Fundraiser launched to help St Andrews caddies

For centuries they’ve helped countless golfers from near and far plot their way around some of the finest courses in the world.

But the coronavirus has hit the caddies hard, bringing with it the closure of all of our courses.

Typically, though, they’re sticking together, and an online fundraiser has been launched to help them through a time with little or no income.

Fraser Riddler, caddie manager with the St Andrews Links Trust, has established this GoFundMe account where donations can be made to support caddies.

Any monies donated will be used to assist caddies who regularly work the fairways of the courses at St Andrews Links and who are in need or face financial hardship and who apply for assistance.

Mr Riddler said: “Unfortunately, the caddies who regularly stride the fairways at St Andrews Links are among the worst affected.

“Caddies have been part of the fabric of golf in St Andrews for almost as long as the game has been played here.

“There are references to caddies dating back as far as 1691 at the Home of Golf and through to the modern day they continue to make a meaningful contribution to the enjoyment of the game by golfers of all ages and abilities.

“With no play possible for the foreseeable future and international travel set to be badly affected for the remainder of the summer season, caddie’s livelihoods are being seriously impacted.

“There is concern for the financial hardship many caddies might face due to the course closures.

“With this in mind, many have indicated they would like to offer help and support to the caddies during this difficult period.”

For more information, or to donate, please visit www.gofundme.com/f/st-andrews-caddies