Care for Veterans golf day goes with a swing – and a bit of lightning

After a hot bacon roll and coffee to start the day, the golfers were ready and raring to get around the 18-hole Vardon course. The weather, however, had other plans in mind.

By 10am, rain was coming down thick and fast, followed by lightning and rumbles of thunder. Golfers sought shelter in the clubhouse and the charity said they were brilliant at keeping a sunny disposition, despite the challenging conditions.

By 11am, blue skies broke through and all activities resumed. From bottle putting to a beer buggy doing the rounds, golfers maintained a cheerful and competitive approach. By mid-afternoon, the teams were gathered in the clubhouse once again, this time for a two-course lunch.

Among those attending were veterans Les Hollebone and Gus Goward. Les fought in the Second World War and was a prisoner of war in Burma for five years, while Gus served with REME.

Worthing antique dealer and TV personality Henry Nicholls conducted an auction and there was also a raffle.

Christine Gillott, senior fundraiser, said: “I would like to say thank you for everyone who attended this sold-out event and has passed on such fantastic feedback after another wonderful golf day. We were very well looked after at Worthing Golf Club, as always, and we look forward to having an event again with them next year.

"Without the tremendous support of our participants and donors, we would not have been able to raise such a magnificent sum for the support and rehabilitation of the disabled veterans in our care.”

The next golf day will be at Ham Manor Golf Club on Thursday, April 27. Visit www.careforveterans.org.uk/events/golf-day to book, telephone 01903 790352 or email [email protected].

For more information about Care for Veterans, visit www.careforveterans.org.uk, call 01903 213458 or email [email protected].