18 June 2026
Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice celebrated its eleventh annual Golf Day on Monday 15 June 2026 at the prestigious Grove Hotel in Watford, raising over £100k to support the charity’s vital work. The funds will contribute towards Noah’s Ark’s annual operating costs, which currently exceed £7 million.
The day was sponsored by Connect Property and attended by Tottenham Hotspur Legends Ossie Ardiles, Pat Jennings and Graham Roberts via the charity’s partnership with the club plus Wimbledon’s Dave Beasant and Manchester United’s Steve Coppell.
Ossie Ardiles said:
"I’ve been proud to support Noah’s Ark’s annual Golf Day on a number of occasions, and I’m always inspired by the incredible work the charity does to support children and families across so many of our communities. It was a pleasure to attend this year’s event alongside Pat and Graham on behalf of Tottenham Hotspur, and to meet some of the dedicated individuals whose commitment and compassion are making such a meaningful difference to those who need it most."
The golf was followed by a sumptuous lunch plus an auction led by Mike Osman. Some of the prizes that were up for grabs included a two-night escape for two in a Waterfront View Room at the Hilton Vienna Waterfront (kindly donated by Ben Bengougam), rounds of golf at The Grove Golf Course and Woburn Golf Club, a champagne afternoon tea for two and overnight stay in The Melbourne Lodge at The Brocket Hall Estate, a Declan Rice signed Arsenal shirt and a signed flag and picture from Rory McIlroy.
Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice CEO, Sophie Andrews OBE, addressed guests about the wide-ranging support the charity provides to children and families, as well as the vital role fundraising plays in sustaining these services. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice depends on the generosity of its supporters for 76% of its income, making innovative and engaging fundraising events such as the Golf Day crucial to the charity’s continued impact.
A report by Together for Short Lives, published on the 16 June 2026, found that between 2024/25 and 2025/26, average charitable expenditure across children’s hospices UK-wide has increased by 18%, rising from £5,314,246 in 2024/25 to £6,270,160 in 2025/26. This rising cost reflects a sharp growth in demand. In 2025/26, the number of children receiving symptom management support rose by 40%, those supported at the end of life by 4%, and those receiving hospice-at-home support by 11%. At the same time, funding from the NHS and local councils has failed to keep up. In England, funding from Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) rose by just 4% in 2025/26, and this funding is distributed patchily and unfairly. As a result, three fifths (60%) of children’s hospices ended 2025/26 with an operating deficit. For every £1 spent by the NHS and local councils, children’s hospices in England now provide nearly £4 in care and support, with the majority funded through charitable income. This model is unsustainable and some hospices are already cutting services with one third (33%) forced to reduce the short breaks or respite care they provide.
Sophie Andrews OBE, CEO of Noah's Ark Children's Hospice said:
"We’re incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated supporters and are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, enjoyed the day, and helped raise vital funds for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice. A special thank you to our partner, Tottenham Hotspur, for their ongoing support."
Rachael Messer, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice’s Special Events Manager said:
"Our Annual Golf Day is a jewel in our special events calendar, and this year did not disappoint. We’re so thankful for all the generosity and support from everyone who attended which continues to make this event such a success."
