New Life golf day raises £20k for special care baby units at hospitals including Royal Berkshire and Swindon’s Great Western
More than 100 people took part in a celebrity golf day and raised more than £20,000 for a West Berkshire charity.
Footballers Lawrie Sanchez, Liam Brady, and Steve Gatting were among the 104 players who teed off in the New Life charity event.
The sports stars said they had all enjoyed at being involved in the event and liked the “camaraderie and competitive spirit that permeated the day”.
It was the second New Life Special Care Babies golf day of the year and took place on July 7 at Calcot Park Golf Course.
The day was boosted by a barbecue, auction and live music from Elvis tribute band, Trouble.
New Life was set up by Trevor Goodall in 1995 following the death of his premature twin boys, Joshua and Samuel. Since then it has raised £1.25m to supply neonatal equipment to hospitals around the country.
Mr Goodall, unwavering in his pursuit of the £2m fundraising target, expressed his delight and gratitude for the overwhelming support received.
"We had a fantastic day, and I am deeply touched by the tremendous support from everyone,” he added. “It is heartening to witness the consistent participation of so many dedicated individuals at this event.
“With each passing year and the growth of our charity, we can fund more specialised equipment for neonatal units across the UK, ensuring that these very sick and premature babies receive the best possible start in life.
“Such equipment, had it been available 28 years ago when my twin boys were born, would undoubtedly have increased their chances of survival."
During the evening event, Jo Hilton, a senior neonatal nurse from the Royal Berkshire Hospital (RBH), delivered a moving presentation on the invaluable work carried out by neonatal units and the critical role of specialised equipment in improving the lives of premature babies.
New Life has provided the neonatal unit at RBH with a range of lifesaving equipment over the years, making a significant impact on the care they can provide and the outcomes for the premature babies in their care.
The auction, which was compered by comedian Ian Richards, showcased a number of items, including a football shirt donated and signed by Mr Sanchez, a coveted day of golf at the prestigious Wentworth Golf Club, and a pampering spa day for two at a Duncan Ballantyne venue – which was bought by one of the players and then given to Ms Hilton.
There were also prizes for the winning teams including Seamus Hayes claiming the coveted 'Nearest the Pin' prize. The teams known as 'Masterplanners,' 'Chairman's Chase,' and 'The Green Team' secured the top three positions, respectively.
