GOLF traditionalists were left seeing red, white and blue over an outrageous pair of trousers at The Open at Royal Troon yesterday.

The switchboard of the Royal & Ancient - the game's governing body - was flooded with complaints over Ian Poulter's Union Flag attire.

The flamboyant 28-year-old kept his promise to wear something special when he wore the Austin Powers-style trousers, complete with matching shoes and sunglasses, as he shot a level-par 71.

The trousers were a one-off pair made by Savile Row tailors William Hunt, which he aims to auction for charity.

Peter Dawson, chief executive of the R&A said: "Our switchboard has received a lot of complaints about Ian's trousers.

"But there is no clause in the rules which says anything about Union Flag trousers and we shall not be asking Ian to change them."

Poulter promised more fashion surprises during the tournament, saying: "What do I say to the fact that some people have complained? They are a pair of trousers - that's what I say.

"It was good fun. People were laughing and I received a few wolf whistles.

"There are too many boring characters out there."

Poulter's past antics have included dying his hair red and white in honour of his beloved Arsenal.

Arthur Dunsmuir, captain of Royal Troon, urged Poulter to tone it down for today's second round, saying: "We wouldn't wish to encourage that type of attire."

Meanwhile, North-East long shot Kenneth Ferrie - wearing a straightforward red shirt and khaki trousers - was making a name for himself by shooting three-under par and leading the field at one point.