A group of friends are continuing their epic fundraising journey in memory of Ashley Rogers of Kilgetty, who tragically lost his life in a traffic collision on the A477 three years ago.

Three years ago, a group of school friends planned a trip to climb Snowdon — a chance to get together, focus on their wellbeing, and make memories, but tragically, before that could happen, they lost their dear friend Ashley ‘Yob’ Rogers.

Twenty-nine-year-old Ashley died at the scene on the A477 near the A4075 Fingerpost Junction, between Milton and Cleddau, following a collision at around 8 am, on May 13, 2023.

In the face of that loss, they made a decision that they would still climb — but now, do it in his memory.

Since then, this has become more than just a hike. It’s a tradition. A way to honour ‘Yob’, to come together as friends, and to make a positive difference in his name.

In their first year, they climbed Snowdon, raising money for Ashley’s young son, Theo; whilst the year after, they took on Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain, continuing to raise funds to support Theo’s future.

Last year, they climbed Carrauntoohil in Ireland, raising money for a memorial bench in Ashley’s honour, with additional funds going to the Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity -supporting children and families through grief.

Now, in their fourth year, they are taking on Scafell Pike in the Lake District — completing the challenge of climbing the highest mountains across each of the home nations.

This year, with Theo’s trust fund and Ashley’s memorial bench established, all funds raised will go to Sandy Bear - helping other families facing the unimaginable loss of a loved one.

There are 13 of Ashley’s closest mates carrying this forward — walking together, remembering him, sharing stories, and keeping his spirit alive in the best way they know how.

The group said: “Ashley meant the world to us. He was the kind of friend you never forget — full of life, laughter, and loyalty. This challenge is about honouring that, year after year.

“If you’re able to support us, no matter how big or small, it would mean everything. Every donation helps make a difference and keeps Ashley’s memory shining brightly.”

As well as a further climb in his memory, since the tragedy, the Kilgetty 5k ‘Dash for Ash’ annual fun run was also set up as a memorial for Ashley.

Last summer, Kilgetty was alive with colour, cheers and charging trainers once again as the third annual ‘Dash for Ash’ took over the village streets - becoming a much-loved community tradition - part race, part reunion, and all heart - exactly the kind of legacy Ashley would be proud of!

Last year’s event had it all - pram-pushing parents, pint-sized speedsters, dog walkers, and finely tuned athletes using the course as a warm-up for September’s Ironman Wales - all of whom were cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of locals providing encouragement!

You can donate to the cause in memory of Ashley at: https://gofund.me/f08d3a38f