Information on who’ll be there on #BlaenavonWHD

🌟 Community Stalls

YAMS – Youth Ambassadors

The World Heritage Youth Ambassadors are supporting and stewarding today’s event. Open to young people aged 10–18, this inspiring group empowers youth to have a voice in their lives, communities, and heritage. Find out how to get involved by visiting their stall at Bethlehem Chapel.

Blaenavon Town Brass Band

One of Blaenavon’s oldest cultural institutions, the Brass Band has roots dating back to 1833. Today, they continue to enrich our local heritage through powerful and traditional music. Stop by to learn more about their history and upcoming performances.

The Ragged Victorians

Award-winning historical re-enactment group The Ragged Victorians – The Great Unwashed bring to life the struggles of the working poor in Victorian England, circa 1851. Track them down throughout the day to hear powerful stories and explore the realities of life during the Industrial Revolution.

Twinkling Toes

Based in Blaenavon, Twinkling Toes offers fun and friendly dance classes for children aged 2 and up. With a focus on joy through movement, they also hold an annual show for families. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram to learn more.

Shining Stars Music Academy

Located on Broad Street, Shining Stars provides singing, music, theatre, and dance tuition for all ages — from babies to adults. Whether you’re a beginner or building confidence, their sessions nurture creativity and talent. Pop by to discover their full range of classes.

Torfaen Women’s Labour Group

This active local branch supports women and girls in aspiring to political leadership. They believe a fairer society is possible when women are empowered to lead. Visit their stall to learn about their work and how to get involved.

Botanic Possessions

Florist Kate, based on Castle Street, grows her own flowers and creates stunning bespoke arrangements for weddings, funerals, and events. Today, her Bouquet Bar is open until 3pm with a chance to win a luxury bouquet worth £65 in the raffle! Her new studio opens this Christmas on Broad Street.

Victory Church

Victory Church is running a delicious bake sale in aid of Cyfannol Women’s Aid. Enjoy cakes, sweet treats, and hot drinks while supporting a great cause. Don’t forget to pop in!

South Wales Samaritans

Meet the team from South Wales Samaritans and find out more about their vital 24/7 listening service, supporting people through difficult times. Learn how to get support — or how to become a volunteer.

Blaenavon Under 14s Rugby Team

This passionate youth team is here to show off their skills and raise funds! Visit their stall for fun activities like designing your own keyring, naming the teddy, and taking part in a lucky lolly dip.

Blaenavon RFC

Established in 1877, Blaenavon RFC is a proud community club with a thriving Mini & Junior section launched in 2017. With over 130 children and inclusive teams from under-5s to seniors, they promote unity and family values through sport.

Blaenavon Blues AFC

Founded in 1947, Blaenavon Blues is one of the largest football organisations in Torfaen. Their senior team competes at Tier 3 in the Ardal Southern League, with junior teams starting from age 5. The mini and junior sections are the heart of the club.

Torfaen Talks CIC

Torfaen Talks CIC provides accessible mental health support for adults, outside the usual 9–5. Their ‘pay what you can’ counselling, free pop-up wellbeing sessions, and community podcast aim to break stigma and improve wellbeing across the borough. Find them online or at their stall for support.

Gwent Wildlife Trust

Gwent Wildlife Trust works to protect and restore local wildlife habitats across Monmouthshire. As part of the national Wildlife Trusts partnership, they offer education, events, and volunteering opportunities to help nature thrive in our communities.

Foster Wales

With over 400 children in care across Torfaen and only 160 foster carers, Foster Wales is encouraging more people to open their hearts and homes. All you need is a spare room and a passion for helping children. Visit their stall to find out how fostering could change a life.

Gwent Police Cadets

Aged 13–18, the Police Cadets take part in local events, learn about policing and the law, and support their communities. Find out how young people can get involved in this rewarding, skills-building programme.

Bethlehem Chapel

At the heart of Blaenavon, Bethlehem Chapel offers community space and activities like yoga, pottery, FoodShare, lunch clubs and coffee mornings. Their hall is available to hire for community groups and events. Drop by to learn more about how they support local wellbeing.

Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall & Community Museum

The Workmen’s Hall is home to the Blaenavon Community Museum, celebrating the town’s industrial and social history. Volunteers run free family history sessions, exhibitions, and more. The Hall also offers a cinema, auditorium, and event space for the community. Visit today to explore the museum and community stalls.

Blaenavon World Heritage Centre

Housed in the historic former St. Peter’s School, the Centre features interactive exhibits, historical displays, a public library, and the popular Front Row Foods café. Dive into Blaenavon’s rich past and discover why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blaenavon Heritage Railway

Run entirely by volunteers, the Blaenavon Heritage Railway offers steam and diesel train journeys through the stunning local landscape. With family events like Steam Santa and Halloween Ghost Trains, it’s a must-visit for all ages. Ride today or visit their stall to find out more!

Blaenavon Town Council

Thank you to Blaenavon Town Council for kindly allowing today’s event to take place under their trading licence and for their continued support of community activities.

World Heritage Day Team

This event has been brought to life by the dedicated volunteers of the Blaenavon World Heritage Day Team, led by Ashleigh Taylor. They’ve worked tirelessly for over five months to deliver a free, inclusive day for the whole community. If you’d like to join next year’s team, visit them today at their HQ in the Workmen’s Hall

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ON STAGE

11:15 AM – 11:45 AM | Twinkling Toes

Twinkling Toes is a vibrant Blaenavon-based dance group offering fun and inclusive dance classes for children aged 2 and up. Their sessions are all about building confidence through movement, and they host an annual show for families to enjoy.

📱 Find them on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

11:55 AM – 12:30 PM | Shining Stars Music Academy

Shining Stars Music Academy, located on Broad Street in Blaenavon, offers high-quality lessons in singing, music, theatre, and dance. With classes ranging from babies to adults, there’s something for everyone looking to grow their skills and creativity.

📱 Follow them online to see what they’re up to.

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PARADE PERFORMANCES

1:30 PM – 1:55 PM | The Orphic Blue

Performing under the name The Orphic Blue, South Wales duo Mics & Fins bring a mix of original songs, acoustic guitar, rich harmonies, and rhythm. Now based in Blaenavon, they’ve appeared at events including HowTheLightGetsIn, Devauden Festival, and Cwmbran Big Event.

🎧 Follow them on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at @MicsandFins and @TheOrphicBlue.

2:00 PM – 2:25 PM | Blaenavon Town Brass Band

With roots going back to 1833, Blaenavon Town Brass Band is one of the town’s oldest cultural groups. Their music remains a proud and powerful part of local heritage, uniting generations through traditional brass music.

2:30 PM – 2:55 PM | Melissa Carter

Melissa Carter is a talented 15-year-old vocalist with a growing reputation across Torfaen. She’s performed at several community events, including Torfaen Pride, and brings a versatile and heartfelt performance to every stage.

3:05 PM – 3:30 PM | Sam Robinson

Sam Robinson is a 23-year-old guitarist and singer from Blaenavon, currently studying music performance in Cardiff. Whether playing solo or with his band, Sam blends a wide range of genres into his live sets. Expect a passionate and engaging performance to round off the day.

🎤 Closing Speeches – Ashleigh Taylor

Join us as Ashleigh Taylor wraps up the day’s celebrations with a few words of thanks and reflection.