Golf: Gallacher is delighted by Archerfield

LOTHIANS legend Bernard Gallacher has heaped praise on Archerfield Links after paying his first visit to the East Lothian golf resort.

The Ascot-based former Ryder Cup captain was expecting to be impressed after hearing lots of good things about the Dirleton venue’s two courses and excellent practice areas over the past ten years.

But Gallacher, who was used to world-class facilities during his spell as Wentworth’s club professional, admitted that owner Kevin Doyle and course designer DJ Russell had exceeded his expectations.

“I am very impressed,” said the Bathgate man, who was speaking at the Nespresso Trophy UK Challenge. “I have heard a lot about it from Kevin and DJ, but it’s even more impressive than I had imagined.

“It’s the whole package. The clubhouse is great, the courses are great and so are the practice facilities. It’s a credit to Scotland, to be honest.

“In a way, it overshadows Muirfield. It is so difficult to get on there so to have this paradise next door is great.

“Considering it is only ten years old it looks as though it has been here forever. I have been blown away by how good it is. It is as good as the best in America.”