Clarkson’s Farm star Gerald Cooper was a special guest at a fundraising gala which raised thousands for Oxfordshire Mind.
The gala at Chipping Norton Bowls Club on August 30, sponsored by Penhurst Gardens Care Home, raised an estimated £2,500 for the mental health charity.
Lynne Elliott, home manager, said: “Sponsoring this year’s gala was a privilege for Penhurst Gardens, as it allowed us to give back to the local community that we’re so proud to be part of.
“The day was a real celebration for Chipping Norton.
“From bowls to music, great food and plenty of family fun, I enjoyed meeting friends old and new as we helped raise funds for such an important cause.”
The gala brought together the community for a fun day with a barbecue, craft stands, games, raffles, and live entertainment into the evening.
Special guests included world-ranked bowler Wayne Willgress as well as Mr Cooper who presented the prizes.
22 teams competed across multiple rounds, with father and son Martin and Alfie Acock from Chipping Norton Bowls Club, and Craig Morphet from Carterton Bowls Club taking the win.
Runners-up included Howard Watts, Katherine Hawes-Watts and Laura and Lorraine Kuhler from Headington Bowls Club.
All winners donated their £300 prize, gifted by Penhurst Gardens, to Oxfordshire Mind.
David Lattimore, chairman of Chipping Norton Bowls Club, said: “Our fundraising gala was a tremendous success, thanks not only to the commitment of our members but also the generosity of the local community, organisations, and businesses who supported us.”
The club now plans to make the fundraising gala an annual event.
