It is with great sadness that I have to report the death of Larry Martin. Larry was a founder member of Montrose and District Wildfowlers in 1959 and had served on the committee in one form or another since then. In his later years Larry was treasurer and kept everything in a meticulous fashion, he also organised the annual permits, corresponded with all our visiting associate members and was always keen to hear how the other clubs were fairing. Larry was married to the late Mattie Martin and had two sons Lawrie Martin who himself is a keen shot and wildfowler and the late Graeme Martin.
In all the years I knew Larry he only had one working dog of his own, Jet was a big Black Labrador and was his constant companion when Jet died Larry never had another dog as no other would compare to his loyal pal.
When the idea of a local nature reserve with permit only shooting on Montrose Basin was first mooted in the early eighties Larry worked tirelessly with BASC the local council and SWT to ensure the project went smoothly. The success that both Wildfowlers and Bird Watchers now enjoy at the Basin is in no small way a direct result of his behind the scenes work in the early days. It has been said on more than one occasion that Larry was the Cement that bonded MDWA together and he will be sorely missed by all our members and visitors from far and near.
For Larry Martin A Friend A Fowler And A Gentleman
The Sun on your final Flight has now set
You’re back with Mattie, Graeme and Jet
No more you’ll plowter through the backies mud
And bring down pinks with a healthy thud
No more you’ll shoot clays at Kinnaber Moor
Or train a dog to follow the spoor
No more to keep our committee straight
On permits or fees in on time or late
No more to balance the wildfowlers books
Or quieten the antis with withering looks
Your time with us has given much pleasure
Your dedication was without measure
Those of us who knew you don’t need to be told
After Larry was made they broke the mould
R.I.P. Old Friend
Brian