THE famous Turnberry Lighthouse which is known to golfers around the world is to be switched off and sold by its owners.
Towering over the Ailsa Golf Course in Ayrshire , the iconic 19th century building is expected to be converted into luxury holiday accommodation for golfers.
The lighthouse was built in 1878 to warn passing ships of the dangers posed by the Bristo Rock on which it stands. It's light flashed across the Firth of Clyde every 15 seconds and could be seen by vessels 25 miles away.
Although fitted with the latest satellite navigation system Turnberry Lighthouse is rarely used since most ships give the rock a wide berth and the owners – the Northern Lighthouse Board – now admit the structure has "limited value."
Ken Trethewey, of the Lighthouse Society of Great Britain, said it was a "fantastic icon" for Scotland. Pictures of it are beamed round the world when the Open Championship is held at Turnberry.
"I can't think of another lighthouse that has more exposure," he added.
Archie McFarlane, secretary of the Clyde Fishermen's Association, added: "I'm sure Turnberry would make a very good home, although you'd meed to be fit to climb all the stairs."
gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk