During the past 14 years I have taught lots of individuals and families, many of these being new to the game; wanting to learn golf to spend more time as a family together in the outdoors, or just to take advantage of a beautiful, local golf course on their doorstep.

We have managed to create a 'family' of junior golfers at the Woods over the years with many, many success stories. Golf can be more than just a sport, and we have helped lots of apprehensive 7/8 year olds, using golf to build their self confidence, leadership and team work skills or self esteem. Some of them have even been selected to become 'young leaders' at the academy, and even going on to become 'young ambassadors' for England Golf.

Our outreach work with local primary schools, such as St Gregorys, Abbey Infants, and Lightwoods Primary, means we engage approximately 5,000 children every year, creating a pathway from community to golf course. This means many of these children will have the opportunity to experience not only the golf course, but all of the other benefits that Warley Woods has to offer too.

Of course, It isn't only children that we help introduce to Warley Woods; one of my very favourite outreach projects is the work we do with Sandwell Special Olympics. The majority of these participants are adults with a learning disability, and although the majority of sessions are held at Hadley Stadium, we have created a pathway to Warley Woods to run the the odd session there. To see them enjoying the open space at the Woods is a special thing.

All of the above is just a snippet of the successes that I've had working in partnership with Warley Woods Community Trust over the years. The Woods is such a special place for so many people within the surrounding areas; and for me personally too, because I have met so many wonderful people, of which I will have the pleasure of calling my friends for life.

I have also witnessed just how hard The Trust, Volunteers and their partners work to keep making Warley Woods the success that it is. But, having such a large beautifully maintained space for people to enjoy, inevitably comes at a cost, and this is where I desperately need your help....

"Warley Woods Community Trust are a registered charity and has to find every penny to manage Warley Woods, every year".

There are many hidden costs that we may overlook as we're enjoying walking around Warley Woods:

Who empty's the bins and what is the cost?
How is a fallen tree dealt with and what is the cost? What if it falls on a road?
What is the maintenance cost of the benches? The Pavilion?
Golf course running costs?

"To put it into perspective, Warley Woods Community Trust needs to raise £800 EACH AND EVERY DAY to be able to pay their staff and basic bills".

So, in May 2024, I will be running the Great Birmingham run (10k), to raise vital funds for the Trust, so that they can continue their great work, in ensuring Warley Woods is here for us all to enjoy for many years to come.

I personally, want to create more of these success stories that you've read above for the next decade, but I will only be able to do that if these fundraisers are supported by your kind generosity.

I appreciate times are tough for many, but anything you can give would be hugely appreciated. And if you can't, please give us a share, that would be a great help too.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story, and commitment to this special place.

Greg.

Greg Lynch