FORMER captain at Carus Green golf club, Ian Fairhurst, has raised more than £1000 for Muscular Dystrophy by undertaking a series of fundraising initiatives.

58-year-old Ian, from Kendal, embarked upon a gruelling weight-loss challenge during 2017, and lost an impressive 42lbs in just 16 weeks, raising £387.

A further £650 was raised through various club events last year, including the captain’s charity day, captain’s day and the captain’s drive-in, with money also donated through Carus’ Christmas hamper raffle.

Last week, Ian presented a cheque for £1037 to Clare and Craig Dixon on behalf of Muscular Dystrophy UK, whose daughter, Ella, suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Since Ella's diagnosis in May 2010, aged just four, the family has been fundraising to help advance research into finding a cure for the condition. Having already raised more than £49,000 for the organisation, they have now set up a #TeamElla family fund to support the work of Muscular Dystrophy UK with the Duchenne Research Breakthrough Fund.

“We are so grateful to Ian for raising such a significant amount of money and helping to support further research,” said Mrs Dixon. “Ella is just one of five girls in the UK affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, but we are delighted that through #TeamElla and the on-going support of our family and friends, awareness and funds are being raised. Our objective is to hit a target of £100,000; through the kind help of individuals such as Ian, we’re almost half way there.”

Mr Fairhurst added: “It has been such a pleasure meeting Ella and her family and raising money for the vital work carried out by Muscular Dystrophy UK.

“I very much hope that by raising awareness and further fundraising, more progress will be made in finding a cure for the condition. Many thanks to all who have supported my fundraising endeavours; my family, friends and fellow members, and additional thanks to Carus for making my year as Captain really special.”

Read more about #TeamElla at http://www.musculardystrophyuk.org/get-involved/family-funds/funds/team-ella/