CAPTAINS charity day at West Berks Golf CLUB was well supported by both members and local sporting celebrities raising £2,400 on the day for Thames Valley Air Ambulance, a sum that now puts the anticipated total for the year at around £10,000.

Both QPR footballer Charlie Austin and steeplechase legend, John Francome, played in and sponsored the event that was won by Tim Palmer, Richard Bower, Paul Barton and Paul Stringer with 140 points.

Ian Miles, Dom Murphy, Josh March and Simon Barrie were second with 136 while Mark Kendal, Joe Simpson, Mick Gregorace and Steve Cox were two shots further back in third place.

Men’s captain, Tim Francis, said: “Both our lady captain, Gale McAuley, and I are delighted with the money raised and we thank all the club members, local restaurants and businesses and other local golf courses for their generous donations.

"And, of course, a big thanks to Charlie and John, two local sporting superstars, for giving up their time and making the day very special for all of us who took part."

Meanwhile, Nick Jones won the Crawford Cup with a net 63, Andrew Davidson was second with 72 and Garry Postlethwaite a further shot back in third while Paul Barton’s 35 points won the midweek stableford. Mike Alderson, 31, was second and Andrew Kerr third on 27.

Mary Harwood won the ladies Saturday medal with a net 75, Georgie Seaman was one shot back in second place and Jan Francis another shot shy in third.

In team events the men’s team recorded consecutive home wins against Newbury and Crookham by 3½ to ½ and North Wilts by 4 to 2 while the seniors beat Witney Lakes at home by 4½ to 1½.

The veterans also enjoyed a home win beating Bicester Golf Club by 3½ to 2½.