A women’s touch rugby tournament has scored a remarkable success by raising more than £23,000 for Swansea Bay’s very own cancer centre.
The inaugural Touched by Cancer event, in aid of the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital, was staged at the Talbot Athletic Ground, the famous home of Aberavon RFC.
With the sun shining and spirits high, 16 all-women teams came together from across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot for a day filled with sport, solidary and fundraising.
It opened with a moving tribute – a minute’s silence to remember loved ones lost to cancer followed by a minute’s applause in honour of those still fighting.
Crowds of supporters enjoyed live music, food vendors, local stalls, and a charity raffle and auction. Broadcaster, actor and Swans matchday announcer Kev Johns MBE compered the event.
Kev, who has himself been treated at the cancer centre, interviewed representatives from Swansea Bay Health Charity, Aberavon RFC, main sponsor Tomato Energy, and two inspiring cancer survivors.
First place went to the Resolven Hillbetties, with Ferry Renettes taking second place and Bryncoch Bronchettes coming in third.
Special recognition went to the Baglan Bombshells, who were crowned Fundraising Champions, raising an outstanding £4,040.
The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress, Alan and Jan Lockyer, were in attendance, meeting every team and taking part in a cheque presentation to celebrate the £23,000 raised.
Proceeds are going to the Going the Extra Mile Appeal, which aims to raise £200,000 for the South West Wales Cancer Centre, or SWWCC.
Run by Swansea Bay University Health Board, the SWWCC provides a range of lifesaving NHS treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
It celebrated its 20th anniversary last year and Going the Extra Mile was launched by Swansea Bay Health Charity to commemorate the landmark.
The appeal will support the thousands of patients from the Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda areas who are cared for there every year, as well as relatives and staff.
Touched by Cancer organiser Cathy Stevens of Swansea Bay Health Charity said: “The whole day was emotional but also joyous.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, donated, and supported this event. It was a powerful reminder of what our community can achieve when we come together.”
