A funeral director from South Wales is preparing for an epic four-day cycling challenge this spring to raise vital funds for the Wales Air Ambulance, honouring the memory of his beloved uncle.
A Legacy of a "Big-Hearted" Uncle
Steffan Lloyd-Castle, 27, from Ystalyfera, was inspired to take on the mammoth 416-mile ride after the sudden loss of his uncle, Kevin. Steffan, who has worked for the family-run Roger Castle & Daughter Funeral Directors for nine years, described Kevin as a "big-hearted" man who "would do anything for anyone."
"It is devastating to lose someone you love suddenly," Steffan said. "My uncle Kevin was a much adored and loving husband of my auntie Julie. He was a wonderful father to Hannah and a father-figure to me." He recalled often teaming up with Kevin, who ran his own haulage company, for out-of-hours work calls when he first started his career.
Steffan added, "He was not one for a big fuss; he did not like to be the centre of attention. So, if he knew I was talking about him and doing a fundraiser in his memory he would be playing it down." The family had been planning to celebrate Kevin's 60th birthday, but never got the chance.
The Tragic Incident and a Promise to Help
The tragedy occurred on Tuesday, 8 October 2024, when Kevin suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while driving his lorry on the Llanharry Road near Pontyclun. The Wales Air Ambulance was among the emergency services that swiftly attended the scene.
"It was such a big shock for the whole family," Steffan stated. "We are so grateful to all those who attended my uncle and tried to help him. I cannot thank the Wales Air Ambulance team enough, for all they did."
This profound gratitude led Steffan to visit the charity's base in Dafen, Llanelli, where he met the critical care team. He found the experience deeply moving. "Nothing could be done to help my uncle, but I know he would want others to have the best chance of survival," Steffan explained. "His legacy is that he has inspired me to get on my bike, to help raise as much money as I can and hopefully make a difference."
The "Ultimate Test": A Four-Nation Cycling Challenge
An avid rugby player for Abercraf Rugby Club, Steffan is swapping pitch time for intense cycling training. Although he has completed Half Ironman events, he admits the upcoming challenge will put his fitness to the "ultimate test."
The route will cover three nations in four days, starting at Edinburgh Castle on Sunday, 6 June. The first day will finish in Carlisle, followed by overnight stops in Preston and Shrewsbury. The final leg will bring him back into Wales, traversing the Brecon Beacons before finishing at Abercraf Rugby Club.
He won't be alone on the journey. His girlfriend, Jess, an A&E nurse at Morriston Hospital, will manage social media updates and join the support crew, driven by his friend and colleague Andrew Lane. "I'm going to be starving after all of that," Steffan joked, "so I am hoping there will be a massive spread of food waiting!"
Supporting the Lifesaving Service
Christian Sullivan, regional fundraising manager for South West Wales, said: "It has been wonderful to welcome Steffan to the base. Kevin sounds like a wonderful family man who clearly went out of his way to help others. This has inspired Steffan to create a special legacy in memory of his uncle which will go on to help save many lives."
"I am in awe of his training regime, and courage to take on such a big challenge. It is no easy feat!"
Steffan has set up a JustGiving page with a goal of raising £3,000 for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. He hopes his efforts will ensure the specialist medics can continue to provide their vital, lifesaving service across Wales.
