Denis Durnian has died aged 75Denis Durnian, pictured at the Manchester Open at Mottram Hall Golf Course

Tributes are being paid to a popular former professional golfer after his death at the age of 75. Denis Durnian – who holds an incredible Open Championship record which still stands more than 40 years on – was club professional at Northenden Golf Club for nine years during the 1980s.

The Wigan-born former European Tour and Senior Tour player was also a member at Chorley Golf Club – and a well-known and respected voice within coaching. In a statement, the DP World Tour, formerly known as the European Tour, said he competed on the tour for two decades after turning professional in 1969.

“He finished runner‑up on four occasions, including in a four‑man play‑off at the Greater Manchester Open in 1978, second to Nick Faldo at the Open de France in 1988, and defeats to Christy O’Connor Jnr and Seve Ballesteros in 1989 at the Jersey Open and Epsom Grand Prix of Europe respectively.

Durnian pictured in 2005(Image: Getty Images)

“His best season came in 1988, when he finished 20th on the European Tour Order of Merit,” added the tour’s statement.

Durnian played in The Open Championship every year from 1982 to 1990. He still holds the record for the lowest nine holes in Open history, going out in 28 in the second round of the 1983 championship held at Royal Birkdale, where he tied for eighth place. He narrowly missed a putt for birdie on the ninth hole for an opening 27.

Durnian joined the European Senior Tour – now known as the Legends Tour – after turning 50 and won three titles between 2000 and 2014 – the Wales Senior Open in 2001, followed by the Scottish Seniors Open and the Estoril Seniors Tour Championship in 2002.

“He represented the Rest of the World at the UBS Cup – a Ryder Cup-style team competition – in 2001 and 2002,” added the tour’s statement.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.”

Northenden Golf Club added in a statement: “Denis was a great ambassador for Northenden, keeping the club’s name in the media wherever he travelled. He was highly respected by members for his golfing record, for his forthright, no-nonsense approach to coaching, and for always making sure NGC was mentioned.

“Denis will be fondly remembered and missed by all at the club who knew him, and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”