£100k Open Legacy Fund Distributed In Portrush

Ten community initiatives are to share in the £100,000 windfall of The Open Legacy Fund.

Three months since Royal Portrush appeared on the world stage as it played host to the golfing championship, local groups are beginning to reap the economic rewards.

The fund is distributed to organisations that will have a positive and long-lasting impact on the local environment where the event is staged, with various groups submitting applications to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Schools, youth clubs and cultural societies are among the organisations set to benefit after their applications were recommended to the R&A.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Sean Bateson welcomed the funding: "The Open was a hugely successful occasion for Portrush and the wider Borough, which showcased our magnificent landscapes and renowned hospitality as well as our ability to host a sporting event of this scale and calibre. Following on from this, The Open Legacy Fund is a very welcome dividend for the town, and it ensures that those who live and work in the local area benefit from the event in a very real and tangible way.

"I would like to thank The R&A for the recognition they have shown to the community in Portrush through this funding opportunity."

The successful applicants are:

• Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust

• Causeway Pre-School

• Community Rescue Service

• Mae Murray Foundation

• Portrush Community & Cultural Group

• Portrush FC Youth

• Portrush Film Theatre

• Portrush Heritage Group

• St Patrick's Hall Committee

• St Patrick's Primary School

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director of Championships at The R&A added: "The Open Legacy Fund aims to provide a lasting impact for the local environment and communities in which the Championship is staged and we look forward to seeing the positive results achieved by these grants for the residents of Portrush in the years to come."



(JG/CM)