A group of determined teenagers from Ammanford has scaled one of Wales's highest peaks to raise vital funds for a local hospital department close to their hearts.
A Mountainous Challenge for a Vital Cause
In July 2025, football coach Simon Jones led two teams from Ammanford Town FC – the Girls Under 15s and Under 17s – on a sponsored walk up Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons. They were joined by a dedicated group of supporting coaches. The collective effort resulted in a grand total of £1,250 being raised for Prince Philip Hospital’s Chemotherapy Day Unit.
The fundraising drive took on an even more extraordinary dimension thanks to Simon's son, Leo. In a remarkable feat of endurance, Leo walked the same Pen y Fan route eight times within a single 24-hour period, without stopping, to help boost the donations further.
Personal Motivations Behind the Fundraiser
The cause is deeply personal for the footballing community. Two mothers of players within the teams are currently receiving cancer treatment and are being supported by the medical staff at the Llanelli hospital. Coach Simon Jones also has direct experience of the unit's care, as his own mother underwent treatment there earlier this year.
Simon reflected on the successful event, stating everyone who participated enjoyed it. “There was a sense that we were doing something to be proud of, because of the reason why we were raising money,” he explained.
Donation to Support Patient Care
The overall fundraising effort was a significant success, generating thousands of pounds to be shared. The group raised a total of £3,750, with £1,250 allocated specifically to Prince Philip Hospital's unit. The remaining sum is being split between other hospital departments.
“We have raised £1,250 for each department, £3,750 in total to donate,” Simon confirmed. “I would like to thank all players, coaches and parents who were involved. I would also like to thank all the lovely people who donated to this great cause.”
Kath Watkins, Senior Sister at the Chemotherapy Day Unit, expressed profound gratitude: “On behalf of the staff and patients... I would like to thank Ammanford Town FC Girls Under 15’s and 17’s, coaches, family, friends and especially Leo for taking on this tough challenge.”
She assured that the generous donation will be put to good use, stating: “We are always looking at ways to improve the environment and improve the way we care for patients... Please be assured that this money will go towards this improvement.”
For more information on how to support local NHS patients and staff, you can visit the Hywel Dda Health Charities website.
