Not good to talk at the Open

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club have confirmed a ban on mobile phones at this summer's Open championship at Carnoustie.

The policy is in line with other majors and the Ryder Cup and follows comments from players, most notably winner Tiger Woods, concerning the excessive numbers in evidence last July at Hoylake.

David Hill, director of championships for the R&A, said: "We have so far resisted the call to ban mobile phones on the grounds that it may be an inconvenience to the public.

"However, after receiving complaints referring to the numbers that were in use as play in the Open was proceeding, we feel there is no other reasonable option other than a complete ban."

At Carnoustie Woods will be trying for the first hat-trick of titles in the event since Peter Thomson in 1956.

The appeal of the world number one is such that fans are being recommended to plan well ahead and to take advantage of season tickets which can be purchased with maximum discount until the end of this month.

Until January 31st a season ticket for the eight days of practice and Championship play can be purchased for £150, just over 50 per cent of the cost of daily tickets.