Clare councillors welcome the arrival of the Walker Cup

CLARE County councillors have welcomed the news that the county will host one of golfs oldest and most prestigious cups.

The 51st Walker Cup will be coming to Ireland in 2026 as Clare's Lahinch Golf Club has been announced as the venue to host the event.

It is only the third time in 100 years that tournament has been played in Ireland, with 2007 marking last time it was held on the island when the Royal County Down hosted the tournament.

Councillors at Monday's meeting of Clare County Council welcomed the announcement, with Cathaoirleach Joe Conney hailing it as "fantastic news for our county."

CEO Pat Dowling called it " a great achievement" for the Lahinch Golf Club. "Lahinch will continue its strong reputation for hosting," he said, before quipping "Limerick can have the Ryder Cup, Clare can take the Walker Cup."

The 49th Walker Cup, which sees leading male amateurs from Great Britain and Ireland go up against the United States, will be held at The Old Course in St Andrews this September.