OXFORDSHIRE'S Eddie Pepperell held his nerve to win the prestigious British Masters this afternoon.

The 27-year-old, from Abingdon, led the tournament from the first round and went into yesterday's final 18 holes with a three-shot lead.

However, in tough conditions, Pepperell parred the final hole to seal a two-shot victory over Sweden's Alexander Bjork.

He picked up a cheque for around £500,000 and will see his world ranking rocket - virtually ensuring him a place in the US Masters next year.

Pepperell had seen his lead cut, but then a stunning eagle two at the tenth saw him take control again.

However, bogeys at both the 15th and 16th holes saw his advantage cut to just one shot.

Both players parred the 17th and then each found the greenside bunker on the final hole.

But Pepperell played the better shot and when Bjork missed his putt for par, the Frilford Heath member sank his par putt for victory.