Tee off for the heroes of war

Armistice Day contest in Airdrie

More than 140 golfers helped to raise £2000 for the Royal British Legion during Airdrie Golf Club’s “hugely successful” Armistice Day competition.

As the sun rose on the sombre, reflective event, three past-captains from the host venue hit the opening tee shots on what proved to be an emotionally charged day.

Demand for places was so high that the final groups ended up finishing their rounds in almost “complete darkness”.

Armistice Day holds “a special place in the hearts” of the Airdrie Golf Club team as 17 members lost their lives during both world wars.

These brave military personnel are immortalised forever on a bronze plaque mounted at the entrance to the Glenmavis-based club.

Following the competition’s conclusion, captain Brian Jamieson laid a wreath under the plaque to remember the former members – and everyone who has made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts around the world.

A special poppy flag flew over the club house and the poppy theme carried over to the flags on the greens.

All of the players involved in the competition received a commemorative gift and the winning team of Alan Gillespie, David and Derek Mowat and David Miller were presented with special edition gold poppy medals.

An Ai rdrie G o l f C l u b spokesperson said: “The committee would like to thank all members, sponsors – both corporate and individual – and organisers Bill Gilchrist, Brian Jamieson, Tom Monaghan, Rosemary Appadoo, Robbie Kennedy and Glen Rankin for all their help in ensuring that the event was such a success.

“It has now been decided that the event will be held on an annual basis and we look forward to welcoming more golfers along next year to pay tribute to the fallen.”

Leading by example Club captain Brian Jamieson laid a wreath under the commemorative plaque

Show of support Event organisers were thrilled with the turnout at the Armistice Day golfing competition