Column in the Barry & District News by Alun Cairns MP:
Firstly, I want to highlight a fantastic fundraising initiative by Barry Athletic Cricket Club (based on Barry Island) in support of the NHS following the vital role they have played throughout the Coronavirus pandemic.
I recently visited Barry Athletic as they unveiled their new shirts which display a ‘Thank You NHS’ message, following their fundraising efforts which raised £1,040 for the NHS charity.
I want to put on record my thanks to them for the work they have done to raise these funds and for the role they play in our community. The Club is fortunate to be led by the most enthusiastic and dedicated individuals, who have worked to engage people of all age groups, made significant improvements to the clubhouse and are also taking on fundraising efforts like this to benefit the wider community. To everyone involved, thank you for all you are doing!
On a separate matter, readers may be aware that Holton Road traders have recently spoken out against the on-street car parking measures which have been introduced to assist with social distancing. While these measures will have been well meaning and intended to support the re-opening of our shopping areas, they are clearly not working. Unfortunately, they prevent people from parking on Holton Road and make it more difficult to support local businesses.
Following a meeting with traders and local Councillors, I called on Leaders of the Vale Council to engage with the business community to try to find a way forward that works for everyone.
I hope that the Council will now react to the strong representation they have received from stakeholders and support local businesses during this incredibly challenging period.
Finally, it was great to visit the new playground at Highlight Park following a significant upgrade, which has provided new equipment. I want to congratulate Councillors Vince Bailey and Leighton Rowlands who have worked so hard to get this fantastic facility delivered for children locally.