Month: August 2025

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Golfers swing into action for hospice care

Golfers once again swung into action to help raise thousands of pounds for Willow Wood Hospice.  

Twenty-two teams enjoyed a tee-rific experience at this year’s Martin Wild Golf Day, in support of their local hospice.

In total, the annual fundraiser at Ashton-under-Lyne Golf Club made over £10,000 – which will help support patients from the local community with any life-limiting illness.

The event was kindly sponsored by Docutech Office Solutions and Marshall Peters.

The action-packed day on Friday 8th August teed off with hot refreshments and a shotgun start before the golfers started their 18 holes – including some friendly competitions throughout, including Beat the Pro.

Browse through photos from the day, taken by David Hirst, by clicking the image below:

Staff and volunteers from the Hospice ensured they were well looked after with refreshments before the day finished with a prize presentation for the teams finishing first to sixth and a silent auction.

Only one team could be crowned champion and that honour went to UK Decs – whose team captain was Jason Moulton.

The popular event, first held in 2019, is promoted by Martin Wild, a former Lancashire amateur golf champion and a long-time supporter of the Hospice.

Tracey Schofield, Events Lead at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “We are delighted with the success of this year’s Martin Wild Golf Day and so grateful for the incredible support we received.

“Thank you to all of the volunteers who gave their time on the day, the players who took part with such enthusiasm, our generous sponsors whose support made the event possible, and the companies who donated prizes for our silent auction.”

Anyone who would like to take part in next year’s Martin Wild Golf Day can register their interest by contacting the Hospice’s Fundraising team on 0161 330 7788 or email fundraising@willowwood.org.uk

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Guide Bridge Theatre takes the Enchanted Evening reins

A much-loved musical tradition that has raised thousands for Willow Wood Hospice is entering a new chapter as Guide Bridge Theatre steps in to take over the running of the annual Enchanted Evening concert.

Now in its 22nd year, the concert has become a cherished fixture in the local calendar, drawing audiences from across the borough for a night of nostalgic musical theatre performed by talented soloists from local operatic societies.

Organised since its inception in 2004 by Mike Styan and a dedicated team of musical friends, the event has raised over £20,000 for the Hospice, including £1,386.50 last year.

This year marks a ‘changing of the guard’ as Mike steps back from the organiser role, passing the baton to Sue Holden and the team at Guide Bridge Theatre, who will host the concert for the first time on Friday 26th September at 7.30pm at their venue on Audenshaw Road.

Reflecting on his years leading the event, Mike said: “It has been an absolute privilege to organise the Enchanted Evening for the past 21 years. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved — not just the money raised, but the joy and community spirit the concerts have brought.

“I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years, from the performers and audiences to our loyal sponsors. I’m thrilled to see Sue and the team at Guide Bridge Theatre take it forward, and I know they’ll do a fantastic job keeping the magic alive.”

Sue Holden and Mike Styan handing over the music books in the Hospice gardens
Sue and Mike handing over the music books in the Hospice gardens

Sue appeared in the very first concert back in January 2004 and is thrilled to be involved in its future.

“Mike has done a tremendous job over many years and has thankfully agreed to share his knowledge with me,” she said.

“I am delighted that Guide Bridge Theatre have agreed to host this event and thank everyone there for supporting this venture. This means that all the money from ticket sales can go directly to the Hospice.

“Work has already started on this year’s programme and I am excited to be working with some very special and talented people, all of whom give freely of their time and talents to support Willow Wood. I have no doubt it will be a truly magical Enchanted Evening.”

The concert has seen a number of homes over the years — from its debut at Ashton-under-Lyne Civic Hall, to Stalybridge and Dukinfield Methodist Churches, as well as being held virtually during Covid-19. Throughout it all, it has retained its heartwarming appeal and community spirit.

The event continues to receive the support of Steve Pearson Car Sales on Acres Lane in Stalybridge, whose backing helps ensure the funds raised can support the care of patients with any life-limiting illness from Tameside and Glossop at the Hospice.

“Once again it is our absolute pleasure to be involved in the Willow Wood Enchanted Evening event,” said Steve. “Each year has got bigger and bigger, and hopefully this year is going to be the best yet. We’re looking forward to helping make it happen.”

Tickets for this year’s event are £10 per person and can be purchased online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/venueplan/bkgzmkgzwvrv.

As always, audiences can expect a night filled with wonderful music, nostalgia, and community spirit — all in support of Willow Wood Hospice.