Lee Westwood and golf world pay tribute as caddie “Scotchy” passes away

Lee Westwood was among the first to pay tribute to former caddie, John "Scotchy" Graham, who has passed away following a long battle with cancer.

Graham had two stints on the bag for Westwood, who he carried for at several majors as well as the Ryder Cup at Oakland Hills in 2004.

Affectionately known as "Scotchy", the Glaswegian was Westwood's caddie when he won his first PGA Tour event at the Freeport-McDermott Classic in 1998.

Graham, a hugely-popular figure in European golf and renowned as a superb story-teller, was also Howard Clark's looper at the Ryder Cup in 1995, while he also worked with Soren Hansen.

But his health had deteriorated in recent months as he underwent treatment for brain tumours, admitting in July that nothing more could be done after the cancer spread to his lymphatic nodes.

In a post on Facebook, he wrote: "I haven't really been taking any News for a few months. I was at my Doctors the other week where I had 4 or 5 days for Radiotherapy for my Brain Tumours.

"I had one more day for my doctor telling me what was going on. The doctor has said from now The Cancer and The Brain Tumours are No more Treatment that they can do. I am being very positive, whatever am doing I am doing my upmost best."

Caddieworld announced his passing on Instagram on Sunday. "So sad to announce we have lost our friend John “Scotchy” Graham following a long brave battle with illness. 

"A friend to everyone who crossed his path we will remember him as a big personality with a smile and a story for every occasion. Our thoughts and prayers go to his children, family and friends everywhere."

LIV Golf's Westwood was quick to pay his respects with a simple "Rest in peace Scotchy xxx" on Facebook, with a photo of the pair celebrating together in the last '90s.

Claude Harmon III, son of Tiger Woods' former coach Butch Harmon, commented: "One of the absolute best", while Wayne "Radar" Riley added: "RIP legend".

Alastair McClean, the long-time caddie for eight-time European No 1 and Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomerie, added: "Terrible news this morning to learn that John Graham, aka Scotchy, had made his way up to the fairways in heaven. 

"What a man he was. Never a dull moment when Scotchy was in your company. His stories were famous for the humour and insight. Stuff you just couldn't make up. 

"We will all miss you my friend. Just remember, you might need one less club up there with the air being a bit lighter. Thoughts with Caroline and all the family. Gone but never forgotten."