On Thursday 15 May, the greens of Ham Manor Golf Club were alive with friendly competition and purpose as 16 teams teed off in support of a noble cause—raising vital funds for the Worthing-based charity, Care for Veterans. The day proved that when it comes to supporting ex-Service personnel, this community doesn’t just play around.
The event began bright and early, as players arrived from 8am to be greeted with hot coffee and freshly prepared bacon baps. With a 9:30am shotgun start, the 18-hole Harry Colt-designed course provided the perfect setting for a day of sport, camaraderie, and charity. A beer buggy kept spirits high, while the ‘bottle putting’ challenge added a playful twist to the competition.
After a rewarding morning on the course, golfers returned to the clubhouse for a special VE Day-themed two-course lunch. Attendees tucked into a delicious menu, bringing a nostalgic and patriotic touch to the day’s festivities.
Legendary comedian Adger Brown brought his wit and warmth to the room as the auctioneer for the day. With remarkable items up for grabs, including artwork by Banksy and Damien Hirst, the bids rolled in to support a remarkable mission.
While every team contributed to a fantastic cause, the winning team was Orange 22 Hackers, scoring an impressive 86 points. Hot on their heels were the Goodwood Nudgers, finishing just two points behind in second place. Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone involved, the event raised £12,482 to support the life-changing work of Care for Veterans.
Beyond good food and fairway fun, the event had a powerful purpose: to raise funds that will help Care for Veterans continue its life-changing work. From rehabilitation and respite to long-term and end-of-life care, the charity supports veterans living with complex conditions like Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, and Parkinson’s.
This incredible day wouldn’t have been possible without the backing of dedicated volunteers, local businesses and generous donors, including Fullworks Projects, Paul Jones Events, Brandler Galleries, Fizz Creations, Worthing Golf Club, The Grand Brighton, Worthing Theatres & Museum, TGB Spa, Brighton Racecourse, Portsmouth Distillery Co, Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa in Climping, Glyndebourne and Glyndebourne Restaurant, HD Tribes, and Bowers & Wilkins.
Clare Silva, High Value Events and Corporate Manager at Care for Veterans, said: “We are incredibly grateful to all those who helped make our golf day such a successful fundraiser. All those involved have made a significant impact on the future care and support for disabled veterans who are up against their toughest battle yet.”
Founded in 1919, Care for Veterans continues to bridge the gap between healthcare and social services, providing physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and nursing care, to help veterans regain independence and dignity.
Care for Veterans must raise £1 million annually to keep its doors open and services running. Events like this golf day aren’t just feel-good—they’re critical to the continuity of veterans’ vital care services.
To learn more or donate, visit www.careforveterans.org.uk, call 01903 213458, or email info@careforveterans.org.uk.
