WORK IS progressing on the recreation of an Edwardian golf course on the outskirts of Cupar.

The course in the grounds of Hill of Tarvit Mansion house remains on schedule for completion later this year, with a grand opening next year in time for the Scottish Open.

Private firm Golf & Thistle is driving the re-establishment of the original Kingarrock course, created by keen sportsman Frederick Sharp, whose family lived in the mansion, in the early 1900s.

It was destroyed during the second world war but is being shaped according to a 1924 map of Kingarrock and when it opens players will use hickory clubs and be able to dress up in clothing of the early 1900s.

A competition has been held to find names for the nine holes and these are expected to be announced next month.

Director of Golf & Thistle David Anderson emphasised that the development would not be affected by delays in renovation of the Hill of Tarvit’s stable block.

Proposals were unveiled last summer for transformation of the stables into a restaurant and shop but they have yet to receive planning consent from Fife Council.

The building stands disused despite a considerable amount of repair work in 1999, but the National Trust for Scotland hopes its refurbishment together with the creation of the golf course will boost declining visitor numbers.

The block would also accommodate staff offices, toilets and a plant sales area and its rear courtyard would be used for al fresco dining and wheelchair and pram access.