Hugh James Law Firm's Rugby Lunch Raises Significant Funds for Cancer Charity
The prominent law firm Hugh James has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to charitable giving by raising an impressive £27,632 at its annual Rugby Lunch fundraiser. This substantial sum was collected in support of their long-term charity partner, Velindre Cancer Service, which provides vital care and support across Wales.
Star-Studded Event at Cardiff's Parkgate Hotel
Once again hosted at the prestigious Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff, the event successfully brought together a diverse gathering of clients, colleagues, and supporters from throughout the Welsh business community. United by a shared passion for rugby and philanthropy, attendees converged to support the life-changing work that Velindre Cancer Service carries out for patients and families facing cancer diagnoses.
Since its inception over a decade ago, the Hugh James Rugby Lunch has now raised a cumulative total exceeding £300,000 for various charitable causes. This year's event featured an exceptional lineup of special guests who captivated the audience with their personal stories and insights.
Inspiring Speakers Share Powerful Messages
Among the distinguished guests were former international rugby union referee Nigel Owens MBE and former England and British & Irish Lions player Will Greenwood MBE. Both shared memorable anecdotes and reflections from their illustrious careers on and off the rugby pitch, offering a compelling mix of humour, professional insight, and personal reflection that thoroughly entertained guests while simultaneously highlighting the core values of resilience and teamwork.
Also joining host Ryan Jones MBE on stage was Craig Maxwell OBE, the former Chief Commercial Officer at Six Nations Rugby and founder of the Maxwell Family Fund. At just 41 years old, Craig received the devastating diagnosis of an incurable form of lung cancer. Demonstrating remarkable courage and determination, he has since raised nearly £1.7 million to help others facing similar health challenges.
During the event, Craig shared his powerful personal journey and spoke passionately about his unwavering determination to make a positive difference in the lives of others. His moving message resonated deeply with all attendees and powerfully reinforced the critical importance of the fundraising efforts in support of Velindre's essential services.
Ninth Year of Growing Success
Now celebrating its ninth consecutive year, the Hugh James Rugby Lunch continues to grow from strength to strength, establishing itself as a cornerstone event in the firm's annual calendar. Reflecting on this year's impressive fundraising total, managing partner Alun Jones expressed profound gratitude to all participants and supporters.
"Our Rugby Lunch has become a real highlight in the firm's calendar, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who continues to support it each year," stated Jones. "The generosity shown by our clients, colleagues and partners makes a real difference to the work Velindre Cancer Service carries out for patients and families across Wales. It is a privilege to play a small part in supporting the vital work they do."
Sustained Charitable Commitment
Supporting charitable organizations at both local and national levels forms an integral part of daily operations at Hugh James. The firm's structured national charity partnership approach provides sustained, meaningful support for nominated charities over a minimum two-year period, ensuring continuity and maximum impact.
Hugh James has maintained its support for Velindre Cancer Service for many years through various initiatives. Beyond the annual Rugby Lunch, colleagues have enthusiastically participated in a wide range of fundraising activities, including challenging international bike rides and the charity's popular 'Wear Red' awareness campaign.
Charity Leadership Expresses Profound Gratitude
Kylie McKee, head of fundraising at Velindre Cancer Charity, conveyed heartfelt appreciation for the law firm's consistent support. "Velindre is incredibly grateful to Hugh James for their outstanding support over the past 12 years," said McKee. "From taking on overseas bike rides to hosting the annual Rugby Lunch and so much more, their commitment has made a real and lasting difference to patients and families across Wales."
"So many of our staff and services are funded directly through charitable support, which makes partnerships like this absolutely vital," McKee emphasized. "The generosity and energy the Hugh James team bring to our work means the world to us, and we are proud to have them as part of the Velindre family."
The event's continued success underscores the powerful combination of business networking, sporting passion, and philanthropic commitment that characterizes the Welsh business community's approach to supporting vital health services.
