Cyclist raises £2k for club who helps support partner

Kate Tyrer, who turned 70 on September 8, completed the cycle fundraiser for Clwb Yr Efail (The Smithy Centre) on September 10. She raised a massive £2,279 in total.

Kate and her partner Malcolm Berry, of Old Colwyn, have been supported by Clwb Yr Efail. Malcolm suffered a stroke on April 11 2021. 

He was treated at Glan Clwyd Hospital and his life support was withdrawn after three days. Twelve hours later, Malcolm unexpectedly woke up. 

Malcolm, 82, recovered well but is now living with dementia.

Talking about the fundraising challenge, Kate said: "It was the best day ever. I've been thinking to myself though - how did I manage to do 13 laps.

"We did a camper but didn't stay overnight - I wanted to get a good sleep.

"We got up there about 6.30am. I thought I would make a very early start. I set off at 7.15am.

"Some of the cycle crew came and joined me on during the laps - some did two some did five. I think the most someone did was eight. It challenged them as well. 

"On the last lap, friends and family all were at the top."

Kate was amazed at the amount of support she received from family and friends. 

Kate used to be air stewardess about 30/40 years ago and she was amazed to see one of the girls she worked with on the Orme.

Kate with her supporters during her Great Orme challenge! (Image: Kate Tyler)
"She came and tapped me on the shoulder, I couldn't believe it. She saw I was doing the fundraiser and came all this way," Kate said. 

"When we got to the The Lighthouse B&B, we raced to the top. Suddenly - all my friends, family, punters, cafe customers, cafe staff - I saw them when I went round the corner. They were all lining the road. 

"I was in tears. It was just amazing It felt unreal."

There were 180 cupcakes as well as Prosecco and orange juice on the day for Kate's supporters. There were also Subway sandwiches.

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Malcolm's daughter-in-law Jo Berry was topping up drinks. She went over to passengers on the land train who turned out their pockets in support of Kate.

"There were Canadians putting paper money in," Kate said.

Kate Tyler cycles during her birthday fundraiser (Image: Kate Tyler)
"Another couple, Con and Joan Lloyd, were invaluable. Joan helped Jo dishing out drinks etc and Con kept count on the laps.

"Also Bron y Wendon campsite, Llanddulas, were very kind. They let me service the camper for free because it was for charity.

"It was just incredible. It was out of this world."

The cheque has been presented to Clwb Yr Efail.