MORE than 200 golfers came together to mark the ten-year anniversary Ben Harvey, raising nearly £17,000 for the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

It was the fifth charity event held at Dudsbury Golf Club, held in memory of Ben, who died of cancer aged 28 in 2012.

The £16,859 raised for the cancer unit at RBH took the overall total to £96,215.51.

As tradition, Ben’s wife Claudia teed off to start the day, followed by his son Finn, 10, who was able to take part for the first time and captained his own team – Harvey’s Army Juniors.

Lindsey Sturman, fundraising manager for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, who attended the event said: “It was a joyous but emotional day, and the charity are honoured to receive such amazing support from the wonderful Harvey family.

“It was clear how special Ben was and how important this memorial golf day is to so many. It was truly humbling, and a privilege to be a part of this celebration of Ben’s life.

“The golf tournament is an enormous event to organise and the whole day flowed seamlessly, which is a credit to Sue, Pat and Claudia who put so much work into making it happen.”

Sue Harvey, Ben’s mum, added: “We are so fortunate to have the support of so many of Ben’s golfing friends and others who play on the day.

“Special thanks to Steve and Sarah Tripcony of Parkstone golf shop and his suppliers who provide all the team prizes and Luke Joy who hit many golf balls on the 15th tee for beat the pro.”