Seventy groups, organisations, clubs and charities were given grants last week at Croesyceiliog and Llanyrafon Community Council’s awards evening.
An event was held on Tuesday evening in Llanyrafon Social Club for representatives to attend a collect their cheque. A really nice touch was asking each person who came up to say a few words about what they do, why, and how others can get involved.
Cllr Veronica Crick, deputy chair of the community council, presented cheques totalling around £35,000, with most getting around £275.
It was a fascinating insight into many of the things that go on in our town throughout the year. I took a few notes about some of the recipients.
The person from Llanyrafon Drama Group said they had been putting on an annual show for the last 38 years, adding: “You may not believe it, but we are in the middle of our panto season.” This open invite led to a loud: “Oh no, you’re not!” from the audience.
Newport and Gwent Samaritans
Newport and Gwent Samaritans told how their “listening support service” is run by 90 volunteers, with around half coming from Cwmbran/ Torfaen.
Llanyrafon Methodist Church said “over 700” people visit their church on Llanyrafon Way each week- from toddler groups, to the U3A group, to tea and coffee mornings.
The Cwmbran Lions Lifesaving Club said they teach life skills to children, including how to save someone in water, first aid, and resuscitation skills. The person collecting the grant said if an older person fell over, its club members would know how to comfort and talk, and get the story about what happened to relay to emergency services. The grant will buy “rookie handbooks” where its members record what they’ve learned.
Cwmbran Celtic Walking Football Club said the grant would buy a PA system for them to use at tournaments. A recent event held on Llantarnam 3G attracted hundreds of players, so a PA system will make it easier for organisers to communicate with spectators and clubs.