Sandy Bear Children's Bereavement Charity in Pembrokeshire recently had the privilege of welcoming Welsh football star Joe Allen to its HQ, where he met inspiring youngster fifteen-year-old Connor Williams, whose dad sadly passed away suddenly and unexpectedly last year.

They shared a deep bond through football, especially their beloved Swansea City, where they both held season tickets.

It was their thing – cheering from the stands, and spending time together at every game.

Joe is someone Connor really admires – not only as a player, but also because his dad was a big fan who followed Joe from the very start. They even had the chance to meet once, which made the visit all the more meaningful for Connor.

Since his dad’s passing, Connor continues to go to the games, often arriving early to watch the players warm up and staying late just to soak in the atmosphere. There’s now a special plaque at the Swansea.com stadium in memory of his dad – a place Connor visits every time to feel that much closer to him.

Despite not being football fans themselves, Connor’s mum and grandmother make sure he never misses a match, knowing just how important that connection is.

“We are so grateful to Joe for taking the time to meet Connor. It meant the world to him – a moment he’ll never forget,” said a spokesperson for the charity.

Martin Jones, the charity’s business development manager said: “Connor, a young man who has been through an incredibly tough time, came into Sandy Bear HQ to meet someone he’s looked up to for a long time.

“He’s been attending support sessions with us, and it was clear how much this would mean to him.

Joe is someone Connor really admires – not only as a player, but also because his dad was a big fan who followed Joe from the very start. They even had the chance to meet once, which made the visit all the more meaningful for Connor.
Joe is someone Connor really admires – not only as a player, but also because his dad was a big fan who followed Joe from the very start. They even had the chance to meet once, which made the visit all the more meaningful for Connor. (Facebook)

“So we did what we do best — we asked our community for help. And thanks to some fantastic connections, the brilliant Joe Allen - yes, the Swansea City and Pembrokeshire football legend himself - came to visit Connor and his mum, Sasha.

“Joe gave up his morning to spend time with them, no fuss, no fanfare, just a lovely, grounded, generous human being doing a very kind thing. He showed genuine warmth and empathy, and left a real impression on everyone here.

“We are incredibly grateful to Joe for his time, and equally to Wyndham Williams and Matthew Johns for helping make it happen. Your support gave a young man a lifelong memory and lifted spirits in a way that can’t be measured.

“At Sandy Bear, we believe in the power of community — and this visit was a reminder of how much can be achieved when people come together.

“Every year, over 45,000 children in the UK lose a parent. The trauma of bereavement can have long-term consequences without the right support. That’s why Sandy Bear exists, and why the kindness of individuals and communities matters so much.

“Thank you to everyone who supports Sandy Bear, your actions are helping transform the lives of children, young people and families across Wales,” he added.

Sandy Bear is a registered charity based in Milford Haven.