Appeal fund launched for caddies at St Andrews

Caddie master Fraser Riddler sets target of £20,000 he help ‘loopers’ in the town

St Andrews caddie master Fraser Riddler, left, set up the fund.

An appeal fund has been set up to help St Andrews caddies as they feel the pinch from the seven Links Trust courses in and around the town being closed due to the coronavirus crisis.

The GoFundMe account has been launched under his own steam by Fraser Riddler, the caddie master at St Andrews Links, to try to support the 200 
or so “loopers” who work in the town.

Riddler, pictured, has set a target of £20,000, with the figure already up to more than £2,500 within a few hours of it being launched.

“The closure of golf 
facilities as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on so many businesses and people within the golf industry,” said Riddler, who has been caddie manager since February 2016, amassing thousands of rounds himself at St Andrews.

“Unfortunately, this is particularly true of the caddies who regularly stride the fairways at St Andrews Links.

“With no play possible for the foreseeable future and international travel set to be badly affected for the remainder of the summer season, caddies’ livelihoods are being seriously impacted.

“Many have sought alternative means of employment but a significant number have been unsuccessful due to the wider economic implications facing so many industries.

“Many people from across the global golf community have indicated they would like to offer help and support to the caddies during this difficult period, so I have established a GoFundMe account where donations can be made.”

Riddler, who has had bags on the Ladies European Tour, European Tour and Challenge Tour during his caddying career, added: “Myself and the caddies have been blown away by the initial response and would like to thank everyone for their

support.

“All monies donated will help to ease concerns over financial hardship that might face many caddies in the coming weeks and months.”

The money raised will be awarded to caddies who apply for financial assistance, with the process being managed by Riddler and not the Links Trust, which oversees the seven courses.

Caddies have been part of the fabric of golf in St Andrews for almost as long as the game has been played in the Auld Grey Toun.

There are references to caddies dating back as far as 1691 at the Home of Golf and, through to the modern day, they continue to make a meaningful contribution to the enjoyment of the game by golfers of all ages and abilities.

The Links Trust caddies are self-employed but have to

register to work on the

courses.

Ordinarily, in April alone, they would usually do 3,800 rounds, climbing another 2,000 in May.