A cause close to Gerard’s heart

Gerard Skelly

Meet the captains: Blackley
THE Scroungers may not seem the most worthy of names for a charity – but the cause behind the local organisation certainly is.

Since forming in 1979, they have bought 168 hi-tech electronic wheelchairs for disabled children at a cost of well over half a million pounds.

Among those to benefit was Kirsty Howard, the youngster whom soccer superstar David Beckham accompanied at the opening of the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

And one of the Scroungers’ ranks, 63-year-old Gerard Skelly, is determined to continue the good work in his year as captain of Blackley Golf Club.

“It’s the best charity of all,” said David, who lives with his partner, Barbara, in Slattocks, Middleton, and has two children, Debbie and Geoff.

“Every penny we raise goes to the the cause and it’s so worth the effort when you see these children.”

Gerard, a 19-handicapper who was once as low as 14, took up golf 15 years ago when a friend gave him some clubs to take on holiday to Tenerife.

“I played out there and got the bug,” said Gerard, who quickly became a member at Blackley and has been there ever since, serving the club as entertainments chairman and grounds chairman.

Gerard, a retired former car mechanic who had his own business in Royton, has enjoyed success in club competitions and is keen to project Blackley’s image as a friendly club.

“We are doing well with over 600 members and a reduced annual fee of £695,” he said.

“We are a respectful club, but very down to earth and there is no snobbery here.”