SCOTLAND’s oldest golf course has been fitted with a state-of-the-art watering system after its old equipment was branded out of date.

The irrigation system may not have dated back to the days of Mary Queen of Scots, who is reputed to have played at Musselburgh Links, The Old Course but it certainly raised eyebrows when specialists were brought in.

Contractors discovered old lead pipes and a leaking network which was disrupting play and failing to do its job.

East Lothian Council called in sport turf experts Souter Sports to help preserve the historic course and they developed a new high-tech system.

Mark McGrath, amenity officer at the council, said: “There were many leaks in the system and watering the course was extremely difficult, which disrupted playing time – the council decided it was time for an upgrade.

“We had heard that Souters Sports were the best at this type of work and they were contacted.” The firm set about designing a system to suit the Links. And the council was delighted with the result.

Mr McGrath said: “If the aftercare is as good as the installation then I foresee only good things for the Old Links course for the future.”