FIVE hundred people are to be trained as golf ambassadors ahead of the Open championship on the north coast next summer.
The 148th annual competition, which will take place at Royal Portrush Golf Club from July 14–21, is set to be the biggest sporting event ever held in Northern Ireland, with tens of thousands of visitors expected
The WorldHost training programme has been organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Tourism NI and will be delivered by accredited trainers at several golf clubs across the council area.
Training is aimed at people in the retail, tourism, accommodation and hospitality sectors.
It will cover key points including communication, making an excellent first impression and the value of tourism to the economy.
Causeway Coast and Glens mayor Brenda Chivers said: "Research has shown that 70 per cent of spectators will return again to the host area so it's crucial that we position ourselves to capitalise on this potential legacy market".
The training programme costs £15 per delegate, including lunch, and will be delivered through a half day workshop.
There are various dates to choose from, beginning next month.
To book a place email industry.development@tourismni.com
