BROKENHURST Manor's Liz Bennett today secured her first Ladies' European Tour card.

The 26-year-old amateur was one of 50 players to make the cut at the final stage of qualifying school, in La Manga, Spain.

That has guaranteed her a professional exemption status for the 2009 season.

Bennett shot a two-over-par third round today, to leave her four-over for the tournament and tied for 30th position.

Although she has secured her professional status, there is still work for Bennett to do in tomorrow's final round.

Although the top 50 all gain entry onto the tour, the top 30 secure a much better exemption status, which would gain them entry to almost every event during the season.

If Bennett finishes in the top 30, her chances of securing sponsorship will also increase.