Charity

Dyfed Mark Masons support LATCH Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity

Published

4 months ago

August 24, 2024

DYFED Mark Masons chosen charity for support at the recent Annual Meeting was LATCH the Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity – LATCH supports the children and their families who are being treated by the Oncology Unit at the Children’s Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, whose catchment area stretches from Chepstow in the South to Aberystwyth in the North. Around 70 new cases are diagnosed every year.

When this was announced it was a lovely surprise for one of our members, Martin Thomas of Herbrandston, as he was well aware of the support Latch can give.

When Martin’s daughter Bethany was a baby he and his wife Alison were given the devastating news that she was suffering from cancer. As Bethany fought the illness Martin and Alison received emotional and practical support from the LATCH team, which they have never forgotten.

Thankfully Bethany made a full recovery and is currently taking a degree course at the University of West of England Bristol.

The charity helps to fund the purchase of medical equipment and facilities. In 2021 it funded the full refurbishment of the Paediatric Oncology (Rainbow) Ward. LATCH understands the financial and emotional burden faced by families caring for a child with cancer and support is provided as needed during the child’s treatment by a team of dedicated social workers. Free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation is also provided to keep families together during a child’s stay.

LATCH recognizes that activities and treats can help boost morale and keep children occupied so it organizes weekly painting sessions and music therapy on Rainbow Ward. It also arranges family outings and offers caravan holidays in Tenby and Porthcawl to provide valuable respite.

The charity is supported by a team of volunteer Ambassadors who help co-ordinate activities and raise awareness of LATCH in their local areas. One such Ambassador is Helen Gravelle from Carmarthen area, who personally suffered the heartache of having a child with cancer. At the meeting with Dyfed Mark Masons she spoke emotionally about the strain it places on families and how LATCH provides vital support at an extremely difficult time.

The cheque was handed to Helen by the Provincial Grand Master Gary Hicks who said “I am delighted to make this donation to LATCH who continue to provide care and support to families across Wales that are faced with the situation we all dread, that of having a very sick child.”

Dyfed Mark Masons belong to an order of Freemasonry and their membership is spread across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. Charity is at the forefront of everything they do.

Pictured above at the presentation of the cheque for £1,000 are, left to right, Martin and Alison Thomas, Dyfed Mark Charity Steward Steve Thurgood, Helen Gravelle from LATCH and Dyfed Mark Provincial Grand Master Gary Hicks.

Charity

Angle RNLI assist in multi-agency search

Published

1 day ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANGLE Lifeboat was requested to launch at 7:59pm on Friday, December 20 to assist with an ongoing incident at Westfield Pill bridge, Neyland.

The lifeboat made best speed to Neyland Marina, and with a flooding tide was able to access straight through into the upper basin of the marina.

The lifeboat’s inflatable Y boat was deployed with two crew members onboard to commence a search of the shallower water within Westfield Pill up to the weir. The All-Weather Lifeboat began searching around the bridge, before covering all of the accessible marina pontoons.

Also searching were officers from Dyfed Powys Police, including their drone unit, and Coastguard Rescue Teams from Dale, Broad Haven and St Govan’s.

Following nearly two hours of searching, the crew were stood down with nothing found, while the police continued their enquiries.

The lifeboat was back alongside her berth and readied for further service by 10:30pm.

***Lifeboat in action at Neyland Marina (Image: Rob Conway/Facebook)***

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

2 days ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

2 days ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/