Tony Blake, who died recently, was well loved in the local community for his work with the Preseli Penlan Football Club, which he ran for 47 years. Accordingly the local councillors felt it appropriate that these awards were named after him.
This year the award was shared by Pete Harrison and John Davies, who are both veterans and suffering from PTSD, but who became friends when they started volunteering at the Blaenymaes Drop-in Centre.
They quickly made an impact, taking it upon themselves to clear the very overgrown garden in order that it could be used better by the drop-in centre and the people that visit there. The garden now has planters to grow vegetables for the community, a renovated pergola providing a quiet area for people to sit and chat or just reflect and very soon, will have a workshop built for additional projects.
They have also used the opportunity to set up their own Men's Shed group. Their work with the Men's Shed has not only had a direct impact on the drop-in centre, but also on the various men that attend. They have demonstrated that they are committed to breaking down barriers to mental health, in particular being so open in sharing their own personal life stories and encouraging other men to speak up. Pete recorded a very personal story on video, which has not only been shown locally but also internationally.
They have successfully applied for an 'Awards for All' grant, which is providing £10,000 to start a group which they are calling Chatterbox. Chatterbox will be based in a local gym providing an opportunity for people to have s safe place to discuss their mental health and train together.
It was a pleasure to be able to present the award to such worthy winners.
Thank you Peter, they are certainly worthy winners. Once again thank you for your support.
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