GOLFERS?in Tavistock played their part to raise funds for a much-needed motorised wheelchair for a teenage boy.

After an 18-hole golf competition at Tavistock Golf Club with prizes for nearest the pin and the longest drive, a fabulous £1,600 was raised.

The event was organised by Helen and Ian Phipps to raise funds for a new motorised wheelchair for their son, Alex, 14, who has severe learning and physical difficulties.

Following the competition, there was a raffle and the hungry golfers enjoyed a carvery in the clubhouse.

Each hole was sponsored and some of the sponsors also played golf, including Dr Paddy McVeigh, of Abbey Mead Dental Practice and Implant Centre, Kevin Shadrick, of Moorgate Care Home, and Samantha and Andy Avens, of Camplehaye Care Home.

Sponsors from Bone Dry Cleaning looked after Alex during the event. Other local sponsors included Mansbridge and Balment, Bryants of Tavistock, Orestock Kennels and Georgie M's.

Dr Ann Cummins, of Abbey Mead Dental Practice, who saw all the competitors off with Mrs Phipps, said: 'We were delighted to sponsor the first hole and hope it won't be long before Alex's parents can purchase the new chair which will provide a happier life for Alex and make such a difference to their own very challenging lives as carers.'

Alex has a rare chromosome abnormality called Emanuel Syndrome. He cannot talk or feed himself and needs 24-hour help with all aspects of personal care. He had heart surgery as an infant, is epileptic and cannot walk.

Despite this, he has a great zest for life and loves getting out of the house. He is very fond of animals and enjoys walks on the moors near his home in Whitchurch to see them. He loves visiting open farms.

He also adores live music and rollercoaster rides. Since becoming a teenager, he has grown heavier and because of his inability to walk it has become increasingly difficult to transport Alex to places he gets most pleasure from.

With his weight over 50kg, his dedicated parents, who are his full time carers, are struggling to push him in his manual all-terrain buggy and the wheelchair provided by the NHS is unfortunately unsuitable for the outdoor activities that mean so much to him.

Following an assessment of Alex at school and at home, Specialist Rehab have recommended an attendant-controlled electric wheelchair as the best solution. This will cost about £13,600.

Mr. Phipps said: 'We are really grateful to all the players and sponsors. It's a great start to our fundraising.'