Yorkshire golf: Lindrick's Sam Rook is early Order of Merit leader after Raywell Classic win

He edged Andrew Lockwood, of the home club, and Huddersfield’s Tom North by a shot.

Lockwood produced scores of 74 72 while North went round twice in one-over-par 73.

Rook had shot a first-round 78 having begun the day with a double bogey six.

He battled back and after turning in three under par in the afternoon, with birdies at holes three, five and nine, he carded three further birdies on the back nine after a temporary stumble at the 10th.

The players had to contend with light rain through the day and a heavy downpour in the afternoon caused play to be suspended for 30 minutes when parts of the course started to flood.

Because of a new second green, Rook’s second round has set a new course record.

“The first round was just one of those rounds where I was hitting it good, but putting really bad,” said Rook.

“In the second round I just thought I should just try to shoot an under-par score and see where it left me, and it was a great way to start the season.”

Fulford’s Ben Plaxton won the prize for the best morning score, 72, while Hunley Hall’s Michael Hay took the afternoon prize with the same tally.

The prize for the best net 36-hole aggregate went to Sam Morrison, of Leeds Golf Centre, with 140 (70 70).

Players were restricted to no more than one prize each.

Winner Rook was one of many players who were impressed by the condition of the Hessle track.

“The course was pure,” enthused. “The greens were in very good condition for the time of year.”

The Order of Merit moves to Cleveland tomorrow with the staging of the Cleveland Salver, and the Lindrick Open Amateur, which will feature Rook at his home club.