Members of the Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen community have been honoured for their work in helping others.
Councillor Chris Morgan is chair of the Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen Community Council and welcomed guests to the inaugural ‘Chair’s Award’ event on April 5 at Bedwas Workman’s Hall.
Cllr Morgan said he was proud to host the first ever awards ceremony.
He said: “Every year many people do their bit to improve the quality of life and environment within the Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen area and this event has been arranged to recognise the group and individuals that go the extra mile.”
The community fundraising award went to Liam Jones for his organisation of so many fundraising events, including at Machen Rugby club involving the whole community, a carol service for Machen Primary, and a Himalaya All Dayer for T? Hafan.
Liam’s efforts also netted him the chair’s award for outstanding services to the community.
The community links’ award was handed to Ken and Avril Clark for their hard work over many decades supporting and organising the Trethomas and Bedwas Royal British Legion remembrance ceremonies at the Cenotaph in each village.
Machen’s Rotary Club president Howard Hughes presented the young persons’ award for fundraising to Connor Webb for his work as an ambassador for Velindre Cancer Care, raising thousands of pounds for the charity.
The young persons’ award for music was presented to Alfie Pole for his abilities in music which have significantly enhanced his confidence. It was explained that Alfie has audiences in tears at his saxophone solos in Bedwas Workmen’s Hall at school concerts.
Maddi Phipps Magill was awarded the young persons’ award for drama and the arts for her love of theatre and music. With a beautiful singing voice and being a talented actor, Maddi is involved in Megaday Junior in support of Velindre Cancer Care.
Machen Rotary Club were deserved winners of the community engagement award for their activities, which include the Christmas Santa Sleigh which helps sends families in need on holiday and sponsoring school concerts.
The caring for our environment award was presented to Min Miles for her work leading the Bedwas Conservation Group for many years and saving the Pandy Mawr Tunnel and the Bryn Gwyn Pumping House in Bedwas.
The sports coach of the year recognised those individuals who dedicate their time and passion to providing sports facilities for young people. The award went to Darren Littlewood for his determination, commitment and loyalty as head youth coach at Machen RFC.
Tony Powell was recognised for years of support in and around the football fields of the area, coaching, managing, officiating, as well as playing. Tony was awarded the outstanding contribution to sport award for dedicated support to sport.
The care and compassion for others award recognised individuals who have dedicated their own time and effort to looking after others. Roger Carr was presented with the award by Wayne David MP for his support and assistance to the elderly in the local community.
Derrick Jones, Gordon Maslen and the late Tony Jukes were jointly awarded for their contribution to history and culture in the community.
They have dedicated many years to researching the area’s past, creating two books of photographs and information detailing the history of the people and the area.
Education in the community award went to Vilma Cole for her many years of work with local schools educating children on the work of the Royal British Legion, ensuring the sacrifice of residents in conflicts around the world are not forgotten.
Finally, the teacher of the year was presented to Nicola Thain for all her work turning around Graig Y Rhacca Primary school.
The award recognises Nicola for going over and above that required in being a teacher, helping and encouraging the community’s children.
Brilliant well done, showing us true community spirit. We need to see more of this