Caerphilly Miners Centre community pays tribute to Katherine Hughes

Katherine Hughes is stepping down as chair after nearly two decades leading the effort to save and convert Caerphilly Miners Hospital into the Caerphilly Miners Centre, and a leaving event on January 24 brought together trustees, volunteers and supporters to pay tribute.

Katherine Hughes is stepping down as chair of the Caerphilly Miners Centre after nearly two decades of involvement. She first became active when she learned of plans to close Caerphilly Miners Hospital and began consulting neighbours. Over the years she led the project to convert the former hospital into a community hub that hosts a range of activities. A leaving event on January 24 brought together trustees, volunteers, partners and supporters. Event details: - The leaving event was held at the Miners Centre on January 24 and included trustees, volunteers, partners and supporters. - Hughes helped lead the campaign to save Caerphilly Miners Hospital and steer its conversion into the community centre now known as the Miners. - The centre has hosted notable visitors, including King Charles in 2017 and Cerys Matthews in 2021. - Former Caerphilly Assembly Member and Gwent police and crime commissioner Jeff Cuthbert will take over as chair of the board of trustees. - Katherine Hughes will continue to serve on the centre's committee and remain active in its work. Summary: The community acknowledged Hughes's long service in saving and developing the Miners and in building its programmes and partnerships. Leadership of the board passes to Jeff Cuthbert while Hughes remains involved as a committee member. The centre's ongoing activities and governance will continue under the new chair.