The Open Championship comes to Liverpool this week for three days of golf-themed entertainment and the opportunity to be photographed with the Claret Jug - one of the most famous trophies in world sport.

The event – at Chevasse Park, Liverpool One from Thursday will give the people of Liverpool a chance to experience what The Open has to offer in the build-up to the championship at Royal Liverpool from July 13 to July 20.

More than 1,000 visitors are expected. They will be offered free golf lessons from one of nine PGA professionals, have their photograph taken with the Claret Jug, try out the state-of-the-art golf simulator, and take on putting green and bunker shot challenges.

Other attractions include a giant screen showing golden moments from The Open, a Welcome to Wirral exhibition and an Open shop and ticketing outlet.

The Open Championship is golf’s oldest Major. Played since 1860 on links golf courses, it is the game’s most international Major Championship with qualifying events on every continent.

For one week each year, the pursuit of the famous Claret Jug trophy is the focus of the sporting world, followed globally by millions of fans.

Organised by The R&A, The Open delivers an annual economic benefit of up to £100m to its host region, while the Championship’s commercial success supports the development of the game, worldwide.

Meanhille, Steve Stricker (USA) has withdrawn from the Championship and is replaced by Ryo Ishikawa of Japan.

The next four competitors on the reserve list are as follows: 1. Ross Fisher (England) 2. David Hearn (Canada) 3. Daniel Summerhays (USA) 4. Noh Seung-yul (Korea).