Our forecasters work closely with the R&A to ensure that players and spectators benefit from the best possible forecasts throughout  The Open Championship. They are based with the on-course officials throughout practice and the tournament to give minute-by-minute updates on developing weather.

Grant Moir, Director of Rules with the R&A, said: "Having the Met Office forecaster on site is a great help to us. To know what weather we're likely to get in terms of possible suspensions of play and, if we have had to suspend, when we might be able to resume play, is invaluable for us."

Robin Thwaytes, Met Office forecaster at Royal St George's, said: "The Open is set to start with favourable weather for the competitors, but over the weekend the potential for strong winds and rain should make for more challenging conditions."

Met Office forecasts currently indicate that the tournament will start in fine weather before the wind picks up and conditions become unsettled for the weekend.

The Met Office will be providing a range of forecasts for The Open including:

• Our special Open golf events web page that enable visitors to view the forecast up to five days in advance.
• Weather forecasts on our  Youtube site.
• Latest weather updates on our Twitter and Facebook pages throughout the Championship.