Brian Purdie was a proud Scotsman who was associated with Blackpool Park Golf Club on the Fylde Coast in England for more than 50 years.
Born in Clackmannan in Fife, Brian began playing and exhibiting a talent for golf at an early age and joined the PGA in 1965.
He was elected to membership two years later and initially worked in his home country, first at Cardross Golf Club on the Firth of Clyde and then at Falkirk Tryst between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
It was in England, however, primarily at Blackpool Park, where he spent the remainder of his career. The club was known as Stanley Park when Brian arrived there in the late 1960s and, aside from a two-year spell at Surbiton Golf Club, Surrey, between 1971 and 73, he served it as head professional until retiring in 2007.
In doing so he demonstrated all the skills demanded of a club pro at the time – making and repairing clubs, running the shop, coaching and, when time allowed, competing in tournaments. Such was his expertise that he became a well-known and respected figure not just at Blackpool Park but also locally and further afield.
Following his passing at the age of 82, Brian was described by neighbouring Fleetwood Golf Club as a “well-known and respected individual on the Fylde Coast golf scene.”
“Brian was an absolute gentleman who didn't have a bad word about anyone,” added a Blackpool Park member.
“He was the pro here for decades with a wealth of knowledge of playing professionally and teaching. If someone like Peter Allis passed on their regards to Brian, you know he had some standing in the game nationally.”
