Spectator Guide

From the price of an official programme, to the mobile phone ban and the play-off holes, get a full lowdown on what you need to know at Birkdale this year.

GRANDSTAND FACILITIES

Seats in the composite/reserved grandstand by the 18th green can be reserved in advance through the R&A, on a weekly basis only. Seats in the remaining grandstands are free of charge and on a first-come-first-serve basis. In total, about 17,000 grandstand seats will be provided. Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the grandstands.

PLAY-OFF HOLES

In the case of a tie after 72 holes, a four-hole play-off will be played over holes 15, 16, 17 and 18. Any further holes will be played on 18.

OFFICIAL PROGRAMMES

Programmes will be on sale at the course, priced at £6. They can also be ordered, from July 11, by calling freephone number 0808 100 7377 for payment with credit/debit card, or from www.opengolf.com or www.pplsport.com.

MOBILE PHONE BAN

Mobile phones are banned for spectators altogether, even if they are turned off. The R&A asks that spectators do not bring phones to the course. Security staff will be on hand to conduct searches and any mobiles found will not be let through, so be warned.

OTHER PROHIBITED ITEMS

Cameras are permitted on practice days but not on Championship days; step ladders and pets are prohibited at all times.

VISITORS WITH DISABILITIES

Viewing areas will be reserved around a number of greens for those in wheelchairs. Disabled toilets with ramps will be located as near as possible to these areas. Contact the R&A Ticket Office for further information.

TENTED VILLAGE

Located here will be the Championship Information Centre, which can assist with travel and general enquiries, and will also have information on the 2009 Open at Turnberry. The famous Bollinger Tent will also be here, as will complimentary left luggage facilities.

JUNIOR GOLF

There will also be a Junior Golf Tent in association with the Golf Foundation, which will offer free golf lessons to under-16s from PGA professionals. This will be located on the practice ground.