BIG-HEARTED golfers chipped in to raise valuable funds for an expanding charity that supports autistic people and their families across the North-East.

The North East Autism Society (NEAS) staged its inaugural golf day amid the magnificent setting of Rockliffe Hall, at Hurworth, near Darlington.

The teams had to endure high winds and freezing conditions – including a hail-storm – during the competition, sponsored by Trulawn artificial grass experts.

Darlington Building Society also supported the event by sponsoring the longest drive and nearest the pin competitions. Four members of staff from the Society – Trish Brown, Harvey Montgomery, Vicky Wanless, and Alison Etherington – also acted as volunteer marshals.

The competition was won by the team from We Support Ltd – comprising Craig Seery, Craig Bradley, Paul Evans, and Michael Seery. The company provides supported living and domiciliary care services for adults with learning disabilities.

Runners-up were the Dawson Group team of Gary Henry, James Glenn, Simon Close, and Jonathan Beadle. Third were Colin Hunt, Colin Sturdy, Neil Green, and Graham Fenwick from the Safe and Sure team.

The top two teams both finished on 87 points, but We Support claimed the trophy with a better back nine holes.

The nearest the pin competition winner was Paul Evans and the longest drive was hit by Marc Briggs.

Stevie Mawhinney, who accesses NEAS’s day services, launched the competition by teeing off on the first hole. Stevie learned to play on an autism-friendly driving range established by NEAS at New Warlands Farm, near Burnhope, in County Durham.

Organiser Jon Appleton, Fundraising Officer for NEAS, said: “It’s been frustrating over the past couple of years with plans for our golf day being delayed by the pandemic, but it was great to finally go ahead at such a prestigious venue.

“Despite some pretty awful weather out on the course, the players battled through in great spirits, and we’d like to thank everyone involved for making the event such a success.”