Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Sarah Rochira, visited a club that is helping to keep one of the Valleys’ oldest traditions alive.
Ms Rochira visited the Talkers and Listeners Club, which meets at Bargoed’s Lennox Club for members to get together and catch up on the local news over a cup of tea and a bite to eat.
The visit formed part of the Commissioner’s Engagement Roadshow, where she is visiting older people’s groups and organisations around Wales.
Ms Rochira said: “It was a pleasure to visit Bargoed and meet a group of older people who are an example of community members that are close and enjoy sharing their news and offer valuable friendship to each other.”
The club was formed 13 years ago following a conversation between two friends who wanted to bring some life into the area.
Membership has grown from 14 at the first meeting to 38. It meets once a month at the Lennox Club, Bargoed.
Member Olwen Heenan said: “We have speakers that range from the historical to the hysterical, but most of all we meet to exchange news and socialise.
“We also network by exchanging news of events held locally which is difficult to access if you are less than 100% mobile.”