Costessey Park's Ian Ellis was the only professional to break par in the latest Norfolk PGA event at Sheringham – to retain the title he won last year with a 66.

Ellis couldn't quite match that score this time around shooting a 69, but it does mean he has claimed the maximum order of merit points from the first to pro-ams.

He said: 'I played really steady, I drove it well, I hit a lot of greens and I hit within 20ft on most holes so there was no real scrambling. 'It was nice. I'm getting more and more comfortable every time I play, worrying about my swing less. I'm just focusing on hitting it as close as I can. I can't wait for the main season to start and hopefully start winning some decent money.' added Ellis. who is targeting a lucrative return to East Region competition.

'I've got a nice healthy lead in the order of merit now. i had three wins late on in the season last year and i've had a second and a first already this year so it's nice to keep progressing. It's getting better all the time.

'I'm really looking forward to playing. Everything is in place.'

With a strong amateur team Ellis also won the team competition with a 10 under 130. Nearest the pin went to Stan Grayson while the longest drive was won by Mick Waterson.

Team: 1 130 Ian Ellis with Lawrence Osbourne, Dean Ashton and Nick Barrett. 132 Matthew Gardner (Barnham Broom) with Tony Markless, John Berry and Barry Wickham. 133 Tony Varney with Neil Newton, Jeff Smith and Jane Sheppard. 133 Mike Timson (Kings Lynn) with Ian Yule, Jamie Greenfield and Neil Jary. Professionals: 69 Ian Ellis, 70 Tony Varney, 71 Neil Lythgoe, 72 Lee Patterson (Royal Cromer), Mike Timson, Mike Jubb (Sheringham) & Michael Few (Weston Park).

Order of Merit (after two events): 1 Ian Ellis 20points, Neil Lythgoe 11, Tony Varney 8�, Craig Graver 8, Michael Few 6�, Mike Jubb 2.