STARS from the past and the present came together recently to celebrate a milestone landmark in the history of a West Fife sports club.

A total of 52 current and former players with Dunfermline Carnegie Hockey Club’s ladies section packed into the city’s Canmore Golf Club last month to celebrate its centenary.

Following the hockey club’s formation in 1909, the ladies side was established 11 years later, meaning that their 100th year fell in 2020.

However, due to COVID-19, plans for a birthday celebration were put on hold, but the delay didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those who attended to mark the achievement.

From playing on its first home pitch at Brucefield Farm, to its current base on Woodmill High School’s astroturf pitches, Dunfermline Carnegie’s ladies section has enjoyed plenty of success throughout the years.

As well as winning numerous district league titles, outdoor and indoor, the ladies section were four time winners of the Scottish Confined Cup during the 1990s, as well as in east and inter-district tournaments.

In 1996, the first team joined Scottish Hockey’s national league, and were promoted in four successive seasons, and the ladies section now has four teams competing in Scottish Hockey’s East District leagues.

A commemorative cake, made by Leigh Miller, was cut by Joyce Smith, the oldest ex-player in attendance, and twins Abby and Emma Neil, who were the youngest, and who have recently left the club to go to university, whilst another former player, Lesley Boniface, put together a poem showcasing the changes within the ladies section over the years.

Sheila Duncan, of Dunfermline Carnegie’s ladies section, said: “On the night, we had folk who played in the late 60s, right up to present day players. It was great to hear stories about how the game has changed and about friendships formed.

“We made a memory book and it would be good if former players, who weren’t there on the night, could get in touch with stories of their time with us.”

For next season, Dunfermline and Carnegie are looking for players to join their men’s and ladies sections, with opportunities available for all levels and abilities. For more information, find them on Facebook.