A BOROUGH golf club has raised an astonishing amount of money for Wokingham charity The Cowshed.
This year Sonning Golf Club captains’ fundraising efforts have raised more than £59,000 for the borough organisation which supports individuals and families at times of crisis, with household essentials and clothes.
Sonning Golf Club announced the remarkable fundraising achievements of its 2024 Clubhouse captain Kevin James, and lady captain Sue Hardyman, who both selected The Cowshed as their chosen charity for the year.
Thanks to the generosity of the club’s members, friends, and colleagues—along with a particularly significant donation from the club’s owner—Kevin has raised an unprecedented £53,000 through a variety of events and initiatives.
He said: “The generosity of our members and the wider community has been incredible.
“It’s been an honour to be club captain at Sonning for 2024 but an even greater experience to be able to support The Cowshed, whose work is truly life-changing for so many families. To raise this record-breaking amount is a testament to the compassion and dedication of everyone involved, and I cannot thank them all enough.”
Sue’s efforts with the Ladies Section are set to contribute a further £6,000, bringing the combined total to more than £59,000—a record-breaking achievement for Sonning Golf Club.
Sue Hardyman added:”Knowing that our efforts will brighten the lives of so many children this Christmas is heart warming.
“I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved as a club.”
Kevin’s fundraising calendar has been packed with exciting activities, starting with the annual Drive In in January, and an evening of Night Golf in February.
July’s Captain’s Charity Day featured a day of golf followed by a charity auction, while September’s Away Day at Royal Winchester Golf Club was another highlight.
On top of these events, Kevin spearheaded several personal fundraising challenges.
In early 2024 he embarked on a weight loss challenge, shedding 30 pounds with Slimming World between January and March.
And on the longest day of the year he completed a 72 hole golf marathon, starting at 4.45am.
His year-long birdie challenge saw him achieve 61 birdies (and one eagle) over 96 rounds at Sonning Golf Club (165 in total) a feat that inspired generous donations from members and supporters.
Sue and the Ladies Section also contributed significantly, organising their own events to support The Cowshed’s work.
The funds raised by the club will make a tangible difference to families across Berkshire.
This year alone, the money will enable The Cowshed to deliver a Christmas experience for more than 2,500 local children in crisis.
Each child will receive a handmade Christmas sack containing age-appropriate toys, games, books, and a festive selection pack—ensuring they experience the joy of the season despite their challenging circumstances.
CEO of The Cowshed Sally Russell, receiving the gift, said: “We are truly overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of the members and community at Sonning Golf Club.
“This incredible donation will have a profound impact, enabling us to provide Christmas joy to over 2,500 local children in crisis.
“The dedication and hard work of Kevin, Sue, and everyone involved has been nothing short of inspiring, and we cannot thank you enough for your support in helping us bring hope and happiness to so many families during challenging times.”
Kevin and Sue were joined by Sonning Golf Club’s general manager, Andy Brett to meet with Sally Russell and fundraising manager for the charity Rebecca Mole, to confirm the total amount raised and to mark the donation.
Andy said: “We are extremely proud of what Kevin, Sue and our members have achieved this year for such a great cause.”
The club thanks everyone who contributed to the fundraising success, and is proud to have played a role in supporting The Cowshed’s mission of bringing hope and practical assistance to those in need.
For information, visit: sonninggc.co.uk, and: thecowshed.org
