Golfer honoured

SOUTHSIDE golfer John Mulgrew has received international recognition by being awarded PGA master professional status.

The honour was conferred upon the Mearns Castle professional during the Open championship at St Andrews.

The accolade is the highest a PGA pro can achieve and it recognises an outstanding contribution to the game.

Mr Mulgrew was recognised for his work as a tutor with the PGA training department, involvement with various changes to the programme and for core development of the industry-recognised director of golf qualification.

He told ExtraSport: "To be recognised among people I have the highest respect for is very humbling.

"This is without doubt the pinnacle of my career".

Now the distinguished 63-year-old from Newton Mearns joins a select group of recipients including David Leadbetter — who is widely regarded as the father of the modern golf swing — and Padraig Harrington's coach, Bob Torrance.

Haggs Castle professional Campbell Elliot, who worked for Mr Mulgrew early in his career, enthused: "John fully deserves the award. His services to the sport have earned him a great reputation in the golfing world.

"He has done a lot to develop the business side of golf, as well as being a respected tutor. That will be his lasting legacy".