EDINBURGH financial planning and investment firm Carbon Financial Partners have teed-up support for the Paul Lawrie Foundation.

The charity created by Scotland’s 1999 Open Championship winner supports charitable activities and organisations working for the benefit of young people, often through sport.

Award-winning Carbon have agreed a three year support agreement and managing director Gordon Wilson said: “We are delighted to support The Paul Lawrie Foundation and its work with youngsters.

“Paul is a fine ambassador for golf and it’s wonderful to see someone who has reached the top of their profession trying to help a new generation of talented youngsters progress in their chosen sport.

“I strongly believe that a sport like golf can teach young people so much in terms of self-discipline, achieving goals and following etiquette, attributes which will help them for the rest of their lives, whichever career path they decide to pursue.

“And if the Foundation was to produce another Open champion to follow in Paul’s footsteps that would be an added bonus.”

Established in 2001 following Paul’s memorable victory at Carnoustie, the Foundation now directly oversees more than 50 events for juniors in various age groups.

Paul’s ethos is to introduce more children and young people to the game of golf and to help them enjoy their experiences.

The programme has grown to include a small stable of talented young playing professionals, making their way on the various Professional golf tours of Europe.

As well as enjoying financial support to assist with travelling, equipment and tournament costs, each player has Paul’s email and contact number and can tap in to Paul’s vast experience whenever they feel they need advice or guidance

Announcing the tie-up between the Foundation and Carbon, Paul, who is competing in the European Tour’s Middle East Swing, said: “It’s an exciting development for the Foundation. I’m grateful to Carbon for their backing and understanding of what it is we do.

“I sat down with Gordon towards the end of last year to outline our plans, ideas and aspirations. He could see straight away the benefits of what we do and our vision for the Foundation.

“It’s important to me to have the support of companies and organisations within our community who want to see more opportunities for children. I am looking forward to working with them to get more kids participating in and enjoying this great game.”

Pictured: VILAMOURA, PORTUGAL – OCTOBER 23: Paul Lawrie of Scotland tees off on the 18th hole during day four of the Portugal Masters at Victoria Clube de Golfe on October 23, 2016 in Vilamoura, Portugal. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)