The long-running James Brearley Lancashire Open has been designated as a PGA North Region Order of Merit tournament.
And it will become the eighth ranking event in an already record schedule.
Its status has been upgraded to mark 10 years' sponsorship by the Blackpool-based stock broking and investment management firm and is certain to attract a big field of professionals and leading amateurs to North Shore on August 16-18.
Regional secretary Graham Maly said: "Given the increased support over the years, driven by the excellent prize-fund and superb condition of the course, we are having to stage two pre-qualifying rounds."
The Lancashire Open was instigated as a county fixture in 1973 when it was won by Ryder Cup player Alex Caygill. Other European Tour professionals to claim the title were Ian Mosey, Andrew Chandler and Denis Durnian.
Record number of victories is five by Ged Furey and in recent times David Shacklady has claimed the title on three occasions and Barry Taylor twice including last year.
The 36-hole tournament will be followed by a pro-am.
David Hannis, director James Brearley & Sons, commented "The decision to go regional not only helps raise the profile of the event throughout the North but makes it accessible to areas where we have a high concentration of clients.
"This is hopefully a further endorsement of how well received the course and facilities at North Shore are viewed by the PGA membership in the area."
North Shore secretary John Morris added: "We look forward to introducing our club and its facilities to a wider range of PGA members and amateurs.
"It has been very noticeable over the last 10 years how the event has grown in stature and status and is now very much embedded into our club's calendar."
** The pre-qualifiers are at North Shore on July 5 and Normanton on July 21.
17 March, 2010