A brother and sister from Caerphilly have raised £2,000 for St David’s Hospice through their coffee business, Rob’s Roast, launched in honor of their late father, Robin Smallwood. The siblings donate a percentage of profits to charities close to their family, including the hospice that cared for Robin during his final days. Robin, who passed away last year after a battle with cancer, inspired the idea during family conversations over coffee.
Simon Smallwood, 37, and Steph Kelsey, 39, started Rob’s Roast following the death of their father, Robin Smallwood, aged 76. Robin had been healthy until experiencing back pain towards the end of 2024. Tests revealed an untreatable, rare and aggressive cancer, and he passed away five months later.
Despite the diagnosis, the family shared meaningful time together, including discussions over coffee that led to a 'legacy list.' At the top was the idea of creating a coffee blend in Robin's name. Robin participated by taste-testing beans and providing input on branding and the logo, making the product a reflection of his preferences.
The business sells ground and whole-bean coffee, with a portion of profits supporting causes like St David’s Hospice, where Robin spent his final week. The siblings recently presented a £2,000 cheque to the hospice, marking their fundraising milestone.
Robin was a prominent figure in Caerphilly, serving as a former deputy head teacher at St Cenydd Comprehensive, a rugby coach, and an anti-bullying ambassador. He was known for his community involvement and passion for supporting others.
Simon Smallwood said: “Losing dad has been absolutely heartbreaking, but we were determined to turn something so awful into something positive. Dad loved nothing more than sitting down with a coffee and having a proper chat.”
Steph Kelsey added: “Dad spent the last week of his life at St David’s Hospice, and the care, compassion and dignity they showed him, and all of us, meant everything. Dad always said, in true Rob fashion, ‘Celebrate my life, do not mourn my passing - keep smiling and farewell.’ That’s exactly what we’re trying to do with this.”
Abigail Hughes, community fundraiser at St David’s Hospice Care, stated: “St David's Hospice Care are incredibly grateful to be supported through such a thoughtful fundraiser. ‘Rob's Roast’ is a truly special tribute to Robin, and the funds raised will help us continue providing our free-of-charge, compassionate, comprehensive care to patients and families facing a life-limiting illness.”
Rob’s Roast has launched a new website at www.robsroast.com and is seeking partnerships with local businesses to expand its charitable efforts.