Curling grand matches in Lanark and Douglas

Six sheets of ice were laid out, resplendent in traditional coloured rink markings of red and blue, in a three and a half hour contest to find the winners of the Carmacoup Quaich.

Forty-eight curlers including rinks from Bellshill, Lesmahagow and participants from the Upperward Ladies, and at least as many

spectators, then proceeded to enjoy an afternoon of sport and hospitality.

President Gentle said: "We heard the day before that Tuesday's Grand Match on the Lake of Menteith had been cancelled, so it was an even bigger bonus to get out on our own ice."

In a close finish, the rink comprising Jim Smith, Stephen Smith, Kevin Chapman and Davy Clarkson was victorious.

Lanark Curling Club members were also in outdoor action on Saturday.

Five Lanark rinks battled it out for the club's Vassie Medal over three and a half hours at a frozen Lanark Loch, with skip Martin Yuill and team-mates Tom Steele, Alan Sellar and Ian Hutton eventually enjoying a 3-2 final triumph over the rink of Donald MacRae.

For more information on the matches, pick up a copy of this week's Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.