Generous golfers got in the swing to support a charity event jointly organised by former West Ham footballer Stuart Slater and Suffolk cricketer Phil Toogood.
The popular golf day took place at Stoke by Nayland and raised more than £12,000 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Eighty people representing 20 teams took part, getting in the spirit on the club’s pristine Gainsborough course.
There was also a raffle and auction, and other ex-professional sportsmen to take part included former Hammers star George Parris and Essex and Leicestershire cricketer Darren Robinson.
“It was an incredible day, and there was so much warmth towards EACH,” said Phil.
“It was clear people wanted to show their support and do whatever they could to help this amazing charity.
“Stuart did a superb job engaging the loyal supporter network he’s built over the years as a West Ham United Ambassador, which is where most of the teams came from. I drew on my cricket and executive coaching contacts, and together we brought everything together quickly – and the day was a huge success.
“People were just buzzing, and there was so much positive energy throughout the entire day.
“We’ve also had some amazing feedback since, and our thanks go to everyone who supported the event and those who came along and gave so generously.”
Phil said he and Stuart, who are brothers-in-law, were inspired to support EACH after a conversation with Stoke by Nayland’s Golf Development Manager and Club Professional, Simon Dainty.
Simon is a bereaved father whose family received end-of-life care and support at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
“Stuart and I went to the hospice in the build-up to the golf day, and I can honestly say my perspective on life changed forever,” said Phil, who plays club cricket for Halstead.
“So much of what we heard resonated for us both. We walked out with a rush of gratitude for the fact we have such an amazing resource in our community – not to mention the magnificent people who work there.
“We got back in the car and thought ‘wow’. We knew it was a no-brainer in terms of choosing to support EACH. We were all in.”
Top auction lots included executive lounge tickets for a West Ham Premier League game, tickets to a Lord’s Test match, a night’s stay with golf and coaching at the resort, some luxury gifts and a signed Ipswich Town shirt donated by Matt Holland.
There were also lots of sought-after competition prizes and a raffle.
EACH volunteer John Skoyles was on hand to share information about the charity’s work, and Senior Community Fundraiser Ali Butler said: “We’re so grateful to Phil, Stuart and everyone who contributed to his hugely successful day, helping raise more than £12,000.
“It’s a magnificent amount of money that will help us continue our vital work caring for children and supporting families across the region.
“It sounds like an incredible day, and I hope everyone had great fun, while also doing something kind and significant to support our charity.”
