Inverness prepares to welcome Barclays Scottish Open
Visitors to Inverness city centre will be in no doubt of the prestigious golfing tournament about to take place at Castle Stuart golf course when they see that an eye-catching golfer has taken up temporary residence.
A large 3D floral model has been erected by The Highland Council outside the Town House to mark the Barclays Scottish Open golf tournament which starts on Thursday 7 July.
Unveiling the striking figure, Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Inverness City Committee, said: “With so many visitors coming to Inverness, we want to make sure that they see the city looking at its best and I’m sure the golfing enthusiasts will appreciate our floral golfer taking pride of place.
“Having this prestigious tournament take place in the Highlands for the first time is an incredible opportunity to promote the whole area as a holiday and golfing destination. It will also give a welcomed boost to local businesses. Everyone has been working very hard to ensure that we are ready to welcome people to what I hope will be a very memorable experience.”
The Highland Council, EventScotland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise are sponsors of the Barclay’s Scottish Open Golf Championship and a team will be working at the event to promote Inverness and the Highlands.
To ensure there is plenty for people to do away from the golf course, additional outdoor entertainment is being organised at Falcon Square and Inverness Castle from Wednesday 6 July.
Inverness Business Improvement District have created the welcome banners around the City Centre and provided businesses with welcome stickers for both business windows and vehicles.
Jackie Cuddy, Vice Chair of BID, said “We are delighted at how businesses in the City Centre are supporting this event through extended trading hours, putting on entertainment and generally creating a welcome. We are all looking forward to a fantastic and successful event out at Castle Stuart and a vibrant and welcoming City Centre.”
During the event Visit Scotland have arranged extended opening hours to operate at Inverness Visitor Centre. On both Wednesday 6th and Saturday 9th the Centre will be open 9am-8pm; on Thursday and Friday from 9am – 9pm and on Sunday 10th July from 9am – 6.30pm.
Stagecoach are providing a shuttlle bus service from Platform 1 at Inverness Bus Station between Wednesday 6 July and Sunday 10 July. A total of 8 buses will be available to take golf enthusiasts to and from the golf links at Castle Stuart at 15 minute intervals, starting at 6.30 am in the morning. The charge for a return journey is £5 per adult, who can take two under 16s free.