Julie Richardson, ladies’ captain at Ferndown Golf Club, has led efforts to raise a whopping £11,436 for a local charity.

The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF), which provides scholarships and bursaries to young people from organisations across Dorset and Wiltshire, was selected by Julie as her charity of the year.

Throughout the year, she organised a number of activities in support of the JTYAF.

Most memorable among them was the Triathlon with a Twist – a 5k run, followed by the Go Ape High Ropes Course at Moors Valley, and a 5-mile cycle to finish, with more than 30 people taking part.

“I’m delighted to have raised such a significant amount which surpassed all of my wildest expectations”, said Julie.

“I know that this money will benefit many young people which was my main aim in choosing the JTYAF as my charity.

“My thanks go to all the members at Ferndown Golf Club who supported my fundraising.”

The JTYAF was set up in memory of John Thornton, who was tragically killed in Afghanistan in 2008.

It’s since made awards to more than 2300 young people, totalling upwards of £950,000.

Chairman Pete Thornton added: “We’re so grateful to Julie and the ladies’ team at Ferndown Golf Club.

“This was an incredible achievement, and we can’t thank them enough. It’ll make a huge difference to a great many local young people in the year ahead.”

• jtyaf.org
• ferndowngolfclub.co.uk

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