Plans for a new championship 18-hole golf course and youth academy in Angus have been unveiled.

The £55m development, which is backed by Ryder Cup winner Darren Clarke, would also include a five-star hotel and spa and new homes at Wellbank.

The plans, which are being proposed by local entrepreneur Mike Forbes who runs the Kingennie country resort, could create more than 100 jobs for the area.

Planning officials in Angus will make a decision on the plans in due course.

Those behind the development said the Gold Youth Academy, the first of its kind in Scotland, would be fronted by Rudy Duran who coached Tiger Woods.

Mr Clarke said he had become involved in the project after visiting Kingennie during the Open in 2007.

He said: "It struck me that the land surrounding the resort had the ideal topography for an amazing golf course capable of offering professionals and amateurs alike a real challenge.

"I am very excited about being involved in this project, my first signature course in Scotland, which would make sure that golf tourism opportunities extend beyond adjacent Carnoustie and St Andrews."

Mike Forbes added: "We are thrilled that Darren Clarke is putting his name to and support behind this golf development that aims to rival the best in the world."