Story
"The Hopkins family continues their heartfelt mission to raise money for the British Heart Foundation in loving memory of Paul and David.
Our journey of fundraising began with the devastating loss of Paul. Despite the many obstacles he faced, Paul was an extraordinary young man with an unshakable positivity that touched everyone around him. His kindness and infectious personality made him loved by so many. Born with a heart condition, Paul never let it define him, embracing life with boundless energy and spirit. It felt only right to begin fundraising in his name ten years ago, supporting the British Heart Foundation, which works to combat the very condition that shaped his life.
Our efforts also honour David, Paul's younger brother, who, like Paul, was taken far too soon. David was full of life, always seeking new adventures with a smile. His gentle, calming presence and his innate Hopkins charm endeared him to everyone he met. David's spirit was one of joy, kindness, and adventure, and we continue to fundraise in his memory, too.
I am certain both Paul and David would be incredibly proud to see how the funds we raise contribute to research and treatments for heart disease, something that had such a profound impact on them and their family.
It has now been 15 years since our fundraising journey began, starting with a modest 5-a-side touch rugby tournament at Mold Rugby Club. This event, which began as a tribute to Paul and David, has grown into a cornerstone of our community. In 2024, we proudly celebrated the 15th anniversary of this incredible day, which continues to bring together players, spectators, family, and friends year after year. .
Our fundraising efforts expanded further in 2021 with the launch of a new charity cycling challenge. We set an ambitious goal: to cycle from each UK capital back to Mold Rugby Club, with the aim of raising £100,000 for the British Heart Foundation. We began in 2021 with 19 cyclists undertaking a 220-mile ride from Buckingham Palace to Mold, raising £21,689. In 2023, 28 cyclists completed the Edinburgh leg, which featured over 16,000 feet of elevation, bringing our total raised to £59,772.
Looking ahead, we are preparing for the next leg of the challenge in 2025 — a cycle from Mold to Belfast and back. We'll set off from Mold Rugby Club, first heading to Belfast and then onto Dublin and back to Mold Rugby Club Across the North Wales coast. We will be static cycling whilst travelling on the ferry trips. With the Cardiff ride still to come in 2026, we are determined to reach our fundraising goal. Every mile we ride is for Paul and David — two remarkable brothers whose legacy drives us forward."