Local woman celebrates birthday by raising over £600 for Mumbles RNLI

A local woman has raised over £600 for the Mumbles RNLI – all on her 21st birthday.

Molly Williams raised £632 for the RNLI by holding a socially distanced, click and collect 'Cake and Fizz' raffle.

"I thought this was a great idea and safe way to celebrate my 21st birthday in lockdown," Ms Williams said.

The raffle took place on 29 January, with all items being pre-wrapped with a raffle ticket so people could help themselves to the items and leave a donation in return.

"We have made good connections and relationships with our neighbours during the pandemic which began with clapping for carers," Ms Williams said.

"One of our neighbours did a cake sale for their birthday at the end of their drive, in support of Maggie's.

"Our road is a busy route for people going on their daily permitted exercise. We thought an unnamed table with an honesty box was a safe way for people to join in the fun and fundraise. We had an amazing response from people walking past."

Ms Williams said that she chose to raise money for the RNLI as a family friend has volunteered in the Mumbles RNLI shop for many years.

"We asked her to nominate her favourite charity and she, of course, chose the Mumbles RNLI," she said.

"We also massively support the RNLI because, as a family, we have always enjoyed surfing and swimming on the wonderful local beaches.

"Water safety is more important than ever now with so many people discovering the benefits and joy of wild swimming in ice cold seas, me included."

Ms Williams said that the raffle was an amazing experience.

"It was a team effort with wonderful homemade cakes donated by so many kind and generous friends," she continued.

"Really grateful to everyone who stopped and gave generously."

Lifeboat Crew Association Chairman, Dai Thomas, said: "This has been a difficult 12 months for the RNLI.

"The charity survives on donations and without fundraising efforts like this we couldn't continue to save lives. We are all immensely grateful."

To find out more about the Mumbles RNLI click HERE.