Scotland has secured a ten year deal to host the prestigious Ricoh Women's British Open on at least five occasions between 2011 and 2020.

The 2007 Women's British Open alone delivered £7.5 million to the Scottish economy.

Millions have been invested in Scottish golfing developments over the last year.

The Ricoh Women's British Open is a significant event in women's professional golf and the only Major of its kind to be played in Europe.

Speaking at St Andrews, First Minister Alex Salmond said: "The success of the 2007 Women's British Open here at St Andrews proved once again that there is nowhere better to stage major golfing events than here in Scotland the home of golf.

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"We have the best courses in the world, and facilities which are second to none. I am delighted to announce that EventScotland and the Ricoh Women's British Open have agreed a ten year partnership which guarantees Scotland will host the Women's British Open Championship on at least five occasions between 2011 and 2020.

"This is an exciting time for Scottish sport. Next year Scotland will celebrate its Homecoming year and will host the Men's Open at Turnberry and the Johnny Walker Championship at Gleneagles.

"We are already in the build up phase to the 2014 Ryder Cup and Glasgow Commonwealth Games. And with the addition of today's announcement, we can now look forward to a decade of showcasing this country's sporting credentials and talent to the wider world."

(GK/JM)