MORE than 100 golfers stayed the course to show support for the stunning floral displays on show at an Ayr park.

The Belleisle Conservatory’s charity golf day was played in glorious conditions over the Belleisle course and saw Brian McMullen, Robert Kennedy, Karen McMullan and Gina Barber (pictured) emerge on top.

Belleisle Conservatory Ltd was set up in 2010 to transform the much-loved but derelict former glasshouse in the park, which dated from 1955 but closed its doors in 2005, back to its former glory.

The conservatory reopened to the public in July 2016.

A spokesperson said: “The Belleisle Conservatory’s stunning plant display in the glasshouse in Belleisle Park could not function without the help from local businesses and the community who all demonstrate their passion for the conservatory by volunteering, becoming a patron, donating and supporting events.

“The future is dependent on us raising funds by hiring out the conservatory for weddings and special occasions, organising music and craft events.”

The tournament was followed by a reception and prize-giving in the conservatory to announce eht winners and thank the sponsors and all those who attended and supported the event.

The competition’s main sponsors were Caledonian, Tyson’s Tyres, The Boys’ Brigade, FMW Properties, David Carfray, Masonry Matters, Pieroni Fish, Iain Cowie Physiotherapy, DW Shaw, Golf Kings, Richard Gordon Belleisle Pro and The Coo Shed.

The reception and prize-giving at the Belleisle Conservatory following the group's charity golf day.The reception and prize-giving at the Belleisle Conservatory following the group's charity golf day. (Image: Robert Collie)

On-course prize sponsors were Golf Kings, David Carfray, Masonry Matters, Richard Gordon, Iain Cowie, Pieroni’s and DW Shaw.

The tournament was organised by Karen Watson, Sylvia Muir and Sylvia Kemp.

The spokesperson added: “Thanks to South Ayrshire Council for keeping the tee times and the course in lovely condition.

“All proceeds from the event will help significantly with the upkeep of the magnificent conservatory located in the very heart of our community in Belleisle Park.

“Belleisle Conservatory Ltd would like to say a sincere thanks to all who worked so hard to bring the event together and a huge thank you to everyone involved.”

Behind the winners were Jim Coubrough, Gordon Hunter, Joe Coubrough and Malcolm Cochrane in second place, Gail Thomson, Sheila Kennedy, Karen Kennedy and Gillian King in third, and Mike Beesley, Ruaridh Watson, Colin Park and Alan McCulloch.

Nearest the pin prizes were won by Ian McClarty at the third hole, Brian McMullen at the seventh, Elizabeth McConnell at the 10th and Margaret Miller at the 17th.

June Dempster won the ‘nearest the line’ prize at the fifth hole with a shot to within 30cm, while Sarah Bottomley won the same prize at the 12th after her effort reached within three inches.

Find out more about the conservatory and the group’s work at www.belleisleconservatory.com.