MEMBERS of Helensburgh Curling Club have revived their annual tradition of an end-of-year trip to Stranraer’s curling rink after a 12-year gap.

This was a two day event with ‘Team Clark’ (pictured) proudly displaying their boxes of biscuits after winning the Stranraer Schenkel Quaich.

The overnight leaders, ‘Team Laverty’, had a dismal start to their final round-robin game against Adam Clark, Hugh Sweeney, Tim Tindal and Rodger Scullion, going 7-2 down after six ends.

The last two ends saw something of a fight back, and John Laverty just had to draw with his final stone to get the four shots needed to peel and secure overall victory.

But his stone finished short and the last Clark stone was burned. That was it.

A most enjoyable outing was enjoyed by all and the long drive south to Stranraer was judged to have been well worth the effort.

Club spokesman Malcolm Wyatt said: “Helensburgh Curling Club plays at Braehead Curling Rink, Renfrew. We are a friendly group of enthusiasts, having a full calendar of events throughout the season, and is actively seeking new members.

“If you are interested in joining us please contact Helensburgh CC committee member Ian McArther on 07881 652773, for further information.”

The Helensburgh curlers aren’t the only local exponents of “the roaring game” to have enjoyed a visit to the rink at Stranraer’s Macmillan North West Castle Hotel recently: lady members of the Druids Curling Club, which covers the Helensburgh and Dumbarton areas, also played at the venue in November.