Having a ball to help guide dogs
THREE sisters and former Rydal Penrhos pupils successfully completed a gruelling half marathon and raised thousands for a cancer charity.
Hannah, Catherine and Elinor Davies travelled to South Wales to test their endurance at the Cardiff Half Marathon, running in aid of Cancer Research UK.
The trio, who were joined on ‘Team Davies’ by father Gareth, were running in memory of grandfather Raymond Lewis, who died of lung cancer earlier this year.
This was the second time that the sisters have competed in a half marathon, and they managed to raise a considerable amount for Motor Neurone Disease in 2016 from a similar event in London.
The Rydal Penrhos community lent their support to the cause after boosting the fund during a special cake sale which Elinor attended, and their JustGiving page has reached an incredible total of £3,140.01 after setting an initial target of £1,200.
Deputy Head Tim Cashell, said: “To raise so much for such a worthy cause is a truly incredible achievement, and everyone at Rydal Penrhos is absolutely thrilled for Team Davies and we congratulate them on their wonderful efforts.
“The cause was obviously very close to their hearts given the sad recent passing of their grandfather, and we were proud to help the fundraising total in a small way.” Pic: Euron Jones Photography
ADANCE teacher from Criccieth has raised £1,500 for Guide Dogs Cymru with a masquerade ball.
Carys Wyn Althoff-Roberts, a former professional dancer, hosted the glamorous event at Criccieth Memorial Hall, where more than 100 guests enjoyed an evening of music and dance.
Carys, who now runs fitness classes under the name Carysmatic. co.uk, said her love of people and animals inspired her to support Guide Dogs.
“They bring such joy and happiness to our lives and we don’t appreciate them enough,” she said.
“I was inspired by a television programme about a blind man who rode the London Underground every day. His guide dog was there to take care of him, despite getting pushed around in all the hustle and bustle.”
The ball was held at Criccieth Memorial Hall, which holds special memories for Carys.
“It’s the heart of the community,” she said.
“I started my dancing days there and now I run classes there.”
Buddug Lloyd-Jones and her guide dog Freya, a golden retriever, attended the ball as special guests.
“Buddug explained how much work goes into training a guide dog and people learnt a lot,” said Carys.
“We also had music from classical singer Lesley Hetherington, and I gave a dance performance.
“People donated raffle prizes, and a local youngster named Emma performed on harp and piano.”
Jacquie Hughes-Jones, community fundraiser for Guide Dogs Cymru, said: “Carys and friends have shown real community spirit.
“Every penny raised helps us provide life-changing services for people with sight loss.”