When the BBC’s Nick Knowles and the “DIY-SOS” team selected their latest project, Abergavenny businessman Owen Rees, of OD Electrical was one of the first to sign up to volunteer.

During the past two weeks Owen and many other trades from as far afield as Hereford, Caerphilly and Gloucester, have been freely giving their time to help refit and adapt the home of Charlotte and Rob Fairlie, in Hereford Road, Monmouth.

Owen said “The BBC were looking for trades volunteers. When I learned that Mrs. Fairlie had suffered a stroke soon after the birth of twin boys, it reminded me just how fortunate my family is. I always told my wife, also a twin, that if the program ever came to this area, I would volunteer. I’m so glad I did – it was life changing for the Fairlie family - and for all of us who volunteered and worked on the project.”

Owen and other electricians worked alongside the famous Billy Byrne, the TV shows resident electrician. All works were completed on time, often working through the night and the refurbished home was handed back to the family last Thursday. The handover, ‘sparked’ a few tears from those involved. “It’s been a very emotional couple of weeks, but I have enjoyed every minute of it” said Owen. “I’d also like to thank my wife, family and my team at OD Electrical, who covered so well in my absence, allowing me the time to volunteer”.

With no time to rest, on 24th April, Owen is ruining in the 2016 London Marathon to raise money for “Children with Cancer UK”. Fitting in training around the DIY-SOS project, Owen is already on course towards his target of £2,000. “Fundraising is a bit of a family thing” says Owen. “A few years ago, my sister in law Clare cycled from London to Paris in aid of “The Jesse May Trust”, so the gauntlet was thrown down”. As part of his training, Owen recently took part in the Cardiff World Half Marathon, returning a personal best time.

Anyone wishing to support Owen in the London Marathon and his chosen charity can donate via www.virginmoneygiving.com ref: Owen_Rees_ZVMLMA542016