The best, by par - Heartbeat’s South Winchester Golf Day raises more than £11,000 for the charity

The South Winchester Golf Day, which will now become an annual event has raised more than £11,000 for cardiac charity Heartbeat.

The picturesque greens played host to more than eighty golfers, who played in twenty teams of four on Wednesday, August, 16th.

Heartbeat, the Southampton based charity dedicated to supporting cardiac health, provided their signature hospitality at the stunning golf course. The event featured a special treat for golfers in the form of Heartbeat House's renowned gin bar, the sun also shined adding to the fun atmosphere.

The day saw the skills of one Heartbeat patron, former Saints Footballer James Beattie, put to the test on the 2nd hole where he challenged the golfers to "Beat the Beats."

However, the highlight of the day was not just the golf but the remarkable generosity of the participants. The South Winchester Golf Day managed to raise an impressive sum of over £11,000, all of which will go towards Heartbeat's important work.

Mark Ind, Heartbeat’s CEO spoke about the importance of Heartbeat raising funds to provide a Cardiac Youth Worker providing psychological support for 11-25 year olds.

Mark said: “We’ve invested £24,000 in funding a new Youth Worker role. Becky Cutler has been in post for just over six months and she’s doing such a brilliant job in supporting young people with heart conditions.

“We’re hoping to continue this as its been such a valuable and vital part of a patients journey from diagnosis through to treatment plans and beyond.”

Becky Cutler's new part-time position as a Cardiac PEEER (Patient, Empowerment, Self Esteem, Employability and Resilience) Youth worker at the University Hospital Southampton (UHS) has been completely funded by Heartbeat for 12 months, with the role designed to support the mental wellbeing of young people with a long term or life-limiting heart condition.

Mark said: “Its through events like this that mean we can keep funding projects and roles that make a real difference to people’s lives. We’re always so grateful for the support and generosity of our patrons and supporters of Heartbeat.”

The event also featured an auction with a range of prizes. Among them were a coveted 4-ball experience at Remedy Oak in Dorset, a luxurious Beauty Hamper, and an enticing Golf and overnight stay package at the prestigious PGA course, the Belfry.

As the day concluded, awards were presented to the standout performers. The winners of the prestigious Alan Ball trophy were "Hi Acre Construction," who scored an impressive 103 points.

The trophy was presented by Jimmy Ball, son of the late football legend Alan Ball. Trant Engineering secured the second position, while the "nearest the pin" competition was won by former Saints player Reuben Agboola.

Looking ahead, next year's South Winchester Golf Day is already on the calendar for Wednesday, August 14th. Those interested in participating or learning more about the event can find additional details on the Heartbeat website at www.heartbeat.co.uk.