Golf day for pub boss John raises £10,000

Golfing buddies of Bannockburn publican John McQue organised a charity golf day to honour his memory and netted thousands for Strathcarron Hospice.

Davy Curley worked closely with John at McQ’s pub and entertainment complex in Main Street, Bannockburn, and retired journalist Archie Mackay had known him since his early days in reporting at the Stirling Observer. All three played golf at Glenbervie Golf Club.

When John died in May, Davy and Archie decided that a memorial golf day was a fitting tribute to their friend.

Fellow golfers Gordon Robertson of Monument Press and Jamie Kilgannon of Kilgannon Motors quickly added their support and skills. Flag and tee sponsors were signed up along with 22 teams of four players.

The event was staged at Glenbervie in early October and featured an insurancebacked hole in one prize of £20,000 at the par three 13th – where John once recorded an ace himself. Despite gallant efforts, no one could match John’s achievement on the charity golf day.

In addition to sponsorship, other companies and individuals from Stirlingshire and beyond donated prizes that boosted the funds through an auction and raffle. All the money raised was for Strathcarron Hospice, which provided excellent end-of-life care for John.

Archie said: “The charity golf day was instigated by Davy Curley and he was the real driving force behind it. John’s wife Linda gave us the blessing of herself and family and we set out to raise £5,000.

“The support was incredible and reflected the love and affection that so many people had for John.”

On Sunday some of those involved in the golf day gathered at McQs to see Linda McQue present a cheque for £10,750 to Alison Cooke from Strathcarron Hospice.

They included the winning team of Gerry Docherty, James Anderson, Gary Morgan and Robbie Robertson from The Port Customs Bar.

Davy Curley said “We want to offer sincere thanks to everyone who helped us raise this magnificent sum for Strathcarron Hospice.

“Heineken were lead sponsors but there were so many others who helped by buying a tee or flag, entering a team, donating money or prizes and of course Glenbervie Golf Club.

“The support for the day was incredible and the money raised is a real tribute to John who is so sadly missed by an army of people.”

Strathcarron Hospice rep’ Alison added: “This is a superb donation and very much appreciated.”