ENTERPRISING new ticket and pricing options have been introduced for spectators at the eagerly anticipated 145th Open Championship at Royal Troon.

The world’s leading golfers will compete to become Champion Golfer of the Year from July 14 to 17 next year as the top event returns to the celebrated links for the first time in 12 years.

Twilight tickets are being introduced for the first time, offering entry to the course from 4pm onwards on Thursday and Friday of Championship week for £25. A limited number are available and spectators are urged to purchase then in advance.

Tickets for the Championship are now on sale with the price of an adult daily ticket, purchased before May 31, changing to £60 - which is £10 less than in 2015, and £80 thereafter.

Weekly tickets, valid from July 10 to 17 inclusive, are available for £230 before May 31, a saving of £95 on the daily ticket prices for the full week and £10 less than in 2015, and £260 thereafter.

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “We recognise that many people have work commitments during the week and the new twilight tickets will give them an attractive option to attend The Open. We have also made some changes this year to encourage and reward spectators who purchase tickets early which helps us with planning the services and facilities we offer at the Championship.

“The Open is one of the world’s major sporting events and is the highlight of the golfing calendar for many thousands of golf fans.

"Our aim is to deliver an outstanding experience for spectators and to ensure the Championship remains affordable and accessible.”

Children aged under 16, who are accompanied by an adult, receive free entry to The Open. For youths, aged 16-21, a daily ticket costs £25 before 31 May and £30 thereafter.

This will be the ninth occasion which The Open has been played at Royal Troon, with players such as Bobby Locke, Arnold Palmer, Tom Weiskopf and Tom Watson among its illustrious list of Champions.

America’s Todd Hamilton won The Open the last time it was held there in 2004 after a play-off with Ernie Els.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit TheOpen.com.