AYRSHIRE’s only indoor golf facility has played host to two Ayrshire MSPs.

West Scotland Regional MSP Jamie Greene was joined by his South Scotland colleague Brian Whittle MSP, the Scottish Conservative Party’s Sport spokesperson, for a tour of Studio Golf Ayrshire in Stevenston last week.

The innovative golf centre in the Stevenston Industrial Estate is equipped with a short game area, putting green and indoor driving range, all on a top of the range synthetic grass surface, and a high tech golf simulator which allows players to hone their skills on accurate versions of legendary courses from around the world.

During the visit, the MSPs were given the chance to practise their own skills on the course and hear about owner David Rushbury’s commitment to opening up the game of golf to a wider audience. PGA Professional David has designed his business to not only accommodate golfers with a wide range of skill levels but also to allow people from vulnerable groups and those with disabilities to play.

The visit of the MSPs coincided with a visit from a group of local school pupils and Robert Gordon from the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open, who brought along the trophy that professional golfers from around the world will compete for later this year on the Dundonald Links in Irvine.

Jamie Greene said: “We had an excellent day meeting with pupils of St Matthews in Saltcoats and learning about the good work that this indoor golf centre is doing in helping people with disability and those from difficult economic backgrounds get into golf.

“Given the perception that joining a golf club is onerous, and nature of Scottish winter weather, I am surprised not more people are using this indoor facility. I encourage people to come along and see what is on their doorsteps, otherwise we may see facilities such as this disappear.”

Brian Whittle MSP added: “I was delighted to accompany Jamie on his visit to Studio Golf Ayrshire. It’s obvious that David has put a great deal of thought into how disabled people and people from other vulnerable groups can access the game of golf in a comfortable and supportive setting. Many golfers will tell you that playing in bad weather is all part of the experience, but I think the opportunity to practise indoors and make use of Studio Golf’s impressive simulator to try their luck on some of the world’s most famous courses, might be hard to resist!”

David Rushbury, owner of Studio Golf Ayrshire said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Jamie and Brian to Studio Golf Ayrshire and give them a chance to try out our facilities. Studio Golf Ayrshire offers a range of activities to suit people with a wide range of golf experience; from absolute beginners to regular players.

“We also cater for young people and vulnerable groups who might not otherwise be able to try golf. We want as many people as possible to enjoy golf’s great outdoors, indoors!”