The golfers were stunned when the pilot of the Thomas Cook plane informed them mid-flight their luggage had been left behind to lighten the load.

According to the passengers, the pilot made the decision after rejecting the options to stop and refuel in Germany or England on the grounds the stop would have taken the cabin crew over their allotted working hours.

That would have meant a new crew would have had to be found, adding further to the delays.

Upon arrival at Glasgow Airport, only eight of the 24-strong party walked away with their full complement of luggage.

Sixteen golfers still have no luggage six days later.

Thomas Cook promised the passengers their luggage, some containing credit cards, mobile phones and medication, would be back with them within 48 hours.

John Brown said, “It was only when we flew that we were told that most of our luggage had been left because of a fuel shortage and that the captain had to lighten the load.

“We were assured they would follow on the next flight.

“Six days on we are still waiting.”

“The whole thing was a cost-saving exercise to the company with no regard to the inconvenience it was always going to cause to the passengers on that plane.

“We were assured our bags would be back with us within 48 hours but going into the sixth day there is still no contact to tell us our bags have even left Paphos.

“After such a tremendous week’s holiday, to have it spoiled by their actions has left us all seething.” Many of the travelling party have been inconvenienced to the extent that some had to arrange overnight stays in the Fort hotel due to their car keys being in their suitcases.

Some have also had to purchase additional chargers for mobile phones and shavers.

Thomas Cook said yesterday the golfers would be reunited with their belongings by the end of the day.

However, it was pointed out to them again today, the luggage is still missing.

They were asked to comment but had not done so at time of going to Press.