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Local Fundraiser for brave rugby youngsters

TWO young cancer patients with a passion for rugby benefited from a scrum of support  in Pontarddulais. A fundraiser was thrown for Cai Evans and Luke Hedges at Pontarddulais Rugby Football Club because of their health battles — and it generated more than £6,000.The cash was divided up between the family of 9-year-old Cai, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and has undergone a number of operations, and 7-year-old Luke, was first diagnosed with leukaemia in February of this year and who is undergoing a three-year chemotherapy treatment plan.

Both youngsters have been playing rugby for the Pontarddulais mini sections. Cash was raised through horse racing, a hog roast, raffles and entertainment, along with a charity auction.

Philip Hovestadt, who was involved in the event, said he was delighted at the level of support from the community for the fundraiser, which was supported by the Welsh Rugby Union. He said: "The people of Pontarddulais were only too willing to show the colour of their money, especially for the items such as a signed Welsh rugby shirt, certified by Warren Gatland, and a signed Swans ball."The horse racing itself was a sight to behold, I have never seen so much excitement over such small stakes."Everyone got into the spirit of it, cheering on their horses and collecting their winnings — sometimes as much as £2.50, with the maximum payout on the night being a record £8.The evening was a great success, helped by Cai and Luke being present with their winning smiles''.

"The total amount raised was a staggering £6,366 which we, along with Rhodri Hughes from Ospreys and Kevin Johns, presented to the families in Bont RFC."He added: "The bravery, courage and strength shown by both of these boys is an inspiration to all of us who know them.

*** Photo shows Cai, Luke and their families and friends with the donations.