FORMER Irvine golfer Jack Doherty made up for the disappointment of failing to qualify for the Open Championship by landing a berth in the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open on Sunday.

The former North Gailes member, now playing out of Rowallan Castle secured a berth in the top event for the second year running after coming through qualifying at nearby Kilmarnock Barassie.

He nailed a birdie from eight-feet at the 18th on Sunday to card a 69, leaving him on eight-under par 138 - three shots behind eventual winner Gareth Linton and will be flying the flag for Ayrshire in one of the European Tour's flagship events at Dundonald Links.

Now he will be teeing it up with the likes of Henrik Stenson and defending champion Alex Noren.

A delighted Doherty (35) said afterwards: "Dundonald is 15 minutes from my house so this week will be nice. I was delighted with how I played. The conditions were great on Sunday but really testing for the last six holes on Sunday night. I know the course well and was happy with how I played."

He is now looking forward to the top tournament, which starts on Thursday and said: "It will be a good experience, I enjoyed playing last year and finished 42nd so I will be looking to at least equal that or better it. Of course it would be nice if I was drawn to play with a big name but we will just have to see what happens. I have been playing well and finished second in a Challenge Tour event recently."