Six local charities got a boost yesterday when the organisers of an annual fundraising tournament handed over cheques totalling $250,000.

The money was raised by the annual Ross (Blackie) Talbot Charity Classic golf tournament, which took place in April.

The organisations receiving donations this year were Impact Mentoring ($30,000), Greenrock ($35,000), Bermuda National Gallery ($40,000), Bermuda Red Cross ($40,000) and the Ross (Blackie) Talbot Foundation ($25,000), with a further $75,000 going towards the Ross (Blackie) Talbot education awards.

Event chairman Clement Talbot told a press conference: "This year, being our 17th anniversary, a fundraising theme of 'Our Heritage, Our Environment, Our Youth' was established, along with an ambitious goal of raising $250,000 to support our six charity recipients.

"It gives me great pleasure to advise that even under these trying economic times we have still managed to meet our goal."

He said the tournament's success was thanks to loyal supporters and the success of a grand raffle.

Mr. Talbot added: "Although the success of our fundraising efforts is extremely gratifying, we are equally inspired to see first hand how the tournament embraces all walks of life and helps to foster respect, fellowship, racial harmony and camaraderie among Bermuda's diverse community.

"We find it very rewarding to play a small part in bringing our community together, in an enjoyable setting for charity, and it is our fervent wish that the goodwill generated through the Ross (Blackie) Talbot Charity Class will continue throughout the year."