What happens next? That’s the question everyone is asking who attended the very successful “My Square Mile” Rural Futures event held in Kilgetty Community Centre last weekend. With over 200 hundred people participating, a great range of ideas and potential projects were indentified.

Commenting on the success of the event, Rural Futures coordinator Victoria Bancroft said: “It was amazing to see such a high level of community engagement and the enthusiasm generated was infectious. Young and old alike were absolutely fascinated by the historical photos and maps exhibited. Special thanks must go to Community Councillors Paul Wyatt and Gavin Thomas who produced such a wonderful and evocative display which we all enjoyed. Likewise to Joan Beynon and Rose Jenkins whose KSA inspired scrapbooks were an absolute delightful trip down memory lane for everyone.

Thanks also to the other organisations who took part and contributed to the overall success, to the volunteers from the community council and association and WI members who helped with setting up the event and providing refreshments. The sausage rolls from Watkins Bakery were especially appreciated”

The next step is to evaluate the ideas put forward and to start a rolling programme of achieving these aims. Already a number of initiatives are underway including the formation of a “Historical” group, a friendship club and coffee morning and a number of other smaller community interest or learning groups. Watch out for further information about the start up dates which will be announced shortly.

County Councillor David Pugh said “This was a very successful first step under the Rural Futures programme which has given some very clear messages about what concerns and aspirations the residents of Begelly and Kilgetty have relating to the future. Both days proved that community spirit is alive and well, but now needs to be channelled into positive actions.

“I urge anyone with ideas or projects in mind to come forward and start getting involved. Don’t just leave it to a few volunteers why not offer a little of your time and skills in helping the community.

“It was a truly inspirational couple of days and we all thoroughly enjoyed meeting residents and chatting to them.”

The steering group will be meeting next week to receive the results of the surveys conducted and then will start making plans to implement the actions and projects indentified. Some may offer a quick and easy solution but others may well require a longer term approach.

If anyone wants further information or would like to participate in future please contact David Pugh on 01834 812521 or email [email protected]