Heartbeattrustuk

22/07/2026

A wonderful evening was had on 11th July at All Saints Church, Mumbles, for our “Summer Spectacular” charity concert. The evening centred around performances from Morriston RFC Male Choir, Loud Applause Rising Stars (LARS) and Oystermouth Primary School Choir.

The concert marked a moment in time, when Morriston RFC Choir gave their final performance before changing their name to Morriston Male Choir. Nine members of Loud Applause Rising Stars performed a number of uplifting pieces, accompanied by LARS Musical Advisor Ryan Wood and D.Huw Rees. Finally, the pupils of Oystermouth Primary School choir received a standing ovation following their inspirational performances, accompanied by Mike & Rachel Hunter.

The net proceeds of over £1500 were raised through ticket sales, a raffle and the generous donations from the attendees. This money will be used to support the current defibrillator network and to install further Critical Bleed Control kits in our region.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the performers, musicians, conductors, All Saints Church, family and friends of Heartbeat Trust UK for your ongoing support.

14/07/2026

On Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending the Charity Concert “Summer Spectacular” at All Saints Church, Mumbles, presented by Heartbeat Trust UK.

All Saints Church provided a wonderful and fitting setting for the evening. Its warm welcome and strong connection with the local community reflected the spirit of the event, bringing people together through music, friendship, and a shared commitment to supporting a charity that makes such an important difference.

It was a wonderful evening celebrating music, community, and local talent. The audience was entertained by Morriston RFC Choir, who gave one of their final performances before changing their name to Morriston Male Choir, a proud continuation of their long musical tradition.

We were also treated to performances from “Loud Applause Rising Stars”, with nine exceptionally talented young soloists showcasing their incredible voices, followed by a fantastic contribution from pupils of Oystermouth Primary School. The variety of music across different genres made for a truly enjoyable and uplifting evening.

The concert was expertly compered by Mr Henry Gilbert, Chair of Heartbeat Trust UK, whose enthusiasm and professionalism helped make the event such a success.

I would also like to recognise the important work of Heartbeat Trust UK in supporting communities. Through the installation of accessible defibrillators and encouraging more people to learn CPR, the charity is helping to increase confidence and equip people with the skills they may need to respond during a critical event.

Trustee Melanie James has also been doing significant work in developing the use of Critical Bleed Kits, further strengthening the ability of communities to respond in life-threatening situations.

Heartbeat Trust UK is a great example of how a charity can bring people together, build community resilience, and help save lives.

My thanks to all the performers, organisers, volunteers, and supporters who made this such a memorable evening. All Saints Oystermouth and Norton Mission Church , SwanseaLord-Lieutenant West GlamorganLord Mayor of the City & County of SwanseaMayor of Neath Port Talbot County BoroughSwansea Council

12/07/2026

18/06/2026

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Dr Bryn John CStJ DL, a founding trustee of Heartbeat Trust UK, who died on Sunday 14 June 2026 at Morriston Hospital.

Bryn’s contribution to the charity cannot be measured since its inception in 2018, his drive, enthusiasm and patient focused approach to Heartbeat’s aims has been invaluable.
He will be sorely missed by the charity, his fellow Trustees, staff and volunteers.

Bryn spent the majority of his career as a highly respected GP in the Briton Ferry community, following his training at the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin and time at Morriston Hospital.

Bryn’s commitment and involvement in his local community continued throughout the decades with Briton Ferry Little Theatre, the Sea Cadets, Neath Round Table, Neath Rotary, Neath YMCA and as a past club doctor to Neath Rugby Club.

Bryn also held a number of prominent and professional roles, including, a member of the Order of St John, Chairman of the Welsh BMA, along with serving as High Sheriff of West Glamorgan in 2009 and as Deputy Lieutenant from 2013 to 2020.

Bryn was greatly loved by his family and friends and will be missed by many.

02/05/2026

On Wednesday, I was kindly invited by Melanie James, a trustee with Heartbeat UK and a former High Sheriff, to visit the stand at Swansea Market, where she was speaking with members of the public and sharing details about bleed kits through her work with Heartbeat UK.

At the same time, the Lord Mayor of Swansea, Mrs Cheryl Philpott, was also visiting the stand.

The kits were on display for members of the public to see and understand, and it was a valuable opportunity to hear about the importance of responding quickly to critical bleeding. In those first few moments of an emergency, having the right equipment, and the confidence to use it, can make a vital difference.

It was also also pleasing to hear about the encouraging progress being made to place bleed kits in a range of community locations and services across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, including schools. This is an important step in strengthening community safety and preparedness.

These kits provide immediate, short term interventions for a range of serious bleeding situations, helping to stabilise individuals until professional medical help arrives.

Initiatives like this demonstrate the power of community awareness, partnership working, and practical action in saving lives.