Kent golfer Matt Haines finished second in the St Omer Open in June

Chatham golfer Matt Haines has won a European Tour card for the first time due to his Challenge Tour ranking.

The 20-year-old won the Apulia San Domenico Grand Final in Italy to finish second in the final order of merit.

That gives him playing rights to participate in a number of tournaments on the main tour next season.

Haines, part of the Walker Cup team in 2009, came second in the St Omer Open in France in June, just a month after turning professional.

"I can't wait to get onto the European Tour," Haines told the Tour website. "It's great to end with my first win. I've learnt a lot about my game and myself this season.

"This year, and especially this win, will give me a lot of confidence to take into next season. And, if I can keep doing what I've been doing and playing the way I've been playing, I see no reason why I can't do well.

"There are obviously a lot of great players on the main tour, but I've got confidence in my own abilities."

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