The Open at St Andrews 'could deliver £80m to Scotland'

The Open at St Andrews is under way on the 150th anniversary of the event

The Open at St Andrews could deliver an £80m benefit for the Scottish economy, according to First Minister Alex Salmond.

Mr Salmond outlined the findings of an economic forecast for the event on the first day of play at the Old Course.

The Sport Industry Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University carried out the research.

At the same time, VisitScotland was confident of strong international golf tourism numbers this year.

According to the research, the Open is expected to generate £35m for Scotland in visitor spending and a further £45m in marketing.

This will specifically be through the marketing effect of more than 3,000 hours of global television coverage, a 35% increase on last year's event.

At the same time, VisitScotland is confident of strong international golf tourism numbers this year.

Leading US-based golf tour operators have reported that 2010 sales for Scotland up to June had risen 49% against the same period last year.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "Hosting The Open at the prestigious Old Course on the 150th anniversary of the event could bring in £80m for the Scottish economy.

"As the only major staged outside the US, this world class championship is the jewel in the crown of our sporting calendar and continues to ensure Scotland shines on the world stage.

"Golf is a vital part of the fabric of our nation, and we will continue to capitalise on the benefits of the game for years to come."

Professor Simon Shibli, head of the Sport Industry Research Centre, said: "Our research confirms The Open as one of the economic jewels in the crown of the UK sporting calendar.

"The Open is further evidence of how sports events can lead to significant spending in the host economy by visitors, as well as acting as a global advertisement for a nation's tourism offer."