THE CELTIC Manor's bid to host golf's Ryder Cup has been given a timely boost by bookmakers William Hill.

The decision on which British course will win the right to stage the prestigious challenge match between Europe and America in 2009 is expected to be made on September 25, but William Hill have closed their book after heavy backing for the Celtic Manor.

"We had quoted Celtic Manor as 3/1 third favourite, but were knocked over in the rush as the odds shortened to 9/4 then 7/4, 5/4 and finally Evens," said Hill's spokesman Graham Sharpe.

"With punters still clamouring to place lumpy bets we decided someone knew a little more than we did and closed the book."

Hills had made Gleneagles 7/4 favourite ahead of Loch Lomond at 2/1, Celtic Manor at 3/1; Turnberry 8/1 and Slaley Hall 20/1.

"The decision is announced later this month, but if money can talk it has been shouting that Celtic Manor is on the 18th green with a short putt needed for victory," added Sharpe.

Tony Lewis, the Chairman of the Celtic Manor's bid, cautiously dismissed the news saying, "I have never been a betting man", but he takes obvious pride in the strength of the challenge to bring golf's most prestigious event to South Wales.

A spokesman for the Celtic Manor said while the news was welcome, they were concentrating on the official decision.

"We don't know any more than anyone else and it's not final until a decision is made. "The six people on the committee have not made their minds up, until they do it's still wide open.

"We have had welcome support ever since we mounted a bid to host the Ryder Cup at the Celtic Manor, but at the end of the day no decision has been made."