Mayor's Best Foot Forward for Charity
Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor Cllr Robert Smith is urging residents to put their best feet forward for Macmillan Cancer Support’s Rhondda Walk.
Cllr Smith will officially start the 11-mile Macmillan Cancer Support walk next month at Treherbert Rugby Club and will be wishing participants well as they travel from the venue to the Rhondda Heritage Park, taking in Treorchy, Tonypandy and Porth on the way.
As well as a sponsored walk, the day on September 5 will also include family entertainment, music from the Upper Rhondda Brass Brand and 2-4-1 entry to the attractions at the Rhondda Heritage Park.
One of those taking part in the walk to raise essential funds for Macmillan, which is one of this year’s Mayoral charities, is Esther Nagle, aged 36, of Ystrad, who is walking in memory of her brother, Richard, who lost his battle against cancer in 2005.
As well as raising essential funds and boosting the profile of such an important charity, Esther will also be completing the walk in preparation for a walk of the Great Wall of China she is undertaking for Macmillan in the future.
She said: “Richard was always walking. He had such a sense of adventure and loved nothing more than stepping out into the countryside and taking a brisk walk. I’m getting involved in the Rhondda Walk to raise awareness of the fantastic work Macmillan does and continue raising the funds they need to provide these services, all whilst incorporating Richard’s passionate spirit into my life, too.”
Cllr Smith added: “Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity of which I have personal experience and it is for that reason I chose it as one of my good causes for the year, as well as the fact cancer affects so many.
“However, well someone is prepared for the diagnosis of cancer, there are always outstanding questions – some practical, others emotional – which need someone with an understanding and knowledge to answer.
“It is important that we show our support and take part in this walk, on behalf of the charity and on behalf of the 822 people a day who are told they have cancer – many of whom will benefit from Macmillan Cancer Support.
“Over 116,000 people in Wales are affected by cancer in Wales every year and one in three of us will receive a cancer diagnosis at some point in our life. Macmillan Cancer Support helps half of these people and the walk will help them, including those in RCT.”
The walk starts from Treherbert Rugby Club at 9am on September 5 and participants will travel down the valley through Treorchy, Tonypandy and Porth before arriving in Trehafod.
Register for only £10, and you will receive your fundraising pack in the post, together with a t-shirt and goody bag on the day. For more information, or to register, please contact Helen Ashcroft on 01656 867968 or email hashcroft@macmillan.org.uk
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Content authorised by: Marketing & Communications Team
Last revised on: 20/8/2009