Mountain Ash man named Cynon Valley Champion

A local hero in Mountain Ash has been named a Cynon Valley Champion by Member of Parliament Beth Winter.

Ken O’Leary was awarded the prize at Glenboi primary school in Mountain Ash today for his fundraising efforts for Welsh Children’s Cancer charity LATCH as well as other local charities.

LATCH is a charity that supports the children and their families who are being treated for cancer or leukaemia at the Children’s Hospital of Wales.

Mr O’Leary has completed countless marathons, challenges and fundraising events not only for LATCH, but also for Cynon Valley PALS, Medicinema, Fernhill Community Centre and more. He is currently planning to run the Chicago Marathon in support of charity Autism Speaks.

The Cynon Valley Champions award was introduced by Winter to recognise Cynon Valley residents who go above and beyond to improve lives and make a real difference in their communities.

Speaking to O’Leary at the event, Winter said,

“When I heard about the fantastic work you have done over the years raising thousands of pounds for the Welsh Children’s Cancer charity LATCH, I knew that you must be the next recipient of this award.”

“It is wonderful to be here today with members of your family and others, to congratulate you on your efforts and to add my thanks for all you have done and continue to do.”

A spokesperson from LATCH said,

“Ken O’Leary has raised many thousands of pounds for LATCH Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity over many years and through a number of challenges and fundraising activities.”

“We thank him for his significant longstanding efforts and contributions to LATCH over this time, helping children and families impacted by cancer or leukaemia when they most need it.”