Welsh star Iris Williams will help celebrate the 21st Anniversary of the credit union she launched, by giving a special homecoming concert in May.
The Pontypridd-born singer, who shot to fame with her hit He Was Beautiful is giving a special homecoming concert in Hawthorn Leisure Centre on Friday May 14th.
The event is a joint celebration for the Rhydyfelin Credit Union and the 30th anniversary of the Glyntaff Tenants and Residents Association.
The concert, The Voice of Iris Williams will also feature Cor Meibion Pontypridd, the Richard Williams Singers and pupils from Hawthorn High School.
Rhydyfelin Credit Union was formed in 1989. Credit unions are financial co-operatives owned and controlled by their members. They offer savings and great value loans plus they are local, ethical and know what their members want.
Each credit union has a common bond which determines who can join it: it could be for people living or working in the same area, working for the same employer or people who belong to the same association, church or trade union.
Iris said: “I well recall the day when I officially opened the Rhydyfelin Credit Union and am delighted to return 21 years later to celebrate this special anniversary. I always derive a great deal of pleasure from coming home to Wales because there’s no better audience in the world.
“I know from friends and family how important the Credit Union is to the people of Rhydyfelin and look forward with great excitement to sharing in their celebrations.”
Born in Pontypridd, Iris spent her first five years in a children’s home and various foster homes. Her professional career began when she recorded a Welsh version of Amazing Grace called Pererin Wyf before hitting the big time with the gold disc hit He Was Beautiful.
During her career Iris was invited to perform at the Royal Variety Show and fourteen royal performances followed along with numerous awards and accolades.
Now based in New York, Iris is a regular guest on luxury cruise liners, and has worked closely with Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, Tom Jones and Bob Hope. She continues to devote a great deal of her time to charity. In 2004 Iris was awarded the OBE in the New Year’s Honours List.
The Voice of Iris Williams is at Hawthorn Leisure Centre on Friday, May 14, 2010. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start. Tickets, priced £10 and £8 (concessions) are available from Hawthorn Leisure Centre on 01443 843406 or the Box Office at the Muni Arts Centre on 01443 485934.
