Watch: Midland golfer Richard Mansell attempts a trick shot from the top of Utilita Arena Birmingham

The Betfred British Masters are just around the corner and here at the Utilita Arena Birmingham - just opposite Brindleyplace - professional golfer Richard Mansell is set to attempt an extraordinary trick shot, chipping a ball right from the roof of the arena down onto an island in the iconic canal below.

Following a series of attempts, Mansell successfully performed a remarkable trick shot, leaving attendees in awe. Despite challenging weather conditions, which led to the event starting an hour earlier than scheduled, Mansell persevered throughout all five shots before ultimately securing success - and achieving a world first.

Though the first and second attempts didn’t reach their intended mark, both were considered valiant efforts given the unfavourable climate. Undeterred, Mansell continued to try for that perfect trick shot, overcoming disappointment from the third and fourth attempts.

Ultimately, it was the “fifth time’s the charm” as Mansell achieved an impressive feat, thrilling both fans and players present at the event. I asked how he prepared for his performance.

Mansell said: “I didn’t! I got off the plane from Sweden at 2am and just came straight here and I guess I was a little bit tired, but when you’re up that high on a roof it kind of wakes you up pretty quickly. It’s something I’ve never done before - going up on the roof of an arena and try to hit a ball into an island in a canal is a little bit different to what I’m used to. So yeah, to get a hole in one on the fifth attempt wasn’t too bad. Great to see a few people come out and yeah, it was all good fun.”

This morning’s event represents a new take on the iconic 10th hole at The Belfry, and signals the start of the Betfred British Masters which is set to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo this year.

Christopher Reeve, Director of The Belfry, said: “So we’ve got the British Masters on - hosted by Sir Nick Faldo - in two weeks time. It’s going to be a great event. Lots of Europe’s best golfers coming along. Justin Rose is gonna be there. Really good fun. All the family, golfers, non-golfers, all alike, come along. We’ll really have a great time.”

Born and raised in Cannock, Mansell is a great talent who has high hopes for this year’s competition. Mansell says: “Yeah, I mean, it’s a tournament that’s close to home - it’s the one week of the year I get to stay at home, which is always a nice thing as a golfer.

“I love the golf course - played well there last year finishing top 10. So yeah, looking for my first tour win. And it would be the one that I would love to win first. Just like I say - so many familiar faces in the crowds and a golf course I like. Expectations are always high. But that week, maybe a little bit more.”