YOUNGSTERS at The Compass School have enjoyed a memorable start to the new school year with a visit by the Ryder Cup.

The new term got under way at the end of last month and pupils at the Haddington school were thrilled to have the opportunity to see one of the world’s most revered sporting trophies.

In only three weeks’ time, teams representing Europe and the USA will compete for the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles in Perthshire in front of estimated crowds of 45,000 every day of the competition.

An estimated television audience of 630 million will also be watching the action unfold.

Mark Becher, the school’s headmaster, was delighted to welcome Robbie Clyde, the project manager for the Ryder Cup in Scotland, who told the children about the tournament and its history.

Mr Becher said: “The children admired what is a truly beautiful trophy.

“We all enjoyed learning more about its history and the memorable contests there have been over the years.

“We are looking forward to taking some of our older children to Gleneagles later this month to experience one of the practice days ahead of the competition itself and to soak up the tremendous atmosphere generated by the Ryder Cup.”