Pub raises cash for cancer charity in memory of regular Mike

Llinos James and her customers at the Castle Hotel in Aberystwyth have raised more than £1,200 for the Bronglais Chemo Appeal.

Above: Tongue ‘n’ Groove performing at a fundraising event for the Bronglais Chemo Appeal

Money was raised in memory of pub regular Mike Yeo, a retired agricultural consultant, who sadly passed away in September, aged 79, after being diagnosed with bladder cancer.

There were collections at Sunday afternoon band performances in the pub, featuring popular The Hicksters and Tongue‘n’Groove. And money was also raised at the regular Friday quiz nights.

Hotel and bar owner Llinos said: “We had been raising money for the Appeal through our popular quiz nights but Mike was also keen for us to do some fundraising in his name, so we nominated two bands and there were collections at their gigs. Some band members also donated their fees.

“Customers were very generous and we are pleased to have raised £1,245.40. The Appeal is such a good cause. It benefits the whole community to have this new chemotherapy day unit based locally.”

More than £1,000 was also raised for the Appeal at Mike’s funeral, from donations in lieu of flowers.

Mike’s wife Val said: “When Mike was having chemotherapy at Bronglais Hospital back in January, we saw first-hand how busy the unit was and its lack of privacy.

“It’s great that there will be a new, purpose-built unit at the hospital with more space and I think it’s marvellous that Llinos and customers at the Castle Hotel have raised so much money towards the Appeal. I’m also grateful to family and friends who donated at the funeral.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We are grateful to Llinos and her customers at the Castle Hotel, and to Mike’s family and friends, for their support and to everyone else who has donated to the Appeal.

“We are delighted to report that the Appeal has now passed its target. However, given the current economic climate, we predict that construction costs will increase. Every penny raised, including future donations, will therefore go directly to the Appeal fund, with any surplus funds used to support those affected by cancer across Ceredigion and mid Wales.”

For further information on the Appeal go to: www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk