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Two community volunteers from Caerphilly were invited to 10 Downing Street to take part in a celebration of Welsh culture ahead of St David’s Day.

John Kirwan and Jake Turner were both invited to the Prime Minister’s official residence following their success at last year’s United Welsh Volunteer Awards.

The awards, run by Caerphilly-based housing association United Welsh, recognised nearly 120 people for the positive difference they make to communities across south Wales.

The reception at Downing Street, held on Monday February 23, brought together guests from across Wales to celebrate Welsh culture, contribution and community impact.

John volunteers at both Caerphilly Miners Centre and the memory cafe at the Plas Hyfryd, United Welsh’s assisted living home on the Castle Maen estate.

He said: “To be an invited to an event like this, it’s an honour. I never thought I’d be recognised by Number 10 for my work volunteering.

“It was the second best moment of my life – you’re never going to beat the birth of your first child, but it’s close.”

Jake meanwhile runs a weekly quiz for residents at the Ty yn y Pwll over-55s apartment block in Trethomas. He said: “I’ve never been more surprised by an invite. I would never have thought that volunteering in a small scheme in Caerphilly would take me into the heart of UK Government. It was incredible.”

Julian Pike, United Welsh’s executive director of housing, support and communities, said: “John and Jake make a real difference to the people they support, and we’re very pleased to see their efforts recognised at a national level.”

He praised United Welsh’s “dedicated network” of volunteers and continued: “This recognition is well deserved for John and Jake, and it also shines a light on the wider team of volunteers whose contributions help our communities thrive every day.”