OFFICIALS from golf's governing body have selected Thornton Hall as their base for the duration of next week's Open championship.

The week-long tournament tees off at Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake next Sunday, July 13.

Officials from The Royal & Ancient Golf Club have selected the luxury four-star hotel in Thornton Hough as their base for the entire week of the event.

The Open was last held in Hoylake in 2006. It drew more than 230,000 people to Wirral, a record for the championship in England and July’s event is set to smash this record.

Geoff Dale, general manager at Thornton Hall Hotel, said: "We're extremely excited to welcome The R&A as its Headquarters Hotel for The Open.

"The event always brings such interest and enjoyment to the Wirral including a huge boost for the local economy.

"We are really looking forward to welcoming both new and returning visitors who will be following the championship.

"We anticipate a bustling atmosphere throughout the week and we love to invite golf followers to visit the hotel during the week.

"However we do encourage bookings to avoid disappointment, we look forward to meeting all of The Open visitors next week."