THE Celtic Manor's bid to host the 2009 Ryder Cup has moved a step closer with the Principality Building Society announcing its backing for a new tournament that will be the third richest on the Evian Ladies European Tour calendar.

In a move to showcase their support for the Welsh Ryder Cup bid, the building society have been unveiled as official financial services sponsor of the WPGA Championship of Europe to be held at Royal Porthcawl from July 26- 29.

The move was welcomed by the Wales Open tournament chairman and Celtic Manor representative on the Ryder Cup Bid Committee, Andy Stanton.

"It is another sign of the support business in Wales is showing for the bid, and it sends a strong message to the Ryder Cup board," he said.

"It shows that the bid is not just for the Celtic Manor, but is broadly supported by the business community and everyone across Wales."

The tournament is one of three linked to the Welsh Summer of Golf, aunched by the Ryder Cup Bid Committee and Wales Tourist board.

With the WPGA Championship falling the week before the Weetabix British Open, it is likely to attract stars such as Laura Davies, Sophie Gustafson and Catrin Nilsmark. And with international stars expected to contest the £1m in prize money and Ryder Cup points at the Celtic Manor Resort Welsh Open in August, this summer's golf in Wales will have a truly international feel.

"For followers of international golf, Wales really is THE place to be this summer," said Philip Evans, Wales Tourist Board chairman.

"With three major tournaments on courses we believe are unique in character and location, we are delighted the world will have the opportunity to witness first-class golf on first-class courses."