SUMMERFIELD'S annual charity boules tournament, which drew 40 teams from businesses across Somerset, has raised £2,750 for the Stroke Association.

Organised by the Taunton-based developer as an annual fundraising and networking event, the tournament is now in its sixth year and was held at Woodlands Castle, Ruishton.

Teams from a variety of businesses took the opportunity to demonstrate their boules skills while enjoying a warm afternoon away from the office and raising money for the South West branch of the Stroke Association.

The charity offered participants blood pressure checks between rounds, as well as information about stroke prevention, treatment and care.

Event organiser Ben Trickey, Summerfield’s divisional director, said: “The Stroke Association is our nominated charity for 2016 and it has been our pleasure to lend support at this boules event, in addition to our other fundraising and support initiatives for the charity.

"Turnout for the tournament has again been superb indicating just how established the event has become as a chance for local businesses to mingle and raise funds for a great cause.

"And the standard of play is getting more and more competitive.”

This year saw a head-to-head battle between Office Reality (the ‘Wellington Wombats') and Western Provident Association (WPA) for the cup.

WPA, a team of complete boules novices, were thrilled to clinch the victory and prove Summerfield's claim of ‘no experience necessary’.

Amy Spencer, community and events fundraising manager at the Stroke Association, said: “We are thrilled that Summerfield chose us as their nominated charity for 2016.

"There are over one million people in the UK who are rebuilding their lives after a stroke.

"Thanks to the Summerfield’s generosity and support, we can be there for even more families coming to terms with this devastating condition.”

Other competition results of the day included the plate going to Croft Surveyors, under their team name ‘Boulederdash’, with the runners up Porter Dodson, otherwise known as ‘Boules of Legal Steel’.

The Wooden Spoon – the award given to the best of the lower-attaining teams - went to Summerfield themselves. The Summerfield Subs were beaten by the Summerfield Slingers and the winning team included executive chairman Richard Lloyd, whose competitive side was definitely on display.

If you would like to register your interest in next year’s event, e-mail Gill Ellis at Summerfield on gellis@summerfield.co.uk