Two Caerphilly residents have officially launched their £1 million charity fundraising drive at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.
Jamie Pritchard and Louise Kirton hope to raise the cash for charities Ty Hafan, The Prince’s Trust, Four Paws Animal Rescue and Autism Cymru.
They plan to travel the length and breadth of Wales holding fundraising events. The pair, who are currently out of work, have decided to put their time to good use and are calling their fundraising drive ‘Speak to a Million Raise a Million’ – or Stamtram for short.
Jamie said: “It’s a really difficult time economically and it can be really frustrating looking unsuccessfully for a job, so we decided to make something positive out of it and achieve our objectives.
“We have both been involved with volunteering, donating and charity fundraising before but of course nothing on this level. If I can’t find a job, then I can’t think of anything else I would rather spend my time doing.”
Speaking at last week’s launch, Caerphilly AM Jeff Cuthbert said: “When they told me about their plans I was immediately supportive because it’s an ambitious but brilliant idea.
“Jamie and Louise have let themselves in for a real challenge, and they know that it’s going to take a lot of hard work. I wish them the best with their fundraising and I will be there to help and support them in any way that I can.’
The launch also featured performances by singer Krystal Mills and dancers Yasmine Davies, Lyndsay Davies and Alice Cole. Louise has been inspired by her sister Jo Salmon, another Caerphilly resident, who earlier this month raised £8,000 for the two Autism charities in Wales.
Louise said: “Each of these four charities represents things which are very close to our hearts and mean something special to us. For example we are supporting The Prince’s Trust because last year I had my own business and I know what it’s like to work your tail off and still end up having to shut-up shop.
“We have already made a great start and I look forward to actually being able to hand-over the money to the charities.”
In March, Jamie and Louise held a successful fundraising event atVirginia Park Golf Club and have already secured funds from local businesses.
For more information visit www.stamtram.org, emailinfo@stamtram.org or call 0844 770 3003.