THEIR catchphrase might be ‘So Stobo’ but the words ‘So Generous’ are more apt with the announcement that Stobo Castle will be one of golfer Craig Howie’s main sponsors for the 2019 season.

Recently voted the UK’s best destination spa, Stobo Castle will once again provide Craig with financial backing and full use of their gym and spa facilities for a second year as the Peebles golfer looks to build on a hugely successful debut season as a Tour professional.

Having won the third tier Pro Golf Tour in 2018, the 24-year-old former Peebles High pupil will embark on the next stage of his golfing journey when the European Challenge Tour gets underway in Turkey in April, with his sights set on joining the big guns on the main European Tour.

The top 15 players in the rankings will gain promotion at the end of the season and having seen former Scotland amateur colleagues Grant Forrest, Bob MacIntyre and Liam Johnston all make the successful transition in recent months, Howie will go into the campaign with high hopes.

Craig told us: "I played a lot of golf as an amateur at a similar level to Grant, Bob and Liam, as well as Connor Syme who played on the European Tour last season, so it’s been great to see these guys doing so well.

"It gives me the confidence to know I can compete with the best players on the Challenge Tour and I proved last year that I’ve got what it takes to win as a professional.”

“I am delighted that Stobo have committed to getting on board again.

"Their support over the last 12 months was a huge catalyst for my successful year on the Pro Golf Tour and their backing has been great. The reality is that I wouldn’t be able to travel and compete without their help, so it is hugely appreciated and I am proud to be associated with their brand for another year.

“The members of Peebles Golf Club have also been very supportive and I know they’re all rooting for me to do well and have someone representing the town at a high level. I’m excited about playing on the Challenge Tour and I can’t wait to get started.”

Craig travelled to Barcelona last week as part of his preparations for the new season and finished tied 16th in the Ecco Tour event at PGA Catalunya – his first event of the year – with rounds of 75, 65 and 69.

He plans to compete in a few events in Morocco over the next few weeks, before the Challenge Tour gets underway in April, where he’ll travel to the likes of China, Turkey, UAE, Italy and France, as well as closer to home in Ireland, England and hopefully an event back home in Scotland.

Spaces remain for others sponsors to get involved, so if your company would like to offer your support, please get in touch with the office at Peebles Golf Club on 01721 720197 or e-mail Craig directly on craigr.howie@btinternet.com.

You can follow Craig’s progress throughout the season via www.europeantour.comn/challengetour