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Bethan and Neil Thomas are running Bath Half Marathon to raise money for Cefn Fforest Miners’ Institute – and honour Colin Thomas, a “much loved” family member.

Colin Thomas, better known as Nat, was someone “everyone knew” according to his son, Neil. The former miner sadly passed away aged 81 in April 2022, but spent the last few years of his life trying to restore Cefn Fforest Miners’ to its former glory.

In memory of Colin, Neil and Colin’s granddaughter, Bethan, will take on the 13-mile challenge, with all of the money raised going towards the welfare hall on Bryn Road.

The hall itself was constructed in in the interwar period using money granted by the Miners’ Welfare Fund.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer, Neil said: “My father was a big influence in getting the ball rolling to restore the building.

“He was well-known in the area and much loved. He had won lots of awards in the voluntary sector for supporting the widows of miners.

“Progress has been slow at the centre because of money and man power, but we’re hoping the money raised will go a long way there.”

Dean Jones, who is a volunteer at the centre, said: “There was lots going on here back in the day and Colin was one of the first to try and bring that back; arranging the meetings and handing out leaflets.

“There’s still a lot of work that needs doing but we hope to bring the community back through activities and other events.”

Bethan and Neil will run the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday October 15, and are welcoming donations via their GoFundMe page.