CHIP-off-the-old-block Martyn Hamer takes a giant stride in his bid to follow in his dad's footsteps when he makes his debut for England Boys against Scotland on Sunday.

The Hulme Grammar School teenager is in the 10-strong side which includes Lancashire teammate Matthew Baldwin and Cheshire duo Paul Waring and Paul Grannell for the Under-16 clash at Drumoig.

Steve Hamer turned out for England 20 times before stepping down 14 years ago and Martyn is determined to beat his record.

''There's a long way to go but that's my target,'' said Martyn, a one handicapper at North Manchester, who admitted he was a ''little surprised'' to get the call.

''I'd not been playing particularly well this season because I've also been studying for my GCSEs but maybe because I scored the most points for Lancashire when we won the English County Finals had something to do with it.''

The selectors also took note of his performance as he finished runner-up in the English Schools' Championship, sixth place in the McGregor Tournament, and third best Brit in the Pannal Boys' tournament.

Martyn, 16 last month, was also voted the Golf Foundation's Most Improved Player award earlier in the year.

And he owes most of his success to dad and coach Ged Furey, the Pleasington pro.

Steve made the ultimate sacrifice two years ago of quitting the game to caddie for his lad but he is considering making a comeback next season.

''He's given me tremendous support but I've told him he can leave me to it from now on,'' added Martyn, who is also determined to play for the Lancashire senior side, although ultimately he intends to turn professional.