Knebworth Golf Club's annual Charity Golf Day broke all previous records, raising an astounding £26,000 for their Charity of the Year – East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity, with funds dedicated to the Butterfly Volunteer Service at Lister Hospital in Stevenage.

The Butterfly Volunteer Service is a team of specially trained volunteers who provide comfort, companionship and care to patients at the end of life, ensuring that nobody has to die alone. Before the service's introduction in 2016, up to 20 patients a month died alone at the hospital. Last year alone, the volunteers made over 2,600 visits, a third of which were to patients who would have otherwise passed away without anyone by their side.

The service receives no regular funding and relies entirely on donations from grateful families and the local community. It needs to raise over £45,000 annually to continue its important work.

Roy and Lynn, captains at Knebworth Golf Club, said: "We chose the Butterfly Service as our charity of the year because we wanted to support a local cause that resonated deeply with our members. So many in our club and local community rely on Lister Hospital. If we can help make someone's time in hospital more compassionate and dignified, we're proud to do so."

The club held a charity weekend which began with a special Friday night dinner, prepared by talented students from North Herts College. The following day, the club hosted a two-shotgun start golf day, with players and supporters turning out in force to champion the cause.

A highlight of the weekend was welcoming the Butterfly Volunteers who spoke to club members about the impact the funds will have. The event also featured an emotional speech from Emma, who shared her experience of losing her mother at Lister and the incredible support she received from the Butterfly Service.

Roy and Lynn added: "We would like to say a special thank you to Bellway Homes for their generous £1,000 donation and to all our generous supporters. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Mark and the Knebworth team for their incredible support in organising the events."

In addition to the charity weekend, the club held a series of fundraising events throughout the year including taking part in the Lister Abseil in March. A team of eight, including ladies' captain, Lynn, and general manager, Mark, bravely took the plunge alongside The Comet's editor, Georgia Barrow.

Beth McNeil, head of fundraising for East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity, which funds the Butterfly Volunteer Service, said: "Thank you so much Knebworth Golf Club for their incredible support. It will help us continue this very special service. The wonderful Butterfly volunteers provide care and companionship to patients who would otherwise die alone. They also give invaluable support to their loved ones facing that very difficult time.

"This fantastic service relies on donations to keep going so if you would like to help, please visit: www.enhhcharity.org.uk/butterfly. Thank you."