ASHLEY Siddle won through to the fourth round of the English Men's Amateur Championships yesterday -- but has had to sacrifice today's ELGA Boys Championship because of it.

The 18-year-old overcame a back injury to beat Tom Peacock in the third round at Saunton, Devon, after beating Mark Ramsdale in the second round yesterday morning. He teed off against Mark Bell at 9.30am today.

He would have travelled back for the ELGA Boys competition -- held this year on his home course Rossendale -- last night had he been knocked out in Devon.

"I took a lot of painkillers at lunch time yesterday and had to get some muscle rub on my back, but I played well in the afternoon. My back was pretty sore this morning, though," said Siddle.

"I am disappointed that I can't play in the ELGA Boys Championship, especially on my home course."

Siddle, who won the Boys title in 1999, tipped his friend Ben Scott, who won it last year, to retain it today.

"I spoke to him yesterday to send my best wishes," said Siddle. "And he sent his to me. I think he will win it."

Also in the running for today's ELGA title were Burnley's Anthony Keenan, 18, 16-year-old James Pierce from Blackburn, and Burnley's Anthony Wilson. Steven McGlynn, the Blackburn 12-year-old, has been tipped as one to watch.

The first players teed off at 9am today and the championship is likely to finish at around 7pm.