Would Damon Hill OBE stand for Prime Minister? What does Michael Caines MBE serve up at home on a Saturday night? Just two of the burning questions audience members had for the celebrity pair at our recent charity event in Devon.

Both former F1 Champion Damon, who has a son with Down’s syndrome, and Michelin-starred chef Michael, are patrons of the Down’s Syndrome Association and Down Syndrome International.

“I was delighted to be able to attend the golf day and evening dinner again this year, which supports two charities close to my heart. The event was well organised and well attended, and of course it is always lovely to spend time in beautiful Devon. The food was sensational and having Michael Caines and Lympstone Manor’s support, is greatly appreciated and enjoyed. I hope next year that we can have more evening guests and can reach out to more golf hole sponsors.”Damon Hill, OBE

Teams of golfers, including Damon Hill OBE, enjoyed 18 holes of golf and friendly competition, with the winning team a group of four ladies hailing from Perranporth Golf Club, and the individual winner going to Jack Southcott from The Exeter.

Then followed a Salcombe Gin drinks reception and four-course dinner created by one of the UK’s most acclaimed chefs, Michael Caines MBE, and Exeter Golf and Country Club’s head chef, Adam Little, with wines perfectly paired to each course. A charity auction chaired by ‘Homes Under the Hammer’ auctioneer Graham Barton – complete with trademark striped blazer – helped the funds roll in. 

“This year’s gala dinner was absolutely fantastic, and it was a joy to work alongside Adam Little and create such a beautiful menu. I especially enjoyed the Q&A session with myself and Damon, giving people the chance to ask us anything and everything. Some great auction prizes and competitive bidding helped raise lots of money – I’m already thinking of ways to make it even bigger and better next year!” Michale Caines MBE

Our sincere thanks go to the following for their support for this event: 

Lympstone Manor, Exeter Golf and Country Club, The Exeter, Pen Life Associates, Valley Motorsport Promotions, Boulter and Bowen Wealth Care, Salcombe Gin, Tolchards, Flying Fish Winery, Lyme Bay Winery, Regency-Wines, Forest Produce Devon, Christopher Piper Wines.

Photo of Damon on golf course and winners by https://www.mattroundphotography.com/