Stornoway Golf Club Sabbath drinks bid refused

Stornoway Golf Club wanted to serve alcohol from midday on Sundays

A golf club on the Western Isles has been refused permission to serve alcohol on the Sabbath.

Stornoway Golf Club on Lewis had sought approval from the islands' licensing board to serve alcoholic drinks from noon until 2300 BST.

The board decided by four votes to three to refuse permission.

The Free Church and Murdo Murray, who was an independent Christian candidate in the general election, had opposed the application.

In a separate issue, the club wants a ban on playing golf on Sundays lifted.

The landowners of the course - the Stornoway Trust - said the club's 25-year licence included the condition of no Sunday play.

Another islands golf club which prohibits playing on its course on Sundays was awarded £64,000 by Sportscotland in February.

The national sporting body previously sought to reach a compromise with Isle of Harris Golf Club on its ban.

Playing on Sundays is not allowed in line with local requests that the course observes the Sabbath.

Last year, Sportscotland said it recognised a rest day for staff but hoped golfers could use the course and leave a fee in an honesty box.