Hugh Jackson

Hugh Jackson, the former European Tour and Senior Tour player and long-standing club professional, has passed away at the age of 75.

The Northern Irishman collapsed during the Connemara Pro-Am and died shortly afterwards.

Originally from Newtownards in Co Down, he started out in Balmoral where he was assistant to 1947 Open winner Fred Daly.

Jackson, who represented Ireland in the World Cup on two occasions, competed on the European circuit from 1966 to 1978, winning six times. His great claim to fame was finishing eighth behind Jack Nicklaus in the 1970 Open Championship. He then played on the Senior Tour during the 1999 and 2000 seasons while he also won the Irish PGA Championship in 1970.

Jackson was a highly respected professional at Donabate Golf Club for 31 years until his retirement four years ago. One of the players he taught during the time, Walker Cup star Gavin Moynihan, paid tribute to him on Twitter, saying; "Lost a great friend and teacher today. Can't believe the news. Taught me since I started up till now. Great man and golfer RIP Hugh Jackson.”

PGA in Ireland secretary Michael McCumiskey added: "We are all deeply saddened by Hugh's sudden passing and send our deepest condolences to his family. Hugh was a popular figure for many years and will be greatly missed."

Andy Stubbs, Managing Director of the European Senior Tour, said: “Hugh was a big character and well-liked among his fellow professionals. He was one of the players competing when the European Tour was created and saw the introduction of the Senior Tour in the early 1990’s. Hugh was also well known in Irish golfing circles and will be sorely missed.”

His Funeral Mass will take place at St. Finian's Church River Valley, Swords, County Dublin, on Wednesday 30th September at 10am.