THE ANNUAL Christmas carol charity concert by Barry Brass Band at Victoria Park, Cadoxton, will not be held this year due to Vale Council budgetary constraints.
Carols in the Park was first staged in 2011 and was held every year except 2020, when Covid restrictions made it impractical. Over those years, the concert raised just under £8,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
The concert always began with traditional Christmas carols and was followed by lively renditions of popular festive songs. The event was held near the bowls pavilion and marquee, where hot soup, tea, coffee, cake and other refreshments were provided.
A Vale Council spokesperson said: “The council remains in an extremely challenging financial position due to significantly decreased funding.
“That means money must be prioritised for areas such as education and looking after the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“Sadly, given these constraints, this event is no longer viable.”
Rowena Hughes, the band’s booking secretary said: “As a band we have had the privilege of hosting this annual event, which has become firmly embedded in the Christmas calendar.
“On behalf of Barry Brass Band, I would like to say a huge thank you to Jon Greatrex, the Vale Council’s Parks Manager, whose tireless support and enthusiasm made this event possible, and Cadoxton Bowling Club, who freely gave the use of their pavilion to host the refreshments.
“Thanks also to my team of willing volunteers who ran the refreshments, served the mulled wine, sold raffle tickets and always with a smile. I raise a glass to the local community who always supported us regardless of the weather.
“A big thank you to the fabulous Barry Brass Band themselves for their enthusiasm. It was their favourite event of the year and they always made the best of it by turning up in their Christmas hats and kept the show going, whatever the weather.
“We’re now going to take some time to pause and think about the best way to stage events in future Christmases. Barry Brass Band has a wonderful track record of entering into the Christmas spirit, and we’re keen for that to continue.”
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