Glasgow firms partner to deliver essential project at Hillhead Sports Club

HILLHEAD Sports Club in Glasgow has undergone an essential £20,000 upgrade of its Fraser Stand thanks to the support of two local businesses.

The project, completed earlier this month, involved the replacement of protective screens to the front of the 152-capacity stand, which offers prime viewing of the club’s main rugby pitch and its cricket square.

The scope of work required was out with the club’s budget, however Richard Austin Alloys and George Gilmour (Metals) Ltd collaborated to complete the project at no cost to the club.

They designed and fabricated 22 lighter aluminium screens to replace the heavier mild steel screens, which the club said were difficult to move and had a ‘poorer’ appearance. After checks with a sample panel, the project was duly completed.

Hillhead Sports Club chair Alan Wilson said, “The incredible kindness and support shown by the late Sean Kelly of Richard Austin Alloys and John Gilmour of George Gilmour (Metals) really is a game-changer for Hillhead Sports Club and ensures our Fraser Stand is fit for purpose in 2023.

“We had long hoped to undertake these essential works only for the pandemic and then supply chain issues to conspire against us. However, there was collective determination to get the job done and this, together with the generosity of these two local businesses, combined to accelerate the project from autumn of last year.

“Everyone at the club is thrilled to have seen the works completed this month and we all share in the sincere gratitude to the late Sean and John, who have demonstrated the community spirit which is the very essence of amateur sports clubs such as Hillhead.”

Gary Kitchener (left) with Andy Scott, and Barney the dog.

Gary Kitchener and Andy Scott, respectively President and Secretary of Hillhead Jordanhill RFC, completed the onsite finishings and are pictured alongside a very happy Barney the dog!

The Fraser Stand at Hillhead Sports Club, which lies on the grounds of Hughenden War  Memorial Playing fields, just off Great Western Road, opened in August 2015, is fully covered and includes provision for three disabled spectators.

Hillhead Sports Club provides facilities for cricket, rugby, tennis, shinty, and ultimate frisbee and boasts a fitness club, gym, restaurant, bar, and indoor space for fitness sessions, social events, and hospitality.