COUNCIL chiefs have praised voted the Troon Golf Weekender event a major success.

The event was recently stated at the Troon Municipal Golf Courses, with Joe Murray of Huyton and Prescot winning the main event, the Mills Quaich and Ashton and Lea's George Walker securing the Troon Rosebowl. Andrew McPhillimy was runner-up and he also won the Ayr Advertiser Stableford event.

Fiona McAllister of Prestwick St Cuthbert landed the Ladies Jubilee Cup for the first time while Paul Sinclair of Crow Wood GC clinched the Charles Buchanan Veteran Shield.

Trophies on the day were awarded by South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie.

Brian McGinley, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure thanked everyone involved for making the event such a success.

He said: "With hundreds of golfers descending on Troon, we had an army of people working hard behind the scenes to make sure everything went off as smoothly as possible.

“Although the players faced mixed playing conditions, with torrential rain on Friday, the competition was tight, and golfers were keen to make their mark on a competition that’s been a popular fixture since the 1960s.

“With the newly refurbished clubhouse acting as the base for competitors and spectators alike, the Troon Golf Weekender helps to promote South Ayrshire as a go-to destination, while also showcasing our ongoing efforts to promote golf to a new generation.”

Golf South Ayrshire operates eight courses, with Belleisle, Troon, Girvan, Dalmilling, and Maybole all playing a part in providing a wide-range of courses for players of all abilities. Investment of £3.5million has seen the creation of a new clubhouse at Belleisle and major refurbishments at both Troon and Girvan clubhouses.

The investment is designed to enhance standards for existing members while also encouraging a new generation to take up the sport.

For more information visit the Golf South Ayrshire website.