Two annual memorial events to raise money in memory of a ‘true Tenby legend’ will kick-off next month, combining two things that he loved in life the most - rugby and fishing.

Known to most as ‘Faddy’, Christopher Thomas sadly passed away in July of last year.

‘Faddy’ was a former volunteer crew member of Tenby RNLI and a sporting stalwart for Tenby United RFC.

Chris 'Faddy' Thomas
Chris 'Faddy' Thomas was a former volunteer crew member of Tenby RNLI and a sporting stalwart for Tenby United RFC. (Facebook)

He received ongoing treatment from the Bristol Heart Institute for many years.

A spokesperson for Tenby RNLI said at the time of Faddy’s passing: “He was a huge character and was never more at home than when down the harbour, or out on his boat catching bass. His rendition of New Zealand rugby’s ‘Haka’ will forever live on in the memories of anyone lucky to have witnessed it!”

Now, The Kick and Catch Tenby set-up in memory of Faddy by his friends, will be holding two annual memorial events to raise money for the Bristol Heart Institute, so that they can continue to make an impact and improve the lives of people as they did with Faddy.

The events will be as follows:

• Sunday, April 20 (Easter Sunday) - a charity/memorial rugby match at Heywood Lane in Tenby

• Sunday 13th July 13 2025 – a charity/memorial fishing event and subsequent auction of fish caught and auction of gifts from donors, to be held at The Hope and Anchor on St Julian’s Street.

The events are proudly sponsored by the following: Tenby United RFC, The Hope and Anchor, Harbwr Tenby Harbour Brewery, Broughton Leisure Ltd, Gavin Griffiths Group, The Pembrokeshire Marketing Co and Molson Coors.

“In this first year, it is hoped that we could collectively raise the sum of £5,000,” said a spokesperson for The Kick and Catch.

“The money you donate to Bristol and Weston Hospitals Charity makes a real difference to the lives of millions of patients who need and use their hospitals.

“Working alongside University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust as their official NHS charity, the charity go above and beyond to transform patients experiences and their environments. They fund world-class tech, research and champion equal access for all patients.

“We will be announcing more details over the coming weeks including merchandise which will be available very soon.

“Let’s celebrate Faddy and raise some money for a great cause!” they added.

Indeed, hoodies and polo shirts will be available to buy soon, and of course they had to be in Faddy’s favourite colour, blue! Thanks go to Tees R Us for the designs.

This month, Kick and Catch were delighted that former Welsh internationals James Hook, Ian Gough and Alex Cuthbert, and rugby presenter Sean Holley were on hand to sign a hoody and rugby ball for the cause.

This month, Kick and Catch were delighted that former Welsh internationals James Hook, Ian Gough and Alex Cuthbert, and rugby presenter Sean Holley were on hand to sign a hoody and rugby ball for the cause.
Ian Gough was on hand to sign a hoody and rugby ball for the cause. (Kick and Catch/Facebook)

If any local businesses should like to get involved and donate a raffle prize, you can send an email to: [email protected]