European Tour officials would appear to have landed themselves in a highly embarrassing situation by declaring here on Tuesday that Jesper Parnevik was no longer a full member. It has since become clear that the eccentric Swede is suffering from a heart complaint.

By withdrawing from the WGC American Express Championship, Parnevik had forfeited the chance of completing the mandatory 11 tournament appearances in Europe which are necessary for inclusion in the Order of Merit. He had played 10.

So, we were informed that England's John Bickerton had moved up to 20th place in the table, becoming eligible for Valderrama, where the minimum guarantee is £15,236, and that Jeremy Robinson, 116th in the table - one place outside the limit - would not be required to return to the Qualifying School.

But things were not what they seemed. Said Parnevik yesterday: "I don't feel well. I didn't find out about my heart trouble until recently. It's been worse lately and sometimes I really get in a panic and am afraid I'll have a heart attack."

He concluded: "I need to take a long rest and will not play again until next season."

This means, in effect, a two-month break for the Swede, who played a heroic role as Sergio Garcia's partner in Europe's recent Ryder Cup effort and has won $1,055,468 for 33rd place in the US money list. Apart from the current event, he will miss the Million Dollar Challenge in Sun City.

"When officially withdrawing, Jesper did not indicate he was ill," said his agent, Clarke Jones yesterday. "But the fact is that he has an irregular heartbeat, which became apparent recently, and he's not here as a precaution."

Ken Schofield, executive director of the European Tour, said yesterday: "I was unaware of Jesper's condition. He is in a position to ask for a medical extension." Which means almost certainly that full membership status will be restored, on production of a medical certificate.

The Tour were saved further embarrassment when Worcestershire-based Bickerton declined to travel yesterday to be with his wife, who is expecting a baby. Meanwhile, it looks as if Robinson can prepare himself for the Tour School on November 17th to 22nd.