Penrhys Village Festival

WHAT A SCORCHER!
Saturday 25TH August 2007

The Annual Penrhys Festival kicked off the bank holiday weekend with a mix of family fun and live bands. On one of the hottest days of the summer the outdoor event attracted hundreds of people.

The multicultural theme really brightened up the day with a huge Chinese Dragon made by children of Penrhys leading the procession to the opening of the event. People were encouraged to dress in costumes from around the world and Kath Lewis kept cool with a traditional Indian dress.

A range of traditional activities were on offer such as the rodeo bull from Mexico, bouncy castles, table top games and community stalls along with a range of workshops such as India Dance Wales who treated the crowd with traditional Indian dance workshops, with many joining in the routines

Penrhys also hosted ten International Volunteers through an UNA Exchange programme; with the volunteers supporting the Penrhys Play scheme during the fortnight leading up to the event. Julie Edwards - Development Worker who organised the visit said that the "volunteers have arrived from around the world such as a, South Korea, Vietnam, Italy, Germany, France and this event has made them feel at home with some involved in performing songs from their countries"

The event also welcomed the Mayor Jane Ward who helped promote the launch of Rhys Radio 87.7fm, which goes live in 3rd September and covers much of the Rhondda Fach and Fawr. Evening entertainment was performed on the Open air amphitheatre in Penrhys with live bands performing a mix of songs for the crowds. The event culminated in live band - 49 Giraffes playing a range of modern rock and pop songs whilst a huge firework display lit up the sky over the Rhondda Fawr behind them.

Wayne Carter - Manager of Penrhys Partnership commented "without the support of staff and volunteers in Penrhys the Annual Festival plus other activities through the summer could not have taken place. They have been brilliant this summer and the work they have put in has made a huge difference in the opportunities we are able to offer. We have developed a training programme for local people to build up their skills and then put something back by supporting community events and activities."

The Festival has rounded off a very busy summer for staff and volunteers in Penrhys providing a range of activities for the community such as trips, Rhondda Fach Summer Sports, Summer Skillz Programme, a two week Playscheme and arts and crafts activities.

Local Play Worker - Laura Ackerman said "I am absolutely shattered but the kids have been great to work with and it has been all worth while - thanks to this opportunity the Penrhys Partnership have helped me to develop new skills and the summer has flown by."

For more information contact:

Wayne Carter or Kelly Williams at Penrhys Partnership on 01443 755008

Email:-penrhys@penrhyspartnership.co.uk

The event is supported by The Arts Council of Wales.