Golf: Tributes for Ian Thomson

TRIBUTES have been paid to Ian Thomson, a long-time Duddingston member and Dispatch Trophy vice-convenor, following his death at the age of 79.

His son, David, came through the ranks at Duddingston before going on to become one of Scotland's most-respected club professionals and is currently the head pro/director of golf at The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle.

In his job as publicity manager for The Scotsman and Edinburgh Evening News, Thomson was always a great supporter of the Dispatch Trophy and became a vice-convenor in 1995.

He also helped organise the once popular Edinburgh Evening News Charity Walk.

"Ian was always a bouncy and cheerful character," said Hamish Coghill, a one-time work colleague and now the Dispatch Trophy convenor.

Duddingston member Hinton Bootland added: "Ian served on the board here but never reached the dizzy heights of captaincy. He was someone who kept a low profile."

His funeral is tomorrow at Mortonhall Crematorium at 1pm.