Following our hugely successful events in Bristol and Manchester, the BCA's 100-year anniversary celebration moved to the dynamic Welsh capital. On Wednesday 3 September, members gathered at the stunning Voco St. David's, for an evening of stimulating conversation, delectable food, and lasting connections made amongst peers, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Cardiff Bay waterfront.
This wasn't just another Wednesday night; it was an occasion to honour our shared legacy and the promising future of chiropractic in the UK. The event was a testament to the strong community of Cardiff chiropractors and their integral role in the profession.
Reflecting on a Century of Progress
BCA President, Tim Button, captivated the audience with a retrospective look at the Association's century-long journey. He recounted the pivotal moments that have shaped our profession, from its foundation in 1925 to the legislative landmark of the Chiropractors Act in 1994. The talk was a powerful reminder of how far we've come and the dedication of those who paved the way. Looking ahead to the future, Tim took us through our ambitious vision and mission, reiterating the importance of all members and everything they do in their communities.
The evening was a resounding success, underscoring the vital role our regional events play in connecting professionals and celebrating our collective achievements.
From the Ground Up: The WIOC Story
Professor David Byfield of the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic (WIOC) (University of South Wales) took attendees on a fascinating journey back to the institution's roots. His presentation wasn't just a list of dates; it was a compelling narrative of growth, resilience, and vision. He painted a vivid picture of the WIOC's beginnings at the University of Glamorgan in 1997, charting its remarkable evolution from a small, forty-student program into a beacon of chiropractic education in the UK. Byfield’s talk highlighted the unwavering dedication of the staff and the university's continuous commitment to a hands-on, forward-thinking approach to learning. It was a powerful reminder of how a shared vision can forge a lasting legacy, one student at a time.
Celebrating Long-Standing Members
The evening offered a meaningful moment to honour five outstanding members who have dedicated decades to the profession. Their work, values, and commitment to patient care have helped shape chiropractic in the UK.
Award Recipients:
Annabel Kier
Graduate of the Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA Member since September 1988. Annabel’s 36-year career has been marked by dedication to both patient care and education. Starting in Ramsgate in 1988, she developed clinics and worked across Plymouth, Bournemouth, and Winchester, while raising a family.
Her teaching career began at AECC, expanded in Canada, and flourished at the University of South Wales, where she became a senior lecturer. Throughout, she skilfully balanced clinical practice and education, leaving a lasting impact on students and the chiropractic profession through her compassion, expertise, and commitment.
Gareth Lloyd
Graduate of the Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA Member since 1982. Gareth studied for his BSc in Biological Sciences at Portsmouth Polytechnic, graduating in 1976, before gaining a Diploma of Doctor of Chiropractic in 1979. He practised in Southampton and Plymouth before establishing Cardiff Chiropractic Clinic in 1982, serving the community there for over 40 years.
Chiropractic member of the GCC for several years and Fellow of the BCA, Gareth was the unsung hero of Contact magazine for many years, providing meticulous editing on each edition.
Andy Miles
Graduate of the Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA Member since 1994. Gareth spent three years working for practices in Lincolnshire before setting up Llandaff Chiropractic Clinic (now The Llandaff Clinic) in 1997. Whilst practising chiropractic in Cardiff, he has successfully treated many Welsh and international athletes, footballers, rugby players, actors, A-list celebrities, musicians, martial artists, skiers, snowboarders and has previously worked in conjunction with the occupational health department at the BBC when it was in Llandaff.
Professor David Byfield
Graduate of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College and a BCA Member since 1985. Professor David Byfield (BSc (Hons), DC, MPhil, FCC, FBCA, FFEAC, FHEA) has been in private practice and chiropractic education for the past 43 years in Canada, England and Wales. David holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Biology from the University of Western Ontario, London, Canada (1974) and an MPhil degree from Southampton University (1998). David holds Fellowship status with the College of Chiropractors and the Faculty of Rehabilitation and Chiropractic Orthopaedic, Associate Member of the Sports & Exercise Faculty, Fellow of the British Chiropractic Association and Founding Fellow of the European Academy of Chiropractic. David is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Authority. He has written popular chiropractic textbooks and, in addition, has also published a number of scientific papers in the peer-reviewed literature and a number of book chapters covering diagnostic palpation, spinal manipulation and rehabilitation.
David joined the University of South Wales (USW) in 1998 following teaching posts at CMCC and AECC to develop an integrated master’s chiropractic degree programme. He is currently Head of Clinical Services at the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic at USW.
Rainer Wieser
Graduate of the Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA Member since 1996. Founder of highly regarded C3 chiropractic clinics in South Wales based in Cardiff and Bridgend. As well as a chiropractor Rainer is also a qualified physiotherapist and holds a special interest in Sports Medicine.
He has worked as a chiropractor at the 2013 World Games in Cali, Columbia; London 2012 Olympic Games; Paralympic Games and World Championships as well as working with international, Premier League footballers, professional golfers, athletes, sports coaches and company executives. He is a member of the British Chiropractic Sports Council and a Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractors Sports and Exercise Faculty.
Share your moments with us!
Members can share their moments from the event via the form in our BCA 100 Online Exhibition.
As we continue celebrating 100 years of the BCA, our regional events are a powerful reminder that this profession is built not just on clinical expertise, but on connection, community and purpose. We can’t wait to see you our our next event.
Next stop: Edinburgh. Join us as we continue the BCA100 journey across the UK.