29-04-2025
A local Abercarn hero who risked his life has passed away
46-year-old Tristram Kelvin Maggs from Abercarn sadly passed away February 28.
Tristram was a much-loved figure in the Abercarn community and a loving father who leaves behind two young daughters, Olivia and Grace Maggs 15 and 14.
He was better known by his nickname 'Tigger' which was given to him by his older sister Kristian Edwards when they were children.
Tigger playing rugby as part of Abercarn RFC (Image: Kris Edwards) Tributes for Tigger have flooded in including a tribute from the woman whose life he saved back in 2010.
On April 29, 2010, Lousie Whittaker lost control of her car whilst driving near Risca.
During the crash Lousie's car rolled down a banking and caught on fire.
Lousie was left trapped inside her car with no way to get out.
Tigger with his family Kris Edwards, Carlie Griffiths , Grace Maggs, Olivia Maggs, Ben Edwards, Isabel Edwards and Simon Edwards (Image: Kris Edwards) Speaking of that day the 36-year-old said: 'It was awful, I just remember being trapped in the car that was crushed and the only window I could get out of was the passenger window and when I tried to get through that I was stuck.'
Luckily for Lousie Tigger arrived.
'He basically could see I was stuck and tried everything to get me out.
'I didn't think I was getting out and at first, I was like I don't want to die then I looked at him and said you're going to have to leave me and Tigger said 'we aren't leaving don't you dare give up'.'
Tigger with his father Kelvin Maggs (Image: Kris Edwards) Thankfully, more onlookers arrived at the scene and locals were able to move the car so Louise could escape.
She said: 'They managed to push the car up and someone pulled me out and carried me away. The car just started going up and the flames engulfed the car.
'I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him, and I just want his family to know what an amazing man he was.
'It's surreal because he saved my life and he's not here it doesn't seem fair.'
Louise Whittaker who was saved by Tigger (Image: Lousie Whittaker) More than three hundred people attended Tigger's funeral which locals helped fund via a GoFundMe page.
The GoFundMe reads: 'If you knew Tigger, you'd know that he was an amazing man.
'He would always have the biggest smile and warmest heart. He would give his last to anyone who needed it.'
A staggering £2,890 was raised for Tigger's funeral.
He will be deeply missed by the Abercarn community.
