The work of “fantastic staff” at Airedale Hospital is being recognised by Settle & Giggleswick Golf Club which has just named the Friends of Airedale (FoA) as its charity of the year.
David Colgrave, Captain of the community golf club, was so impressed by the care and dedication of staff who looked after a close relative early this year, that when it came to deciding which charity to support for the next 12 months, he chose the Friends. A volunteer-based group, the FoA has been raising money to support patient care since the hospital first opened.
Said David: “A close member of the family was taken seriously ill just after Christmas and spent three weeks in Airedale. It was touch and go, but all the staff across the hospital were fantastic. I was really impressed by their care and dedication – and the sandwiches and coffees from the FoA shops were also very welcome!
“When I suggested the charity to other members, many felt the hospital was a place they could really relate to. They’ve all had some form of experience – either directly or indirectly – with Airedale.”
In the past the club has supported causes such as Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Yorkshire Cancer Research. It aims to raise about £1.5k – £2K through charity events held throughout the year: it kicked off with season opener, the ‘Captains’ Drive in’ on Sunday March 29.
There is also a ‘penalty’ on the 7th hole where anyone mistakenly hitting their ball into the stream in front of the green is fined £1, all of which goes into the club charity pot. Said David: “You’d be amazed how much that raises!”
Settle & Giggleswick Golf Club, founded in 1895, has strong links with Giggleswick school and around 160 members.
Said FoA chairman Alison Dixon: “We’re delighted that David felt moved enough by his own personal experience, to choose us as the club’s charity of the year. It’s a marvellous way to recognise the incredible work of the staff here.”
Photograph -David Colgrave Settle and Giggleswick Golf Club