees off at 1015 BST on Thursday at Turnberry alongside US Ryder Cup star Boo Weekly and Rod Pampling.

"I've already had to sign some autographs," Wood told BBC Radio Bristol. "It's nice to come to The Open and be recognised."

He added: "I've gained so much experience over the last 12 months. I've learnt so much in a year. Coming back as a professional is pretty good."

Wood turned professional after being the top-placed amateur at Royal Birkdale and has already secured his tour card for next season.

Turnberry is playing pretty tough - miss a fairway and you're struggling Chris Wood

"The year I've had has been pretty special. I've been looking forward to playing in The Open since the Sunday it finished last year.

"I am so happy to be playing in The Open again - it's as good as it gets really."

Wood, who grew up playing his golf at Long Ashton in Bristol, anticipates a stern test in Scotland.

"It's playing pretty tough - miss a fairway and you're struggling," he said. "There could be a lot of two irons off the tee. It's in great condition, but it's going to be tough."

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