Henley golfers swing into action in aid of The Chiltern Centre

10 years ago, Emma Lerche-Thomsen and Chris Ward hosted their first ever Golf Day on behalf of The Chiltern Centre. An idea that was first conceived in 2008, finally came to fruition in 2015, and has now been running for 10 years. This year’s golf day was the 21st and so far golf has raised over £100,000 of vital funds for the charity.

“The Chiltern Centre, which was set up to give young people with disabilities a place where they can feel supported, grow and thrive, needs to raise approximately £200,000 per year in order to function, so days like these are a great help towards finding that total,” explained Marketing Manager Izzy Ansell.

The event was supported by 70 players who made up 18 teams and a Shotgun start on the tees bright and early on Tuesday morning. The forceful winds of Monday had died down a little and the potential rains mostly kept at bay, making for some interesting rounds but in generally favourable conditions. Golfers enjoyed 18 holes, a lunch in the clubhouse and raffle and auction prizes. Michael Newton, a previous sponsor of the Golf days, once again put in a Towergate team – as he has for every one of the events. “Unfortunately I don’t think we are going to win this year as one of our team was unable to attend so we were only a 3, however, it’s a great day out and a fabulous cause to support so we don’t mind.”

This year’s course sponsor was Ward Connections.  As well as being the original creator of the event, Chris Ward has been a loyal supporter of the Centre for 20 years as both a patron and a major benefactor. “Golf appeals to men and women and we have some very loyal supporters, some that have been at every event! You are helping a local charity whilst playing with your friends, which is why I think it is always so well attended.”

Henley Golf Club’s Club Captain, Jeff Ellis explained, “Janet Thompson (Lady captain) and I chose The Chiltern Centre and Bluebells dementia group to be our charities of the year. They are local and mean a lot to us both so we are delighted to be able to raise this money.”