The European Tour is likely to draw a battle line between Graeme Heinrich and Dion Stevens in their on-going dispute over the issue of yardage books to players, caddies and TV personnel.

David Garland, Director of Tournament Operations and Jamie Spence, who works as a liaison officer with the Tour, sat down with Heinrich and Stevens during the recent Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.

Heinrich has been providing yardage books to players and caddies ever since 1990 whereas Stevens is relatively new to working on the Tour having commenced some three years ago and after having previously provided books on the Ladies European Tour.

Graeme Heinrich looking for an amicable solution to the current 'Yardage Books War'. (Photo - Stuart Adams/www.golftourimages.com)

And while there is no denying that both are simply trying to making a living, the sight of both Australians ‘setting up shop’ each week at the entrance to clubhouses is seemingly a sore point with the Tour.

It is believed Garland asked both at the meeting to work out a compromise but it seems neither wants to back down.

Heinrich was asked how many Race to Dubai tournaments he intends covering in what is left of the season and is understood he would be prepared to share half of those with Stevens.

However it is understood Stevens’ response to Garland’s question was ‘all events’.

Therein lies the problem and unless the pair can come to some agreement it is believed Garland may step forward to make a decision where the pair would be approved by the Tour to issue yardage books on a week on and week off basis.

Heinrich and Stevens were observed working the Emirates range today ahead of this week’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic and selling what are virtually identical books to players and caddies at Euro 25 a book.