St David's Hospice: Caernarfon resident cycles 103 miles along the Welsh Coast to raise funds

SCENIC VIEWS: Neil during a sunset bike ride

Submitted by Chelsea Chamberlain from St David's Hospice, Llandudno

Hospice supporter Neil Marsh learned how invaluable the services that St David’s Hospice offer are when his father became seriously ill a few years ago.

In a bid to raise awareness and funds for the local charity, Neil from Caernarfon set himself a challenge of riding the whole of the North Wales to England border. The 103-mile ride that was originally planned to coincide with his father’s birthday, was brought forward due to predicted bad weather.

On October 18, Neil started his challenge making his way from Aberdaron to Llanwnda and on to Llandudno where he finished the day cycling a lap of the Great Orme. He started the second day by cycling around the Orme again, cycling from Llandudno to Prestatyn then continued to his final destination of Chester.

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Neil said: “As a keen cyclist, fitness enthusiast and former martial arts instructor, I have always endeavoured to stay fit and active for over 50 years. A few years back, I was able to see first-hand the incredible work St David’s Hospice do.

“I am hoping that with my training and the support of others, I can raise funds to help the important work and assistance they provide during the most difficult times. St David’s Hospice Llandudno were able to offer us respite care on a few occasions which was immense, they’ve helped my dad many times before he passed away.

“The challenge itself was long, hard and difficult, but the thought of all the people who may benefit from the funds raised and what they have to deal with, drove me on to the end. The most memorable parts for me were setting off from Uwchmynydd mountain, in a beautiful sunrise over Aberdaron and Bardsey Island, then finishing off in Prestatyn with a tropical sunset 10 hours later!”

St David’s Hospice Gwynedd and Anglesey area fundraiser, Keri Mckie said: “Huge congratulations to Neil for completing this amazing challenge, 103 miles, wow! Thank you for taking on this incredible challenge in aid of St David’s Hospice. The funds raised will make such a difference to our local patients, ensuring others will get the same care as Neil’s father and family received.”

So far, Neil has raised a fantastic £575 for St David’s Hospice (not including gift aid). If you would like to help Neil reach his £1000 fundraising target, please click here to make a donation.

St David's Hospice Lottery Weekly Draw

Draw date: December 9

First prize of £1000  070999  Llandudno

Second prize of £100 047801 Bangor

Plus 80 prizes £5 for full details click here.

To join the Lottery call 01492 877999.

Christmas Trees take over St John’s Church in Llandudno

St David’s Hospice is proud to be organising this year’s Llandudno Christmas Tree Festival.

The festival will once again take place in the beautiful St John’s Church on Mostyn Street. From Monday, December 12 to Saturday, December 17, the church will be open daily from 10am-4pm to visitors. There is no charge to enter the church, however there are collection buckets around the venue, welcoming donations to St David’s Hospice.

With over 20 groups and businesses involved, you won’t be disappointed with the creativity of this year’s Christmas Trees! A few of the locals that are showcasing their trees this year are Haven Café, The Welsh National Opera Youth Choir, The Residents of Penrhyn Court and many more.

On Thursday, December 15, there will also be an opportunity to sing carols under the lights of the Christmas trees. The community carol service will start at 7pm and all are welcome to join with free entry.

Adrian Owen, Conwy community fundraiser for St David’s Hospice said, “We are excited to bring back the Christmas Tree Festival to Llandudno. Last year proved a triumph, and we know that this year will be just as successful. The trees just keep getting more and more unique, and we love it! A big thank you to all the groups and businesses involved, Lyn and Alan from St John’s Church and all the volunteers for their help and support.”

Don’t forget that Conwy Christmas Tree Festival is still on until Friday, December 16 at St Mary’s Church, Conwy. Entry is free, and the doors are open from 11.30am – 3.30pm daily.

For further information please contact Adrian Owen on 01492 873674 or Adrian.owen@stdavidshospice.org.uk.

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