At the end of his year in office Sandburn Hall Golf Club captain David Ellis has raised an impressive £4,650 for mental health charity York Mind.
The generous donation was raised from a series of fundraising activities instigated by David and supported by his successor Eddie Thomas.
Donations added up across the year from members of the club, visitors and also from Sandburn Hall – who donated half of their business wide raffle takings towards the total.
And there’s even more reason to celebrate – as Sandburn Hall Golf Club has now re-opened for members after an enforced eight-week closure.
In line with current government guidelines, there can be no more than two players who remain socially distanced and there are no club facilities yet, but players can enjoy the course and then go home.
David said “As a former headteacher I had seen professionally and personally the desperate need for additional support for people of all ages around mental health.
“Sadly with the challenges we now face as a community as a result of coronavirus, the demand for mental health support is already increasing.
“Hopefully the amount we have raised this year will go a little way to help York Mind with the excellent work that they do.”
Charity income has dropped
York Mind fundraising manager Holly Bilton said: “We are so grateful for the generous donations made towards David’s total by club members, visitors and by Sandburn Hall.
“Over the last few weeks, we have seen a huge increase in the demand for our help, which is currently being offered safely either online or via telephone.
“However, this year many of our fundraising activities have been rescheduled or cancelled, meaning our charitable income is set to be significantly lower.
“Donations of any size are always gratefully received, particularly at this time, and we’re incredibly proud of David’s achievements this year.”
In the course of the year David’s involvement in York Mind has grown and he is now Chair of the Board of Trustees.