THE world's number one golfer left a present of thanks at the Buckinghamshire club where his career began.

Luke Donald has donated a signed photograph of him taken at the Open Championship to Hazlemere Golf Club, where he first picked up a set of golf clubs as a youngster.

The photo, which features Donald with star names Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson at the renowned St Andrews course, now takes pride of place in the club's reception. Also in the picture is the world number one's brother Christian, who is also a Hazlemere old boy.

The Club’s General Manager Chris Mahoney said: “The club really appreciates Luke taking time out of his busy schedule to provide the club with such a fantastic photograph that recognises the association he has with the club.”

Donald will be teeing off at the 2011 Dubai World Championship on Thursday as he bids to add to growing list of accolades. In preparation for their coverage of this event, a reporter and cameraman from Sky Sports Television visited Hazlemere Golf Club and filmed various parts of the course and club house.

They also interviewed a number of members, including Steve Morvell who was the club professional when Luke joined the club and gave him golf lessons throughout the time he was a member of Hazlemere Golf Club.