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Bedwas Workmen’s Hall marked the end of its centenary year with a celebratory event thanking the volunteers and groups which use the venue.

One hundred years ago, miners came together and contributed a penny a week to help fund the hall’s construction.

This, combined with a grant from local colliery owner Sir Samuel Instone, saw its foundation stone laid on January 13, 1923.

The celebratory evening was held on Saturday December 9 – 100 years and one day after the hall’s opening in 1923.

Emma Phipps-Magill, vice chair of Bedwas Workmen’s Hall, told guests: “It is an absolute pleasure to have you in this hall this evening.

“There are many reasons why we are celebrating. Built in 1923 from the miners. A portion of their wages every week was paid towards building this amazing venue.

“A venue that a team of dedicated volunteers work damn hard to keep open for you, our community.”

Earlier this year the hall was awarded almost £500,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund for the first phase of its refurbishment project which includes vital repairs to prevent further deterioration of the building.

The hall’s Red Ray’s Lift Appeal, named in honour of late BTM councillor Ray Davies, was set up to raise around £150,000 to install a lift at the hall so it can comply with the 2005 Disability Act.

The Lottery money will now allow work to go ahead to ensure the lift (and an additional one) can be installed.

Taking pride of place on display during the evening was a tapestry depicting the front of the historic hall, created by Bedwas resident Sandra Olsen.