Charity was the winner at Chart Hills when golfers from across Kent came together at the course to support the club's touring professional Benn Barham.

The European Tour star hosted a Pro-Am golf day at Chart Hills, to thank his supporters for raising £10,000 for Demelza Hospice Care for Children in his 2008 Birdie Challenge.

The amount came from sponsors, including Chart Hills’ members, who gave £1 for every birdie he made on tour and £2 for every eagle.

Barham bagged an impressive 245 birdies and five eagles throughout the season which raised the considerable sum for Demelza.

The hospice currently cares for more than 450 families across Kent, East Sussex and South London who have a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition.

The impressive tally contributed to a total of £60,000 Barham helped raise for the charity throughout the year through a series of golf days.

Barham, who hosted the Pro-Am day at Chart Hills on November 4, said "I was touched by what I saw when I visited Demelza and find it incredibly motivating that every birdie I make makes such a difference to so many families’ lives.

“I am very grateful to all the professionals that gave their valuable time to play in the Pro-Am at Chart Hills, especially Paul Stuart who ensured the day ran smoothly.

"I am keen to grow this campaign year-on-year and urge all golfers to get behind me to help Demelza.”

Sarah Saunders, sales and marketing manager for Chart Hills, said: “We are extremely proud of Benn’s achievements and the extraordinary effort he has made to raise such a magnificent amount of money which is a testament to his character.

Donna Wells, area fundraising manager for Demelza said: "We are truly grateful for Benn's support this season, as well as raising such a fantastic sum he is also a great ambassador for Demelza.”