Avril’s memory lives on

Apr 24 2008 by Catherine Evans, Rhymney Valley Express

A COMMUNITY once again kept the memory of a inspirational fund-raiser alive by supporting an annual charity walk.

Around 200 people flocked to New Tredegar Rugby Club to begin the ninth annual Avril’s Walk on Sunday (April 20).

The walk was started in 2000 by local grandmother Avril Williams, who wanted to raise money for Velindre Hospital after they treated her during a lengthy battle with cancer.

Mrs Williams, of Gorse Terrace, passed away in 2005 but the walk has continued in her name ever since.

Many of the walkers turned up in fancy dress to raise as much money as possible for the hospital’s Active Support Unit campaign. Around £100,000 has been raised since the fund-raising efforts began.

Avril’s best friend, Irene Pearce of Pontlottyn, completes the five-mile course each year with her grandson.

Both wear sweatshirts printed with Avril’s name and every year they have taken part.

“We’ve run out of room on the front of the jumpers now so we had to have the date printed on the back,” Mrs Pearce said.

“It was a wonderful day and so many people turned out. We’ll know how much we’ve collected in a few weeks.

“I know I collected around £700 and I think there’s more still to come in.

“You always feel Avril’s presence when you’re walking. We still miss her – she was such a sparkly and bubbly person.”

Walkers taking part got the chance to stop for a breather on benches put in place in memory of Avril, complete with plaques, which have been placed along the route.

Family friend Gerald Jones said: “It went really well. We had people of all ages – I think our oldest walker was from Phillipstown and she’s 85.

“Dai Havard took part as usual and most people came in fancy dress.

“We went back to the rugby club afterwards and had a good time with events there.

“Avril was so well known throughout the area so we want to carry on in her memory.

“It’s the 10th anniversary of the walk next year so we were talking about what to do on Sunday to make it special.”