A memorial golf day organised by sisters Kerrie and Tracy Close in memory of their much-loved father has raised an incredible £12,000 for Carrick Connect and Dreamflight (Scooby Doo NI Group).

The Frankie Close Memorial Golf Day brought together family, friends, golfers, local businesses and members of the wider community for a day of fundraising and remembrance in honour of Frankie.

The event was created as a way of celebrating Frankie’s life while raising much-needed funds for two very deserving causes close to the sisters’ hearts.

What began with an initial fundraising target of £5,000 quickly exceeded all expectations, with the generosity and support of the local community helping the event raise more than double that amount.

A memorial golf day organised by sisters Kerrie and Tracy Close in memory of their much-loved father has raised an incredible £12,000 for Carrick Connect and Dreamflight (Scooby Doo NI Group). Photo: supplied

placeholder image — A memorial golf day organised by sisters Kerrie and Tracy Close in memory of their much-loved father has raised an incredible £12,000 for Carrick Connect and Dreamflight (Scooby Doo NI Group). Photo: supplied

The day featured a full programme of golf, competitions, sponsorship, and a ballot plus a silent auction, followed by an evening of entertainment and celebrations. Local businesses and individuals also rallied behind the event, donating prizes, sponsoring holes and contributing to the overall success of the day.

The funds raised will be divided between Carrick Connect and Dreamflight. Carrick Connect is a local community organisation that provides support and assistance to young people from the age of 8 within the Mid and East Antrim borough through free mentoring and tutoring.

The group are also running a programme in a number of local primary schools, helping P7s with the transition to secondary education.

Dreamflight is a charity which gives children with serious or life limiting illnesses and disabilities the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable holiday of a lifetime in Disney World, Florida, helping to build confidence, independence and friendships. The Scooby Doo group are the NI section, sending 16 local children to make up 192 that go from the UK.

The Frankie Close Memorial Golf Day brought together family, friends, golfers, local businesses and members of the wider community for a day of fundraising and remembrance in honour of Frankie Close. Photo: supplied

Speaking following the event, the sisters said they had been completely overwhelmed by the support shown from everyone, noting it was testament to the absolute gentleman their dad was.

“From the golfers and sponsors to the volunteers, prize donors and those who purchased ballot tickets or attended the evening celebrations, the generosity of the community helped turn an idea into something truly special,” the organisers said.