A CHARITY day at West Byfleet Golf Club has raised almost £11,000 for the West Surrey branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).

The event was organised by Ian Anderson, a local author from Pyrford who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2021, and his wife, Gill.

The golf day, which was rounded off by a dinner and an auction, was sponsored by Retirement Villages, the UK’s leading operator and developer of integrated retirement communities, including Botanical Place, currently under construction in West Byfleet village centre. 

Ian said: “This fundraiser would not have been possible without the collective efforts of everyone in the community. We also want to say a special thank you to West Byfleet Golf Club for hosting the event. 

“The funds raised will significantly contribute to improving the lives of those affected by MND and support the invaluable work of the MNDA.”

Fifty-two players split into teams of four tackled the golfing challenge, which was won by Stuart Chiplin’s Chippy’s Chancers, with a further 30 guests joining the players for the dinner and auction. 

Helping Ian to pull everything together were Gill and daughter Megan. Two old friends, Pete Hillman and Roy Hubbard, were heavily involved in the event planning and fundraising. Many others in the community also rallied to help on the day.

A large proportion of the money was raised through the auction. The prizes included two tickets to the Goodwood Festival, a signed Arsenal shirt, a signed F1 McLaren cap and an exclusive dinner with a wine expert.

The leading prize was a one-week holiday on the Devon coast, which went for £1,200.

The evening also included a raffle. The main prize was a champagne bottle signed by presenters at Good Morning Britain on ITV.

Alastair Strauss, marketing manager at Retirement Villages, said: “We see first-hand and understand the challenges faced by individuals and their families who are living with MND.

“We were pleased to have been able to support Ian and Gill to raise money to help people living with MND and to grow awareness of it.“Together we have shown the power of community, and when communities come together, great things can be achieved.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com and search for Ian Anderson crowdfunders.