10 years on, legacy of hero Grav still felt as charity hits £1m milestone
IN LIFE he made an enormous impact – a Welsh rugby legend, a popular broadcaster, and a beloved husband, family man and friend.
And exactly a decade on from his death a charity set up to remember former Lions star Ray Gravell has raised exactly £1m.
The Ray Gravell & Friends Charitable Trust was set up in 2007 following the death of one of Wales’ most colourful personalities after he suffered a heart attack while on holiday in Spain aged just 56.
Now, thanks to the dedication of its loyal committee members, it has hit the landmark figure, all of which has gone to support worthwhile causes in the south-west Wales community.
Organisations to benefit from the funds include Prince Philip Hospital’s breast care unit in Llanelli, sports groups for disabled people, and rugby, football and cricket teams unable to afford their own equipment.
Cancer charity Maggie’s and causes supporting a range of other illnesses have also benefited.
Charity trustee Phil Bennett said it had been a “wonderful effort” by the committee.
He said: “Many, many causes have benefited in the 10 years we have been doing it.
“Different cancer charities, other illnesses, and young sporting clubs who have been struggling financially have all received funds.
“I never dreamt when we started that we would be here now.
“It’s strange how life comes and goes.
“On October 31 Grav passed away. That’s the same day as the famous Llanelli win against the All Blacks in 1972 and the same day we announced we hit the £1m mark on Tuesday.”
The first seeds of the trust were originally sewn by Ray himself and two fellow Scarlets – Wales internationals and British Lions rugby legends Derek Quinnell and Bennett.
The trio had already decided to establish a Three Lions Charitable Trust to help support charities and individuals throughout west Wales.
But following Ray’s death on October 31 that year it took on a new perspective and the charity was established to not only raise money for those in need but at the same time perpetuate the memory of a true legend and friend.
Ray’s wife, Mari, the late Albert Francis, as well as Quinnell and Bennett themselves, agreed to be honorary patrons together with a few other friends. It now has up to 60 patrons.
A dinner was held on Tuesday to remember Grav, attended by some top stars including newsreader Huw Edwards, actress Ruth Jones, and musician Dafydd Iwan.
And that was when the milestone figure was announced.
“They put it up on the screen and many in the room were taken aback by how much was raised,” said Bennett.
“One of my loveliest memories was going to the golf course in Trimsaran where there was a day put on for children with various disabilities.
“Seeing them there laughing and enjoying and knowing the money we raised went towards it was really heartwarming.
“I know Grav would have been smiling down.”