A charity canoe polo tournament held in memory of two much-loved young players has raised £1,000 for two important causes.

The event, organised by Aberfan Canoe Club, was dedicated to Iwan Lavis, 23, from Brecon, and 16-year-old Gareth Howes from Tredegar, both devoted members of the canoe polo community. Funds raised from the weekend will be shared between the Wales Air Ambulance Charity and the Noah’s Ark Hospital Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Despite torrential rain, more than 50 players travelled from across the UK - including teams from London, Derby, Oxford, Pennine and Bristol - to take part in the tournament at Taff Bargoed Lakes near Nelson.

Iwan, who played for the Rhondda Rhinos, was known for his kindness, humour, and support for younger players. He passed away suddenly in May this year.

Iwan’s sister, Nia, said: “Iwan was described by all who knew him as someone who 'ate, breathed, and slept' the sport.

“Away from the water, he excelled in his role as a support worker in Rhondda, where his compassion and dedication touched many lives. His passing has left a huge void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the canoeing community.”

The Wales Air Ambulance also holds a special place in the hearts of Iwan’s family, after Iwan’s mum, Fiona, passed away from a brain aneurysm in 2013.

The Wales Air Ambulance crew came to Fiona’s aid and provided "exceptional care, leaving a lasting impact" on the Lavis family.

The Lavis family has fundraised endlessly for the all-Wales charity since Fiona’s death, with fundraisers including running the Cardiff Half Marathon, a dance-a-thon, fun days, and mud runs, to mention just a few.

Gareth’s father, Rob Howes, also paid tribute to those who took part in the tournament, saying: “I'm pleased to say the event went ahead. Although the weather was atrocious, we still managed over 50 smiling and very competitive paddlers on the water at Taff Bargoed Lakes near Nelson.

“Fundraising for the Wales Air Ambulance is personal to me. They attended Gareth at our home back in July 2022, for which my wife and I will always be grateful.

“Although it's now been three years, unfortunately, where your child is concerned, time doesn't heal or make it any easier. Gareth's smile and nature were very infectious, and it was one of the reasons he was loved by so many.”

Kate Thomas, Wales Air Ambulance Regional Fundraising Manager, said: “It is heartwarming to hear that the canoeing community came together to remember such wonderful, respected men. Despite the bad weather, over 50 people turned up from across the UK and helped raise an incredible £1,000 in memory of Gareth and Iwan.

“We're incredibly grateful to both families and the club for their support, and we are touched to have been chosen as one of the charities to benefit from this event."

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity requires £13 million a year to keep its helicopters flying and rapid response vehicles on the road.