GOLFERS have been told to EVACUATE the Royal Liverpool course due to threat of thunderstorms.

Practice on Monday was halted at The 151st Open after a red weather warning was issued at Royal Liverpool.

Heavy rain forced play to stop just before 8.30am, with players and spectators told to leave the course.

But just 45 minutes later, players were back out on the putting green outside of the media centre. 

According to Sky Sports News, “be aware” weather warnings were still displayed on the electrical screens around the course.

There is still a chance of possible thunderstorms, although people are back outside as the rain has stopped. 

Rory McIlroy is among the stars competing and does so off the back of winning the Scottish Open.

The Northern Irishman sealed the deal by a stroke after his stunning two-iron stinger from 200 yards on the 18th.

It set up the decisive birdie and left McIlroy admitting it was the best shot of his career.

He said: “That was such a tough day, especially the back nine.

“To play that back nine in four under par to win the tournament, I’m really proud of how I just stuck in there.

“It’s nice to have the validation. It’s great racking up top fives and top 10s, but it’s much nicer heading away with a trophy on a Sunday afternoon.

“It’s been a long six months since I won in Dubai. I’ve given myself tons of chances and hopefully this win breaks the seal for me, especially going into next week as well.

“I hit some amazing shots down the stretch and was able to finish it off with a really nice putt there. It feels incredible.

“The five iron on 17 and then that two iron into the last, they are two of the best iron shots I can remember hitting, especially under the circumstances.

“That two iron on 18 is probably going to be up there with one of the best shots I’ll hit in my career.”