THERE will be no surprises for Steve Morrey on Saturday.

He reached the semi-final of the British Senior Individual Merit three years ago, when he was also Cheshire champion.

And he hopes that know-how can make a difference this weekend.

He said: “I think it helps massively to have played at the All England previously.

“The intensity of the day, and the atmosphere it’s played in, can be difficult to handle.

“The first game is so important; you just want to get it won and relax into the competition.

“You’re rubbing shoulders with the best in the game – county champions, previous winners and top names – but it’s important to remember that you’re there as well because you deserve to be.”

He told the Guardian that his form has improved since the start of the season, persuading him he can make an impression in Nuneaton.

As if to prove as much, he secured a spot in this year’s Wharton Cons Open after coming through a qualifier last Sunday.

He had also led Castle, as captain, to a Brunner Cup semi-final success against favourites Tixall the previous afternoon.

A meeting with Mitchell Harvey, who represents Warwick & Worcester, awaits in Nuneaton tomorrow.

“If I play well, I’ll be happy,” added Morrey, who secure his spot after reaching the last four of the Cheshire Senior Merit last month.

“But I’m not going there to make up the numbers; I want to win it, and that’s my aim.

“My game has been a bit up and down, but it’s coming back to where I want it to be.

“I’ve never heard of Mitchell, but he’ll have my respect for reaching the last four of one of the toughest merits in the country.

“They have well over 100 guys enter – and so he’s done remarkably well to come through that.”