CISWO is pleased to have supported Ely Valley Miners’ Welfare Association with a £4,080 grant to upgrade and repair their bowling green and helped secure an additional £9,000 for new floodlights and storage.
Ely Valley Miners’ Welfare has been a cornerstone of the Ely Valley community for many years, with the bowling green being the first thing to be put on the site by the mineworkers back in 1928. The welfare’s facilities now serve over 70 bowlers (ages 7–85), 250 young footballers (ages 5–18), and 100 adults in weekly walking football sessions. The upgrades ensure the site remains safe, accessible, and fit for growing demand.
Thanks to funding and support from CISWO, the facilities are now more versatile. Floodlights enable evening use during darker months and extended playing hours, and new secure and weatherproof storage, benefits both the bowls and football members.
Ryan Parry, Development Manager at CISWO, said: “We’re pleased to support the welfare with funding and guidance. These upgrades have made a real difference to the local community.”
Victoria Western, Chair of Trustees at Ely Valley Welfare Association, added: “We are delighted to receive this funding to repair our bowling green, which has allowed us to invite our County Team to use it as their home green.
“A big thanks to CISWO from the trustees, the bowlers of Ely Valley Bowls Association, and the Vale of Glamorgan County Bowls Association.”
To find out more about how CISWO is working to support independent mining charities and protect essential recreational and social facilities in former mining areas, visit the CISWO website.
