Bobby Charlton taken to hospital from Dunhill Links

SIR Bobby Charlton withdrew from the team event in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship after being taken to hospital in Dundee on Thursday night.

The Manchester United legend complained of stomach pains after finishing his first round at St Andrews in the company of South African professional Darren Fichardt. The 76-year-old, a regular in the pro-am tournament, was reported to have been reluctant to go to hospital after an ambulance was called but relented and was taken to Ninewells in Dundee.

It is believed he was treated for stomach pains in the accident and emergency department but was discharged and allowed back to his St Andrews hotel. “Sir Bobby Charlton has withdrawn after feeling unwell,” said a statement by tournament organisers. “He is better today but has decided not to continue playing in the tournament.”

If feeling up to it, Charlton could return to partner Fichardt at Kingsbarns today, though their team score no longer counts. With a 20-under-par total of 124, out in front in it are Irishman Peter Lawrie and Kieran McManus, the son of racehorse owner JP McManus. They lead by two shots from Frenchman Gregory Bourdy and his partner, Andrew White, as well as South African duo George Coetzee and Rurik Gobel.