The leader of Torfaen Council has thanked the community for its support for Ukrainian evacuees.
Cllr Anthony Hunt gave an update of announcements to councillors at today’s full Council meeting in the civic centre. He also sent a good luck message to the staff and volunteers from Torfaen Play who are on training this week before they start daily play sessions at over 30 sites throughout Torfaen over the summer holiday.
He said: “Can I start by paying tribute to The Royal Welsh and the Royal British Legion following the Freedom of the Borough Ceremony at the weekend. Thank you to all involved in organising the day and to all who came along to support it to. It was also good to open the Wales and Battle of Britain exhibition in a very warm Pontypool Market last Monday as it stopped here on its tour of Wales and to help reopen the Folly Tower and Shell Grotto which are open to visitors this August bank holiday thanks to the friends of Pontypool Park.
“Can I thank all involved in the many events around Torfaen this summer from Cwmbran Big Event to Party in the Park in Pontypool and World Heritage Day in Blaenavon and to all the local events happening across the borough.
“Can I also wish good luck and a successful summer to our renowned play service as they embark on their staff and volunteers training week this week. The reputation they have around Wales is well-deserved for the quality of opportunities they give local children and that’s not something we should take for granted.
“Next can I thank all those involved in our Nifty Thrifty Schools shop earlier this month which was held at the Congress Theatre. 170 people registered and many others showed up to the free where parents across the borough could pick up ‘back to school’ essentials like uniform, school bags and coats, stationery and receive other advice and help with the rising cost of living. the event was so successful that we are arranging another on 17 August from 4.30pm to 6pm at Pontypool Market.
“Next can I remind members that nominations are open for Torfaen Voluntary Alliance’s community volunteer awards 2022. If you would like to highlight someone in your community who shows selfishness and devotion to helping others, or highlight a local group that does good work you have until the end of this month to nominate and there are many categories.
“Last of all can I thank all involved locally in helping our efforts to welcome Ukrainian evacuees to the borough. All of you involved have really shown the welcoming and inspirational side of our community, helping trips to deliver goods to Ukraine and to Poland including from TRAC2 I know earlier this month to taking part in collections and donations and other assistance through local community groups and of course those who are taking in families or letting out properties so that can happen. Thank you to all of you, because you really do show the caring and the welcoming side of our community.”