Cwmdare has been buzzing with festive spirit as the first of a series of Christmas activities brought together families, neighbours and volunteers for a fun-filled celebration. This year’s full programme of events has once again been made possible thanks to nearly £3,000 of support from Pennant Walters.
The season was in full swing as this year’s Christmas party saw the children mesmerised by the magic of entertainer Gizmo, who had them dancing, spinning plates, and engaging in a host of activities. They were then treated to a visit by the ‘Special Man’ himself – Santa, who spent time talking to each child.
Preparations are underway for Breakfast with the Elves, where the children will join the elves at Cwmdare Miners Welfare Club for Christmas crafts, films, music and storytelling, whilst they eat healthy breakfast snacks to keep up their energy levels.
To conclude the festive activities, on Sunday 21 December, Santa will once again make his magical sleigh ride through the streets of the village, alongside his team of elves, handing out gifts and greeting excited youngsters along the route.
C4C Secretary, Ann Crimmings, said:
“We are deeply grateful to Pennant Walters for their continued backing, which allows us to keep these activities open and enjoyable to everyone.
“It was wonderful to see so many families joining us for the Christmas party, and the smiles on the children’s faces when they saw Santa were magical and made all the hard work in organising such events worthwhile.
“The community are eagerly awaiting Santa’s visit on his sleigh, it’s always a treasured time with so many families joining in with the celebrations – the atmosphere throughout the village is incredible.”
Pennant Walters has a long history of supporting C4C and community-led initiatives in Cwmdare. Earlier this year, the company funded the village’s Halloween pumpkin carving event with a £450 donation whilst contributing £700 towards a Remembrance Service, held in the central garden to honour former and current service personnel. The company also helped facilitate a community poppy-making workshop, encouraging residents to play a hands-on role in remembrance.
Dale Hart, Managing Director at Pennant Walters, added:
“C4C volunteers consistently bring energy and commitment to everything they deliver for the village, and we’re proud to help them continue this work. Our community funds are designed to support local places in meaningful ways, and it’s clear these Christmas activities are doing exactly that.”
The funding is linked to Pennant Walters’ 9 turbine 22 MW Mynydd Bwllfa windfarm near Aberdare in Rhondda Cynon Taf, which became operational in summer 2015.