A Somerset family is preparing to take on the Barry Island 10K in memory of their late father, Tom Brenchley, who passed away last year at the age of 72. Siblings Emily Brenchley, 37, William Brenchley, 35, and Charlie Rich-Lynes, 33, are rallying together not only to honor their dad’s memory but also to raise funds for charity.
Tom, who had a deep affection for Barry Island and the Welsh seaside, died from pericarditis—an inflammation of the heart’s lining—in June 2024. This year marks the first Father’s Day without him, making the race a poignant tribute.
Emily, a Client Service Manager at the Cancer Screening Trust and a hypnotherapist based in Yeovil, recalls the difficult months leading up to their father’s passing. “Dad was always full of life but became quiet and reserved during our last family trip to Greece for Charlie’s wedding. We noticed he wasn’t himself,” she shared.
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After returning home, Tom was hospitalized at University Hospital Wales, where the family learned about his pericarditis diagnosis. Due to other pre-existing health issues, he was unable to undergo surgery, and despite their combined medical knowledge—William is a GP and Charlie a district nurse—the family struggled to coordinate care due to geographical distance.
“We moved to Cardiff temporarily to be close to him. Although we knew his condition was serious, his rapid decline was still a shock,” Emily said. Tom’s passing came just a day after their return in June, leaving the family navigating a complex mix of emotions, especially as William’s wife gave birth to their daughter Seren on the same day.
Tom’s love for Barry Island dates back to his childhood, and he frequently visited after moving to Cardiff for William’s university years. “We wanted to celebrate Dad where he felt most at home,” Emily explained. “Signing up for the Barry Island 10K on Father’s Day was the perfect way for us to remember him.”
The siblings plan to enjoy a family gathering on the beach post-race, indulging in the fish and chips their dad loved. In a touching tribute, each has gotten a seagull tattoo, inspired by their father’s whimsical remark that he’d return as a seagull. They find comfort imagining him cheering them on from above.
The Barry Island 10K, scheduled for Sunday, June 15, has sold out general entries, but runners can still participate by running on behalf of lead charity Cancer Research Wales.
Matt Newman, CEO of event organizers Run 4 Wales, expressed his support: “We’re honored to host an event that allows families like the Brenchleys to find solace and strength while celebrating their loved ones.”