Gethin Jones has paid tribute to his friend Craig Maxwell, who has terminal cancer, after Maxwell's latest charity event raised more than £600,000. The gala at the Celtic Manor in Newport brought in £631,000 on the night, taking Maxwell's overall fundraising total to £2.3 million.
A decade of fundraising feats
Maxwell, a former Welsh Rugby Union and Six Nations commercial chief, received a terminal cancer diagnosis in September 2022. Since then, he has completed the London Marathon, led a bike ride from Cardiff to Paris, walked the 780-mile Wales Coastal Path in 26 days, delivered the match ball ahead of Wales' 2024 Six Nations clash with France, and rowed 72 miles from Tenby to Cardiff.
At the Newport event, Maxwell said life over the last year had become harder and that the cancer had spread to roughly 30 different parts of his body.
An emotional tribute
Jones, who compered the night and has shared a long friendship with Maxwell, paid tribute in an emotional social media post. He wrote on Instagram: "Craig is a man with a purpose – a determination to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by cancer."
He added: "Waking up in '8/10 pain' yesterday would have been enough for most people to take a step back. Not Craig. From the attention to detail and care throughout the day, to making sure everything came together and delivering on the night, his honesty, humour and sheer determination shone through."
Jones concluded: "Craig, your determination is an inspiration. And to everyone who played a part in making this happen, thank you. Never underestimate the difference your generosity can make."
Support from the sporting community
Sarra Hoy, wife of Sir Chris Hoy, responded: "Wow! Congratulations!!! Incredible force in action x." Jones' BBC co-presenter Helen Skelton said: "What a phenomenal amount of money. A testament to Craig. And to your hard work. Xx."
Scott Quinnell, George North and Nigel Owens were among the attendees supporting the cause at the Celtic Manor. Maxwell said: "It's been really hard, the last year has been really difficult. The cancer has spread quite far through my body, it gives me quite a lot of pain and fatigue and I've had a lot of different treatments but nights like this do make it all worthwhile."
All money raised goes towards helping charities including Velindre Cancer Care.
