Scottish golfers rewarded for efforts to raise money for Funky Natz Foundation
A GROUP OF like-minded golfers and friends who came together in the name of charity have won Scottish Volunteer Group Charity of the Year 2019.
Working under the title of the Funky Natz Foundation, the group have been together "for decades" playing golf but decided to work together in 2011 after the sudden death of one of the members' daughters.
We are basically just a group of ordinary lads who enjoy nothing more than socialising together on a regular basis," Gerry Dobbin told UK Club Golfer.
"As a group, we have known each other for many years, some going back to school days. Our friendship covers decades."
Dobbins, though, said the death of one of the group members' daughters, Natalie Hughes, aged 11, was a shock – but it brought them together for one common goal.
"Natalie is the daughter of our very good friend Eddie. Natalie had a twin sister and an older brother and her family decided at the time that, instead of flowers sent to the funeral, they set up a donation page and to donate money that was sent to Epilepsy Scotland.
"After a bit of time to let the family grieve, we decided as a group to raise a bit of money to show support to the family from their friends. Naturally, as we all play golf, it was quickly decided we would organise a golf day."
The first day was a huge success, something Dobbin described as "out of this world".
"It was an overwhelming experience for us, the level of support we received," he said. "We have had great support from the club, the club pro, the kitchen staff, bar staff as well as all the members. We have also had great support from Robyn and her staff at Epilepsy Scotland over the years."
This year will be the ninth year of their charity golf day and, so far, they have raised an incredible £80,000.
Winning Scottish Volunteer Group Charity of the Year 2019 was a huge reward for their efforts to raise money for Epilepsy Scotland.
"This was a surprising and emotional evening for us as we have never looked for anything other than just trying to organise a good day out for everyone," said Dobbin.
Read the latest issue of UK Club Golfer online
