Community spirit celebrated at Abergavenny Market Hall volunteers' event

Over 250 people attended a celebration and networking event at Abergavenny's Market Hall last Thursday to acknowledge the contribution of individuals and groups who volunteer to sustain and support the county's communities.

 Among those present were the High Sheriff of Gwent, Sharon Linnard, the Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert and Abergavenny mayor, Councillor Teslin Davies.

With the historic Market Hall offering a perfect venue, 45 groups shared their passion for helping their communities while organisations demonstrated ways in which they can help volunteers, including funding opportunities.

The evening was sponsored by the Be. Community Leadership programme which offers a blend of free learning, training and personal development opportunities to volunteers in Monmouthshire and rural areas of Newport.  It is funded by The Vale of Usk Rural Development Programme.

Owen Wilce, Monmouthshire's Community and Partnership Development Lead Officer said: "The event was created to connect people, start conversations and value volunteering.  We are blessed with the amount of community activity in the area and we wanted to bring together organisations that offer support to volunteers doing great things in our community.  Our aim was to create a buzz."

Monmouthshire's cabinet member for Social Justice & Community Development, Councillor Sara Jones was present at the event.  She added: "I am so pleased this evening was so successful.  We owe so much to Monmouthshire's volunteers and they deserve all available help and support to ensure they continue to make our communities a better place for future generations.  I would like to thank those who go over and above to dedicate their time for the love of their community."