Assembly mbly Voice

WITH the sad news of the death of Bernard Baldwin MBE, Cynon Valley has lost a true legend.

Bernard was founder and patron of the Nos Galan Road Races and gave so much to the community.

I was proud to join the 10,000 people on the streets of Mountain Ash celebrating the 2016 Nos Galan, as 1,600 competitors took part in the various races.

Bernard remained an integral part of the event to the very end.

In a statement in the Senedd just before Christmas, I was able to pay tribute to Bernard and all who are involved in the Nos Galan’s commemoration of Guto Nyth Bran.

Bernard, your spirit will live on through the Nos Galan.

I recently met Citizens Advice to hear about the support they offer Cynon residents.

They told me about an important new initiative running an information stand at Ysbyty Cwm Cynon on Fridays on a fortnightly basis, at which they are able to point people in the right direction to services and give out basic information.

Their next stand is on January 13. Based in Mountain Ash Library, they hold drop in sessions throughout Cynon.

Times and venues for these can be found by ringing 01443 477113.

They also offer a direct advice line on 03444 77 20 20. Citizens Advice are currently looking for volunteers – this is a great way to help other local people!

In the week prior to the National Assembly for Wales returning after Christmas, it was good to work out of my constituency office in Aberdare.

I used this opportunity to engage with constituents on a variety of issues, helping tackle their problems and hearing their ideas about how we can make Cynon Valley an even better place to live.

This is one of the things I enjoy most about being an Assembly Member. My door is always open to residents of Cynon Valley, and I hold surgeries from my base at 27 High Street, Aberdare every Monday and Friday.

If you need to make an appointment to speak to me, ring 01685 881388 or email: Vikki.Howells@ assembly.wales.