Spectators will be banned from taking mobile phones to this year's British Open at Carnoustie, after complaints from players during the 2006 championship at Hoylake.

"We have so far resisted the call to ban mobile phones on the grounds that it may be an inconvenience to the public," said David Hill, director of championships for the Royal & Ancient organizers, in a news release.

"However, after receiving complaints referring to the numbers that were in use as play was proceeding (last year), we feel there is no other reasonable option than a complete ban."

The policy is in line with the three other majors, the U.S. Masters, U.S. Open and U.S. PGA Championship, and last year's Ryder Cup at the K Club in Ireland.

In order to implement the ban, security checks of every spectator will be made on entry to the Scottish course.

World number one Tiger Woods launches his bid to complete a rare British Open title hat-trick on July 19.

In the modern era, only Australian Peter Thomson (1954-56) has lifted the famous Claret Jug in three successive years.(From cnn.com)