A RETIRED Superbowl referee and a former American footballer have declared Gourock Golf course the best they’ve ever played.

The club this week welcomed US cruise ship guests Don Carlsen, an NFL official for 24 years, and his friend Doug Dressler, a former running back for some of the world’s top clubs including Kansas City Chiefs.

During their whistlestop tour the VIPs from California were overwhelmed by the breathtaking views.

Despite playing on some of the best courses in the world the duo were bowled over by both the hospitality and the course.

Gourock rolled out the red carpet on one of the hottest days of the year to welcome their visitors, who came to town on board the giant Royal Princess cruise ship.

The club wants to send out a message to passengers from all over the world that they are welcome to stop by for a game of golf.

Don, who lives in Chico, California, said: “Honestly I have never played on a golf course with such spectacular views. It is incredible. We just couldn’t believe the scenery, it takes your breath away. The welcome we have had from professional Derek Watters and everyone at Gourock Golf Club is amazing.

“I am glad we brought the Californian weather with us as well!” Enthusiast Don was desperate to play in the home of golf during his first ever visit to Scotland.

He fired off an email in the hope of getting a response from courses close by and was delighted when Derek took him up on his offer.

Don added: “We have been emailing back and forth — when I walked into the golf club it was like meeting an old friend.

“We are loving our cruise round the UK. Greenock and Gourock are beautiful.” Don spent 24 years refereeing American Football games, and in 2012 he was a side judge in the first ever Superbowl in Indianapolis, featuring the New England Patriots and the New York Giants.

The New York Giants won the game, and it capped an amazing career for Don, who retired two years ago and now spends his time playing golf.

His friend Doug, who also lives in the Golden State, was equally impressed by his golfing experience.

The former NFL player spent seven seasons with clubs like the New York Giants and the New England Patriots.

He said: “We stopped to take photographs at every hole. We couldn’t get round the course for looking at the views. They are amazing. You can’t beat this.” The pair were joined by Don’s wife Cindy and another one of their party, Barbara Peschio, for their round.

Club pro Derek is now keen to encourage more cruise line passengers to get a round in at the course during their stay.

He added: “The cruise liners coming into Inverclyde offer a fantastic opportunity and we want to tap in to it. We get quite a lot of passengers coming to the club, and a lot of staff from the cruise liners.”