March 8th, 2023 marks the 40th Anniversary of the passing of Briton Ferry boy David May. David sadly passed away at 18 years of age in 1983 after suffering a sarcoma on his leg.
David was treated at Singleton Hospital Ward 6. A new vicar ‘Vicar Butler’ arrived in Briton Ferry, he called in to see the family as he had heard about David and wanted to visit him. Vicar Butler along with Hugh James and others wanted to raise money to help and came up with the idea of a ‘Pram Race’ and in June 1983 the idea came to life on the streets of Briton Ferry. The first ‘Pram Race’ as it was then known raised a whopping £5K for charity which is an amazing amount of money. They also put in 3 TV’s a snooker table and footballers pictures in Ward 6.
The early Pram Races started at the Ship Inn and went to the canal bank where lots jumped in they then called at all the pubs in Briton Ferry went up the Main Road finishing at Briton Ferry Rugby Club.
David’s mother ‘Susan May’ wanted to remember the occasion and say how delighted she is that the tradition was revived last year which has brought life and laughter back to the community of Briton Ferry. Susan hopes this can continue and we remember how the tradition begun 40 years ago.
I would like to thank Susan for sharing this lovely story and photographs of the original event in honour of her beloved son whose picture is featured above.
Pictures featured are of the original parade in 1983 thanks to Susan May for providing.
Susan May pictured below photograph taken March 5th 2023.
Photograps taken by Susan May