THE history of golf in Banff from its origins played at Banff Links Bay to the modern development of the 18-hole golf course at Duff House Royal was outlined in a special presentation by an honorary member of the club.
Sandy Chalmers, a keen historian of the sport, delivered his lecture as part of the 'Winter Talks' series at Duff House Art Galley.
A large crowd, including Duff House Royal representatives, past and current members, staff and members of the public were in the audience.
James Cameron, club manager, paid tribute to Mr Chalmers' efforts: "He never ceases to amaze us.
"Having completed the book on the history of the club and all the work on the centenary presentations, most would have been satisfied.
"However, Sandy established a new goal, and set about bringing all this knowledge and photos together into a powerpoint presentation, and expanded it to the wider reaches of Banff, not just Duff House Royal.
"He delivered an accomplished presentation with visual aids and it was a great achievement.
"His recognition of Duncan Kennedy at the end was a fitting way to honour our past president for his dedicated service to the club."
The presentation included photos from as far back as 1871 right through to present day and included anecdotes, stories and props.
Items that were covered included a letter from the Duke of Fife on how he came to gift Duff House to Banff and Macduff, golf at Banff Links Bay, the original clubhouses at Duff House, Bob Strachan's golf collection, Dr Alister MacKenzie who redesigned the course, the Banff Golf Club Bazaar dating back to 1895 and the blue blazer presented to the club's Gents' Five Day Tournament winner.
The presentation culminated with Mr Chalmers recognising the contribution of the late Mr Kennedy, who died during the 2010 centenary year.
Mr Chalmers told the audience that the club had recently decided to rename the 14th hole after Mr Kennedy in honour of his sterling contribution to the club.
