Golfer Fred has the drive for success

Rustics Captain, Steve Buckingham, Organiser, Fred Dennis and tournament winner, Keith Worrall

A golf tournament held by 'The Rustics' of Rustington Golf Club has raised almost £2,500 for St Barnabas House in Worthing.

The group raised £2,440 at their annual golf tournament on Friday 1 July and recently presented St Barnabas House fundraisers with the proceeds from the day.

Fred Dennis, who has headed up the group for the last five years, organised the tournament, which has generated over £8,000 for the hospice during his time in charge. This was the last year that Fred will organise the event, as a new successor will take over for 2012.

Said Fred, 'After running this competition for the last five years I feel the time has come to pass the baton, and I wish my successors all the luck in the world with what I am sure will be a continuing success.

'It has been an absolute pleasure to be involved with the wonderful team at St Barnabas, who do fantastic work for the local area. I would like to share our success with them and everyone who has taken part in our tournament, both playing and organising. I also have to thank all the sponsors for the generosity they have shown in supporting us, and hope they continue to do so in future.'

Community Fundraising Officer for St Barnabas House, Neil Francis, said 'On behalf of everyone here at the hospice I would like to express our appreciation and thanks to Fred for his passion, drive and commitment over the last five years.

'We are extremely lucky to have someone like Fred backing the hospice and we couldn't do what we do without people like him out in the community. A big thank you also goes to the local businesses that have supported The Rustics Golf Day, of which there are too many to mention them all by name.'

The 18-hole tournament was won by Keith Worrall and included a BBQ for all players, raffle, grand auction, plus a 'nearest to the pin' and putting competition.