Siblings Launch Coffee Company in Memory of Father, Raise £2,000 for Hospice
A brother and sister from Caerphilly have launched a coffee company in memory of their late father, raising an impressive £2,000 for charity in the process. Simon Smallwood, 37, and Steph Kelsey, 39, founded Rob’s Roast after their dad, Robin Smallwood, passed away last year following a short but devastating battle with a rare and aggressive cancer.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Robin Smallwood
A percentage of the profits from the business, which sells both ground and whole-bean coffee, is being donated to charitable causes close to the family’s heart. This includes St David’s Hospice, which cared for Robin during his final days. The siblings recently marked a significant milestone by presenting a cheque for £2,000 to the hospice, showcasing their commitment to giving back.
Robin, 76, had been otherwise fit and well when he began experiencing back pain towards the end of 2024. After a series of tests, the family faced the heartbreaking reality that his illness was untreatable. Just five months later, he passed away, leaving a profound impact on his loved ones.
Creating a Legacy Through Coffee
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Robin’s strength and determination allowed the family to spend precious time together. Much of this time was spent talking, reminiscing, and putting the world to rights over countless cups of coffee. During those conversations, they created a “legacy list” together, with a simple but meaningful idea at the top: creating a coffee in his name.
Rob’s Roast was born from that shared time. Robin helped taste-test different beans and gave his thoughts on the branding and logo, meaning the final product is, in many ways, a reflection of him. This personal touch has made the business a heartfelt tribute to his memory.
Robin’s Impact on the Community
Robin was well known in the local community of Caerphilly. A former deputy head teacher at St Cenydd Comprehensive, he was also a rugby coach at school and club level and an anti-bullying ambassador. He was always passionate about giving back and supporting others, values that his children are now continuing through their business.
Simon said: “Losing dad has been absolutely heartbreaking, but we were determined to turn something so awful into something positive. Dad loved nothing more than sitting down with a coffee and having a proper chat. Because of his strength, we were lucky enough to have lots of those conversations, and that’s where the idea of Rob’s Roast really came from.”
He added: “I don’t think he ever imagined it would turn into a business, but what started as a small, heartfelt idea has grown into something much bigger - a way to celebrate him, give back, and hopefully make a difference.”
Supporting St David’s Hospice
Steph shared: “Dad spent the last week of his life at St David’s Hospice, and the care, compassion and dignity they showed him, and all of us, meant everything. We wanted to give something back, so donating a percentage of profits from Rob’s Roast is our way of saying thank you.”
She reflected: “Dad always said, in true Rob fashion, ‘Celebrate my life, do not mourn my passing - keep smiling and farewell.’ That’s exactly what we’re trying to do with this.”
Abigail Hughes, community fundraiser at St David’s Hospice Care, expressed gratitude: “St David's Hospice Care are incredibly grateful to be supported through such a thoughtful fundraiser. ‘Rob's Roast’ is a truly special tribute to Robin, and the funds raised will help us continue providing our free-of-charge, compassionate, comprehensive care to patients and families facing a life-limiting illness.”
Future Growth and Expansion
The company has recently launched a new website where customers can buy Rob’s Roast directly. It is also now looking to partner with local businesses as it continues to grow and raise money for charitable causes. This expansion aims to increase their impact and support more families in need.
Through their dedication, Simon and Steph are not only honoring their father’s memory but also making a tangible difference in their community. Their story serves as an inspiration for turning grief into positive action and supporting vital local services.
