Aberdeen-headquartered IT company iO IT Services has raised £1,140 for local children’s charity Befriend a Child through its 2026 Annual Golf Day.
Clients, suppliers and friends of iO joined the team at the Paul Lawrie Golf Centre for a day of friendly competition, along with a few “ringers” and some decidedly unfriendly Scottish weather.
Despite persistent rain throughout the event, the golfers embraced the conditions and helped make the day a great success, raising an impressive total for a cause close to the local community.
Befriend a Child (https://www.befriendachild.org.uk/) supports children and young people growing up in difficult circumstances across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Through its befriending, mentoring and group programmes, the charity helps young people develop confidence, self-esteem and resilience while giving them opportunities for new experiences.
David McCready of iO IT Services said: “The weather certainly made this year’s golf day memorable, but everyone entered into the spirit of it and helped us raise a fantastic amount for Befriend a Child.”
“Bringing our clients, suppliers and friends together is always one of the highlights of the iO calendar. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us, donated and helped make the day possible. Befriend a Child does hugely important work across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and we’re delighted to support them.”
The event was hosted by the Paul Lawrie Golf Centre, with Craig Dempster and Marion Lawrie helping to ensure the day ran smoothly despite the challenging conditions.
Maryculter House supported the event as its food and drinks partner, keeping guests well fed and refreshed while also providing a selection of prizes. Special thanks went to Carol Angus for her work behind the scenes, and for keeping hold of the marquee when the weather was at its worst.
Jenna Simpson from Befriend a Child also joined the golfers on the day to represent the charity and share more about its work within the local community.
The day was documented by brand photographer Iska Walter, who captured the event while battling the elements alongside the players.
iO thanked everyone who attended, supported and contributed to the fundraiser and confirmed that plans are already being considered for its next event, hopefully with slightly better weather.