A RARE bottle of whisky is to be auctioned off for Ardgowan Hospice in memory of a much-loved Greenock man.

Robert Gardner, 60, sadly passed away seven-and-a-half-years ago after battling cancer.

As a special tribute to Robert, who was the well-known club master at the Navy Club in Greenock, a limited edition Millennium Bell’s whisky bottle, which he bought, is going under the hammer.

His wife Bridie says the story behind the auction is ‘remarkable’ – as she actually raffled the bottle off five years ago in aid of the hospice.

But in a twist of fate, Provost Robert Moran’s partner Margaret won it and has now donated it back to be auctioned at the hospice’s ‘Hollywood Ball’ next year.

Bridie, of Adam Street, told the Telegraph: “My husband collected special whisky bottles, so when he died I put his Bell’s Millennium bottle in a Christmas raffle at the hospice’s furniture store.

“Robert Moran’s partner Margaret won it, which was lovely as she worked with my husband at the Navy Club.

“So Margaret and Robert have had the bottle in their house for the past five years, and when they told me they were going to put it up for auction, I was quite moved as it’s such a lovely thing to do.” Bridie described hospice staff as a ‘tower of strength’ to her during her husband’s final months and is the reason why she decided to become a volunteer.

She said: “The hospice were excellent and they supported my husband so well.

“They also gave me bereavement counselling and that’s how I became strong enough to get out in the world again.” Provost Moran says he and his wife are delighted to be able help raise vital funds for Ardgowan.

He added: “There were only a few of these whisky bottles made to mark the millennium, so hopefully it will be worth quite a bit of money.

“We thought it would be a great idea to put the bottle in for the auction to help them raise as much money.” The bottle will be auctioned off at the hospice’s ‘Hollywood Ball’ on Saturday 12 March at Greenock Town Hall.

The glittering red carpet event, which is sponsored by McGill’s Buses, will boast a champagne reception and mouthwatering meal, as well as entertainment from singing duo Ginny and The Tonic and band A-Side Soul. There will also be a raffle and auction, hosted by Brian Clements from McTear’s Auctioneers.

To book a table, telephone Denise or Elaine on 726830.