Charity launched in Abergavenny soldier’s memory (From South Wales Argus)

Charity launched in Abergavenny soldier’s memory

12:30pm Monday 30th November 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)

A CHARITY to help wounded servicemen set up in memory of an Abergavenny soldier was launched by his family and friends at a drinks reception.

The Richard Hunt Foundation was launched at The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny on Friday evening in front of around 100 people representing local businesses, councils and the army.

Private Hunt died aged 21 in August from injuries he sustained while on vehicle patrol in Afghanistan - the 200th to do so in the Afghan conflict.

Through the foundation, his family hopes to help other wounded servicemen and their families by funding holidays for them, paying to have their homes adapted and opening an outdoor activity centre for injured soldiers at their home.

They will hold a number of fundraising events over the next year, including a family fun day at Bailey Park on May 15, a live music night at The Market Tavern on January 29 and the South Wales Three Peaks challenge on March 27.

Pte Hunt’s brother, Alan, made a moving speech about how his brother would not want his family and friends to grieve, but instead to take positive actions by helping others.

The charity’s patrons were also announced and include Newport sprinter Christian Malcolm, Welsh rugby legend Gareth Edwards, comedian Max Boyce and Commanding Officer of 2nd Battalion The Royal Welsh Lieutenant Colonel Mark Wheeler.

Among the local traders at the event were Angela Timmins and Peter Davies from Abergavenny’s Waterstone’s bookstore, who hope to auction off books to raise money for the foundation.

Mr Davies said: “I don’t know how anybody with such an awful occurrence in their life can turn round and bring something positive out of it in just a few months. It is admirable.”

The foundation is looking for people and businesses to support its events and more information can be found at www.welshwarrior.co.uk

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)