Saffron Walden Golf Club will be celebrating their centenary year in 2019 and both the Club Captains, Tony Brown and Delia Roberts, have nominated the local young people’s charity to be the main beneficiary from their fundraising activities throughout the year.

Tony commented: The benefits for young people, regardless of ability, is that in a team environment they gain confidence, new skills, friendships and most of all learn to look out for their fellow team mates. We wanted our year to support all that’s great about Team Sports and Amateur Sports Clubs. In REAL we have a charity partner that shares those values and we are delighted to have the REAL team on board for our Centenary Year.

Local sports clubs and youth organisations that REAL support will be able to receive a grant of up to £500, subject to stating what they would want to use the grant for and how it would positively impact on encouraging team work within their group and benefit young members with special needs or who are less fortunate.

“We were overwhelmed when we were told about this amazing gesture” comments Bob Linwood from the REAL charity. “Ethan loved his golf and some of his happiest times were spent on Saturday mornings at the club. It’s a special place for us and we have been able to build a great relationship with the club and hold our very successful REAL charity golf day there each year. When Tony told me about their decision, it was really quite emotional and the monies that the club raise will make a big impact on those local sports organisations and academies that we support, including the club’s junior academy itself”.

Morag Linwood from REAL explains how the funds will be allocated and who will benefit: “We are asking for organisations to send their first grant requests to the charity at morag@realforethan.co.uk. We would ask that applicants include details of the purpose of the grant and how it will benefit their club/organisation. We will consider each application on its merits and together with the golf club prior to making any awards.