DORSET'S Lee James admits he must start earning some serious money' if he is going to retain his European Tour status.

James picked up his first pay cheque in three months today after finishing joint 39th in the SAS Masters in Sweden.

"I may only have three or four main tour events left this season, so I've got to start earning some serious money soon," said James who finished on one over par after rounds of 72, 68, 67 and 74 - 10 shots behind winner Peter Hanson.

The Parkstone-based professional won 9,760 Euros to move up to 183rd place in the money list.

"From tee to green my play has been excellent, but my putting has let me down. I was eighth best all week in the stats for greens in regulation.

"If I can sort out my problems on the green I think I'm playing well enough to secure the top-five finishes I need," added James.