Farmers in Wales raise £1,980 for Prostate Cymru

Farmers in Wales have raised almost £2,000 for Prostate Cymru to help fund awareness campaigns, improve access to testing and treatment, and support men and families affected by prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, with about one in eight men in the UK expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime.

More than 2,500 men are diagnosed in Wales each year.

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The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) presented a cheque for £1,980 to the charity following a fundraising dinner held in honour of Welsh businessman and agricultural supporter Brian Jones, who established Castell Howell Foods in the mid-1980s.

FUW president Ian Rickman said prostate cancer affected many farming families and rural communities across Wales.

“Too often, men are reluctant to speak about their health or seek advice early enough,” he said.

“By supporting Prostate Cymru, we hope to help raise awareness of the importance of early detection and encourage more conversations around men’s health.” 

Seeking medical advice

Prostate Cymru said support from farming communities was particularly important, as men in rural areas can often delay seeking medical advice.

Deryc Rees, chairman of Prostate Cymru’s Carmarthenshire branch, said: “Awareness is absolutely critical when it comes to prostate cancer, particularly in rural and agricultural communities where men can sometimes delay seeking help.

“Support like this allows us to continue our work across Wales, funding awareness campaigns, supporting services and helping improve outcomes for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.”

The fundraising dinner also celebrated Mr Jones receiving the FUW’s Outstanding Contribution to Welsh Agriculture Award for his long-standing support of Welsh farming and rural communities.