The oldest golfing society in the world, the Royal Burgess Golfing Society, in Barnton Edinburgh, has completed a £750,000 refurbishment of its facilities with support from a £580,000 funding package from Bank of Scotland.

The project, which completed this month, has significantly upgraded the listed club house building that dates back to 1896. This includes changes to the entrance, dining/function room, members bar, enlarged spike bar and locker area which have been completely refurbished to a high standard.

In addition, a new, enlarged professional shop has been sympathetically added to the building.

The project will meet the increased demand identified by the society, which has 1000 members, as well as enabling it to host functions and corporate events.

Jim Rigby, treasurer at The Royal Burgess Golfing Society said: “We have an exceptional course at RoyalBurgess and, as the oldest golfing society in the world, a reputation to match. However, our clubhouse amenities were beginning to look a bit tired, but after the refurbishment we now have facilities that match the course and will further enhance our reputation.

“In addition to the refurbishment we have improved our food and beverage offering which will help drive additional income through attracting more functions and corporate events. Bank of Scotland has been a longstanding supporter of the society and provided funding for a similar project 15 years ago.”

Derek Weir, relationship manager at Bank of Scotland added: “The Royal Burgess Golfing Society has banked with the Bank of Scotland for over sixty years. Established in 1735 and with honorary members including Jack Nicklaus alongside members of the royal family, the society is steeped in prestige.

“Alongside maximising the opportunity that functions and corporate events offer, the facilities will also help drive membership at a time when most golf clubs are seeing membership numbers decline.

“This is the second time that the Bank of Scotland has supported the upgrading of the facilities at The RoyalBurgess Golfing Society and we look forward to continuing our relationship long into the future.”