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Dawn Bowden is the Labour Senedd Member for the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency.

It is good to be writing my blog piece for Caerphilly Observer after a hectic few weeks. In addition to my constituency business and casework I have been getting up to speed with my new responsibilities as a Deputy Minister for Sport and the Arts, as well as the Chief Whip of the new Welsh Government. Once again I thank you for the support offered to me at the Senedd Election which allows me to pursue these opportunities.

Glad to support the return of local rugby 

I was very pleased to join Rhymney RFC under-11s recently as they returned to playing rugby in a match against Pontyclun. It was a great pleasure to see our young people back active again.

At the end I helped to present a Friendship Cup to the successful team. In presenting the cup Richard Pugh, coach of the under-11s said: “It is not a cup for winners or losers, but a cup of friendship.”

Those seem fitting words to welcome the return of local sport after the last year. It was also a lovely tribute in memory of former Pontyclun player Luke Hole. Well done to Rich and best wishes to the club.

Street surgeries

Along with Gerald Jones MP and local councillors we have resumed our regular street surgeries across the Upper Rhymney valley. The street surgeries are a way in which we make ourselves available to meet constituents, to answer your questions and take up casework. They will continue over the summer months.

Merthyr and Gelligaer common

I have been a supporter of the project work that is helping to manage this wonderful common land and trying to discourage some of the antisocial activity that spoils the area for others. We all have a part to play in looking after the lovely countryside on our doorstep.

Parc Cwm Darran country park

I also enjoy my visits to Cwm Darran country park. As we get more chances to be out and about let’s remember these countryside gems on our local doorstep. 

Winding House

I was pleased that the Winding House in New Tredegar was recently awarded some further Welsh Government money to continue supporting their activities. Like other attractions the Winding House was been under restrictions so I hope they can return to full action in the near future.

Local Policing

I continue to support the local Police who have conducted a number of successful operations in the Upper Rhymney Valley. Once again I urge people to register their concerns with the 101 number so that intelligence is gathered and, of course, 999 in the case of any emergency.

Office appointments

My constituency office at 110 High Street, Merthyr Tydfil is open again for advice and support via appointments. If you call 01685 386 672, my office team will make arrangements. Likewise you can email me at dawn.bowden@senedd.wales