Golf enthusiasts are being called upon to grab their clubs for a charitable cause.
After a lengthy break prompted by the health crisis, a beloved fundraising golf event is set to make its comeback.
The Launton-based Hummingbird Centre, which offers assistance to individuals battling cancer along with their loved ones, is relaunching its popular fundraiser for the first time since the pandemic began.
The gathering is scheduled for Friday, May 15 at Kirtlington Golf Club in the Bicester area.
Paul Harris, a trustee at the organisation, expressed his enthusiasm about the return of this popular event.
The last edition took place prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, and numerous people have been requesting its revival, Harris noted.
Four-person squads can register for £250, with a discounted rate on offer for those who hold full membership at the golf club.
Participants will compete in an 18-hole Stableford format, where each hole’s score counts from the two best performances among the four team members.
Arrivals will be greeted with tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches, while closest-to-the-pin and longest drive challenges will also feature throughout the day.
Following the round, a meal will be served before trophies are awarded, a raffle drawn and an auction conducted.
Harris mentioned that local businesses or individuals willing to sponsor individual holes can do so for £100 per hole.
The gathering previously attracted strong interest, Harris said, urging prospective participants to secure their spots promptly.
Every penny collected will go towards funding The Hummingbird Centre’s operations throughout Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.
The facility delivers therapy sessions, emotional support, community gatherings, a specialist Lymphoedema service and dedicated programmes for young people affected by cancer.
The charity operates solely through voluntary contributions and the dedication of its helpers.
It traces its origins back to 2014, when founder Mechelle Harris created the organisation in tribute to her father, Raymond Hurcombe.
Gary Quainton, who manages the golf facilities and pro shop at the venue, noted that this marks the third occasion the centre has staged its golf day at Kirtlington, describing it as an occasion that always generates a wonderful atmosphere.
The gathering presents an excellent opportunity to make fresh acquaintances, enjoy the fairways and, falling on a Friday, serves as an ideal start to the weekend, Quainton observed.
Those wishing to enter a team, back a hole or otherwise contribute to the occasion can reach out via events@thehummingbirdcentre.org.uk.
The centre welcomes visitors between 10am and 4pm from Tuesday through Thursday, and between 10am and 3pm on Fridays.