West Park Primary presents £14,713 to Blood Cancer UK in honour of beloved teacher
Wales
Pupils, parents, and teachers from West Park Primary School in Porthcawl have raised an incredible £14,713 for Blood Cancer UK, following a sponsored walk held in support of their much-loved teacher, Mr Richard Tunnadine, who has been receiving treatment for leukaemia
Blood cancer is the UK’s fifth most common cancer and the third largest cancer killer, claiming more lives each year than breast or prostate cancer. Yet research continues to save lives and every pound raised helps fund vital advances in treatment and care for people living with leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
The funds were presented to Blood Cancer UK’s Wales fundraising manager in a special cheque presentation ceremony at the school. The presentation was the culmination of a community effort that saw over 430 pupils take part in a walk along the Porthcawl seafront earlier this month.
The event was organised in honour of Mr Tunnadine, who has taught at West Park Primary for 23 years. Colleagues described him as an inspirational teacher, mentor, and rugby coach.
He was first diagnosed with leukaemia in 2021 and had been in remission for nearly two years before the cancer returned last year. During 2024 to 2025 he travelled to The Christie Hospital in Manchester to take part in clinical trials, accessing cutting-edge treatments made possible through leukaemia research.
Children from Years 3 to 6 completed a 10km walk to Hi-Tide and back, while younger pupils joined in from Rest Bay and around the school grounds. The day was filled with smiles, songs - including a rousing chorus of “She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain”.
Rhia Stiankovic, who received the cheque on behalf of Blood Cancer UK, said:
“We’re so grateful to everyone at West Park Primary for raising such an incredible amount of money. Every pound will help fund world-class research into leukaemia treatments and bring us closer to a where we beat blood cancer. This amazing school here in Wales is a perfect example of community spirit at its best.”
The funds raised will go directly toward life-saving research into blood cancers, including leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma - supporting thousands of people and families across the UK affected by these diseases.
