Golfer honoured

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".