RESIDENTS in East Lothian have been told to remain “vigilant” by Police Scotland as officers specially trained in counter-terrorism methods are deployed ahead of the Scottish Open next week.

Thousands of spectators will be heading to The Renaissance Club, near Dirleton, as golf stars including Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick tee off from next Thursday to next Sunday (July 11-14).

Over the weekend in Gullane, police officers were seen speaking to members of the public as part of Project Servator, a policing tactic that aims to reassure the public as well as targeting criminal activity, including terrorism.

Police Scotland said online: “Specially trained Project Servator officers were deployed in Gullane at the weekend, in advance of the Scottish Open.

“Working alongside partners, officers visited transport hubs and spoke to members of the public, where they reminded everyone to stay vigilant.

“Project Servator deployments can happen anywhere, at any time.”