Knebworth Park golfer Jamie Rutherford has completed an amazing year by qualifying for next year’s European Tour.

The 24-year-old, who was bed-bound for eight weeks after a car accident back in February, sailed through first and second stages of European Tour Qualifying School earlier in the year to get himself into the field for the final stage at PGA Catalunya last week.

Having started slowly with two opening rounds of 72, he carded 70, 66 and 68 to ensure tied 18th place and a place on Europe’s top table yesterday (Thurday).

Rutherford told the official European Tour website: “I fractured my spine, broke my foot and did some damage to my knee when I was hit by a car.

“I didn’t actually think I’d play all season. I was hopeful to be back at the start of next year. But recovery went well, so I thought I’d go for the first stage just to see how it’d go and I played nicely. At the second stage I just kept the ball rolling and played well.

He added: “I’ve just got to enjoy next season as much as I can.

“I’ve got to put some time in but I know my game’s good enough. If I can keep progressing in the right way then hopefully I’ll have a good season.

“This week’s been a bit up and down. I’ve had some good days and played well for the most part. A couple of days were a bit tougher than I’d have liked. I can’t really believe that I’ve ended up making it.”