A Cobham pupil has set his sights on becoming the next Rory McIlroy, after being crowned Surrey U14 order of merit scratch champion.

Scott Murray, a year 8 pupil at Reed’s School, beat fierce competition from the 64 top golfers in the county.

He won four tournaments, including the final, and was placed in the top three in four others, making Scott the youngest winner of the title, aged 12.

The victory is added to the U13 county championship Scott won last year aged 11 and he has been selected for county and national teams two years above his age group.

Scott is part of the Reed’s School golf academy, which provides a comprehensive programme of development, delivered in association with PGA coaches.

Guy Murray, Scott’s father, said: “Scott started in the Reed’s golf academy two years ago, which we have found to be an excellent experience. Being able to combine his academic studies with his golfing commitments has had a positive impact on his overall development.

“Scott has had a great season cutting his handicap from eight to four and, with the great support network at Reed’s, we expect him to improve again next year.”

Scott played in one of the three teams in the academy that recently beat Reigate Grammar School 3 – 0 in damp and windy conditions to advance to the regional finals of the HMC foursome’s match-play competition, where they play Epsom College.

Terry Harrison, head of the golf academy, said: “We are thrilled with Scott’s success and as Reed’s have won the regional finals of the HMC foursomes for the previous two years we have high hopes for this year too.”