Strong SLGA backing for unification plan

THE Scottish Golf Union last night welcomed an overwhelming vote from the Scottish Ladies' Golfing Association in favour of the two bodies amalgamating.

At an extraordinary general meeting in Perth yesterday, the SLGA's stakeholders gave the strong backing anticipated to the proposal, with 93 per cent of the votes cast being in support of its adoption.

"The SLGA Board is delighted with the outcome of the members' vote and would like to take the opportunity to thank all of those who participated during the lengthy and extensive consultation process," said chairman Shona Malcolm." In a remark clearly aimed at some of the men's Area associations set to poll against the proposal at tonight's separate SGU vote, she added: "Throughout the process, the SLGA members have demonstrated a commitment to the future development and governance of Scottish amateur golf, with no thought of self interest.

"The SLGA is committed to progressing the amalgamation to its conclusion, while protecting the democratic principle of the clubs, the main funders of Scottish amateur golf, being the voting members."

The focus now turns on the SGU stakeholders when they vote on the proposal at an extraordinary general meeting at Tulliallan.

The men's governing body needs the backing of 12 of the 16 Area associations, but, as revealed by The Scotsman, that is extremely unlikely.

Responding to the ladies' vote, SGU chief executive Hamish Grey said: "The overwhelming vote on favour of the amalgamation proposal is welcomed and in line with the feedback received from all clubs.

"Whatever the outcome at the SGU vote tomorrow we look forward to continuing to work closely with the ladies."