Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:

“We are delighted that Awen has been announced as a recipient of the second round of Welsh Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund, administered by Arts Council of Wales. This financial support will provide a welcome boost to our charity as we prepare to reopen the Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl, Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall and The Met in Abertillery over the coming months.

“We are particularly pleased as this funding will help an individual begin or further their career within the arts and culture industry, as it will support the creation of a new Programme and Events Assistant role to work across our venues. We will also be using some of this funding to continue supporting local and freelance artists, by developing our foyer space at the Grand Pavilion to provide a showcase for their visual artwork.

“Together with our with all our local authority partners and our loyal customers, we are grateful for Art Council of Wales’ ongoing support, and Welsh Government’s recognition of the positive social impact that arts and culture has on people’s lives and our local communities – and their powerful contribution to health and wellbeing.

“We are working hard behind the scenes to reopen our venues with all the necessary COVID-19 safety measures in place, and we look forward to welcoming you all back to enjoy live and participatory events as soon as possible.”