The online auction of Old Course tee plaques begins on Wednesday 1 June. Golf fans are invited to bid for each of the tee plaques which have stood sentinel over some of the most dramatic moments in golf. Funds raised through the auction will assist St Andrews Links Junior Golf Association, a golf coaching programme for almost 400 youngsters between five and 18 years old in St Andrews.

Measuring 23x28cm (9x11inches), the cast-aluminium plaques are individually-crafted and hand-painted in dark blue with gold and white lettering. They feature the St Andrews Links logo and include the name and number of each hole, the par, the yardage and the stroke index. They have been restored for the auction and each one has a certificate of authenticity signed by the General Manager.

17 plaques will be available plus a replica of the 18th plaque which will complete the set. The 18th plaque was presented to the former head greenkeeper of the Old Course on his departure in 2004 after 19 years of service.

Bids for either individual plaques or the complete set will be accepted by email from 1 June until Monday 18 July.

Alan McGregor, general manager of St Andrews Links Trust, said: “This is a unique opportunity for golf fans around the world to have a genuine souvenir from the Old Course.”

Details of the auction will be displayed on the Links Trust’s website – www.standrews.org.uk. Bidding will open on Wednesday 1 June and continue through the Open Championship until Tuesday 19 July.

Issued by Carolyne Nurse, communications manager, St Andrews Links Trust, St Andrews KY16 9SF. Tel: 01334 466666, email pr@standrews.org.uk