A YOUNG golfer from County Durham is showing early signs he may have the talent to one day emulate the feats of his hero, Tiger Woods.

Patrick Schaible, from Headlam, near Staindrop, is making good progress in the national Wee Wonders golf competition sponsored by HSBC.

The eight-year-old Staindrop Primary School pupil has won through to the final regional stage of the competition after winning a North-East qualifier at Matfen Hall in Northumberland.

Competing in the seven to eight years category, Patrick went round the par three course in 36 shots to earn his place in the next round at Wigan on July 3.

If he is successful there, he will go on to compete in the national finals at the famous St Andrews course.

The youngster, who plays left-handed, has achieved his success despite suffering from attention deficit disorder.

His mother, Nicola Schaible, believes his golfing ability and love of the game helps his concentration levels.

She said: "He keeps focused on his golf because he likes it so much. He will sit for three hours chipping balls into a basket. It's good for him to be really good at something."

Patrick first began swinging a club at about the age of two, when the family lived in Florida.

He was encouraged by his father, Keith, and both are now members of Barnard Castle Golf Club. Patrick has been coached for the last three years by the club professional, Darren Pearce.

They also practice on the new nine-hole course at Headlam Hall Hotel, where they became one of the first family members.