Ros Wills has set herself an amazing challenge to raise £60,000 for Cancer Research UK as she hits her 60th birthday this year. The effort is in memory of her beloved husband, Andrew Gadd.
“This year will mark five years since Andrew’s untimely death from cancer and as I celebrate my 60th year in various forms with all my fantastic friends and family, along with the parties and fun, I want to give something back and so aim to raise, through various events and challenges, as much money as I can for Cancer Research UK over the next 12 months,” explained Ros.
Fundraising got underway in earnest with a 24-hour golf marathon at Oake Manor Golf Club, near Taunton, with three teams of 18 golfers taking part at the weekend.
Ros said: “What an amazing and uplifting experience. The camaraderie was incredible. I’m still buzzing from the high. Some participants played 95 consecutive holes and walked approx 57,000 steps. The night time golf was hilarious.
Thank you so much to everyone taking part, including our non-playing support team, we couldn’t have done it without you. huge thank you also to Oake Manor Golf Club for not only allowing us to stage the challenge but for going that extra mile to support us in every way.”
Among those taking part was Graham Ford, Partner at Taunton Chamber of Commerce members Greenslade Taylor Hunt, and long-term friend of Ros and Andrew.
Graham said: “The day was a fantastic event, lots of challenges and fun particularly during the night trying to play golf in the dark with torches, head torches and glow balls!”
Pictured from left are Graham Ford, John Compton from fellow Taunton Chamber of Commerce member Time For You Cleaning, Bradley Ford, Nigel Fry from fellow Taunton Chamber of Commerce members Milsted Langdon, Mike Williams, and Chris Winter from fellow Taunton Chamber of Commerce member Cherwyn Developments.
So far, the golf marathon has raised more than £20,000. It is still possible to donate by visiting
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/60000-for-my-60th-birthday-year
A series of further fundraisers are planned throughout the year including a barn dance and hog roast at Waterside Country Barn, Bradford-on-Tone, near Taunton, on Friday, September 19. The year will conclude with a grand finale ball on Saturday, February 7 at Rumwell Orchard. Information and details regarding ticket sales will be available on the website shortly.