THE Open championship proved to be a better than par event for the railway.

More than 60,000 people used the railway to travel between Liverpool and Hoylake and, with the same numbers travelling back to the city, more than 120,000 journeys were made using the Merseyrail service during the four days.

Inspector Ken McVey, of British Transport Police, said: “We knew the railway would be busy for the Open – we’ve had lots of experience of the tournament being hosted in Merseyside – but these numbers were exceptional.

“Even more incredible was how good natured everyone who used the rail network was. There was a real feel-good factor about the whole event and it was a genuine pleasure to work with Merseyrail and our other partners to help people travel safely.

“Not even the rain, and early finish on Saturday, could dampen spirits and I’d like to personally thank all the officers and rail staff who worked tirelessly during three hot days, and a monsoon, without issue or complaint.

“Primarily though, I’d like to thank all the golf fans who behaved impeccably and made The Open at Hoylake such a spectacle.”

Despite the large number of people travelling only one person was arrested, for being drunk and disorderly at Moorfields, while two further people were reported for trespassing on the railway at Manor Road.

Insp McVey added: “To have just one arrest, with more than 120,000 journeys, shows just how good natured the event was.

“The Open proved a perfect advert for Hoylake and the Wirral and highlighted Merseyrail’s ability to manage high numbers of passengers.”