A GOLF tournament set up by the family of a young woman who died from leukaemia has raised over £150k for a hospice in Christchurch.

Sarah Green, 31, passed away in 2003 after spending her final days at the Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital.

To celebrate her life and recognise the care she received, her family and friends set up the ‘Sarah Green Golf Tournament’, with this year marking its 20th event.

Bournemouth Echo: Sarah Green

Anthony Rogers, her brother, leads the event which is held at Christchurch Golf Club each September.

“The tournament brings together family members, friends, golfers, and many local businesses to compete for the Sarah Green Trophy and to enjoy dinner and entertainment,” said Anthony.

“This year we were thrilled to surpass the £152,000 mark.

He added: “I don’t think any of the organisers would have imagined the event would still be going after 20 years, or how well supported it is and how much money we would raise in that time.

“Massive thanks must go to the organising committee, our amazing volunteers, sponsors and the fabulous teams at the Macmillan Unit and Christchurch Golf Club, for all their generosity and support.

“I am sure Sarah would be thrilled knowing she has a legacy which is helping others. But I think she’d also joke that she can’t believe we are still doing it!”

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Neal Williams, trust secretary at Macmillan Caring Locally, said it is ‘wonderful’ to see how Sarah’s life continues to inspire and support the charity.

He said: “Over the years this hugely enjoyable event has enabled us to complete a number of major projects and refurbishments in our hospice.

"We are so grateful for the hard work that the organisers put in, and the generosity of everyone who takes part.”

Byron Hutcheson, director of golf at Christchurch Golf Club, said: "We have had the privilege of hosting the Sarah Green Golf Tournament for several years and we are pleased to say it keeps going from strength to strength.

“I personally can't wait to start organising the 2024 event and to improving even further on its success.”

Up to 26 teams of four players can take part in the event, and registration for 2024 opens early next year.

Further details can be found by emailing Anthony Rogers at anthony-rogers@hotmail.co.uk.