Jimmy Hume of Gullane golf club dies aged 75

By MARTIN DEMPSTER
Published on 01/02/2013 01:21

JIMMY Hume, who was the Gullane club professional for nearly 30 years and taught former British Women’s Open champion Catriona Matthew in the early stages of her career, has died suddenly at the age of 75.

Hume served his PGA apprenticeship at the East Lothian club under the late Hugh Watt and had spells at Beaconsfield, Harewood Downs, Formby and Royal Jersey before returning to Gullane as the head professional in 1975.

He held that position until 2003, when he was succeeded by Alasdair Good, although Hume retained his connection with the club by earning reinstatement as an amateur and becoming a member. “Jimmy was a true professional,” said David Huish, who served his apprenticeship alongside Hume and himself was the long-serving professional at neighbouring North Berwick. “He was a skilled club-maker, having learned that art from Hugh Watt, and a skilled teacher, too. He was also an extremely good player.”

In one of nine appearances in the Open Championship, Hume was just a shot off the lead after the first and second rounds at Royal Birkdale in 1967 before finishing in a tie for 29th behind Roberto de Vicenzo.

“He played some great players and could give the ball a good whack as he was fit and strong,” added Huish.

Hume, an honorary PGA member, is survived by his wife, Susan, and son, Andrew, a PGA professional himself at one time.

“Jimmy was a hell of a character,” said Gullane secretary Stephen Anthony.

“He was a real gentleman who always had a kind word for everyone.”