MORE than 100,000 spectators will flock to Wentworth over four action-packed days for the BMW PGA Championship, which starts tomorrow (Thursday).

The European Tour’s flagship event will attract another six-figure crowd as some of the biggest names in golf go to battle on the famous West Course.

A year ago, Byeong Hun An became the first Asian player to win the tournament with a record score of 21 under par. There were also five holes in one which set another competition record.

Two-time Major champion Martin Kaymer is among the world-class field as he looks to follow in the footsteps of fellow German Bernhard Langer, who conquered the West Course three times, in 1987, 1993 and 1995.

“It’s always a special week,” said Kaymer, who has 11 European Tour titles to his name. “After my home country of Germany, the UK is probably my favourite place to play golf, and at Wentworth there are always great crowds creating a fantastic atmosphere.

“You can tell that the fans there really know their golf and appreciate when you do something well. There’s always a real buzz about the event and I’m looking forward to it.”

This week marks the return of Masters champion Danny Willett to UK soil, though the Green Jacket holder will not be joined by World No.3 and last weekend’s Irish Open winner, Rory McIlroy, who has not entered.

But there is a highly-promising English contingent incorporating Matthew Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan, Eddie Pepperell and Tyrell Hatton.

Warm sunshine greeted the players for yesterday’s practice round, with good weather forecast again for today’s Celebrity Pro-Am, with tickets available on the gate.

Meanwhile, Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke will be at Wentworth on Friday to announce three of his five vice-captains for the match in September.