Bedwas Workman’s Hall has been awarded £40,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Peoples Millions programme after winning a public vote.
The Bedwas project to start the restoration of the historic hall was featured on ITV1 Wales and went up against a rival bid from the Cynon Valley. The project which had the most public votes won.
Volunteers from the hall and school children from Bedwas High School were told they had won on live television and were presented with the cheque.
Built in 1923, the hall’s construction, on Newport Road, Bedwas, was funded by contributions from miners, public funds and donations from charities.
Derek Havard, a community councillor in Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen, said: “It means such a lot. With this money we can really start something. We are so pleased to get the money because if anything deserved to get it, it was this hall.
“It was built in in 1923 and I hope it will still be here in 2123. Maybe with this money we’ll get it going.”
The money will be used to modernise the hall’s theatre facilities for community use.
This being the typical time of year to reflect on years past and the days ahead, I was thinking of things that matter, ways to make a difference etc. Funny enough, I got to thinking of Bedwas Workmen's Hall, did a quick internet search, and learned to great delight, and with a smile at the coincidence, that the Hall is featured as your main story today! Perhaps not coincidence?
I have lived for the past 20 years in Sacramento, California, but I was born and raised in Bedwas. My first date with my first love, Tania, was at this most treasured venue. We were nine I think. I splashed out for the balcony seats, on came Frankenstein Meets the Werewolf, out crying went Tania, me in her wake, incredulous, done with women for at least five years.
My mother Vicki "Ross" Goodchap MRAD taught ballet and tap there to children of all ages from the community for over a decade. She planed and staged many shows, involving hundreds in costume making, scenery, lighting, sound, dance, song, laughter and pantomime slapstick.
Bravo all who worked to securing the grant!
Where can one find out about volunteer opportunities or support please?
Warm regards, and happy new year to all back home,
James Goodchap. Sacramento, CA.