Talented young professional Tom Lewis has been awarded the title of Sir Henry Cotton rookie of the year after displaying sensational form in 2011.

The accolade, which was previously won by his home club's Sir Nick Faldo, was earned after he stormed to victory in only his third start on the European Tour.

His accomplishment was achieved 34 years after Faldo received the honour before he went on to become one of the most successful English golfers of all time.

"I appreciate this honour very much," 20-year-old Lewis commented. "It certainly tops off what has been an amazing year."

The young star catapulted into the public eye with an opening round of 65 in this year's Open Championship at Royal St George's, which was the lowest round by an amateur in the tournament's history.

He has become the 47th recipient of the Sir Henry Cotton rookie of the year award and the 22nd Englishman to earn the title, with Paul Casey, Ian Poulter and Tony Jacklin among the fellow winners.