The Gilfach Goch Garden Village Ladies Arts & Crafts Group has received a generous grant from renewable energy company Pennant Walters, providing a welcome boost to help the long-established community group continue its creative and social activities.
The group, which has been crafting together for over 60 years, meets weekly to share ideas, learn new skills, and make handmade items – many of which are sold locally to raise money for charity.
Over the decades, members have raised thousands of pounds for good causes, including Velindre Cancer Care, Julie’s Chick Appeal, Ty Hafan, Friends of Animals Wales, Macmillan Cancer Support, the Forget Me Not Fund in memory of Rhian Griffiths, and the Royal British Legion.
The donation of £2,000 comes from funds linked to Pennant Walters’ Pant y Wal and Fforch Nest wind farms — located in the Gilfach Goch, Blackmill, Bridgend and Rhondda Cynon Taf areas. Together, the two sites comprise 21 turbines producing 53 megawatts of clean electricity — enough to power the equivalent of 25,000 homes.
Elaine Moore, from Gilfach Goch Garden Village Ladies Arts & Crafts Group, said:
“Crafting is quite a costly hobby, so this generous grant is gratefully received.
“This funding means we can continue doing what we love, while supporting local charities and keeping our members connected.”
The group’s running costs include insurance, equipment maintenance, and materials such as fabric, wool, and crafting supplies and rely on the group’s own contributions. In recent years, the group has invested in sewing machines and a printing and cutting machine to expand its creative capabilities.
Beyond crafting, the group organises regular social activities, including theatre trips, concerts, afternoon teas, and an annual Christmas lunch — all of which are vital to members’ wellbeing and sense of community.
Dale Hart, Managing Director of Pennant Walters, said:
“We’re delighted to support such a vibrant and long-standing community group.
“The dedication and creativity shown by the Gilfach Goch Garden Village Ladies Arts & Crafts Group is truly inspiring, and we’re proud that our funding can help them continue their wonderful work in the local area.”
The group continues to welcome new members from Gilfach Goch and the surrounding areas. Meetings take place weekly, and everyone is encouraged to come along, learn new skills, and enjoy good company.
Picture caption: Members of the Gilfach Goch Garden Village Ladies Arts & Crafts Group with their carefully crafted items
