New Cancer Research Wales store in Port Talbot receives support from local celebrity Michael Sheen

The opening of a Cancer Research Wales charity shop in Port Talbot is off to a flying start thanks to the support of local actor Michael Sheen.

While Michael couldn’t be there, he’s adding a little ‘sheen’ to the occasion by donating a signed copy of a poster from the 2019 Amazon Prime Original TV show Good Omens, the fantasy comedy series in which he plays the Angel, to Cancer Research Wales. The poster is not only signed by Michael himself, but also David Tennant, and other members of the production.

Other Welsh celebrities have also come forward to help support the store opening including BBC Wales weatherman, Derek Brockway. Derek is predicting a ‘fine’ outcome for the new store and in support has donated two books to Cancer Research Wales. This includes a signed copy of his children’s book Duck and Starfish Make a Splash and for Welsh walkers, he’s signed Great Welsh Walks, based on his BBC Cymru Wales Weatherman Walking series.

Two former Wales Rugby Internationals are adding their ‘bulk’ to the occasion. James Hook, born in Port Talbot, has donated two signed children’s books in his series Chasing a Rugby Dream written with acclaimed author, David Brayley. The books are an inspirational read for youngsters, with insights and tips for young, aspiring players.

Secondly Dr Jamie Roberts, who plays for the Dragons, along with presenter, commentator and author Ross Harries, have donated a signed copy of their book Centre Stage.

All these Welsh figures have come forward to support Cancer Research Wales’ new store, based in Aberafan Shopping Centre, to help fund life changing cancer research in Wales.

The new store was officially opened by Father Christmas on Saturday 27 November and is the first opportunity for Cancer Research Wales to showcase its fresh new look and brand to the public.

The charity aims to spread its new purpose to unite with the people of Wales to help reduce the impact of cancer and improve unacceptable survival rates.

Ann Tate, Chief Executive Officer, at Cancer Research Wales said, “We are so excited to share our new look with the opening of this store at Aberafan Shopping Centre in Port Talbot. As a charity, we are going through a new chapter and it’s fantastic to see that people in Wales are uniting towards our purpose. We never expected to receive so many incredible donations and I would just like to say a big thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated or shopped in our store so far – it helps to make a huge difference.”

BBC Wales Weatherman Derek Brockway said, “I’m really pleased to support Cancer Research Wales and the critical research it funds in Wales to improve cancer outcomes for Welsh people and beyond. Nearly everyone has been impacted by cancer in some way, and I’m delighted to support all that Cancer Research Wales does to drive forward lifesaving research.”

Rugby International James Hook said, “David and I are delighted to support Cancer Research Wales as almost every family in Wales will have been touched by cancer and the sooner a cure for all cancers is found the better, but that can only be done with research. We are very happy to support that research and all that Cancer Research Wales does in that area.”

The items donated by these Welsh celebrities are currently being auctioned for the store online, to find out more or to make a bid today visit: https://cancerresearchwales.charityhive.co.uk/auction

If anyone is interested in volunteering at the new Cancer Research Wales shop, at Aberafan Shopping Centre, Port Talbot, or has any items they would like to donate, please contact the store on 01639 896027.