Several businesses across the Caerphilly county borough received a special visit recently, when members of Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet called in to see the good work being undertaken by firms that have received grant funding.
The Cabinet Members visited some of the businesses that have previously received funding from the TARA (Tourism and Recreation Advancement) Fund and the RIPI (Rural Industry and Produce Innovation) Fund.
Both are administered as part of the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-11, and delivered by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Countryside Service. Private micro-businesses with less than 10 employees that are based in rural wards of Caerphilly county borough are eligible to apply.
Cllr Lindsay Whittle, Leader of the Council said, “We were delighted to be invited to visit some of the businesses we have previously granted funding to to assist them in ensuring their businesses were able to come to fruition. It is excellent to see such a real entrepreneurial spirit emanating from so many people in our county borough”.
Members visited a number of businesses including:
- Castle Chocolates – Specialist chocolate producers based in Bedwas, whose customer base includes Tesco, Asda and Crabtree & Evelyn.
- Craft Wales – Based in Maesycwmmer, Craft Wales make bespoke large-scale wooden play equipment such as trains and pirate ships.
- Crafts for Everyone – Ichthus Ceramics – Started out as a social enterprise helping people with specific needs, Ichthus Ceramics now sell handmade tableware to high-end shops and galleries.
- PS Cycles – A cycle hire company based in Abercarn, in close proximity to Cwmcarn Forest Drive. This company has paved the way for tourists to have the opportunity to experience all that Caerphilly county borough’s countryside has to offer by bike.
- Blaengawney Cider – Caerphilly’s only cider maker is based in Newbridge – their award winning ciders and perry are reaching customers far and wide.
As part of the tour, Crafts for Everyone also launched their brand new website, with Cllr Lyn Ackerman cutting the ‘virtual ribbon’.
The TARA (Tourism and Recreation Advancement) Fund helps businesses within the tourism and recreation sector, for example, Bed and Breakfasts, visitor attractions, cycle hire etc.
The RIPI (Rural Industry and Produce Innovation) Fund helps businesses in the craft and agrifood sector, for example, wood workers, cider makers, craft and pottery makers, chocolatiers etc.
Please visit www.caerphilly.gov.uk/cwmamynydd for more information.
