Jane Dodds has congratulated the miners’ welfare hall in Ystradgynlais on the contribution it has made to the local community.

The Mid and West Wales MS said at the Senedd that the hall was opened 90 years ago.

She said “this wonderful hall” was built from miners’ contributions, costing them £9,000 in 1934.

Ms Dodds said: “The opening ceremony was followed by a week of celebrations. They included a grand production of the The Bells of Beaulieu by the Ystradgynlais Juvenile Operatic Society produced by Cynlais Davies.

“Since 1934, the hall has gone through various transformations, and today it is a vibrant arts centre and community hub.

“Sometimes, it’s also a radio station and sometimes it’s a TV studio.

“It has a cinema, showing all the latest films, and it hosts events like an Abba tribute band and has a variety of workshops and activities.

“It also boasts the Josef Herman Art Foundation Cymru, which is dedicated to promoting an appreciation of the life and work of Josef Herman, who has exhibited at the Tate Britain.”

Ms Dodds said the hall is proud of the fact that it is one of the few welfare halls in the country that has retained its original purpose of being a place of culture and education.

She told MSs: “This hall is by and for the whole community of Ystradgynlais.

“Diolch to all of the staff and volunteers who have been there over the past 90 years. We wish them well for the next 90 years.”