DAVID Howell will be hoping memories of past success will be able to help him force a good result as he tackles the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey today.

The Broome Manor pro has enjoyed a fortnight’s respite after his various exertions across Europe and Asia in the last few weeks, but playing in the tournament he won back in 2006 should give the former Ryder Cup star all the motivation he needs to continue his return to form.

Howell’s recent returns have been somewhat mixed, but after finishing in 14th place in the Open de Espana after an inspired second round of 66, the Swindon man claimed he has not felt as good about his game for several months.

This week, however, the stakes are a lot higher as the European Tour’s flagship event comes to the quaint rural Surrey countryside, only a handful of miles from Howell’s Virginia Water home.

In amongst an extraordinarily talented field is young Irish sensation Rory McIlroy, Ryder Cup veteran Miguel Angel Jiminez, and English quartet Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Paul Casey and Justin Rose.

All six, as well as Howell, will have to conquer the demanding Wentworth course, which has been redeveloped under the watchful eye of golfing legend Ernie Els in the past year.

Howell tees off at 7.20am this morning with playing partners Anthony Wall and Peter Hedblom.