Tribute paid to Perth Masters

Pete Loudon, Provost John Hulbert and Bill Duncan

This year marks the 19^th anniversary of the Perth Masters Bonspiel, sponsored by the Mercure Hotel and throughout that time it has welcomed and celebrated some of the best curling in the world.

2012 is no exception with appearances from European Champions and Olympic silver medallists team Ulsrud from Norway, all members of the 2010 TeamGB Olympic squad playing in different line-ups and last year’s champions McEwan from Canada.

At the annual dinner held at the Mercure Hotel on Friday special praise was directed towards the organisers for their dedication to this international competition.

The main sponsors, Mercure surprised the event’s chair, Pete Loudon and vice-chair Bill Duncan with awards for the huge personal commitment they make each year.

Chris Charalambous, general manager of Mercure Hotel said: “We wanted to recognise the effort that they put in to the local community. There are not a lot of people in Perth that would do what they do.”

In a speech on the night Pete Loudon also celebrated the work of Bill Duncan who stepped down as chair of the Dewar’s centre in December after five years to take up the role of president of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club in June.

Mr Duncan was “taken aback and very proud” to have his efforts recognised. He said: “During my time at Dewar’s we have managed to keep the facility in good shape and make good ice.

"I suppose my legacy is ensuring the future of curling in Perth for the next 20 years through Live Active Leisure and Perth and Kinross Council taking over the operation of the Dewar’s building.”

Perth’s Provost John Hulbert and his wife Sara also received a custom-made curling award from the competition organisers for his continued support of the championship.

Provost Hulbert said: “It is a very, very good thing for Perth. It brings people to Perth and income to the city which is traditionally a bad time for hotels, shops and businesses.

“It brings to Scotland a large number of visitors from all over the world.”