A BARNSLEY footballing legend is encouraging locals to take part in a special fundraising golf day in aid of Barnsley Hospital - and it’s certainly one for football fans to keep an eye on.
Ian Banks, a skilful midfielder who played more than 300 games in two stints for the Reds in the 1970s and 80s, is part of the team organising the event for a third time at Sandhill Golf Club later this year.
The previous events have helped raise thousands of pounds for the hospital and this year’s event is even more poignant.
Former Peterborough and Doncaster Rovers midfielder Mark Hine, who helped with previous events, died just days after last year’s fundraiser of prostate cancer - the very disease those taking part are raising money for.
Ian told the Chronicle: “It all started with Mark who I’ve known for quite a few years through golf and football.
“He played golf at Wheatley and he did a fundraiser every year for prostate cancer.
“So that’s why I decided to help Barnsley Hospital and do the same.
“This year is in memory of Mark because we sadly lost him to prostate cancer just two weeks after last year’s charity day.
“It’s special every year but this one’s a little bit more special because Mark has passed away.”
Ian said that the event, which will be held on Thursday, August 27, is the perfect way for football fans to meet some of their heroes while also raising much-needed funds for charity.
Some of the former footballers taking part this year are Mark Crossley, Dean Windass, Jon Parkin, David Speedie as well as Barnsley legends Gerry Taggart, Danny Wilson and Stuart Barraclough.
He added: “If you love football and your golf then what better thing is there to do?
“If you’re a Barnsley fan then you can come along and meet your heroes.
“Players like Stuart Barraclough, Danny Wilson, Gordon Owens and Tommy Graham are going to be there.
“It’s a great way to raise money and they’ve all got great stories as well.
“You get to go around and play with these guys for £50.
“You get your food, prizes and to play golf with a celebrity for that - it usually costs £38 to just play golf so it’s great value for money.
“It’s all for a great cause and we will all have a fantastic day.”
The previous two events have raised about £5,000 for Barnsley Hospital - and Ian is hoping to raise much-needed funds again this time.
He added: “I’ve already had £700 donated so hopefully we’ll be able to raise a bit more as well.
“You don’t know how much will be raised until it’s all been done.
“It’s not about finding a cure or anything like that.
“But what it does do is give the people who have already got prostate cancer to meet up and have a chat - it helps people through that period of their lives.
“It’s been really well-supported the last few years and it will be the same this year.
“We just want to get as many people to come as possible.”
Anyone wishing to take part can contact Sandhill Golf Club on 753444.
