If you enjoyed helping out at the National Eisteddfod this summer and you’ve got a few hours to spare on a regular basis you might be interested in finding out more about local volunteering opportunities.

Following the success of the eisteddfod, the organisers are working with Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations, Monmouthshire County Council, the National Trust and many other partners to promote the benefits of volunteering locally.

Two sessions have been organised at the Kings Arms in Abergavenny at 2pm and 4.30pm on November 17, where representatives from a number of voluntary sector organisations, including public bodies and housing associations, will be on hand to talk about the options available.

Eisteddfod Chief Executive, Elfed Roberts, said, “Our community volunteers across Monmouthshire and the local area were fantastic. They worked tirelessly for almost two years raising awareness, money and preparing for the Eisteddfod’s visit. They were extremely enthusiastic and worked with us to promote the Eisteddfod to the people of Monmouthshire.

“As a festival which visits different areas of Wales every year, our work is now based in Anglesey for 2017 and Cardiff for the 2018 festival, but we are keen to encourage Eisteddfod volunteers to consider working with other organisations locally, who are actively recruiting volunteers at the moment.

“This is the first time we’ve worked on a project like this and the aim is to ensure a ‘volunteers legacy’.”

Owen Wilce, Volunteering Officer at Monmouthshire County Council, added, “The Eisteddfod was a great experience for the area and we are keen to build on its success for the future.

“The event at the Kings Arms is a chance to increase volunteering awareness with an emphasis on organisations working together to develop the opportunities available locally and to create a larger pool of individuals willing to donate their time to local and national causes in the region.”

If you’re interested you’re encouraged to register for the events, either online at gavowales.org.uk/volunteering, or by contacting the Monmouthshire Volunteer Centre run by GAVO on 01633 241 566.