A local family continues its fundraising for Hope House

A Caersws family will host their largest celebration yet later this month as they mark what would have been their son's fifth birthday with a music festival that has grown into a beloved community tradition.

Alice and Lewis Jones from Newtown will hold the Festival on Ronnie Street on Saturday, July 26th, at Seasons Café in Caersws, continuing a heartfelt tradition that began when their son Ronnie was alive. The event combines music, family entertainment, and fundraising for Hope House children's hospice, where Ronnie received care.

Ronnie was born with complex needs and passed away in November 2021 at just 15 months old. His parents had celebrated his first birthday that July with a Sesame Street-themed party, inspired by his love for the character Elmo. The family has since transformed this celebration into an annual event that brings together their community whilst raising funds for the hospice that supported them.

"Ronnie Street is a play on Sesame Street as Ronnie loved Elmo, he was his favourite," Alice explained. "The parties have been a lovely way to bring friends, family and community together to celebrate Ronnie's life and remember him."

The festival serves a particularly important purpose for Ronnie's younger siblings, Dougie and Mina, who never had the chance to meet their big brother. "It's important for Dougie and Mina to know about the big brother they never had the chance to meet, and this party and festival is the best way for them to hear all about him in a fun way," Alice said. "Every time we drive past Seasons now, they ask if it's time for Ronnie's birthday."

However, this year's festival will be the last for some time. The family has announced they will be taking a break after this event to focus on other commitments, though they plan to return in the future. "We do have to announce that will be having a bit of a break after this event to focus on some other things, but we will be back in the future," Alice said.

The day-long event promises an impressive lineup of entertainment from midday until late. Visitors can expect live music continuing into the night, alongside family activities including tractors and supercars, animals, various stalls, and a wellbeing tent. Food and drink will be available throughout the day.

Entry costs £5 for adults and £2 for children over four, with under-fours attending free. Tickets will be available on the gate on the day, with all proceeds supporting Hope House's work with children who have life-threatening conditions.

The festival has attracted significant local business support. Alice thanked their sponsors, including Williams Plant Hire, Redkite Glass Ltd, Hilltop, EvaBuild, Mid Wales Property, Deano's Tiki Bar, and Lee Hughes & Son Haulage. "We have been blown away by generous businesses and supporters who have offered their time and commitment to help us," she said.

Hope House fundraiser Bekki Fardoe praised the family's ongoing commitment to supporting the hospice. "Thank you to Alice and Lewis for all their hard work putting on the last few Party at Ronnie Street's and now the Festival on Ronnie Street," she said. "Their fun days have already raised so much money to support children with life-threatening conditions and their families. Fingers crossed for a lovely sunny day for what looks set to be their greatest day yet."

The Festival on Ronnie Street represents how a family's love and community spirit can transform personal grief into something that supports others facing similar challenges, ensuring Ronnie's memory continues to bring joy and help to families across the region.