Alan Howarth, a well-known figure in Llanelli and former GP at Fairfield Surgery, recently underwent surgery for prostate cancer. Now recovering, he is determined to give something back to the Urosurgical Unit at Morriston and Neath Port Talbot hospitals.
His main fundraising event will be a musical evening at the Diplomat Hotel on March 13, featuring an impressive line-up of Welsh talent including Mal Pope, Steve Balsamo, Brook Fox and Côr Curiad.
“Many people know I was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year, and the rapid and timely intervention of the hospitals was more than welcome,” said Alan. “I want to show my gratitude by raising money directly for the unit.
“It will be a lively, fun evening and everyone involved is giving their time freely to help us raise as much as we can for this wonderful service.”
The night will also include a raffle and auction chaired by the Reverend Eldon Phillips, Llanelli’s Town Crier and chaplain to the Scarlets. Hosting duties will be shared by Noel Rees and local actress Ffion Gwyther.
Birthday fundraiser boost
Ffion, affectionately known as ‘Ffion from Furnace’, is adding her own fundraising twist.
Ahead of her 30th birthday on February 26, she has asked friends and family to donate to Alan’s appeal instead of buying presents.
“The reason I’m asking for donations rather than gifts is because I want to show the hospital and specialists how grateful I am for looking after my very special friend,” she said. “People have already started sending donations and I’m excited to see how much we can raise.”
Ffion is well known for her theatre work in Wales and abroad and for her popular ‘Ffion from Furnace’ online videos during lockdown, which built a large following and earned praise for boosting community morale.
Musical line-up
The evening promises first-class entertainment.
Swansea-born Mal Pope, who signed to Elton John’s Rocket Records at just 13, has built a wide-ranging career as a singer-songwriter, broadcaster and musical theatre writer, becoming a familiar voice on BBC Radio Wales.
Steve Balsamo, also from Swansea, rose to national prominence playing Jesus in the West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar. He has since enjoyed a successful solo career, released albums, toured internationally and written songs for major artists.
They will be joined by Burry Port singer-songwriter Brook Fox, whose sound blends pop, indie and country influences, and local choir Côr Curiad.
Community effort
Alan is organising the event with help from his wife, Jayne, and hopes the night will bring the community together.
“We’re hoping for a great turnout and a fantastic atmosphere,” he said. “The support from everyone — especially Ffion’s incredibly kind birthday gesture — has really touched our hearts. We’d love people to come along, enjoy the music and help us support the unit.”
How to support
Tickets for the March 13 musical evening cost £20 and are available from:
• The Diplomat Hotel (card payments)
• The Links Workshop, Queen Victoria Road (cash or cheque)
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