A group of eight Winn Group golfers took to the course to complete a mammoth four-round challenge in aid of charity.

Jon Snee, Michael Stuart, Tom Birkett, Kieran Embleton, Hugo Scott-Stuart, Mark Pallas, Rob Bulch, and Jonny Anderson set their alarms for 2am to start their marathon day at Close House Golf Course at 3.45am.

Playing 72 holes in 16 hours saw the eight walk approximately 14 miles, with hundreds of golf swings thrown in for good measure.

A physically exhausting golf challenge that would leave the most ardent golfer wondering about their loyalty to the sport, our team completed their challenge just after 9pm.

Event organiser Jon was delighted to see the total raised, which is to be split between MIND and our chosen charity of the year the Rainbow Trust.

The Associate Director and Head of PI Portals said: “What a challenge it was and what a fantastic level of support we have had from our collective colleagues, friends, family and supply contacts.

“The challenge itself was fairly gruelling with a 2.45am alarm and a 4am tee time which was followed by 16 hours of walking and golf club swinging (some more than others) and finally finishing up at 9pm. A great day for great causes.

“Through our fantastic network of colleagues, friends, family and supply contacts we raised a total £2,300 for MIND and a further £2,500 for The Rainbow Trust – when we set out on this challenge we hoped to raise around £2,000 so to have raised £4,800 is something we are really chuffed about.

“One person who was sadly missed from the challenge was Ryan Clark, but, fortunately, Mr Pallas stepped in to take his place and did a great job.

“He certainly had enough shots for both Ryan and himself….”

With our fundraising now in full swing for the current financial year, this event follows on from nearly 40 staff taking part in the Sunshine Run, as well as a bake sale at Parsons House.

The annual charity quiz night has also been announced, with the Hadrian’s Wall Challenge taking place next month.

Ross Jackson, Deputy CSR Lead, said: “Our busy CSR programme of events is very much up and running.

“We’ve flown out of the traps with the first two events and the golfers deserve a huge amount of credit for not only completing a gruelling challenge but for raising, collectively, over £4,500 for good causes.

“A great effort, they’ve set the standard for future events in this financial year. Well done, lads!

“We’d actively encourage you to take part in our events coming up. If you have any questions about them, please email Ross Jackson in Marketing.”