GOLF: Civic reception for golf hero

The recently-crowned US Open champion, who returned to the province earlier this week, will attend the specially-arranged function at Portrush town hall this afternoon.

Local political representatives, including East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell and Coleraine mayor Norman Hillis, will offer their personal congratulations to the 30-year-old, who became the first European golfer to win the major tournament for 40 years last weekend.

Personnel from local golf clubs on the north coast and schoolchildren from all of the town's primary schools will also be represented.

Members of the Graeme McDowell golf team – named in the sportman's honour – from his old school, Coleraine Institute, are among the invitees.

McDowell will be accompanied at the function by members of his family.

A spokesperson for Coleraine Borough Council said the event would be low key, at the request of the Portrush golfer.

Earlier this week, there was speculation that McDowell could be driven through the town in an open-top bus. This will not now be happening.

"It is going to be fairly informal, involving a meet and greet with some local schoolchildren," the council spokeswoman said.

On Wednesday evening, McDowell returned to a hero's welcome at Rathmore Golf Club where he honed his skills on the fairways.

The major winner celebrated into the small hours with family and friends, including fellow Ulster professional, Rory McIlroy.

Speaking ahead of the reception, Coleraine mayor Norman Hillis said the people of the borough were "extremely proud" of their sporting icon.

"It (the reception) will not be a mass media event – it is more-or-less an opportunity for the people of Portrush to say 'well done Graeme' and thanks for being a great supporter of this area," he said.

Preparations were still being finalised last night regarding a formal presentation to mark the golfer's achievement.