Robert Dinwiddie, a three-time Challenge Tour winner and former England No 1 amateur, will compete in the DP World Tour Qualifying School, which takes place at The Northumberland Golf Club in High Gosforth Park from September 8 to 11.
The event marks the first stage of qualifying for the DP World Tour, the premier men’s professional golf tour in Europe.
Mr Dinwiddie, who grew up in Barnard Castle, said: “I got though last year by the skin of my teeth.
Robert playing St Andrews in 2022 (Image: Jane Barlow/PA)
“But I feel pretty good about my game and over the next couple of weeks it’s a case of getting things tournament sharp.
“I miss playing golf at the top level and I love competing, because it’s the only time you really find out where your game is at – and it matters.”
The 43-year-old turned professional in 2006 and is one of 50 players taking part, with competitors traveling from the US, Australia, France, Mexico, Spain, and Switzerland.
Although now based in London, Mr Dinwiddie’s golfing journey began in the North East.
He said: “I have probably played or coached at every course there – and I particularly like Northumberland Golf Club.
“The course is fun to play and there really is nowhere else like it.
“Because Newcastle Racecourse runs through it, you have to play over the racetrack and that adds a fair bit of excitement.”
Spectators are welcome free of charge, with fans invited to watch emerging talent and seasoned professionals alike compete for a place on the tour.
Other notable names in the field include Harrison Crowe, Viraj Garewal, Cade Kilkenny, Scott Fallon, and Juan Carlos Rodriguez.
Northumberland Golf Club is one of just 10 venues globally selected to host the first stage of Qualifying School and is under a three-year agreement to do so until at least 2028.
James Thomas, general manager of Northumberland Golf Club, said: “There will be a fantastic atmosphere and the chance to see some superb golf, so we hope to welcome as many people as possible.”