Secretary of State attends the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush
Tournament returns to Northern Ireland for second time in six years
Caption: Secretary of State Hilary Benn with The Claret Jug trophy and (L-R) United States Ambassador to the UK Warren A. Stephens and Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, Ian Pattinson.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn has congratulated the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush, and welcomed the significant benefits it will bring to Northern Ireland, following a visit to the event today (Thursday 17 July).
He said: “This week’s Open championship at Royal Portrush will shine a spotlight on Northern Ireland, showcasing its world-class sports facilities, tourism, and high quality local food and drink.
“It will give Northern Ireland a real economic boost and will set the stage for future investment and opportunities for Northern Ireland.
“To be chosen to host the Open twice in six years is a fantastic compliment, and I congratulate the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush on having achieved this.”