BADMINTON players had a smashing time as they put in a marathon effort in memory of a popular club member.

As a tribute to Ron McDiarmid, who was well known in the town as 'Ron the doughnut man', members of the Dorchester Badminton Club held a Badmintonathon to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Ron was a much loved figure at the club and sadly passed away at the age of 56 in April last year from a heart muscle disease called cardiomyopathy after collapsing following a game of his beloved badminton.

There were nearly 40 people involved in the 24-hour charity event at St Osmunds Community Sports Centre, which smashed its target to raise £1,200.

Vicki Edwards from the club said: "It was an amazing event, despite aches and pains the following day and lack of sleep for those playing through the night.

"There were 38 people participating of all ages and abilities and it was great to see so many people involved and everyone pulling together to raise money for the British Heart Foundation and remembering Ron.

"Those who didn't play badminton provided us with lots of cakes to keep us going and we had people popping in and out with donations as well.

"The players had a sweep stake to see how many games we could play in 24 hours and we managed to play 135 games."

Vicki added that those involved had enjoyed the event so much they were already talking about holding another one next year.

She said: "The atmosphere was really good and I know that Ron would have loved it.

"The target I set was £500 and we are now on around £1,200.

"I have been overwhelmed with the generosity the people of Dorchester and surrounding areas have shown.

"Thank you to all those who participated, couldn't have done it without you, those who provided all the cakes to keep us going and of course all of the extremely kind people who have supported us through donations."

Among those taking part in the event was Ron's partner of ten years Paetra Withnall.

Manager of St Osumnds Community Sports Centre Guy O'Neill donated the use of the badminton court while there were donations towards the cost of shuttles from Charles Trent Ltd and Tyre Wise in Poole.

To make a donation in Ron's memory visit justgiving.com/ken-thomson