Lee Middleton and Shane Dilloway-Thompson, two close friends and avid golfers, are embarking on an extraordinary challenge to raise funds for New Life Special Care Babies. On Friday, June 21 they will play an impressive 72 holes of golf at East Brighton Golf Club, starting at 05:30 and finishing by 20:30. Lee, who has set the rule of no buggies, describes it as "the equivalent of walking a marathon before even swinging a club."

The duo’s motivation stems from their personal connection to Trevor Goodall, the CEO and Founder of New Life. Having known Trevor through family and friends, Lee was inspired by his story and the vital work New Life does. For 27 years, New Life has supported hospitals across the South of England, providing specialist neonatal equipment. Their first hospital partnership was with The Great Western in Swindon, where Trevor’s twin boys, Joshua and Samuel, were born prematurely at 24 weeks in 1995 but tragically passed away a week later.

Lee shares, "I’ve been supporting New Life for around 10 years now. The annual charity ball, which I attended initially, has become a tradition. But this 72-hole challenge is a whole new level for us."

Lee and Shane have been practising diligently, completing approximately 27 holes in a single day to prepare for the gruelling challenge. "Knowing we’re raising significant funds for specialist neonatal equipment is a powerful motivator," says Lee. "There’s a critical lack of funding in this area, and any difference we can make will support families of premature babies."

Lee, who works for Picture More Recruitment, has rallied his network of friends and family to support New Life. In 2024, Picture More plans to raise a minimum of £1000 through bake sales, charity walks, and other social events. Supporters can contribute via the Justgiving link: justgiving.com/campaign/72holesoneday.

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