Women and girls football festival hailed a success after initial last minute cancellation

Caerphilly Castle Ladies and Girls Football Club had planned on celebrating its landmark 25th football festival in July, however it was cancelled the day before due to thunderstorms.

Coach and organiser Bethan Bushen was told last minute that the event, which was set to welcome more than 300 women and girls from across south Wales, would not happen.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer, she explained how the club managed to turn it around and have their most successful event yet: “The festival was initially set to be held at St Cenydd Leisure Centre but the school called it off because of the weather. Somehow we managed to secure Virginia Park the following weekend.

“We weren’t sure what the turnout would look like but we still had over 300 people show up to what was probably the best event we’ve ever had, raising £450 for mental health charity Heads Above The Waves.”

Coach Bushen explained how the Saturday was for the junior teams, of which more than 35 showed up to get involved, with all of the girls receiving a prize. The Sunday was dedicated to the women’s sides, with Caerphilly Castle Ladies winning the tournament for the first time ever.

She added: “It was a brilliant weekend which everyone got involved in. We actually had our B team in the final too which was a great way to celebrate the 25th anniversary.

“The local fire service came down which the kids loved, and Caerphilly town mayor Mike Prew also stopped by.

“We’ve had a lot of good feedback and the charity was very grateful. We all signed a football shirt for them and they’re going to hang it in their office. We can’t wait to go again next year.”