There was an extra sprinkling of Christmas spirit in Withybush hospital as Bob Elliott, a Hywel Dda University Heath Board volunteer, delivered mince pies to staff on the wards.

For the past six years, Bob, armed with boxes of donated mince pies, has visited the wards on his annual Mince Pie Run.

Bob began volunteering at Withybush hospital in 2016 after a family bereavement and decided that volunteering at the hospital was a way to give back.

Over the years the annual Mince Pie Run has grown, and this Christmas Bob has expanded his delivery of Christmas cheer to Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth, with plans to increase deliveries to all sites in future years.

“I’d like to thank our local Morrisons stores in Haverfordwest and Aberystwyth for their continued support and kind donation of mince pies,” said Bob. “Without them there would be no Mince Pie Run.”

Hywel Dda UHB volunteers give their time freely to support patients, services and departments and improve the experience of patients in hospital. In 2024, volunteers have generously given nearly 11,000 hours of their time.

Volunteer support can be something as simple as chatting with a patient or helping visitors to find the right ward at visiting times.

Lisa Gostling, Director of Workforce and Organisational Development /Deputy Chief Executive for Hywel Dda UHB, said:

“I would like to express our sincerest appreciation to all our volunteers who have dedicated their time, skills, and compassion to Hywel Dda.

“Your support for patients and staff makes a difference every day, thank you.”

If you are interested, the health board has a range of different volunteer opportunities available. Visit the health board’s volunteer and work experience hub, call 07790 978576 or email [email protected].