THE operator of a popular putting green in Largs has apologised for its unexpected closure at the weekend.

The Mackerston putting green was closed over the weekend of July 6 and 7, though it's now back up and running.

A spokesperson for the operators of the popular facility said the closure was forced on them because of staff illness.

They said: "Apologies all for an unfortunate closure over the weekend due to staff sickness, but all back up and running with the grass cut, sun shining, putters putting and gophers gophering.

"Whisper it, but summer's here."

The much loved facility, which has been a feature of the summer scene in Largs since the 1920s, was closed for three years during and immediately after the pandemic, but reopened in the summer of 2023 after a new operator agreed a lease with North Ayrshire Council.

A 'temporary occupation licence' for the green was offered to the successful bidder, a Mr Auld, trading as AEAE Limited.