Ystalyfera volunteer wins award at national ceremony for efforts to improve local paths and walkways

At the recent Ramblers Cymru Awards in Creigiau on the outskirts of Cardiff, nominated groups and individuals were rewarded for their dedication to walking and access. 

On the night Karen won The Shining Star category that was created to shine a light on the volunteer who is inspiring, helpful, happy to share skills, and always cheering others on. 

Karen who lives in Ystalyfera in the Swansea Valley has been working with the Paths to Wellbeing project in the area to improve paths and access in the community, with a focus on making routes more accessible for those with mobility scooters, wheelchairs and for parents wanting to take their young children in buggies out on local walks. 

Angela Charlton, Director of Ramblers Cymru said: “We want to see walking and paths at the heart of our communities. The health and wellbeing benefits of good access to green spaces are key to our post covid green recovery and to creating, happier and healthier connected communities that can thrive across Wales.  

“Karen is a champion for improving access for those with disabilities, she has been not only an inspiration but an extremely dedicated volunteer from the very start of the Paths to Wellbeing project. She always has a smile to share and is hugely enthusiastic with a passion for nature.  

“She is happy to share her knowledge and personal experiences, this has given the Ramblers Cymru team invaluable insight into the challenges faced in accessing green spaces for those with disabilities and restricted mobility.”  

 Karen said: “It has been great to work with Ramblers Cymru’s Paths to Wellbeing project team, especially local officer Zoe, together, we’ve designed, surveyed, and created the route descriptions for our Accessible (and family-friendly) Paths to Wellbeing routes in Ystalyfera and Ystradgynlais. 

“For me it was all about making sure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of being in nature, no matter your ability or mobility. The new routes will go some way to making sure more people can enjoy the outdoors locally in this beautiful area.” 

(Lead image: Nick Treharne)