The Belfry heightens Ryder Cup security

SPECTATORS at next week’s Ryder Cup are being reminded that cameras and mobile phones are among a number of items that will be banned from The Belfry.

Security measures have been stepped up since the crowd scenes at the 1999 event in Boston and the September 11 attacks, which led to a 12-month postponement of the match.

In addition to cameras and mobile phones, audible pagers, ladders, picnic baskets, briefcases, portable televisions, push-chairs, bicycles and garden chairs are also banned.

Anyone seen using a camera or phone is liable to be ejected and not just for that day, but for the rest of the week.

Ryder Cup spokesman Mitchell Platts said: "We will be checking each and every spectator through airport-style security arches and X-ray machines and any spectator with a prohibited item will not be admitted.

"These might at first view appear to be draconian measures, but they are being implemented not only as part of our security programme and for the safety of all concerned but also to further enhance enjoyment for all spectators.

"We believe that all spectators will understand that this is being done to help everyone watching the matches.

"It is in their own interest to respond to the policies set out clearly in the Official Spectator Guide sent to all ticket holders and we thank everyone for their understanding.

"We have further pointed out that bags smaller than eight inches square will be subject to search, which might lengthen the amount of time it takes to pass through all ticket and security checkpoints.

"We should stress that the Tented Village offers extensive catering facilities with public telephones available not only there, but also by the third and 10th greens."

There will be a tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks in the form of a memorial service during the opening ceremony on Thursday. The match starts on Friday.

Meanwhile, Colin Montgomerie allayed fears he might pull out of the match at The Belfry if he did not think his back could stand five games in three days.

On his arrival at Mount Juliet, however, the 39-year-old Scot could hardly have sounded more optimistic.

"I am the fittest I have ever been," he said.

"There is no doubt in my mind that as of now I could play five matches."

The worry, of course, is that if 48 hours can bring such a change, all things are possible with another week to go to the contest.

Montgomerie has had to pull out of two tournaments because of his back this season and was in agony at several others.

He has resisted the temptation, however, to wrap himself in cotton wool this week, preferring the competition of 48 of the world's top 50 golfers.