Sean Connery to hit first drive at Balmedie golf resort

Sir Sean Connery can't wait to hit the first drive at Donald Trump's £1billion golf resort, reports the Daily Record.

The former James Bond star has accepted the membership number 007 and is looking forward to officially opening the links course in Aberdeenshire.

Connery, 78, said of Trump's plan: "During tough economic times, this is a major vote of confidence in Scotland's tourist industry and our ability to rise to the challenge.

"I look forward to seeing a new gem in the north-east that is good for Aberdeenshire and good for Scotland."

The plan was originally rejected by an Aberdeenshire Council committee over fears it would damage the environment.

But it was later called in and approved by the Scottish government.

Connery added: "It's exactly this kind of swift decision making and focus on boosting the economy and local job opportunities which shows that Scotland is an excellent place to do business."

Connery was an early backer of US tycoon Trump's resort at the Menie Estate, near Balmedie.

The development will start once final planning details are sorted out.

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