REMEDY Oak will welcome spectators for their first staging of the local Open qualifying event later this month.

The tournament is the first step towards the 2013 Open Championship at Muirfield on July 18-21.

The prestigious Dorset club, near Horton, is one of 14 clubs nationwide to host a Regional Qualifying round.

Remedy Oak has taken over the tenure from Ferndown, who have successfully hosted the event for the past five years.

“We are looking forward to organising the tournament and want to share it with local golfers,” said Remedy Oak corporate day manager Derek Silk.

To obtain entry to the course, however, visitors will have to register with the club to meet health and safety standards.

“We have already got a list of more than 200 people wanting to attend,” added Silk. “It is important for anyone interested in attending to contact us first.”

Club members and Bournemouth University students have volunteered their services for marshalling and car park duties.

Up to 130 professionals and top amateurs will tee up for the 18-hole competition on Monday, June 24.

Among the local stars likely to feature are Parkstone professional Martyn Thompson and former European Tour player Lee James.

Thompson will be looking to qualify for his third Open after playing at St Andrews and Carnoustie in 1995 and 1999 respectively, while ex-British amateur champion James played in the 1994 Open at Turnberry, before going on to play in the 1995 US Masters in Augusta.

Another local professional with Open Championship experience is Dudsbury’s Lee Thompson who also played at Carnoustie in 1999.

Remedy Oak’s director of golf Nigel Tokely said: “Remedy Oak is very honoured and pleased to be asked to host the Open Regional Qualifiers. “The members have been very supportive in volunteering their time to help make the day a success.

“Special thanks must go to Ferndown Golf Club, whose experience along with time their members are giving has been invaluable,” added Tokely.

With only eight places up for grabs, competition will be fierce with the likelihood of a play-off to decide the final few places.

Local Final Qualifying takes place over four courses – Dunbar, Gullane No 1, North Berwick and The Musselburgh – on July 2.

Spectators for the Remedy Oak tournament must telephone 01202 812070 to register.