A CHARITY golf day raised more than £11,000 for a local cardiac charity.
The South Winchester Golf Day, which will now become an annual event, raised the funds for Heartbeat.
The greens played host to more than eighty golfers, who played in 20 teams of four on Wednesday, August 16.
The event featured a treat for golfers in the form of Heartbeat House's renowned gin bar, the sun also shined adding to the fun atmosphere.
The day saw the skills of one Heartbeat patron, former Saints player James Beattie, put to the test on the second hole where he challenged the golfers to 'Beat the Beats'.
Mark Ind, Heartbeat’s CEO, spoke about the importance of Heartbeat raising funds to provide a cardiac youth worker providing psychological support for 11-25 year olds.
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He said: “We’ve invested £24,000 in a new youth worker, Becky Cutler. She’s been brilliant in supporting young people with heart conditions.
“We’re hoping to continue this as it has been such a valuable and vital part of a patients' journey from diagnosis through to treatment plans and beyond.”
Becky's new part-time position at the University Hospital Southampton has been completely funded by Heartbeat for the next 12 months, with the role designed to support the mental wellbeing of young people with a long-term or life-limiting heart condition.
Mark said: “It's through events like this that mean we can keep funding projects and roles that make a real difference to people’s lives. We’re always so grateful for the support and generosity of our patrons and supporters of Heartbeat.”
The event also featured an auction with a range of prizes. Among them were a coveted four-ball experience at Remedy Oak in Dorset, a luxurious beauty hamper, and an enticing golf and overnight stay package at the prestigious PGA course, the Belfry.
As the day concluded, awards were presented to the standout performers. The winners of the Alan Ball trophy were Hi Acre Construction, who scored an impressive 103 points.
The trophy was presented by Jimmy Ball, son of the late football legend Alan Ball. Trant Engineering secured the second position, while the nearest pin competition was won by former Saints player Reuben Agboola.
Next year's South Winchester Golf Day is already on the calendar for Wednesday, August 14.
For more details, visit heartbeat.co.uk.
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