Tributes have poured in following the tragic passing of Spa Golf Club professional Gary Wardlow.
The Ballynahinch club shared the devastating news on social media as the father of three died after taking ill last weekend.
Belfast native Wardlow was the PGA Tour professional at the Spa Golf Club and as well as coaching budding golfers of all ages in recent years.
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He also took part in the Northern Ireland Open himself having spent time on the Irish PGA circuit at courses all over the county. He is survived by his wife Susanne and three sons.
"It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm the passing of our dear friend and Professional, Gary Wardlow," SPA Golf Club stated on Facebook.
"Never without a smile and a kind word, Gary has been the heart & soul of Spa Golf Club for many years.
"Always on hand to help out in any way he could, Gary’s loss will leave a void in all of our lives.
"As we navigate the coming days, we ask for your patience as we come to terms with this devastating news, which has shocked the entire Spa family.
"We would like to offer our condolences to Gary’s wife, Susanne, his three boys, Jaxon, Luke and Carter, and all of Gary’s wider family circle.
"We will be opening a book of condolences at the Club, which we welcome anyone who has had the pleasure of knowing Gary to sign. We will share funeral arrangements in the coming days. Rest in Peace, Gary."
Golf clubs from all over Northern Ireland have paid their own tributes.
Shandon Gold Club wrote: "The Captain, Council & members of Shandon Park Golf Club offer sincere condolences to the family and friends of Gary Wardlow, former Shandon Park member and PGA Pro at Spa Golf Club.
"An integral and fondly remembered part of our European Club winning side in the year 2000, Gary will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing, and playing golf with him.
"Our thoughts at this time are with Gary’s wife Susanne and their three sons, Jaxon, Luke and Carter. RIP Gary."
Cliftonville Golf Club also shared their condolences.
"It with shock that we heard today about the sudden and very premature death of Gary Wardlow," they said.
"Many of you will remember Gary who was our teaching pro here at Cliftonville before he took up the professional post at Spa Golf club.
"Gary was very popular here and a great friend to many of us especially Sean our club manager. He was highly regarded not only for his teaching skills but his personality. Gary always had a ready smile and a warm way about him. He was taken from us early, much to early.
"On behalf of Cliftonville members I offer our deepest sympathies to Gary’s family at their tragic loss. He will be warmly remembered here at the ‘Ville."
TGI Golf Partnership stated: "We are absolutely devastated to hear of the death of Gary Wardlow PGA Professional at Spa Golf Club.
"Gary was a valued member of the TGI Family and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, three young sons, friends and family during this heartbreaking time."
Bloomfield Football Club also paid tribute on social media.
A statement read: "Bloomfield FC send our deepest condolences to Susanne, Jaxon, Luke and Carter and entire Wardlow family upon the tragic loss of Gary.
"Bloomfield 2010 and 2013 boys’ fixtures have been cancelled and a minute’s silence will be observed before kick off at the matches of all other age groups in remembrance.
"Gary’s support, enthusiasm and quick wit will be sorely missed on the sidelines by coaches and parents alike."
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