Touched by Cancer Tournament Returns

November 4, 2025

Swansea Bay Health Charity officially announces the return of Touched by Cancer – an all women’s touch rugby tournament that unites local teams across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Powys to support local cancer services.

Touched by Cancer 2026 will take place on Saturday 8th August at Ystradgynlais RFC, following the success of Swansea Bay Health Charity’s first-ever touch rugby tournament in 2025, which raised an incredible £24,000 for their Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal.

Ystradgynlais RFC’s Club Secretary, Daniel Holsgrove, is keen to work with the charity by hosting the tournament in 2026, having an emotional connection to the cause:

“Sadly, cancer has brought heartache to so many families across our rugby communities. Together with the other participating clubs, we are proud to take on the challenge of raising a substantial amount of money for this life changing charity.”

The appeal aims to raise £200,000 to refurbish and enhance the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital, creating a brighter, more comfortable outpatient space for patients and families receiving treatment.

The committee at Ystradgynlais RFC is already excited for what promises to be an amazing occasion filled with rugby, enthusiasm and solidary, saying:

“Building on the success of last year’s tournament, we are committed to maintaining the high standards that were set. We look forward to welcoming so many fantastic teams to Ystradgynlais and celebrating the ever-growing game of women’s touch rugby.”

The 2025 event was a great success, with a special visit from our Charity Ambassador, Kev Johns MBE, who has championed the Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal since its launch in 2024.

A growing community event

The 2026 tournament promises to be bigger and better than before, with teams from Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot, and Powys already preparing to take part. Spectators can expect an uplifting day filled with competitive matches, family entertainment, local food stalls, and fundraising activities, all in aid of improving local cancer services and care.

Swansea Bay Health Charity’s Community Support Charity Officer, Cathy Stevens, shares her aims through this event:

“Everybody knows someone who has been affected by cancer. The funds we raise from this tournament will be used to help patients and their families going through cancer care in Singleton Hospital. We’re fundraising to create a more comfortable space and do what we can to make the space feel a little less clinical.”

“Touched by Cancer has already proven itself to be much more than a sports event. Instead, it’s a celebration of what our community can achieve when we all come together for an important cause. Last year’s tournament showed just how much this cause means to people across Swansea Bay and beyond.

“The atmosphere was electric, and the generosity of everyone involved was inspiring. We can’t wait to bring it all back in 2026.”

Supporting patients across Wales

The South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital, Swansea, provides life-saving treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy to patients from across Swansea Bay, Powys, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Whether you’re cheering on a team, supporting a loved one, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Touched by Cancer 2026 promises a day full of energy, community and compassion, showing the power of sport to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Get all of your event information on our Facebook event page!

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