Since Tŷ Hafan announced that another extreme challenge for the Dads and Uncles was happening in July 2027, news stories have appeared in the media across South Wales.
And then, thanks to Tŷ Hafan’s Sarah Roberts, the team was invited to appear on the BBC Radio Wales breakfast show with Chris Wathan. Up stepped Dan Forbes, James Meacham, and Paul Fears, all who have taken part in previous challenges. After a nerve settling coffee in the Black Sheep Coffee café, the three Dads stepped into the BBC Wales studios to meet Chris.
In the interview, which aired on Thursday 27th August 2026, Dan, James and Paul talked about the reasons for taking on the challenge. With £160,000 already raised in previous challenges, the group of 15 or so aim to raise over £40,000 and bring the total to over £200,000. An incredible amount of money for the children’s hospice.
However, the challenge also provides an opportunity for the men to regularly get together, not only on the challenge but when training. Those connections are vitally important, providing a much-needed support network. Indeed, Dan explained that this was a club that nobody wanted to join, but had the most incredible members. And the team’s mantra is “No Dad Gets Left Behind”.
On the 2027 Catch22Peaks challenge, which involves reaching the highest point in all 22 Welsh local authorities in just four days by hiking and off-road cycling, there are Dads taking part who have never met before. And as those who have taken part in previous challenges already know, the friendships that develop are there forever.
Then, on Monday 31st August, Paul Fears spoke to ITV Wales News. The broadcast showed footage from previous challenges with many of those on camera taking part again in 2027.
“We wish to thank both BBC Radio Wales and ITV Wales News for featuring our story,” explained Paul. “Our aim is to raise awareness of the work the hospice does and how Tŷ Hafan has helped our families. At the present time, only 1 in 10 families like ours get supported by Tŷ Hafan. This has to change.”
Presently, the team is looking for sponsors for kit and minibuses and please contact Paul if you can help.
Paul’s email is paul@paulfearsphoto.co.uk
