William Whitney, a young man from St Neots, tragically took his own life earlier this year. His loved ones, including dad Steve, were left devastated. Determined to do something in his memory, Steve, as Captain of St Neots Golf Club, organised a Charity Captain’s Day for us.

Over 240 socially distanced golfers took part and played from dawn until dusk aiming to raise as much money as possible. One member carried out a sponsored beard shave, raising £1,400. Another member hosted a ‘nearest the pin’ competition which raised an additional £1,800. There was also a blind auction that raised a further £4,500. In total, thanks to the determination of Steve, St Neots Golf Club members and friends, they raised a staggering £14,165.

Steve Whitney, St Neots Golf Club Captain said, “No parent should ever go through what I have had to this year. William was an amazing young man and I was so proud of the way he was living his life. His death has left a huge hole in our lives.

I wanted to do something in memory of William, but I also want to raise awareness of the dangers of suicide and to encourage all parents to talk more with their kids. The members of St Neots Golf Club have been amazing throughout this year. We have played together, drunk together and cried together. They are a fantastic group of people and I have been proud to be their Captain.

We chose CPSL Mind to support because of the amazing work they do and because they provide help and support to local people who are struggling with their mental health. I’m delighted to be able to make this donation in memory of my son William and I thank all the members and friends who donated so generously.”

Zoe, fundraiser  said, “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Steve and all the members of St Neots Golf Club, who worked so hard to raise such a large sum of money. Sadly 1 in 5 of us will have suicidal thoughts at some time in our lives. It’s so important that we encourage people to talk more about how they are feeling. If you need information or advice on how to keep yourself safe or how to support someone you know who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, please visit our STOP Suicide website – www.stopsuicidepledge.org. Once again a huge thank you to Steve, all the St Neots Golf Club members and their families for all their fundraising hard work.”