Local Nairn golfers and golfing visitors to the area are to benefit from a major investment at the Nairn Dunbar Golf Club.

A new £228,000 irrigation system will help the club maintain the course in good condition allowing for increased use throughout the year.

The project which is set to be completed by the end of November will benefit from a £42,000 award from Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise (INBSE).

Chief executive of INBSE Stuart Black said: "Nairn Dunbar is a progressive club and the provision of this new irrigation system will help meet demand from both visitors and members within the growing golf tourism market making Nairn Dunbar and the town of Nairn an even more attractive golfing location. This is likely to lead to a significant economic spin off for local businesses like shops and accommodation providers."

Nairn Dunbar has a strong junior development policy with 200 members. This has recently resulted in the club and their professional David Torrance being offered the opportunity of becoming one of the Scottish Golf Union Regional Coaching facilities in the North of Scotland.

Scott Falconer, club manager at Nairn Dunbar Golf Club said: "This accolade proves that our ongoing commitment to continually improving the club facilities will continue to pay dividends.

"Although our course enjoys an enviable reputation as a great Scottish links course, we recognise the need for continuous improvement. The new system will greatly improve fairway quality especially in periods of prolonged dry weather during the main playing season, all at the touch of a button.

"The benefits of our investment will be enjoyed by both members and visitors alike and, with our ongoing course plan, keep us abreast of ever increasing expectations of golfers in what has become a very competitive market.

"The new irrigation system will be completed by the end of November and will also help increase revenue at the club. As new air services at Inverness Airport come on stream, we hope to develop golf and accommodation packages to suit both UK and overseas visitors."

Ends