Newport Gwent congregation welcomed their local community as they once again opened their doors in a second annual Open House. The event was opened by The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Newport, Councillor Herbie Thomas and The Mayoress of Newport, Miss Jacqueline Mitchell. In his opening address, The Mayor focused largely on the two charities being supported on the day; the Local Food Bank and 'The Princess Trust'. The Mayor expressed his appreciation “for the organisation and the work of the Newport Gwent congregation in making this day so successful”. He also stated that he and the Mayoress had enjoyed themselves at the various demonstrations before having a tour of the building.
'The Little Princess Trust' is a Hereford-based charity that supplies real hair wigs to boys and girls across the UK and Ireland who have lost their hair during treatment for cancer. Hairdressers donated their time on the day as they ran a very popular ‘mini salon’ collecting hair, while Hazel Griffiths and Janice Hoskins offered blood pressure checks in a ‘health room’ as they discussed the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
Working in partnership with Christ Church, a local Christian church who organise the food bank in the Newport area, they were delighted to receive the food that was donated by people attending throughout the day. Adults were treated to demonstrations on ‘Healthy Eating on a Budget’ and ‘Researching Your Family History.’
Local Church leader (bishop) Terry Peters remarked, “This year's open day was a great success. Councillor Herbie Thomas, Mayor of Newport opened the proceedings and along with the lady Mayoress stayed for about two hours. They showed great interest in the chapel, the Church organization and the contributors to the open day. Our hygiene kits and children's activity kits, ready for local cases of hardship or disasters, were also of great interest. The object of getting involved in the community was achieved in style thanks to the organizing committee. It’s been a great day and I hope we can do it again next year.”