John McGinn backs calls to save Dalmuir golf course from closure

Scottish football star John McGinn has backed a petition to save a popular West Dunbartonshire golf course which is almost 100 years old from closure.

The Aston Villa captain and Scotland midfielder posted on social media that he was “gutted” to read that Dalmuir Golf Course was under threat of closure and urged people to sign the petition, which already has got more than 5,200 signatures.

It comes after the local authority released its proposals to reduce the £8.3m budget gap which included the option to close the course or reduce it to 12 holes.

The council doesn’t just have plans for Dalmuir but is also proposing the closure or leasing of the two bowling clubs at Whitecrook and Goldenhill while transferring the responsibility of four veteran bowling clubs to their committees.

A change.org petition which was launched earlier this week by the Clydebank Overtoun, which is one of several clubs that play at Dalmuir, is looking for 7,500 signatures and already has more than 5,280.

The petition states: “West Dunbartonshire Council are planning to close the only public golf course in the area.

“This would be detrimental to its residents as it offers a place where all residents no matter age, race, or gender can not only enjoy golf and the positive effects it can have for your physical well being, but is also a place that offers social gatherings to those who otherwise would not be able to do so.

“Dalmuir Golf Course has been there for the residents of West Dunbartonshire for almost 100 years, bringing people from all over Scotland to play and taking this away would be a great loss to the community.

“By signing this petition, it will let the Council know just how much this means to not only the residents of West Dunbartonshire but also to the west of Scotland.

“So please sign this petition to save an important part of history in West Dunbartonshire.”