IT is a long standing tradition in many golf clubs that captains of the various sections nominate a charity of their choice to support throughout their year in office, reports KEITH RAY.

This happens at Ross Golf Club in Gorsley and this year's Seniors Captain Paul Burry has chosen to support a local charity who have already given much support to members of his family.

The chosen charity was The Cotswold Downs Syndrome Group run by Jenny King and a host of dedicated volunteers.

Jenny started the group in 2004 in order to honour the memory of her daughter, Daniella, who sadly had Downs Syndrome and passed away just before her fourth birthday.

Four mums, all with new born babies with Downs Syndrome, got together in a coffee shop determined to develop a network for families to exchange positive stories, hope and improved knowledge to benefit other parents who have children with Downs Syndrome.

They are now a registered charity, run by volunteers, who now support more than 100 families across the region.

They offer Family Guidance and Support, Welcome Baskets, Family Events & Activities, Parent/Guardian Evenings, Mother and Toddler groups as well as many family events throughout the year.

The Ross Seniors Section at Ross Golf Club had already managed to donate £600 to help with their annual Family Summer BBQ, and Paul is now delighted to be able to hand over a further cheque for £1,000 in support of their Annual Christmas event.

This has been possible thanks to the generosity of the seniors through competition entries, away days, raffles, auctions and various other activities.

The year ends in March for Paul and he hopes with the support of the seniors to further support this charity and the families with some of their upcoming ventures and wishes Jenny and her volunteers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.