Angus Provost Helen Oswald has expressed her delight after hearing Carnoustie will host the 2018 Open Championship.
She praised the hard work of staff at Carnoustie Golf Links for making it happen.
She said: “The return of the Open to Carnoustie in 2018 offers a great opportunity for the whole of Angus to showcase our world-class golf product and superb attractions before, during and after the event.
“It is a testimony to this hard work that the organisers have chosen once again to return to the venue to host this major event.
“We will be meeting with retailers and other business groups to look at ways of encouraging people to the town and to let them know that we are open for business.”
Carnoustie Golf Links chairwoman Pat Sawers said she was sure the eighth hosting at the course would generate as much excitement and interest as previous years.
She said: “We believe the fact the R&A has invited us to stage the 2018 championship will provide a big boost to golf in the local area and will have a beneficial effect on our ongoing efforts to attract more local youngsters into the game.”
Links general manager Graeme Duncan said he was delighted Carnoustie remained one of the Open Championship venues.
Councillor Brian Boyd said: “I’m absolutely thrilled it’s great for the golf course, great for the town and great for Angus. There’s a real nice buzz about the town when an Open is taking place.
“The councillors will work hard over the next four years to make sure the visitors also bring business to the town’s High Street and that we get the maximum tourism benefit for Angus.”
Shop owner David Valentine, who operates Simpsons Golf Shop next to the links, said: “It’s tremendous news for the whole area.
“We need to keep on the Open rota so that the name of Carnoustie is known globally, which keeps people coming back year in year out.”
Angus MSP Graeme Dey said: “As every golfer knows, Carnoustie represents one of the great tests of world golf. The return of the Open there cements that reputation.
“It also has the potential, if properly capitalised upon, to provide a boost for local businesses before, during and after the tournament.”
Photo by Angus Pictures