Spectators welcomed to strict security

Ryder Cup organisers have warned spectators that anyone caught bringing a mobile phone or pager into the Belfry will be denied entry. Those who manage to sneak them in will be ejected if caught.

Mobile phones and pagers are on a long list of prohibited items as the organisers mount the costliest and most high-profile security operation in Ryder Cup history.

Also on the banned list are bicycles, picnic baskets, ladders, lawn chairs, televisions and pushchairs. Spectators will also be prevented from carrying backpacks, briefcases and suitcases into the Belfry and only those bags measuring no more than eight inches square will be admitted.

Golf fans hoping to record the event, which starts on Friday, face disappointment as still and video cameras are also banned.

The Belfry opened its doors to the public yesterday and 35,000 spectators attended the practice sessions of the European and American teams.

All had to pass through sophisticated x-ray machines and metal detectors similar to those used in airports but organisers said that nobody had been caught trying to smuggle in a ladder, bicycle, mobile telephone or any other banned item.

A Ryder Cup spokeswoman said: "Any spectator with a prohibited item will not be admitted. Those caught with them, once inside, will be ejected. These measures might appear draconian but they have been put in place because of the security situation and to further enhance the enjoyment of spectators."

The security operation, which is being overseen by tournament organisers and Warwickshire police, is in response to concern, particularly among the American team, that they could be the target of terrorist attack. Fans have been warned to allow extra time to gain entry to the Belfry.