BLIND GOLF STAR 'NOT BLIND' Probe after champ wins by 24 strokes.

Byline: By Geoff Lakeman

A CHAMPION blind golfer is on the spot after fans said they suspected he could see more than he let on.

A probe has been launched after David Morris triumphed in the totally blind category at the world championships last month for the second time.

The 61-year-old won by a massive 24 strokes, despite having played little golf for two years due to a shoulder injury.

Morris, of Plymouth, first landed the world title in 2002 and became the only person ever to defend it in the B1 category of blind golf.

But the English Blind Golf Association launched a probe after a complaint that Morrismay have had an advantage over other competitors at the event in Melbourne, Australia.

The B1 category states that a competitor must have 'no sight at all up to light perception' and is 'not able to recognise the shape of a hand at any distance'.

Barrie Ritchie, of the EBGA, said a complaint had been made claiming Morris may be able to see more than he admits.

He said the champ was tested before joining the association and had the relevant paperwork to support his golfing ability.

Ritchie also confirmed that Morris, who is in Japan for another tournament, has been made aware of the complaint and the investigation.

Former district councillor Morris also has a house in Newquay where he used to be a member of the local golf club.

According to one Newquay resident, Morris could often be seen walking without the aid of a stick or a guide dog.

His friend, Alan Tutte, said: 'There has been this sort of tongue-wagging for years but he has also been going to Moorfields Eye Hospital for years.'

Blind golfers use a guide to negotiate their way round the course and line up their shots.

After the tournament in Melbourne, Morris praised his guide saying: 'I wouldn't have been able to do it without her.'

CAPTION(S):

FORE: Golfer Morris is registered blind