AN ANNUAL golf day has raised near £2,000 of vital funds for a charity offering bereavement support for children and young people.

Each year Steve Jones hosts the Dave Jones Challenge Cup in memory of his dad who passed away in 2010, and has raised money for several charities. But this year the event on Saturday focused on Simon Says.

The children’s charity is close to the heart of one of Steve’s friends, whose children are supported by the charity, and so it was chosen to benefit from the day.

Steve said: “We choose a charity that is self-funding so as we know every penny goes straight in their pockets.

“I am fortunate to know a great bunch of lads that make up the FCGS and some great people who are in local business. Without them I could not do any of this so all the thanks should go to these guys that make it possible.”

In the months before tee off Steve says he makes a number of calls asking for money and for people to take part in the challenge cup.

Following the day the dad-of-four said he is “very pleased and proud” to have raised £1,904 for the organisation, but said that his gratitude goes to the local businesses and golf society FCGS who donate their time, money and prizes.

Speaking to Georgie Pinchon, chief operations officer, Steve said: “What you guys do is exceptional and I am so pleased to now be part of your charity in future fundraising events and will hold another one next year and top this year’s target.

“I think we should all be grateful that there is a charity like yours out there, you are all remarkable human beings.”

Georgie added: “We couldn’t do what we do without the generosity of organisations and individuals like this. The money raised on Saturday should cover the costs of our Andover support group for the next months and beyond if we receive match funding.

“Our sincere thanks go out to everyone who was involved in making this possible and we are looking forward to getting involved again next year.”

A charity evening was later held at the Central Club.