POIGNANT FAREWELL TO THE OLD CLUBHOUSE 

IT was unveiled at a ceremony in 1909 with steel magnate and the world’s wealthiest man, Andrew Carnegie, among the throng posing for the photographer. 

And the door was locked on the Royal Dornoch clubhouse for the last time by club captain Gary Bethune, as a new era beckons with the December 15 opening of the new clubhouse on the other side of the iconic flags by the first tee. 

Hard on the heels of the traditional end of season prizegiving and dance, nearly 100 members gathered for a Sunday carvery and a chance to toast goodbye to a clubhouse which has served generations through times thick and thin for 116 years. 

Gary, who has strong family ties to the building, admitted he had been emotional as he turned the key in the lock. 

“I hadn’t expected it,” he admitted. 

“It had been a lovely weekend as we said goodbye in style. 

“The Saturday night was well attended and for once myself and Deb left them to it as I wanted to work on my speech for Sunday. We are usually last to ship out. 

“The team did a great job on the final day, serving more than ever before in the restaurant. The atmosphere was fabulous. 

“We had Willie Skinner, Christine Murray and Sander Macdonald as our guests. They have been part of the club longer than anyone and it was fitting they should be the last to leave the building before it was locked up. 

“I switched off the lights and closed the door. 

“It was a hugely emotional moment for me. I have been in and out of the clubhouse since I was five or so. 

“My grannie Bunnie Bethune was the caretaker/caterer and put in all the hours for the club, an absolute stalwart. My grandad Duncan was the local butcher and he spent a lot of time in the bar downstairs! 

“I’m sure it was a poignant occasion for all the local members who were there. It truly did signal the end of an era. But now we can look forward to the new clubhouse, our new home.”