Morgan family ‘stunned’ by Rhodri memorial gifts

THE family of Rhodri Morgan say they are “absolutely stunned” by the amount of donations made to a fund in his memory.

The former Cardiff West MP and First Minister of Wales died suddenly on May 17, aged 77.

His family, including his widow, Cardiff North AM Julie Morgan, asked people to give charity donations rather than flowers after his death.

The donations will be divided among a variety of causes that Rhodri was passionate about.

They will include some small local charities in Cardiff, as well as larger national charities in the fields of sport, medical research and promoting fairness and equality for all.

Since then, people have donated more than £3,200 to the JustGiving page.

Donations have come from political colleagues as well as friends and former constituents.

Julie Morgan said: “The family and I are absolutely stunned at people’s generosity in giving to the fund we have set up in memory of Rhodri.

“We have had messages from close to home and from all over the world and it is wonderful to have such support.

“We will be keeping the fund open for a few more weeks as people are still giving so generously and we hope to decide on the charities we will support very soon.

“Thank you once again to everyone who has given and everyone who has sent a message or flowers.”

Rhodri Morgan collapsed and died while cycling in the lanes near his home in Wenvoe.

He spent more than 30 years in politics and led the country as First Minister for almost 10 years from 2000.

Current First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “Wales hasn’t just lost a great politician, we’ve lost a real father figure.”

To donate visit www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/rhodri-morganwales.