Cllr Tyssul Evans has raised an incredible £5,252 for Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen by organising a series of community whist drives in memory of his friend, Elin Ludgate.

31‑year‑old Elin sadly passed away on St David’s Day in 2025. Honouring the wishes of Elin’s family, the funds have been split equally between two services close to their hearts – the Chemotherapy Day Unit and the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Glangwili Hospital.

Cllr Evans said: “Following the sad passing of a young friend, Mrs Elin Ludgate, I decided to seek a grant from Carmarthenshire County Council to sponsor the holding of a series of whist drives across our County. Elin was treated at the Chemotherapy Unit at Glangwili and gave birth to a baby just two months prior to her sad passing also at Glangwili Hospital.

“We were granted £1,000 from the council which enabled myself and numerous friends to get on with raising funds for the two units.

“Six whist drives were held at Pontiets Hall, Llangadog Hall, Llanddeusant Hall, Brechfa Hall, Cwrt Henri and Cwmifor Hall.

“I would like to thank Carmarthenshire County Council for the grant that covered all the venue costs and also all the numerous volunteers at the six different locations who put a lot of effort into the fundraising.”

Alex Tipping, Ward Manager on SCBU, said: “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for your incredible generosity in raising money for the Special Care Baby Unit at Glangwili General Hospital.

“We are truly grateful that you chose to support our unit, your kindness will make a meaningful difference to the babies and families we care for. Fundraising efforts like yours help us improve the quality of care and the overall experience for those who need our support during such a critical time.”