Head Professional

London Scottish is undoubtedly one of the most historic courses in the UK, with a history dating back to 1865 making it the second oldest golf club in England.

During its 150+ year lifetime, the layout of the course has remained in its original state. Now in the 21st century, the club continues to find ways of building on its illustrious past, with two brothers adding their names to the archives of SW19.

The story begins back in 1992, a near 30 years ago, with PGA Advanced Professional Matthew Barr, the head Professional of the London Scottish Golf Club who, after five years’ service at the club, would leave to join Gerrards Cross Golf Club in Buckinghamshire. His replacement was none other than his brother Steve!

Having played in the 1981 Open Championship at Royal St George’s, as well as being a member of the European Tour from 1977 to 1982, Steve would ply his trade at London Scottish Golf Club, becoming the Professional and Club Secretary for almost 30 years.

Now, after his long service to the industry, Steve has announced his partial retirement, with his brother, Matthew, once again taking the reigns as the club’s Professional and Secretary. Although there may have been longer serving PGA Professionals, this must be the only time in the associations history where brothers have exchanged jobs and then one has returned to his previous club after such a long gap.  

If true, it’s a fine achievement for a club that is already steeped in history and records. For example, to mark the clubs 150th Anniversary, Colin Montgomerie took up the position of Club Captain of the London Scottish Golf Club.

The funny thing is that Monty wasn’t the first Ryder Cup captain associated with the club. Scotland’s George Duncan was a member during the 1920s, captaining Great Britain & Ireland to a 7-5 Ryder Cup success in 1929.