OLD THORNS Golf and Country Club hosted the first annual James Stephenson tribute golf tournament, and 104 players braved wet and windy conditions to take part.

James’ life was cut short in a tragic road accident on January 1, 2015. At the time, he was head chef at Applegarth Farm. He left behind a young family, wife Lisa and two daughters Ellie and Faith. Shortly after the accident, Applegarth, its customers and friends of James helped raise £10,000 on ‘Justgiving.com’ for James’ two daughters. The tribute golf tournament raised another significant £10,850.

Applegarth’s Will Benson said that the fundraising was to help support James’ family and he was committed to having a similar event every year from now on. “James was a truly talented chef,” said Will. He set high standards and built a great team in his two years here at Applegarth. He is sorely missed by us all.”

For the tournament, 18 local businesses sponsored a hole each while Old Thorns provided the course for free. An auction was held for caddying services provided by Lisa, James’ wife, and 11 other family friends.