Leaders of the future inspired to become Young Ambassadors at annual conference

Monmouthshire school children have been getting inspired to become leaders through sport thanks to the return of the Bronze Young Ambassadors Conference.

The annual conference took place at Gilwern Outdoor Adventure Centre on Friday 20^th October.  Children in year 6 represented primary schools right across Monmouthshire with the focus of the conference centred around health, wellbeing, physical activity and leadership.

Throughout the day the Young Ambassadors took part in a variety of workshops – such as mentoring their peers, public speaking, and pupil consultations – as well as practical sessions delivered by external partners.  Since 2017, more than 5,300 pupils have taken part in the year 5 playmaker programme, with more than 350 then going on to represent their school in the year 6 Bronze Young Ambassador programme. The programme, which has been recognised as best practice, is now being replicated nationally and internationally – proving a platform for young people to develop their leadership skills through sport.

The Bronze Young Ambassador Programme is the start of the journey for many young people with four leadership academies established across all comprehensive schools in Monmouthshire.  The leadership academies continue to embed messages set in the programme and provide opportunities for young people to support physical activity within their school and local community, whilst gaining vital volunteering experience.  A clear route has been established for young people to develop their skills and gain employment opportunities through the playmaker to post 16 employment pathway.

As well as the young ambassadors, in attendance on the day were the Chair of the Monmouthshire Council Meirion Howells and Cabinet Member for Equalities & Engagement Angela Sandles.

Cllr. Sandles said: “The Bronze Young Ambassador Programme is such an important tool to promote the benefits of sport, physical activity and healthy living.  It was great to see so many enthusiastic young people here in Gilwern today. They took to the activities whole-heartedly and seemed to get a lot out of the day.  I look forward to seeing how our Young Ambassadors use what they have learnt today to help spread positive messages of wellbeing back at their schools.” For more information on Sport Development programmes, or to contact the team, please email sport@monmouthshire.gov.uk

Partnership project to improve sustainability of the public rights of way network

Following a successful application to the Welsh Government’s Access Improvement Grant, Monmouthshire County Council is launching the Paths to Community Project. 

This project focuses on developing ways to make the public rights of way network more sustainable in the long term and will contribute towards social justice, wellbeing and resilient communities targets.

Part of the project enables Monlife Countryside Access staff to work with community volunteer groups, providing them with materials, training and information, while making physical improvements to signage and the accessibility of routes.

To expand upon this project, Monmouthshire County Council has signed a Service Level Agreement with Ramblers Cymru – the first of its kind in Wales or England.

This will allow the Council to utilise part of this Welsh Government Access Improvement Funding to work with three more community volunteer groups in Monmouthshire. The funding will be administered by the Council, with Ramblers Cymru providing a full-time officer to provide a programme of events, training and engagement to reach wider audiences. 

A public launch event is being held between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday, October 28 at Magor and Undy Community Hub. This event will allow residents to come along and learn more about the project and how they can get involved.

Cllr. Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment said: “We are delighted to be working with Ramblers Cymru to help improve local paths and access to nature. The new Service Level Agreement with the ramblers is a significant partnership which allows us to improve the public rights of way here in Monmouthshire. This will provide residents and visitors with the best routes to go walking or hiking, connecting communities and local economies.

“Our paths are gateways which connect our communities and help us get out into the natural environment. I would urge anyone interested to join the Walk and Talks events and the launch on October 28.”

Angela Charlton, Director of Ramblers Cymru said : “We are looking for volunteers to get involved with our work to help us put walking at the heart of communities and provide people with the opportunity to learn new skills. If you are passionate about walking in your community, then we would love to hear from you.”

Walk and Talks events:

Monmouth: Wednesday, October 25, 2pm to 4pm, starting at the Skatepark car park, Rockfield Road, Monmouth, NP25 5AS

Usk: Thursday, October 26, 2pm to 4pm, starting at Cefn Illa Nature Reserve car park

If you are unable to attend one of the events and would like to get involved or find out more, please contact rhys.wynne-jones@ramblers.org.uk

We would love if you could help us by filling out this questionnaire on Public Rights of Way in Monmouthshire to help us with our ‘Paths to Communities’ project launching this week. CLICK HERE

Get more from your journey when you active travel in Monmouthshire

Monmouthshire County Council is celebrating 10 years since the Active Travel Act was launched in Wales.

Although the concept of active travel has been around for a while, not everyone is familiar with the term. Active travel describes making essential journeys, such as travelling to work, on the school run or travelling to appointments, by foot or by wheeling. The wheeling part can cover bicycles (electric or just by pedal power), scooters, wheelchairs, adapted bicycles or mobility scooters etc. 

Cllr. Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment, said: “I would like to thank all of Monmouthshire’s residents who actively travel, walking or wheeling for essential journeys such as the commute to work. People of all ages and abilities can wheel or walk, and every journey we take without the car contributes to making a real difference. 

“We are blessed here in Monmouthshire with beautiful countryside a stone’s throw from our towns and villages, so choosing active travel has the added benefit of being able to really connect with nature and see things you simply don’t get the chance to when driving. Find out more about active travel in Monmouthshire by visiting the MonLife website and discover what’s happening in your area.” 

To find out about active travel projects visit https://www.monlife.co.uk/outdoor/active-travel/ and click on one of the towns listed. There are schemes being progressed across the county, so now’s the time to embrace active travel and get more from your journey. 

Llanfoist to Abergavenny Active Travel bridge works commence

As part of the Welsh Government Active Travel funding awarded in 2023/24, phase 1 construction on the Llanfoist to Abergavenny Active Travel bridge (artist’s impression above) will commence on Monday 18th September, 2023.

The works comprise of earthworks for the south ramp only initially, on the Llanfoist side of the River Usk and will take approximately four weeks to complete. These establishment works will be carried out by the Monmouthshire County Council’s operations team. Access to the bank will be maintained.

Construction will be paused over winter, after which the remaining elements of this ramp, the northside ramp and the main bridge structure will be constructed next year. It is currently planned to be completed by December 2024.

This work does not include any routes within Castle Meadows this year. The planning application for the Castle Meadows paths will be considered at the October planning meeting at Monmouthshire County Council.

For further information on the Llanfoist to Abergavenny Active Travel scheme, please see: https://www.monlife.co.uk/castle-meadows-faq/

Celebrate diversity and inclusion at Pride in Usk

Put on your most colourful and expressive outfit and embrace the love and unity at Pride in Usk on Saturday 26th August.

Owain Glyndwr Park will be the location for the celebration of unity, fun and inclusivity, where all are welcome, which starts at noon and runs through until 8pm.

Pride in Usk is a family friendly community event, to foster a sense of community, promote understanding and advocate for equal rights for all, irrespective of gender identity or sexual orientation. The event will feature a diverse array of activities and entertainment that will cater to people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.

Key highlights of Pride in Usk:

• Main Stage Extravaganza: Prepare to be entertained with live music performances from talented artists, heart-warming speeches from LGBTQ+ advocates and drag performances that will light up the stage with glamour and empowerment.
• Vendor Village: Discover a bustling marketplace with vendors offering rainbow merchandise, local crafts, delicious food and refreshing beverages to keep attendees energised and hydrated throughout the day.
• Community Engagement: Connect and learn from various LGBTQ+ organisations and allies at the event to learn about their initiatives, support networks and resources.
• Inclusive Environment: Pride in Usk is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for everyone, free from discrimination, prejudice and intolerance.
• A Clothes Swap Activity: A cornerstone of this event is a commitment to creating an environment that fosters inclusivity and enjoyment for all ages. A clothes swap is being held, which is not merely an exchange of clothes; it represents an opportunity for all people to delve into the realm of self-identity through their appearance and clothing choices.

The event is open to people from all walks of life, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Attendees are encouraged to wear their most colourful and expressive outfits to celebrate love, pride and unity.

Cllr. Ian Chandler, Monmouthshire County Council’s LGBTQ+ Champion, said: “Pride at Usk is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our whole community in an inclusive and positive way. Whatever your gender identity or sexual orientation there’s a place for you at Pride at Usk. So come along and enjoy the entertainment, marketplace and meet others from our fabulous county and community. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at Owain Glyndwr Park to celebrate Pride at Usk. The event will showcase the community that we live in and that, irrespective of gender identity or sexual orientation, Monmouthshire is a place for everyone.”

Pride in Usk is made possible by the dedication and support of sponsors, volunteers and the local community; aiming to create a day filled with unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impact on everyone.

Join in the celebrations at Owain Glyndwr Park, Usk NP15 1AD, on August 26th, 2023, from noon to 8pm and be a part of this inspiring and uplifting event.

Free tickets for the event can be found here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/monmouthshire-youth-service

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to volunteer, please contact gavinbreen@monmouthshire.gov.uk

Minister visits Abergavenny summer programmes

Minister for Finance and Local Government Rebecca Evans MS visited Monmouthshire County Council’s summer programmes in Abergavenny recently.

Accompanied by Monmouthshire County Council Leader Cllr. Mary Ann Brocklesby and Cllr. Angela Sandles, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, the Minister, was shown around two summer provisions currently being offered.

Over the school holidays, young people can participate in summer programmes across Monmouthshire. Supported by the Welsh Local Government Association Food and Fun Programme, children in the county will have a safe space to participate in activities and access healthy food throughout the summer.

During the visit, the Minister was shown the current provision at Deri View Primary School and The Cabin youth centre. 

At Deri View Primary School, the Minister was shown the Food and Fun programme, which allows primary school children to do physical activities and learn about food and nutrition. The Fun and Food programme is being run across four sites in Monmouthshire for 24 days over the summer. Across the programmes in Caldicot, Chepstow, Monmouth and Abergavenny, over 700 children have registered to participate this summer.

Along with providing opportunities for children and young people, the Food and Fun programme provides employment locally, with more than 75 people employed to deliver the scheme.

Over the summer, youth centres across the county are open for young people aged 11-25 to visit. Supported by the Welsh Local Government Association Direct Food Support Scheme, at The Cabin there are a variety of activities on offer depending on the young people’s needs, wants and ideas. These have included developing life skills through cooking and food activities. All the activities in youth centres across the county have been designed with full consideration of the priorities identified by young people through this year’s Make your Mark consultation.

The Make your Mark Consultation provided the opportunity for young people across Monmouthshire to give feedback on issues that they felt impacted their lives. Young people were provided with ten topics chosen by the Monmouthshire Youth Council. From the ten topics discussed this year, young people said their greatest concern was the cost of living crisis, with the impact on their social lives, future opportunities, and overall wellbeing being an influence on this. 

Monmouthshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr. Mary Ann Brocklesby said: ” It was fantastic to welcome the Minister to Abergavenny and show the fantastic opportunities we provide across the school holidays. Through funding by Welsh Local Government Association, young people in Monmouthshire have access to fun and educational programmes across the summer. It was fantastic to see the smiles on everyone’s faces and speak to the young people in attendance.”

MonLife provides a vast range of activities for children and young people this summer. For more information, visit: www.monlife.co.uk/school-holiday-activities 

Local children have a splashing time at MonLife’s Swimming Festival

MonLife’s recent School Swimming Festival welcomed over 345 primary school children to participate in inclusive aquatic activities across Monmouthshire.

Festivals in Abergavenny, Caldicot, Chepstow and Monmouth leisure centres allowed pupils to participate in a series of non-competitive fun events, including floats, strokes and woggle races.

The events that saw 23 primary schools participate, were supported by Swim Wales and 24 MonLife Leadership Academy students. The MonLife Leadership Academy provides support for young people in Monmouthshire to achieve their full potential. Participants gain valuable skills through sport that can be transferred into everyday life.

Cllr Sara Burch, Cabinet Member for Inclusive and Active Communities said:

“These events provided a great opportunity for our young swimmers across Monmouthshire to enjoy fun activities without any pressure to be competitive. The festival demonstrated just how rewarding an active lifestyle can be. Well done to all the children who took part.”

Each of MonLife’s leisure centres features a swimming pool open for public admission, private bookings and classes. All pools are open seven days a week. Throughout the year, all MonLife’s leisure centres have free swimming opportunities. To take advantage of free swimming, participants will need a MonLife card that can be collected at any of MonLife’s leisure centres.

Find further information on free swimming times and other school holiday activities on the MonLife’s website: www.monlife.co.uk/school-holiday-activities/

For more information about current Sport Development initiatives, please visit – www.monlife.co.uk/connect/sports-development or email sport@monmouthshire.gov.uk

Turner’s inspiring painting on display at Chepstow Museum

An important watercolour of Chepstow Castle painted by JMW Turner in 1794 has been unveiled in the town’s museum. The work, titled ‘Chepstow Castle on the River Wye Monmouthshire Wales’ is now on public display at Chepstow Museum for residents and visitors to admire. The evocative painting is being displayed as part of an exhibition on The Wye Tour in a dedicated gallery space.

The watercolour dated 1794, was painted when Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851) was 19 years old. It was produced on his first tour, which was a journey into South Wales, when Chepstow was his first port of call after crossing the Severn. This view of the castle and riverside the one that would have greeted him.

Cllr. Sara Burch, Cabinet Member for Active and Inclusive Communities, said:

“Having access outside of a major city, to work by such an important artist is really important. In bringing art back to the source of its inspiration, we hope that it will give communities and visitors the chance to appreciate and be inspired by these artworks. They celebrate the townscape as well as the landscape of the Wye Valley. I would encourage everyone to visit the free exhibition when they can, it’s a fascinating look at the changing face of the area.”

Chepstow Museum has been building its collection of original artworks of the Wye Valley by late 18th and early 19th century artists with the support of The Purchase Grant Fund administered by the V&A, Art Fund, the Beecroft Bequest and strategically with the National Lottery Heritage Fund Collecting Cultures Scheme project focused on the Wye Tour. The purchase of the Turner watercolour was funded by these organisations, supported by the Museum Acquisition Fund.

The Wye Tour was a voyage down the River Wye from Ross to Chepstow. It brought artists, writers and early tourists to the area who were attracted by its picturesque scenery and romantic ruins. Its heyday was from 1770 to 1850, the period that coincided with the great development of watercolours. It has been the main focus of Chepstow Museum’s active collecting for the last 15 years and it has brought together significant works by important artists of the period.

Monmouthshire’s museum collections have also become a source of images for writers, journalists and film makers looking for illustrations of the Wye Valley and the Wye Tour. It is hoped that it will in its turn continue to inspire visitors to come to Chepstow and the Wye Valley to see its scenery for themselves, and the artworks at Chepstow Museum.

The Wye Tour exhibition is open every day 11am-4pm (except Weds) and will run until Sunday 17^th December, 2023 at Chepstow Museum. For more information about Monmouthshire’s museums visit www.monlife.co.uk/heritage/

Have your say on green spaces and nature sites in Monmouthshire

Monmouthshire County Council has received funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

The funding will enable between 15-20 small and medium sized Green Infrastructure Projects in Abergavenny, Monmouth, Magor with Undy and Rogiet to be designed. Green Infrastructure is the term used to describe the creation and management of green spaces, as well as schemes such as native tree planting, woodland management and sites that support wildlife and pollinators, including ponds and wetland.

This project is seeking further opinions of local residents, about the proposed sites and biodiversity enhancements. To get involved head to the Monlife website, fill out a short questionnaire and give your feedback before the consultation closes at midnight on Monday 11^th September, 2023.

Monmouthshire County Council has mapped ‘Green Corridors’ (a series of connecting green spaces) which criss-cross urban areas. Wildlife, such as pollinators and birds, use these green corridors and linked green spaces as stepping stones for shelter or to find food, enroute to larger landscapes which encircle our settlements. Urban spaces are becoming increasingly more important in helping our wildlife thrive.

The importance of having wildlife rich native habitats has been identified on specific green sites, and proposed outline designs are designed to work alongside existing uses of these green spaces.  The additional benefits to these new or enhanced habitats are: creation of resilient ecosystems, community wellbeing, managing climate change, providing clean air, storing carbon, providing flooding solutions and creating access to nature on our doorsteps. Where possible the council will seek funding to deliver these sites going forward.

Proposed Monmouthshire locations include:

Abergavenny: Old Hereford Road Verges Key Plan, Old Hereford Road Deri View Primary School Car Park, Old Hereford Road (Central), Old Hereford Road (South), Belgrave Park, Cantref Primary School, Our Lady & St Michael’s Catholic Primary School,

Monmouth: Rolls Avenue, Hendre Close Playing Field, Rockfield Avenue & Watery Lane, Clawdd Du (West), Clawdd Du (East)

Magor with Undy: Newport Rd Verges, Blenheim Avenue & Redwick Park . 
Rogiet: Slade View verges & traffic islands, Rogiet Playing Fields, Rogiet Countryside Park/Severn Tunnel Junction.

Potential Green Infrastructure projects that could be included (dependent on existing ecology on the site):

1. New Hedgerows /management of hedgerows
2. Grassland management change/ Native wildflower meadows
3. Native bulb planting
4. Native Tree planting, including Orchards
5. Woodland management, such as coppicing
6. Pond creation or Damp/wet scrapes
7. Wildlife homes: bird/bat/mammal boxes/refugia as part of scheme

Cllr. Sara Burch, Cabinet Member for Inclusive and Active Communities said: “We are thrilled that the funding has been made available to develop plans for green corridors in Monmouthshire. I hope that residents and businesses in the areas being considered – Abergavenny, Magor with Undy, Monmouth and Rogiet – will take the opportunity to get involved and let us know what they would like to see planned for their community.”

Cllr. Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment said: “This survey is important and will help get a better understanding of what Monmouthshire communities want. We’re already working with elected Town and County Councillors as well as local interest groups, but it is important for the teams working on this project understand how the spaces are currently used and what communities want to see in these green spaces. I would encourage everyone to visit Green Corridor Infrastructure Project – Monlife where you will find a link to a questionnaire. Your feedback really will help these project progress.”

Tags: climate emergency, MonLife, Monmouthshire