Par for the course

Much as I admire Martin Dempster as a golf writer I must take exception when he states (Scotsman, 24 July) re the Open at Carnoustie: “It’s inevitable that local residents . . . are disrupted during the week of the event . . .but surely that isn’t too much to ask.”

One week’s disruption would be fine but residents’ ability to walk their dogs, to walk along the sea front, of kids to play, etc will be disrupted for around four months.

I live in a top flat on Links Parade and the fine view from my balcony has been obstructed since early May and this is likely to continue until late August.

Myself and many Carnoustie citizens have suffered loss of amenity with no compensation for some considerable time. Perhaps a free pass for the practice days would have been in order but, as Martin Dempster says, the Open is a money-making exercise for theranda.

Bill Thompson, Carnoustie Golf Club captain, was quite

correct to express his concerns about a small town’s ability to host such an event. PROF FINDLAY SWINTON

Links Parade, Carnoustie