A YOUTH and community centre in Tredegar which has worked with thousands of youngsters from deprived backgrounds is to close its doors after 20 years.

Tredegar Youth Café, on the Circle in Tredegar, used to be run by volunteers at least four times a week to provide support and leisure activities to children and young people as young as six.

But now the club has to pack up because of dwindling numbers of its dedicated volunteers to keep the centre running.

The High Sherriff of Gwent, Andrew Tuggey, visited the youth club on Saturday, June 27 to present the volunteers with awards recognizing their long-standing service to the community.

Mr Tuggey said: “It was quite a sad event. Tredegar is not a very wealthy part of the world.

“There’s a lady called Gaynor James who is chairwoman of the café and they have protected this wonderful haven for young people from aged six and upwards.

“They are now having to pack up but the need is still there. You’re talking about providing a centre for people who are third generation unemployed.”

Gaynor James, chairwoman of the youth café, said: “Many of the young people who attend face issues such as fuel poverty, family issues with drug and alcohol problems and many lack self esteem.

“The young people who attend the café come from deprived backgrounds and need to work extra hard to get what they want in life. Our organisation aim is to guide them on the right route and ensure that they are given support, respect and encouragement in whatever they decide to do.”

The centre organizes summer activities, trips, games and quiz nights as well as offering leisure activities like pool and art.

She said unfortunately “the time has come to close the doors for the final time” after the volunteers are getting older. Mrs James gave thanks to the people who have worked to make the project a success.

Ms James also thanked the families of former volunteers Joan Lloyd, Betty Walsh, Enid Bridgeman and Val Davies, all who have sadly died.

As well as thanking the long service volunteers, Town Council and Blaenau Gwent councillors, Ms James added: “Finally, thanks to each and every young person, who over the years have given us much laughter and special memories. You made it your own and what a success.”

High Sherriff Andrew Tuggey presented a certificate and memento to the current volunteers. Mayor of Blaenau Gwent, Derrick Bevan, also attended as well as members of the public.

Ms James said: "The volunteers were overwhelmed."