Bridge will fill Tam gap

The Westerwood Hotel and Golf Resort has paid a lasting tribute to Tam by calling its dry stone wall bridge on the 18th hole of its golf course ‘The Tam Sutherland Bridge’.

The 68-year-old has been in charge of the greenkeeping team at The Westerwood since it opened in 1986 before deciding to call time on his career at the start of this month.

Situated close to the 18th green, a plaque on the bridge reads: ‘This bridge honours the hard work and dedication Tam has shown to the course during his 29-year tenure. Thank you, Tam, from your colleagues, friends and current and past members’.

Tam said: “The Westerwood has been a major part of my life for almost 30 years and I’m sad to leave. But I decided now was the right time to hang up my greenkeeping gloves and I’m very touched that a bridge has been built and named in my honour.”

Paul Bray, general manager at The Westerwood Hotel and Golf Resort, said: “Everyone at The Westerwood knows Tam and his face is well known to all our members.

“As someone who has been here since the resort opened, we wanted to do something special to mark his outstanding contribution and the bridge will be a long-standing tribute to the dedicated service he has given for nearly three decades.”

Tam and his team have looked after the Westerwood course on behalf of thousands of members over the years, and new members can now trial a winter membership at the resort from just £150.

The Westerwood is situated in acres of spectacular grounds, with a golf course co-designed by Severiano Ballesteros. Working with the equally revered golf designer Dave Thomas, the legendary Spaniard created a course that is as challenging as it is beautiful, as it meanders through silver birches, firs and heather, offering stunning views towards the picturesque Campsie Hills. For more information about The Westerwood Hotel & Golf Resort call 01236 725281