GOLFING greats descended on Gourock as part of an un-fore-gettable tournament to mark the club's 125th anniversary.

Former Open champion Paul Lawrie was at the Cowal View course heading up a bill of eight professionals who demonstrated their skills in aid of various good causes.

Joining the former Ryder Cup ace were pros Nicolas Colsaerts, Lucas Bjerregaard, Stephen McAllister, Stephen Gallacher, Grant Forrest and Chris Doak from Greenock.

Also flying the flag for Inverclyde was Gourock professional Derek Watters who played nine holes on the day alongside the European Tour names.

Before teeing off alongside lucky raffle winners who scooped the chance to play with them, the stars shared their knowledge with around 30 youngsters.

The Gourock club invited some young members from Whinhill, Greenock, Port Glasgow and Kilmacolm to learn from the best in the business during skills workshops.

Paul, who shot to fame after his amazing 1999 Open triumph over Frenchman Jean van de Velde, says he was 'delighted' to be coaching the young Inverclyde talent.

He was also full praise for the course and its stunning setting.

He told the Tele: "This is my first time at Gourock and what a place - this is one of the best views from any course I have ever played on.

"I started playing very young, so have always been keen to share my skills with the young golfers of today.

"I want to make golfing fun again and get more young people involved - it's an excellent sport and I'm very glad to see so many future stars in Gourock."

Around 700 people attended the event on the day and contributed to the final total of £61,000 that was split between 10 good causes - including Ardgowan Hospice, who benefitted to the tune of £30,000.

All monies raised were generously doubled by international member Kirk Beaton and organiser Bill Hawthorne's brother Duncan, who kindly gave £10,000 to the cause.

Belgium star Nicolas Colsaerts said: "Events like this are a good time, it is a chance to play for fun for a good cause.

"For the young people who are playing, we get to see where they are at and help give them direction.

"There is always the chance that one could be lucky enough to make it all the way."