Tributes

tributes TOM BELL OBE

Tom Bell OBE, the inspiration behind TNT’s drive to raise over £4 million for Wooden Spoon between 1997 and 2021, has sadly passed away.

Tom had a long and distinguished career as Managing Director of TNT Express Services, spanning 33 years and was instrumental in them adopting Wooden Spoon as the company’s principal charitable partner. Wooden Spoon was very fortunate indeed to have such a charismatic and dynamic philanthropist as Tom. By championing Wooden Spoon, Tom and his team members not only helped Wooden Spoon to transport packages across our regions for events, but employees also made an unparalleled contribution towards vulnerable children by doing challenge events and raising funds. In recognition of his services to charity, in particular his inspirational drive, determination and contribution to Wooden Spoon over the years, Tom was awarded an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) in 2010. Tom was an inspiration to all, and our heartfelt condolences go to his family and friends.

Phil Bennett OBE

Phil Bennett OBE made 414 appearances, mainly as flyhalf for his beloved Llanelli RFC, during a 15-year career in amateur rugby. He was also a supporter and president at Stradey Park and Parc y Scarlets.

He rose to stardom in the 1970s, winning 29 caps and leading Wales to three Five Nations Championships, including Grand Slams in 1976 and 1978. He starred in the unbeaten British Lions tour to South Africa in 1974, winning acclaim for his natural ability. His try against Scotland in 1977 was voted the greatest Wales try of all time. He was a man of the people, always approachable and willing to give his time for good causes. He was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2011 he opened the Harriet Davis Trust project for Wooden Spoon Wales in Penally, near Tenby – a refurbishment of a heated indoor swimming pool specialist facility for children with disabilities. In 2016 during the Golden Oldies event in Cardiff, he signed a Welsh rugby

Phil Bennett, left, opening the Harriet Davis Trust project in Penally for Wooden Spoon

©Gareth Davies Photography Tenby

shirt which gathered signatures from 50 former internationals, totalling over 2,000 caps, and raising £2,000 at auction. He will be remembered for his modesty, but mainly his ability to entertain rugby fans all over the world.