Mansfield Sand, a provider of silica sand-based products for the sports turf industry, has donated £1,000 towards a pioneering golf project due to begin in June at Coxmoor Golf Club in Sutton-in-Ashfield.
The innovative partnership between Golf in Society, Mid Nots Dementia Partnership, and the Sutton golf club is focused on providing the opportunity for local people with chronic illnesses, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease, to enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle through golf.
Started in 2016 by entrepreneur Anthony Blackburn, Golf in Society is a fast-growing social enterprise committed to transforming the UK’s ageing population through the health and wellbeing benefits of golf.
People wanting to take part don’t need to have played golf, but must have a long-term health condition and would benefit from weekly golf sessions that provide outdoor physical exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction.
Anthony said: “We believe we have developed a recipe for success. Our golfers love our fun and competitive weekly golf sessions, which are tailored to an individual’s needs. At the same time, their carers get a much-needed respite break.
“We have already had a lot of interest from local people who have been frustrated by inactivity during the pandemic.”
As part of Dementia Action Week, Mansfield Sand sales directors Gary Cunningham and Sharon Morris were invited to Coxmoor to meet people behind the project and hand over a cheque for £1000 towards the set-up costs.
Gary said: “As a regular supplier of sand and other products to the golf industry, including Coxmoor Golf Club, we are big supporters of golf.
“This is a great project, which is about much more than golf — It has the potential to transform lives.
“When we were contacted about this new project we were delighted to help. As a company we take our involvement in the local community seriously and we believe this project will really benefit local people and encourage them to get fit and stay healthier for longer.”
David Thornton, an ambassador for Golf in Society, added: “It has been encouraging to see the local business community rallying round, even in these difficult times, to support our latest new venue.
“We are very grateful to Mansfield Sand for its substantial donation.
“Anyone with a long-term serious health condition, such as dementia, is welcome to come along to the weekly golf sessions, which we hope will formally start on 22nd June.
“We are putting on taster sessions before then on Tuesdays, from 11am-1pm.”
There are still spaces available to join the project sessions. Contact either Dianne Holmes, wellbeing team Ashfield District Council, 07917 158511 / d.c.holmes@ashfield.gov.uk
For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk
