The 20th anniversary event was scheduled to be staged at St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns in early October but has now been put back 12 months.

"Given the international nature of the event and in particular our large amateur field we felt that this was the prudent decision to take," a spokesman for the event said.

“Given the international nature of the event and in particular our large amateur field we felt that this was the prudent decision to take.”

"The size and complexity of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, played over three courses with 168 professionals and 168 amateurs, makes it very difficult to stage safely within the current guidelines given the uncertainties we are all facing.

"We have been working closely with the Scottish authorities and the European Tour to continue the event while mitigating against the pandemic, and we are very grateful for all their support."

The event, which has been staged annually since 2001, incorporates an individual European Tour tournament and a team championship, in which professionals are paired with amateurs.