Protection teed up for Inverness's floral golfer
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METAL barriers will surround the £5000 larger-than-life floral model of a golfer unveiled outside Inverness Town House today ahead of the Scottish Open next week.
Measures have been taken to protect the towering 7ft figure including putting it under a close-circuit television camera in a bid to deter vandalism.
It is one of several displays being installed prior to the four-day event which starts at Castle Stuart on 7th July.
"It’s brilliant," said city Provost Jimmy Gray. "I really like it.
"I would hope it is not a target for vandals."
It was constructed in Kilmarnock by InstaPlant and has various Alpine plants covering a metal frame. The figure is in a swinging pose with a driver.
"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 was revealed as part of the city’s preparations for the European Tour event, which has attracted a star-studded line-up of players and is set to cater for 50,000 spectators during the competition.
Entertainment has been arranged for the city centre during the tournament, including the first Inverness Bunkers Festival — organised by Highland Council’s Inverness Festivals’ team.
"We believe that Inverness will have the first imaginary city centre golf course in the world and the plan is that our entertainers will be performing in a number of entertainment bunkers which are being placed at various locations to challenge even the most experienced golf fan not to have a good time," said the team’s chairman, councillor Roy Pedersen.
Performers lined up for Inverness Bunkers Festival are: The Inverness Festivals Band; Hoodja; Orquestra Latina Del Norte; Elizabeth Fraser Highland Dancers; Inverness Gaelic Choir; TMC Folk; Pro Sound; Highland Youth Pipes and Drums Band; Edith Macpherson Highland Dancers; accordionist Matthew Maclennan; Wildcats Cheerleaders; Wildcats Freestyle Dancers; Wildcats Street Dancers; and Royal Scottish Country Dance Society.
* More in Friday's Courier.
* Click here our latest on the Scottish Open.
