The first weekend of August saw two successful events take place in aid of Hay and District Dial-a-Ride.

These two events were both kindly organised by Kelvyn Jenkins. 

The first of these took place at Hay Conservative Club on Saturday, August 3 for a ‘Night of ABBA and Elvis’, where attendees enjoyed a wonderful evening of great live music, chat and dancing.

The Cwmbran and District Pipes and Drums started off the evening with a rousing performance, and got everyone in the mood for a great night. This was followed by popular medleys of songs from both Elvis and ABBA. 

Sunday’s event at St Mary’s Church was a concert in memory of Violette Szabo and D-Day 80. 

Violette Szabo, who, as an SOE agent, went into France on June 7 1944 on her second mission, but was captured three days later. She, along with two other SOE agents, Denise Block and Lilian Rolfe, was executed in early 1945. Violette, as a child, had a close link with the area and her daughter Tania has lived near Builth Wells for many years

The Surrey Police Band, Cor Meibion Talgarth Male Voice Choir and singers Angela Kazimierczuk and Paul Badley performed beautifully to a fully packed church. 

A big thank you must go to special guest Tannia Szabo who spoke so movingly about the incredible life of her mother. 

Each event included a raffle run by Dial-a-Ride - congratulations to all winners. 

Overall an amazing total of £1815 was raised, all of which will be going towards the vital service. 

Many thanks to Kelvyn Jenkins as well as all volunteers who came to help out, all performers and everyone who attended. Your support is so greatly appreciated by Hay and District Dial-a-Ride.

Chief Executive Lesley Moore said: "It was a great weekend and a brilliant way to celebrate 30 years of our community transport charity. We always welcome new volunteers as drivers and passenger escorts to help us deliver over 4000 journeys per year. Contact [email protected] or call 01497 821616."