Pub Opening hours for The Open to be extended

All of South Ayrshire businesses can apply to keep their premises open later during The Open this summer - despite police protests against it.

South Ayrshire Council's Licensing Board had to decide whether all licensed premises in South Ayrshire could open until 2.30am while the competition is running between July 10 and July 17, or whether late opening should be restricted to Troon only.

Police Scotland's Chief Inspector for South Ayrshire Eileen Taylor said: "In relation to the Open Golf there has been a considerable amount of planning involved.

"There will be more resources in Troon during the day and at night as well. We would need to re-examine resources if it were to be South Ayrshire wide."

When asked later on whether she meant that police would rather it was Troon only, CI Taylor responded with 'yes'.

Cllr Convery said: "If other places wish to apply then they are entitled to do so. I'd be much more comfortable if it was Troon alone."

But the Licensing Board has rejected the Troon only proposal, and now anyone with a license in South Ayrshire should be able to get a late license for the week. Given the massive economic boost that the Open can bring to the region, we think common sense has prevailed.