THE second Ark golf extra-vaganza helped swell the ground-breaking Basingstoke medical facility's coffers by an impressive £6,500.

Some 84 golfers descended on Test Valley Golf Club, again host to proceedings for the day, to raise funds for the community programme.

The best three of four stableford scores made for some high scoring, and there were plenty of prizes to increase the competitive aspect of the occasion.

Dr Dave Newman, a GP at Holmwood Health Centre in Tadley, won a new putter for finishing nearest the pin in two at the par five fourth hole, reaching the green with an eight-iron approach.

Dave Clinch was nearest the pin at the par three 9th, winning a carry bag, while Andy Massey swiped a mighty 300 yards to win the longest drive competition on the 18th hole.

The overall team event was won by Bar Bandits, and they were rewarded with new Callaway ERC drivers.

Before dinner, participants were treated to a Champagne and canap reception, while the Caledonian band played traditional Scottish music on the 18th fairway.

After the meal and speeches, there was an auction. Items bought included a signed England team cricket bat from the successful 2002-2003 tour of Sri Lanka, full hospitality at Basingstoke RFC for a match, a signed Leicester Tigers shirt and a weekend package at Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club in Northumberland.

Merv Rees, the chairman of The ARK appeals, who skippered the Raiders of the Ark team, said: "I don't think we'll be giving up the day jobs!"

He added: "I would like to thank everyone at Test Valley as well as The ARK fundraising team for their hard work that ensured we all enjoyed the day and raised funds towards this wonderful project.

"We are like Robin Hood, taking money from the rich to give to the poor, so that people can use The Ark for free. The money raised today will go to our community programme.

"Our £6million project has been up and running for two years, and I am very proud of what we have achieved with The Ark.

"It's great to see so many share our continued desire to support it and raise the funds we need to continue the success of this unique concept."