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Blackwood councillor passes 100,000 steps mark in charity walk for cancer foundation

News | Ed Bregua | Published: 09:00, Tuesday September 15th, 2026.

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Cllr Andrew Farina-Childs, centre in yellow, with supporters
Cllr Andrew Farina-Childs, centre in yellow, with supporters

A Blackwood councillor has raised more than £1,200 for a local cancer charity after reaching the halfway mark of a 200,000-step fundraising challenge.

Cllr Andrew Farina-Childs is walking every day throughout September to collect funds for the Matthew Walkin Make a Smile Foundation.

The money raised will support cancer patients undergoing treatment by funding improvements to NHS facilities, specialist equipment, and communication tools to help patients stay in touch with their families.

Residents from Blackwood and Pontllanfraith have been joining Cllr Farina-Childs on his daily routes to support the effort.

The foundation was established in memory of Matthew Walkin, from Blackwood, who died in March 2012 aged 27 following treatment for testicular cancer.

During his treatment at Velindre Hospital in Cardiff and Hammersmith Hospital in London, Mr Walkin advocated for better mental health support for patients facing prolonged hospital stays.

Cllr Farina-Childs has previously raised thousands of pounds for health charities, including Prostate Cancer UK, through sponsored walks across the borough.

He is aiming to complete the remaining 100,000 steps by September 30.

More than £7,500 raised for charities by Blackwood’s ‘walking councillor’

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Andrew Farina-Childs

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