Bridge repairs undertaken

Powys Footpath Volunteer maintenance groups were unable to carry out their usual essential work during covid restrictions.

Sensing the frustrations of inactivity, Countryside Services Officer, Phil Stallard, initiated a programme of bridge inspections and Montgomery volunteers have taken up the challenge.

Over the last couple of months, a small team has been going out in the vales of Montgomery and Kerry to check the condition of bridges on footpaths.

Some require only a brush down to remove slippery moss and debris while others require more substantial repair and a further visit with new decking planks.

Inevitably, a few bridges have had to be condemned as completely unsafe pending full repair.

Intriguingly there are a number of ‘no-man’s bridges’ which appear on neither the Powys list nor the OS map.

They all need care and attention to ensure the Right of Way can be safely used, so are being logged and included on the maintenance schedules.

Volunteer team leader Brett Kibble said: “When focusing on bridges it is surprising the number there are and the amount of work to try and keep them in reasonable repair.

“We are pleased to be doing constructive work again and are grateful to Phil for devising this worthwhile project. Good to be back out with the team enjoying our glorious countryside and improving the footpath network.”

Pet support

Trefaldwyn Vets and its clients have been supporting a local pet charity and will continue to collect donations for them in 2022.

Registered charity Powys Pets in Need responds to pet owners experiencing financial hardship, mainly by providing free pet food for a short period to help owners who are struggling with increased or unexpected costs at home.

They donated over 100,000 pet meals in their first 21 months of operation.

Amy and Michael Le Clerc, founders of Powys Pets in Need, said: “We believe that this short term help would reduce the likelihood of families having to rehome their pets and the emotional distress.

“Many of these are people living alone where the pet is an important emotional comfort.

“No one should have to choose between feeding themselves or their pets.

“All our team would like to thank Charlie Puttock at Trefaldwyn Vets in Montgomery, and their customers who have donated items for Powys Pets In Need.”

Nurse Charlie Puttock, who organises the donations on behalf of the practice for the charity, said: “Thank you to our lovely clients who helped us support Powys Pets In Need last year.

“Trefaldwyn Vets like to support local charities as much as possible. We are still collecting for PPIN throughout the year. Any pet food, pet bedding or bric-a-brac for sale in support of them can be donated.”

Powys Pets in Need’s fundraising plans for 2022 will include a tombola in Newtown in June, as well as attending Guilsfield and Berriew shows in the summer.

Old Bell exhibition

Anne Ashcroft is joining Charlotte Durie for a week at Montgomery’s Old Bell Gallery in early February.

The pair said: “We aim for a jolly collaboration of all things romantic to bring joy to the winter days and provide you with crafty and arty gifts of all price ranges for yourself or the love of your life.”

Charlotte will have a selection of paintings, prints, cushions, homeware and clothing. Anne will have handmade crafted gifts and painted goodies.

They will open for six days from Tuesday, February 8 until Sunday, February 13 from 11am to 4pm.

Autumn fun captured on film

A video of the Glamtastic-Whamtastic event that took place in Montgomery Town Hall back in the autumn has now been edited and uploaded to its own YouTube Channel.

Search for Glamtastic-Whamtastic on YouTube to watch the full concert or individual songs.

The next music event to be held in the town hall will be ‘Shenanigans’, featuring live music sets from several local bands and acts.

This was due to have taken place on December 28 but it was decided by the organisers to postpone until such time as it can be held again safely.

All existing tickets will be valid for the rescheduled event and everyone who bought tickets has been informed.

If you would like to be notified when ‘Shenanigans’ is rescheduled or to reserve tickets please email tickets@montgomerypromotions.uk who will let you know as soon as they have more information.