Senedd Member, Eluned Morgan MS has joined the community of Ystradgynlais in campaigning to raise £100,000 in an bid to keep the well-loved Welfare Ground Playing Fields.

For the past century, the Ystradgynlais community has leased the land but that lease is about to expire. The popular fields are used for tennis, bowls, cricket, football, rugby and have also hosted carnivals and festivals over the years.

During a recent visit, Mid & West Wales Senedd Member, Eluned met with local Councillors, Wayne Thomas, Sue McNicholas, Huw Williams, and Tristan Davies who are part of a steering group that have successfully engaged with landowners to negotiate a £2,000 annual lease.

“The only caveat to the agreed term of the Lease of 50 years, is that it needs to be paid up-front,” said the Labour politician, who is calling for support to raise the funds.

The Senedd member added: “The impact on children and young people of suitable sports facilities cannot be underestimated. We know that greater physical activity promotes better mental health and wellbeing and we must do all we can to preserve this vital community asset. If anyone is able to assist with supporting and highlighting the campaign, I would urge you to please come forward and help us secure this land for current and future generations.”

Leading the challenge is Councillor Wayne Thomas, who has welcomed the positive response from the community.

He said: “The Local Councillors were extremely grateful for the interest being shown by Eluned and her assistance highlighting the campaign.

"The idea of our town losing this wonderful community sports facility is too tragic to contemplate. Please donate what you can to save our playing fields.

"We would warmly welcome fundraising events, sponsorship events and any and all opportunities that we know our vibrant and creative community can dream up to raise these desperately needed funds. Collection boxes for donations can be found at local shops and businesses. Please act to help save Ystradgynlais Welfare Ground Playing for the benefit of us all.”

To make a donation online, please visit www.ycwga.co.uk, Facebook/YCWGA or email [email protected].