The eighth James Stephenson Memorial Golf Day was held at Old Thorns, Liphook.

More than 70 golfers took part in the event, which was blessed with fine weather and an excellent course. Many of the regular attendees were present together with some new supporters to raise money for James’ children and his favourite charity, the Cardiomyopathy Association.

The annual event is a memorial to James Stephenson, who was head chef at the Applegarth Farm restaurant near Grayshott until his untimely death in a road traffic accident on New Year’s Day 2015.

Teams of four played a stableford competition, with the best two scores to count on each hole. The winning team of Graham Ward, Nick Ward, Tommy Kerley and Paul la Roche amassed a total of 94 points. In second place, with 93 points, were Andy Grimes, Matt Coomber, Nick Cansfield and Jordan Henderson. Last year’s winning team of Adrian Hoar, John Sargeant, Geoff Creedon and Dave Taylor finished third with 90 points. The trophy for the golfer nearest the pin on the par-three tenth hole was won by Dave Hobbs and the trophy for the golfer with the straightest drive on the 14th hole was won by Dean Millward.

The players enjoyed a lunch of lasagne and garlic bread, and more than £5,000 was raised for James’ children and the Cardiomyopathy Association.

James’ father Kevin welcomed the assembled golfers and said how delighted he was that so many people continued to support the day. He said: “Without your support and that of our wonderful sponsors none of this could take place.”

Lisa Stephenson, the widow of James, thanked all of the golfers for their support and said how proud James would have been to see so many people at the event. She also thanked her father Chris Grimes for his organisation of the day and said she hoped everyone would return for the ninth event, which is scheduled to take place at Old Thorns on Friday, March 7, 2025. Anyone who would like more information on next year’s event should contact Chris by emailing [email protected]