Golf: Kids hit Lothians

EAST LOTHIAN is set for a double helping of top-class action involving some of the world's leading young golfers this year.

First up will be the US Kids Golf European Championship, which is returning to the Garden County for the fourth year in a row.

Then, later in the year, the focus will be on Gullane when it stages the British Girls' Championship, featuring more top players from all over Europe.

The US Kids Golf event has been confirmed for May 31-June 2 - at Gullane No 2, Gullane No 3, Craigielaw, Luffness New and Longniddry. The top finishers in each category will qualify for the Van Horn Cup, a Ryder Cup-style event over Gullane No 1 on the final day.

The top five finishers in each age and gender group automatically receive an invitation to the US Kids Golf World Championships at Pinehurst in August.