Llandysul’s own Penny Farthing Appeal proudly presented Cancer Research Wales with a fund of almost £18,000 at Coracles Leisure & Country Club in Cenarth last Saturday.

The Penny Farthing Appeal held their annual bilingual presentation evening on Saturday 5th April, with performances from The Sharron Woolley Band and singer Huw Evans, and presented the money they have raised over the past year to Cancer Research Wales.

Entertainment on the night also included a raffle, compère John Crossley, and an auction run by Geraint James featuring huge prizes such as paintings by Irene Jones and Diane Mathias and signed rugby shirts from the Scarlets and the Newport Dragons.

Carol and Derrick Davies, who manage the Penny Farthing Appeal in memory of their son Richard, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who has supported the Appeal with their money, time and generosity over the years – it wouldn’t be possible without you.

“Cancer Research Wales is such a great cause, as every penny raised stays in Wales. We’re carrying on Richard’s fundraising for him and he would be so proud of how much the Penny Farthing Appeal has done.

“Anyone who would like to get involved with the Appeal in anyway, either by donating or with an idea for a fundraising event, please get in touch on 01559 370885.”

Mei Lewis, Fundraiser for Cancer Research Wales, was present to accept a cheque for £14,250 – but thanks to matched funding, the charity will actually receive £17,250.

Mei commented: “The devotion of Carol, Derrick and everyone involved in the Penny Farthing Appeal is really inspiring, and Cancer Research Wales is incredibly grateful for their continued support.

“Over the past 15 years, the Penny Farthing Appeal has worked tirelessly to organise fantastic events like this, and their donations are making a real difference in the fight against cancer here in Wales.”

The Penny Farthing Appeal was set up by former building foreman Richard Davies from Llandysul in 1999 after he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Sadly Richard died shortly after diagnosis, at the age of 30, but his parents Derrick and Carol have continued his charity work.

The Penny Farthing Appeal has raised an enormous £188,133.46 to date and is currently organising a 115-mile motorbike run from Pembrey Circuit on Easter Monday and ‘track days’ throughout the August bank holiday weekend.

All money raised by the Penny Farthing Appeal helps Cancer Research Wales to fund ground-breaking projects taking place at Welsh hospitals and universities.