CWMAMAN town council has taken on a development officer to help run Glanaman Community Education Centre.

Robert Venus has taken up the post after the town council took over the hall from the county council as part of the asset transfer programme.

Robert is now keen to hear what the public want from their local community centre.

He said: “The centre is already home to a number of classes but we want to hear from local residents to find out what courses and classes they want available locally. It is, after all, a centre for the public and we want to see them make good use of it.

“We are looking to cater for everyone and are keen to hold classes both in the evenings and weekends for those in daytime and weekday employment and, of course, there are still the many classes put on during the day.”

Classes and groups running from the centre include, puppy training, computer class, parent and toddler group, table top sales, fitness classes, stained glass window class, drama groups and coffee mornings, to name a few.

Robert added: “We are keen to increase the number of classes and events but we want them to thrive so it needs to be what people want so we need the public’s feedback.

“There has been a number of adult education cutbacks and we want to step in and fill the gap of the cuts.”

Robert added that the centre is moving in the right direction and people are beginning to talk about it in the community.

He said: “We need that buzz in the area to continue. The main aims we have set out is to provide learning and employment opportunities for both students and tutors.

“In turn the money we receive for the centre will help keep it running and deliver more events and classes for the area.

“I don’t care how wacky the idea I’m here to listen and see if we can host it for you. The stranger the better.”

Robert said he didn’t just need ideas but was open to people who wanted to get involved and help establish a club or group in the area.

He said: “If someone wants to set up a club I can help them get it up and running.

“We are up for anything and everything and open to all kinds of exciting ideas.”

On May 30 the centre is set to host a craft fair with local artists selling their handcrafted goods.

“This event will be the perfect opportunity for people to come and meet me for a chat,” said Robert.

“I am here to offer help and support to local businesses. It’s important we keep people in the area.

“I want to be able to help locals achieve big things and I believe together we can do that.”

For more information on classes and courses at the centre you can follow them on Facebook – search for Y Ganolfan Glanaman Community Centre or contact the centre via Cwmaman town council’s website at cwmamantc.org