Fundraisers have been set up by flood-hit communities to repair the damage caused by Storm Dennis on Sunday (February 16).
Several communities in Caerphilly County Borough have been affected by flooding including Blackwood, Machen, Bedwas, Risca, Crosskeys, Llanbradach and Argoed.
Resident Gem Walker has set up a fundraiser for Crosskeys Youth Centre, which is in Pandy Park. It’s one of many buildings in the borough damaged by the flooding.
The fundraising page is aiming to raise £2,000 to replace water-damaged items in the youth centre.
Ms Walker said : “The money will be used to replace any water damaged goods including sports equipment, children’s toys and other items that have been damaged by the water that is essential for them to continue to do the amazing work/projects.
“They have really done a lot for myself and my family and that’s why I really want to help them replace the damaged items so they can continue with their amazing work. I wouldn’t be who I am today if the Young Mums project wasn’t there.”
Meanwhile, in Llanbradach, a Facebook raffle group has been created. The money raised will be used to repair the damage and replace any lost items.
Jade Hewer, 23, who created the raffle group, said: “In a time of a crisis, we can always rely on our neighbours.
“So far we have had a donation of a Mother’s Day bouquet from Nicola Hewer, two generous meals from our local business Savera Cafe, and two local hairdressers Lisa Gibbs and Lisa Williams have both offered treatments to be raffled off.”
Another fundraising page for Llanbradach residents affected by the storm has been set up by Pearl McCarthy, who is originally from the village but now lives in Dorset.
Ms McCarthy said: “I have a target of £200 and I will personally cover the Facebook fundraising fees so all proceeds can go to Llanbradach.
“I will be liaising with Jade [Hewer] to make sure funds go to those needed.”
Meanwhile, a fundraising page originally set up to raise money for defibrillators in Llanbradach has been relaunched to help with flood damage.
The Wingfield Hotel will be holding a fundraising karaoke and disco night on Friday, March 6.
Norma Cabble, who is one of the organisers, is looking for raffle prizes to be donated to the cause.
Ms Cabble said she “wanted to offer help in some way” after seeing how the floods had affected the community.
Ms Cabble added: “I’m proud to say the people of the village have been fantastic and pulled together by offering various services and help from donations of TVs, fitted flooring and cloths.”
Elsewhere, Bedwas Workmen’s Hall will be doing its bit to help by hosting an event at 7pm on Sunday, March 1.
Organised by Bedwas resident Amanda Nott, the event will star drag queen Miss Tina Sparkle and live music.
Tickets will cost £10, with a raffle being held on the night to raise more funds.