A TROON athlete has earned a congratulatory motion at Holyrood after representing his country on the international stage.

Tom Campbell captained the GB men’s over 70s basketball team, leading them to a gold medal at the International Maxibasketball Federation (FIMBA) European Championships in Italy.

The over 70s team was the only GB team to win gold, with seven of the 12 points scored by Tom coming in the fourth quarter of the final, winning 45-42 against Lithuania.

The South Ayrshire man coached basketball at Marr College with the Troon Tornadoes for more than 20 years and was head coach of Scotland’s under-18 and senior men’s teams.

South Scotland Conservative MSP Sharon Dowey praised Tom and the team for their fantastic achievement, and lodged a motion with the Scottish Parliament to recognise their achievements.

Ms Dowey said: “It was a real pleasure to visit Tom at his home in Troon and meet with him and his wife Liz.

"Tom’s dedication to the team and love for his sport shines through in what he has achieved.

"I hope to see the over 70s team go from strength to strength and I commend FIMBA GB for all the work they do in promoting physical activity for people over the age of 35.

“I was delighted to lodge a motion in the Scottish Parliament, recognising Tom’s achievement and congratulating him and the team on their win.

"I have no doubt there are many more great things to come from Tom and I wish him every success for the future.”

Tom said: “I want to say on behalf of the team thank you for the recognition, it’s very much appreciated.”