English youngster scoops Sir Henry Cotton award for 2011

Tom Lewis has been named the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year for 2011.

The prestigious award comes after the 20-year-old Englishman has enjoyed a fantastic year.

The youngster made history in October by winning on his third professional start on The European Tour.

"I appreciate this honour very much. It certainly tops off what has been an amazing year," said Lewis,

"It was a great year and a privilege to be part of the winning Walker Cup team in my final amateur event. But now I have a two year exemption on The European Tour and can't wait to get started in 2012.

"I am very proud to be named The Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year and I feel very fortunate as there were some strong contenders for this title who played consistently well all season."

Lewis beat several strong candidates to the award including Denmark's Thorbjorn Olesen and Scott Jamieson of Scotland.