Friday, June 30 2006 15:39 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Guyancourt (France): England's John Bickerton took a two-stroke lead from New Zealand's 2005 US Open champion Michael Campbell at the end of the first day of the EPGA French Open here Thursday.

Bickerton, ranked 32nd in Europe this year, shot a stunning eight-under-par 63 to help organisers forget the blow of losing top draw Scot Colin Montgomerie to fatigue before the tournament began.

"I just made a few putts today (Thursday) and that's what made the difference," said Bickerton.

Home favourite Jean Van de Velde shot a two-under-par 69 to keep in sight of the leaders while champion for the last two years Jean-Francois Remesy sits ninth, just one shot ahead of his compatriot.



"I am happy with my day. I am in the red (under par) and to finish in the red is always good," said Van de Velde.