Four protesters were arrested after attempting to disrupt play on the 17th hole during the second round of The Open.
Just Stop Oil claimed they had three people involved in the incident which took place as Alex Noren, Billy Horschel and Corey Conners were playing the new hole named Little Eye at Hoylake’s 17th.
The protestors were greeted by loud boos with Horschel lending marshals a helping hand in escorting the players off the course and minimising the disruption.
Just Stop Oil had been expected to make their presence felt at Royal Liverpool off the back of a number of protests at high profile events, but this effort has been and gone without a whimper with greenkeepers removing the powdered paint with leafblowers before player resumed.
The R&A issued a the following statement: “A protester was quickly apprehended on the 17th hole and is one of four people who have been arrested by police.
“Play was not disrupted and we would like to thank the marshals, players and other spectators for their vigilance and understanding as the protesters were removed.”
Merseyside Police said: “Police and R&A management will be looking to ensure the activities of anyone who wants to protest don’t disrupt the event itself and if necessary we will used relevant legislation to deal with those people involved in it.
“Contingency plans are in place to visitors to enjoy these events in safety and with minimal disruption.”
While Just Stop Oil tweeted: “Three Just Stop Oil supporters have disrupted the The British Open – they demand that the UK government halts all new oil and gas projects.”
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