PLAYERS from Pontarddulais RFC have challenged themselves to run, walk or cycle 10,000 miles as part of a virtual fundraiser in memory of Gerallt Davies MBE.

Mr Davies, from Pontarddulais, was the first paramedic in Wales to die from Covid-19 in April 2020.

The challenge, which is made up of three stages, has already seen players complete several thousands of miles in stage one.

Stage two will cover an additional 6,332 miles, inspired by the late Mr Davies’ paramedic pin number.

In total, those taking part will have completed a cumulative total of over 10,000 miles.

Huw Thomas, secretary for Pontarddulais RFC said: “We wanted to do something which would bring the community together and help us honour Gerallt.

“Gerallt gave over 20 years of first aid to our Pontarddulais senior team and this seemed like a fitting tribute to such a wonderful man.

“The challenge has been embraced by both players and members of our club and we’ve already seen some as young as seven with others in their sixties getting involved. It’s amazing!” he added.

The rugby club is raising vital money for St John Ambulance Cymru - the first aid charity where Mr Davies dedicated over 40 years of his life volunteering.

A paramedic at Cwmbwrla Station in Swansea, Mr Davies was awarded an MBE in 2019 for his service to volunteering with the charity where he was a national operations officer.

James Shaughnessy, St John Ambulance Cymru director of operations said: “Gerallt was a passionate, caring and kind individual who was instrumental in the development of St John Ambulance Cyrmu giving his time, knowledge and skills to help others across Wales for over 40 years.

“It’s wonderful to see so many people united and inspired by Gerallt and I want to thank all Pontarddulais RFC players for fundraising for St John Ambulance Cymru and wish them the best of luck with the challenge.”

The club is hoping to raise over £2,000 for the first aid charity when the final stage is completed by end of June.

If you’d like to help Pontarddulais RFC reach their fundraising goal you can make a donation via Just Giving: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/prfc-gerallt