The death has occurred of former Irish international John (JR) Dickson, who played in the 1977 European Team Championship and also represented Ireland in the 1980 Home Internationals. He was 51.

His death took place on Sunday while he was competing in the second round of the club championship at Holywood Golf Club, where he was an honorary member.

Indeed, he had shot a first-round 67 to be leading the competition until his sudden demise, which came while he was playing the 13th hole.

Dickson represented Ulster in the Interprovincial championships from 1977 to 1983 (during which time they won three titles and shared another) and won the decisive singles match in the 1979 competition at Ballybunion.

In recent years, he had served as captain of the Ulster youths' team.

He is survived by his wife Linda and children Graham, Michael, and Laura.

- PR