By Dave Lord

GLENEAGLES IS often seen as a playground for the rich and famous and the luxurious Perthshire resort lived up to its lofty reputation as it played host to some of Britain’s best-loved celebrities yesterday.

All were taking part in a charity golf day organised by cricket legend Ian Botham.

Rugby star Matt Dawson was among those attending the event, co-hosted by former Boyzone member Ronan Keating.

The pop star swapped screaming teenage fans for the relative calm of the fairway and the respectful hush of the green as he led celebrities on a round at the famous Perthshire resort.

Among other participants were Tom Chaplin of chart-toppers Keane, television presenter Gabby Logan along with her husband, rugby star Kenny, and footballer Jamie Redknapp.

The event had been organised to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK and Leukaemia Research.

Mr Botham said he was delighted to visit Perthshire and, despite the somewhat less than benign conditions, confirmed that a good time had been enjoyed by all.

He did not disclose details of his own score but was happy to reveal his reasons for organising the event.

Mr Botham said, “Whether playing or watching, I have been a golf fanatic for the last 30 years.

“I have also been involved in many golf events and this year I decided to combine my great sporting passion with my passion for raising much-needed funds for the charity which I have supported since the mid-1980s and of which I am now president: Leukaemia Research.

“I was delighted Ronan Keating agreed to co-host this golf classic at Gleneagles Hotel,” he continued.

“In addition to raising much-needed funds for Leukaemia Research, the event also raised funds for Cancer Research UK, a charity which Ronan has been a keen supporter of through his fantastic fund-raising efforts for the Marie Keating Foundation.”