YMCA Barry has celebrated the opening their dedicated youth centre, new studio and refurbished cafe.

Staff, volunteers and members were joined by guests and dignitaries including Jane Hutt, AM, councillor Lis Burnett, and Ron Woods, Director of Community Services.

Chairman of YMCA Barry, Councillor Chris Elmore, opened the evening thanking the Welsh Government for the support they have given to YMCA Barry and said how proud he is of the dedication of the YMCA team in always responding creatively to local needs and in such a professional manner.

Cllr Elmore acknowledged the effective partnerships with Innovate Trust, who now operate Café Snax as a new social enterprise, and the Vale of Glamorgan Council Youth Service, who operate the new dedicated youth centre.

The evening finished with performances from young artists Jake O’Keefe, Caitlin Dolman, Gareth Jones and Tom Colgan from the Major Music project in Llantwit Major - the first acts to use the new studio space and stage to perform.

Guests were then able to look around the facility and meet staff involved in the partnerships and enjoy a buffet supplied by Innovate Trust.

YMCA Barry plan on using the new studio space to run a number of activities for the community such as movie nights, gaming tournaments, open mic nights for live performance, exercise and dance classes.

For more information follow YMCA Barry on facebook.com/ymcabarry