£4 million boost to North Ayrshire economy

From Men’s and Women’s Scottish Open

The men’s and women’s Scottish Opens, both sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management, have given the local North Ayrshire economy a £4 million boost.

Dundonald Links hosted both the men's and women's Scottish Open in July, which more than 60,000 attending the two events.

North Ayrshire Council said it expected local hotels, restaurants and traders to report an increase in visitors.

"Longer-lasting benefits" are also anticipated through exposure to an international TV audience.

The Scottish Open – won by Spaniard Rafa Cabrera-Bello – attracted a field of top players including Rory McIlroy, Rickie Fowler and Henrik Stenson.

There was also a strong international field for the Ladies Scottish Open, which was won on Sunday by South Korean Lee Mi–hyang.

North Ayrshire cabinet member Alex Gallagher said it was hoped the golf events would "create a real legacy".

He said: "This has been a fantastic month of sport for North Ayrshire and a huge success on every level.

"By showing that we can host events such as these, it puts North Ayrshire on map and shows what we can offer to a worldwide audience."

And now this week it is the turn of Kingsbarns to host the Ricoh British Women’s Open in a further boost to the local Scottish economy.