Ryder Cup tartan unveiled at Lochcarron in Selkirk

First Minister Alex Salmond was in Selkirk for the unveiling of the Ryder Cup tartan

A special tartan commissioned to celebrate the 2014 Ryder Cup has been unveiled in the Borders.

First Minister Alex Salmond and European Ryder Cup Director Richard Hills were at Lochcarron of Scotland in Selkirk for the event.

The tartan has "design input" from European captain Paul McGinley, and celebrates the return of the event to Scotland at Gleneagles.

It will be available in ties, scarves, trousers and kilts.

The design features four shades of blue inspired by Scotland's landscape, white to hint at elements of the Saltire, and blue and gold to reflect the core colours of the European flag.

Mr Salmond said he was delighted to be part of the launch.

"Tartan's importance to Scotland cannot be overestimated," he said.

"It is deeply embedded in Scottish culture and is an internationally recognised symbol of Scotland therefore this beautiful tartan is the perfect way for the Ryder Cup to celebrate its return to the home of golf."

Mr McGinley said he was "very honoured" to have been part of the design process.

"While it was obviously important that the tartan was uniquely Scottish to reflect the host nation of the 2014 Ryder Cup, I also wanted it to illustrate the continent of Europe that we will all be representing at Gleneagles next September," he said.

"I think we have done that superbly with the subtle blending of the blue and gold of the European flag."

Daniel Kim, of Lochcarron of Scotland, said the company was "really excited" to be part of the project.

"We have paid careful attention to ensure the design reflects the unique quality and drama of the most treasured trophy in golf, while still paying close tribute to the Scottish heritage behind the game," he said.

The tartan has been approved by the Scottish Registrar of Tartans.

The Ryder Cup will take place at Gleneagles in September of next year.