In an innovative new initiative, the International Pairs world finalists will get a rousing reception from the children of Fife when they parade through the streets of St Andrews in September.

With the streets blocked off and the St Andrews Pipe Band heading the march, children who have entered the International Pairs poster, badge and letter-writing competitions throughout the summer will have the opportunity to be present at one of the highlights in the amateur golf world calendar.

With more than 80 competitors from 30 countries having qualified across the globe to compete for the title of International Pairs World Champions, the competition has come of age in the last two years.

Started originally as a local event in Hampshire in 1998, the tournament - run in association with Visit Scotland - has grown to become the largest amateur tournament of its kind in the world for club golfers.

This is in no small part due to the efforts of the tournament founder, Ross Honey, who commented: “The reason we wanted the schools involved during our world finals is because we believe that the youth of today are the key to the future of the wonderful game of golf.

"The game teaches honesty, integrity and friendship and these are skills that all children, wherever they are from, appreciate and need.

"We are delighted that so many schools are participating in the competitions and we look forward to welcoming all the children and their parents to the parade and prize giving ceremony at the Town Hall in St Andrews."

The competitions are being run at numerous schools throughout the Kingdom of Fife and are designed to test the pupils’ art, design and research skills.

And Provost of Fife, Frances Melville, who will perform the tournament's opening ceremony, will be on hand to present the winning children with their prizes.

Tony Cose, tournament co-ordinator for the 2008 International Pairs World Final, said: “We believe getting local children involved with our global event will not only increase their awareness of different countries of the world but also give them the opportunity to promote St Andrews and Scotland from a young persons point of view.”

This year's International Pairs world final is being held from September 21-23 at the renowned Duke’s, St Andrews - home of the Scottish Golf Union and host to numerous amateur tournaments including the 2008 Scottish Amateur Championship.

Honey added: “The help and support we have received, not only from the schools who recognise what we are trying to achieve but also local bodies like Fife Council, has been marvellous.

"We look set to have a fantastic event in September and I can’t wait for it to happen.”