Sports turf contractors Souters Sports have installed a new irrigation system at one of the world’s oldest golf courses.

Musselburgh Links in East Lothian, Scotland, is recorded to have been played on as early as 1672 and quite possibly further back than that. The course was also the original venue of the Open Championship, and hosted the event six times between 1874 and 1889.

Previously, the irrigation system for the course’s tees and green was outdated and old lead pipes were used to supply water.

“There were many leaks in the system and watering the course was extremely difficult which disrupted playing time – the council decided that it was time for an upgrade,” said Mark McGrath, amenity officer for East Lothian Council. “We had heard that Souters Sports were the best at this type of work and they were contacted to initiate a plan and costing for a new irrigation system.”

McGrath met with Robert Smith and James Fitzpatrick from Souters Sports and an initial site meeting was carried out, during which the location of water points and run of pipes was agreed upon.

“Once the plans were put in place, the work quickly begun and I had the pleasure of working with James, who is so professional in his approach to the job,” said McGrath. “There has been very little disruption to the course during the installation with James keeping me constantly updated on progress and any issues he encountered resolved.”

Souters Sports ensured there was the installation caused minimal impact and that reinstatements were carried out to the highest standards.

The Souters Sports systems incorporate the latest water efficiency and system control technology, such as variable speed drive pump systems, automatic weather stations and radio remote control systems.

“I would be more than happy to recommend Souters in the future for any other works associated to this type of work,” McGrath added. “If the aftercare is as good as the installation then I foresee only good things for the Old Links course for the future.”