The Barry buzz is back again in full force this summer. After two years of disruption and lockdowns, Barry’s community spirit is well and truly alive again. The major highlight being the return of GlastonBarry which looked totally amazing for two sold out days last week. Only Barry could attract the A-Lister likes of Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Ed Sheeran! Romilly Park is a great setting too, and I am so proud of how brilliantly the town turned out to support the festival after its long-awaited return.
Barry Island 10K also returned and was fabulously supported as well. The event is a fantastic opportunity for Barry to attract the very best runners and it seemed like another very competitive field. Well done to all those who competed. Unfortunately, this year, I was out of action! Just like the weekly Barry Island Park Run, the 10K has a wonderfully friendly atmosphere meaning that everyone of different running ability is welcome.
And as ever, Barry Island has once again been alive with thousands of beach goers and day trippers. Maybe it is the new incredibly scary ride that has attracted more tourists. I am yet to pluck up the courage to have a go on it!
With all these events and many more going on across the Vale. Barry is certainly alive with its summer buzz and its utterly fantastic to see.
Dementia Friendly Vale
Support for those living with Dementia and their families continues to grow in the Vale. The Dementia Friendly Vale website https://www.dementiafriendlyvale.com/ has recently been developed as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all information and support in the area.
As a certified ‘Dementia Champion’ I am passionate about supporting those affected in the community and I am planning on running Dementia Friendly workshops later in the autumn. Please be in touch if you’d like to be involved. They only last an hour and highlight how best to support neighbours, friends and family who live with dementia.
The “Forget-me-not” Dementia Hub which runs every Thursday and Friday at 51 Eastgate, Cowbridge from 2-4pm provides vital support and information for those living with dementia and their families. Although you are welcome to just turn-up, it is advisable to book your place by ringing the Cowbridge office on 02922 671 497.
There is also The Dementia Café which runs every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month in the afternoon at Our Lady & St Illtyd church in Llantwit, again this offers valuable support and guidance, and anyone is welcome to drop-in.
These sessions are totally invaluable and I highly recommend them. Keep an eye out on my Facebook and website for more information.
These initiatives highlight just some reasons why the Vale is such a great place to live and work.
