A Bluebell Wood fundraiser who has experienced firsthand the valuable support of the hospice is giving back through golf. 

Mark Fretwell lost his grandson, Finley, in 2015 when he was less than one month old. 

To raise funds for the charity who was there for his family during their darkest moments, Mark has organised a series of events. 

As Captain of Crookhill Golf Club in Doncaster, Mark chose Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice to be the club’s chosen charity in 2023. 

In July, he organised a golf day which raised more than £1,650 including team entries, raffles and business sponsorship and support from CJ Windscreens, Mark Humphreys, Thomas Knibbs Electric and the Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust.  

Mark, from Wombwell, said: “Our family received a lot of support from Bluebell Wood when Finley was there. 

“After Finley’s diagnosis, we wanted to bring him home to Bluebell Wood. 

“The event was so special and brings back memories for the family; Finley will never be forgotten.”  

He added that his late wife, who passed away two years ago, would have been “so proud” of the fundraising event.  

Finley’s mum, Stacey, 35, also attended the event. She said: “Everything went really well. After being supported by Bluebell Wood, we realised that it’s hard to understand what a charity does until you’ve gone through something. 

“The support we have received after leaving Bluebell Wood has been incredible and it’s wonderful to know people are still so generous in this day and age, when the cost of living is so high.  

“The event was a lovely way to remember Finley.” 

Regional Bluebell Wood Fundraiser, Eleanor Hughes, said: “We’re so grateful to Mark for organising such a fantastic event in support of the hospice. 

“Without dedicated supporters like Mark and his family, we couldn’t provide the vital services families and children across the region need.  

“We know he’s already planning a number of fundraising events for us in the future, and we can’t wait to see what he does next!”