A man embezzled £3,000 from the bowling club where he was treasurer to feed his gambling habit.
Henry Kay, 61, Pollockshaws Road, who admitted taking the money from Shawlands Bowling Club in 2014, avoided jail today when he appeared for sentence at Glasgow Sheriff Court.
Kay was ordered to perform 155 hours unpaid work and repay the money.
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His responsibility was to take the club’s takings to the bank twice a week and he had the safe key.
Prosecutor, Jim McColl, said: “When another member took over the finances to make savings, she investigated bank statements and receipts and noticed a discrepancy.
“Club members were told about the inquiries and the accused gave back his safe key and resigned saying he had a gambling problem.”
Kay admitted theft and said to club members he would pay back the sum, but never did.
He was subsequently arrested.
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The court heard that because of Kay’s actions, members had to pay the following year’s fees early to keep the club afloat.
Defence lawyer Mark McCormack said: "Mr Kay's father had passed away and gambling was his only vice".
Sheriff Valerie Mays told Kay: “This was a serious offence and a serious amount of money.
“You were in a position of trust as an assistant treasurer.
“If you fail to pay this back you will come back to the court and I can sentence you to imprisonment.”
