By Robbie Mann

An amateur golfer is seeking sponsorship and donations to kick-start his career after deciding to turn professional after seven years of representing the Sussex County Golf Union.

Jonny Ingram has been a member of West Hove Golf Club since the age of 11 when his dad Tim, also a member of the golf club, introduced him to the sport.

He has won the Club Championship for the last three years and achieved an amateur handicap of -2.

Mr Ingram, 21, from Patcham, said: "Turning professional has always been a dream of mine and now having the chance to do that is a very exciting time for me.

"Finding sponsorship is vital so that I can enter and compete against the world’s best players.

"My dream is to earn my European tour card within the next five years so having the backing from different sources as well as personal income will be key to me achieving that."

To gain financial-backing, Jonny has created a new limited company, J I Golf Limited, where he is looking for future partners in regards to funding.

He promises to advertise any companies that wish to sponsor him.

Jonny aspires to play on the European tour and would like to make it a reality by the time he turns 25. He recognises the difficulties ahead but is determined to give it his best shot.