Golfer Sam Torrance has landed a new ambassadorial role

The Ryder Cup legend has been given the role of helping promote the nation's golfing facilities abroad.

Tourism, Culture and Sport Minister Frank McAveety made the announcement as part of a campaign to attract golfing tourists to Scotland.

Torrance, 50, currently plays on the senior tour in Europe and the US.

VisitScotland hopes Torrance's profile will have an impact in the US, helping attract even more Americans for golfing holidays and maximising the potential of the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

Nothing makes a sportsman more proud than representing his country Sam Torrance

Golf tourism in Scotland is already worth �300m annually to the economy but experts believe that there is still the potential for growth.

Mr McAveety hailed Torrance as a "tremendous ambassador" for the game.

Speaking at Royal Troon, Torrance said he was honoured at his appointment.

He said: "Nothing makes a sportsman more proud than representing his country.

"Representing Scotland in the Dunhill Cup and World Cup over the years has given me immense pleasure and therefore to now have the opportunity to represent Scotland permanently is a dream come true.

"I am very much looking forward to being an ambassador for Scotland, and everything that it has to offer, over the coming years."

Mr McAveety said the appointment should cement the country's proud golfing reputation.