A NEWPORT businessman says he will not remove a sign advertising his business in the grounds of his home which is opposite the 2010 Ryder Cup golf course.

Estate agent owner Alan Darlow put up the 50ft by 6ft Roberts and Co sign yesterday but was later contacted by the Celtic Manor asking him to remove it.

When he refused, Mr Darlow said he was later urged by European Ryder Cup director Richard Hills who said event sponsors had paid a lot of money to have exclusive advertising rights at the contest.

But yesterday Mr Darlow maintained he would not remove the sign until after the competition ends on Sunday because it is on his land and is a good advertising opportunity opposite the eighth and ninth holes.

He said: “I am sticking by my decision. Unless anybody forces me to take it down it will stay there.”

Mr Darlow also lent his support to bookmakers Paddy Power who were yesterday served with an injunction by Cardiff County Court on behalf of Monmouthshire council to remove a 200ft also opposite the green.

Mr Darlow said Ryder Cup organisers should have informed residents earlier if they did not want people to advertise.