Shinty association appeals for calm in restructure row

Newtonmore are the current shinty champions

Shinty's governing body has appealed for calm following the escalation of a war of words over plans for league reconstruction.

The Camanachd Association's reforms have been opposed by a number of clubs.

A motion by Skye to consider maintaining the status quo was rejected on Tuesday, sparking an angry reaction from Newtonmore.

Chief operating officer Torquil MacLeod told BBC Scotland it was important that the matter was handled calmly.

The game currently operates with a national division of 10, underpinned by regional leagues.

The Camanachd Association plans to reduce the top flight to eight but introduce a national second tier.

'Cack-handed'

On Tuesday, a motion by Skye to consider maintaining the status quo at April's annual meeting was rejected.

It has since sought a special general meeting to discuss the matter.

Reigning Premiership champions Newtonmore have backed Skye's stance and, in a statement, has launched a strongly worded attack on the association's board.

The club said the association's proposal was not put out for consultation.

Newtonmore club secretary Ian Gibson also accused the association of "cack-handed intransigence" and of misjudging the mood of the clubs.

MacLeod said the Camanachd Association would not be making a specific response to Newtonmore's statement.

He told BBC Radio Scotland that, in the interests of the sport as a whole, it was important that the matter was handled calmly and with sufficient time available for the views of all sides to be properly put and understood.

A request from Skye for a special general meeting has been received by the Camanachd Association and the meeting could take place in May.