SIMON Eaton is hoping to achieve a personal best at this year's Open.

The Burnley-attached professional, who goes to regional qualifying at Wilmslow on Monday, has never been past the final qualifying stage.

But the 25-year-old is hoping 2001 will be the year he goes all the way.

"I got through to final qualifying for the Open in 1999 but I missed out by about six or seven shots," said Eaton, who is sponsored by Stuart Engineering of Accrington and Trufab of Rochdale.

"I'd love to qualify, it's a brilliant experience and it is your chance to play with the top field of golfers. It is what you look forward to every year.

"You have to think you have a chance and that you are going to do it. There is no point in going in with a negative attitude."

Final qualifying takes place for the top performing players from the regionals for two days from Sunday July 15.

And after final qualifying there are just three days until the start of the championship, played this year at Lytham & St Annes.

"There are some big names who have to qualify this year," said Eaton, who works at Clitheroe driving range.

"Ian Woosnam has to get through final qualifying and Jean Van De Velde as well.

"I have had a couple of days off this week to get some practice in and I think I'll be ready.

"My girlfriend's brother Anthony (Keenan, Derek Chadwick Trophy semi-finalist at Burnley) is caddying for me and Wilmslow is a good course." And he is competing in the Leeds Cup in the days in between.Eaton admits his golf 'hasn't been brilliant' this year but hopes to re-gain his form for Monday.

"I have played at Wilmslow quite a bit," he said. "It's a good course and my girlfriend's brother Anthony (Keenan, Derek Chadwick Trophy quarter finalist) will be caddying for me.