A host of stars from sport and showbiz teed off in a charity golf challenge yesterday, writes Karen Rosine.

Big names such as England and Spurs star Ian Walker, Bobby Davro, Mike Reid, sports presenter Steve Rider and Olympic rowers Steve Redgrave and Matthew Pinsent were at the event at Southfields Golf Club, Oxford.

Other stars included Johnny Ball, sports presenter Anna Walker, world light heavyweight champion John Conteh, and Aston Villa's Andy Blair. After the Mike Reid Celebrity Golf Classic the stars were treated to a sit-down meal and an evening of comedy entertainment. The event is organised by national charity Sparks - the Sport Aiding Medical Research for Kids - which holds 26 tournaments throughout the country over the year.

Kate Burton, the charity's assistant manager for golf, said the event had been a great success and everyone had really enjoyed themselves.

This year's event is the 16th held in the city. Last year's tournament raised £21,000 for the charity and it is hoped even more will be raised this time around. Over the years the charity has raised lots of money locally including around £150,000 for medical projects at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

Story date: Friday 07 May

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