Lee Westwood was “delighted” by the record crowds that flocked to the British Masters supported by Sky Sports and believes his game is in a strong position.
The tournament host finished in the top 15 following a final-round one-under 69 after starting Sunday three shots off the lead with Paul Dunne producing a supreme nine-under 61 to secure a maiden European Tour title despite a late charge from Rory McIlroy.
The Englishman was keen to highlight the impact of the huge crowds that gathered at Close House throughout the tournament and admitted that he was always confident that the tournament would be well supported by the public.
"Nearly 70,000," said Westwood. "I think that's brilliant. It's the best attendance since we've brought the tournament back. I'm delighted with that but I had a funny feeling people in the northeast would support it well."
The tournament was holding its third edition since the tournament, with the backing of Sky Sports, made its return to the schedule after a seven-year absence.
The 10-time Ryder Cup player for Europe accepted that he couldn't find his best form on the putting green on Sunday but was still pleased with his performance overall.
"A couple of poor shots but not too bad overall," he said. "Just struggled to make any putts, really. Didn't quite hit it close enough, I would say."
The 23-time European Tour winner also enjoyed the opportunity to experience a different side to competitive golf with his duties as tournament host including victory in the Hero Challenge on Tuesday.
"It's been good," Westwood added. "It gave me another view of a tournament; appreciation of what goes on leading up to a tournament and during the tournament. I'm glad I did it and hopefully everybody had a good time."
The stalwart of the European Tour will now turn his attention to replicating his strong performance in Northumberland with a good showing at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this week.
Westwood is a former winner of the tournament and will hope to claim his first tour victory of the year in Scotland.
Watch the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship from Thursday live on Sky Sports Golf at 1.00pm