MS officially opens new community hockey facilities at Rydal Penrhos

A new community hockey facility in Colwyn Bay has celebrated its official opening.

It was hockey sticks at the ready at Rydal Penrhos earlier this month when local politicians joined students to open the school’s new astro turf and hockey facilities.

Leader of the Welsh Conservatives and Clwyd West MS Darren Millar gave a short speech at the official opening before cutting the ribbon with headmaster Tom Hutchinson and Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant.

The event was also attended by Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism, Sport and North Wales, and Vale of Clwyd MS, Gareth Davies.

“It is always a great pleasure to visit Rydal Penrhos and spend time with the wonderful pupils and staff,” said Darren Millar MS.

“The mood is always positive at the school, but spirits were particularly high during last week’s visit because of excitement over their new sporting facilities.

“Thanks to funding and partnership with both Hoci Cymru and Sport Wales, this new, state-of-the-art astro turf will benefit not only hockey players from the school, but also local clubs and teams.

“Planned outreach will ensure that the school will include children living in some of the most deprived wards in Wales, and I was pleased to hear that they will be working closely with local community organisations to build sport and well-being programmes which will benefit local families.

“Sport is vital not only for good health, but also for building confidence, teamwork and resilience among young people, and the opening of this new pitch marks a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to sport and pupil well-being.

“It was a real honour to open this outstanding facility, and to spend time with the youngsters who were eager to teach me a few hockey skills, there is no doubt that it will be a huge asset to the school as well as the wider community.”

Gareth Davies MS added: “It was fantastic to be part of the opening of these fantastic new facilities, which will serve not only Rydal Penrhos but the wider community too.

“Sport plays such an important role in inspiring the younger generation, encouraging healthy lifestyles and providing opportunities for personal growth both on and off the pitch.

“Facilities such as these are crucial in promoting fitness, mental health, and well-being, which ultimately contribute to a healthier, happier Wales.

“I look forward to seeing these pitches in regular use, helping to nurture the next generation of Welsh sporting talent and supporting our communities in leading active, healthy lives.”