Gary Player visits UK charity DePaul

The South African jets into London to witness the work of DePaul UK, a youth charity supported by the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational at Wentworth

Gary Player flew into London this week to visit DePaul UK, a youth homelessness charity.

Player visited DePaul’s Willesden Hostel in north London, which offers long-stay accommodation and specialist support for young homeless people aged 16 to 25.

The charity is principal UK beneficiary of the 2015 Berenburg Gary Player Invitational, which takes place at Wentworth on July 20.

The Black Knight, who turns 80 this year, met residents of the secure accommodation and saw how the charity helps them develop life skills and establish a routine.

“It’s been fantastic to come and see how the money we raise through the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational is put to such amazing use by DePaul UK,” Player said.

“I could not have asked for a more special reception by these miraculous young people at Willesden Hostel and I’m honoured to be able to help such an amazing charity.”

The South African, who also celebrates the 50^th anniversary of his career Grand Slam this year, took a tour of the facilities and learned more about the services offered with DePaul CEO Martin Houghton-Brown and Berenberg head of equities, David Mortlock.

“[Player’s] commitment through the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational to supporting young people in the UK is exceptional,” Mr Houghton-Brown said.

“Every young person DePaul supports has a dream, and I hope that meeting a Grand Slam champion will inspire each of them to achieve their dreams, for family, friends and a great job. Who knows, maybe after today some of them will even go on to become sporting legends themselves.”

An all-star cast of PGA Tour professionals from around the globe will participate in the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational to celebrate the union of golf and giving.

Mr Mortlock commented: “It’s wonderful for Berenberg to continue our partnership in a year which is so significant for the golfing legend that is Gary Player. And it is also very special for us as Berenberg celebrates its 425th anniversary.

“This year’s event looks set to be a very special one and we look forward to raising yet more money for The Player Foundation and Berenberg Kids whose principal UK beneficiary is once again DePaul and who I had the pleasure of visiting today alongside Mr Player.”