Three brothers to take on The Big Tackle to raise funds for Rowcroft
For Torbay brothers David, Chris and Adrian Wilkey (pictured from left to right in the photo above), next year’s Big Tackle on Saturday 7 March will carry a deeply personal meaning. They’ll be walking the eight miles around Torquay in memory of their dad, Peter Wilkey, who received care at Rowcroft Hospice before he passed away in June of this year aged 68.
A life well-lived
Peter (pictured right) was a devoted family man with a zest for life. Working as a stock controller at Torbay Hospital, outside of his career he threw himself into his passions – football, music, photography and cars – hobbies he shared with his three sons.
“Dad got me and my brothers involved in football from a young age,” said Chris. “He took us to Torquay United and then Manchester City. He also got us involved in music – he was a DJ, and we’d help him set up and take down. Over the years we watched him go to concerts all over Europe and big gigs at Wembley.
“He also had his own darkroom and developed his own pictures.”
Peter’s journey
In 2020, Peter discovered a cancerous lump on his leg. After four years of treatment and an amputation in 2024, the cancer returned aggressively in 2025.
“He battled it in his leg on and off for years, but sadly it eventually attacked his organs and lungs,” said David. “Rowcroft became his place of care, and it was a huge relief for him and for us.”
“It wasn’t until Dad came to the hospice that I realised how fantastic all the staff were,” said Adrian. “I thought the care was amazing – second to none. Not just for Dad, but for the rest of the family too. They were so caring. It was wonderful that Dad could be wheeled outside onto the patio in his bed, under a sunshade, listening to his favourite music. It was a comfortable, peaceful time for him.”
“It was a relief knowing he was somewhere he would receive great care,” added Chris. “We were able to spend the whole time with him. That gave us great peace of mind.”
Honouring their dad through The Big Tackle
“I’ve done The Big Tackle walk three times before,” said Adrian. “It’s always a great day out – walking with friends, catching up, raising money. But next year will be different. Doing it with my brothers in Dad’s memory will make it really special.”
“Dad mentioned Rowcroft often,” said Chris. “Knowing it’s a charity that does so much for local families, taking part in The Big Tackle 2026 feels like the right way to honour him.”
“Rowcroft relies heavily on the support of the local community to fund its care,” added David. “I’d really encourage everyone to take part in The Big Tackle 2026 to help support this amazing charity.”
Sign up now for The Big Tackle
The Big Tackle is a chance for people to come together, get active, and make a real difference for their local hospice at a time when help is needed most. Every pound raised will help fund specialist care and support for local patients living with life-limiting illnesses, and for their loved ones, facing the toughest of days.
Find out more about The Big Tackle
We’re so grateful to Adrian, Chris and David for sharing their story, and for the incredible support they continue to show for Rowcroft. Their courage, compassion and commitment help to make a lasting difference for local families facing the hardest of times.
More blogs from Rowcroft:
- Supporting people of all faiths and none through spiritual care
- Jeremy’s barefoot half marathon challenge for Rowcroft
- Giving 104% in memory of Holly