As one of the most storied careers draws to a close, the long-time Royal County Down Head Professional and a litany of former pupils take Paul Gallagher for a walk down memory lane.

For all the late heroics of yesterday’s victor, the Championship Links at Royal County Down was also a winner, as one of the most traditional links layouts of them all more than stood up to the rigours of the modern game at the Amgen Irish Open.

Easy strides and smiles accompany birdies and eagles in Newcastle. Few spectator experiences can compare to watching Rory McIlroy, especially when he’s competing on home soil and in contention. The ‘Rory Roars’ that reverberate around Royal County Down this week have been like no other.

Popular barber and owner of JFH Social ensuring the professionals look their best as they battle for glory at Royal County Down. Paul Gallagher reports at Newcastle

Get it done, get it done early. That’s clearly the motto around the greenkeeper sheds at Royal County Down, especially this week when it’s all hands to the pump for the Amgen Irish Open.

Unique Royal County Down course has the capacity to be magnificent and brutal in the same round as those playing the Amgen Irish Open will soon discover