Trethomas, Friday 1 August 2025 — A large gathering of nearly 200 people came together on Friday to celebrate the official opening of the Trethomas Life Centre (TLC), a newly transformed community hub created by The Parish Trust to support children, young people, families, and those seeking wellbeing support.
The building, once derelict, was gifted by Bedwas Theatre Group. In just five months, it has been completely refurbished through a significant effort led jointly by Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, and Project Manager Steve Knapton. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Knapton described the transformation simply: “An irredeemable building was redeemed and resurrected.”
Ashdown Construction Group carried out the building work, with generous support from Euroclad, who donated all the cladding that now gives the centre its modern, striking exterior.
Opening the ceremony, Chair of Trustees, Mrs Diane Brierley, reflected on the journey that had brought the project to this point.
“It is hard to describe the unbelievable journey we have been on to reach this moment,” she said. “What began as a vision for a space where people of all ages could come together for support, for learning, for connection, has now become a reality. The road here has not been easy, but it has been filled with faith, perseverance, and an overwhelming sense of purpose.”
She paid tribute to the many people who made the centre possible, from funders and partners to volunteers and members of the community. “Your belief in what we’re doing has made this possible,” she said.
While the TLC will not house all of the charity’s services it will become a dedicated home for its work with families, youth, and wellbeing programmes.
Reverend Roberts described the deeper significance of the centre during his speech. “We believed, and still believe, that compassion can be practical. That faith can roll up its sleeves. That love, real love, can change, does change, and has changed communities.”
He added, “From today, this is a place for children’s laughter, for shared meals, for learning, for music, for grieving, for hope. A place that says, again and again, ‘You matter. You’re welcome. You’re not alone.’”
Following the speeches, the Reverend led an emotional moment of solemn dedication and prayer, asking for God’s blessing on the building and all who will use it.
“We set it apart as a space where people may find welcome, hope, and community,” he prayed. “May Trethomas Life Centre be a place where we continue to sow faith, share hope, and show love to bring life in all its fullness… And may the blessing of God Almighty: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, rest upon this building and all who dwell within it, now and forever.”
He then cut the ribbon and unveiled a commemorative plaque now mounted in the entrance of the building which read:
TO THE GLORY OF GOD
and for the benefit of generations to come
The Trethomas Life Centre
was officially opened by
The Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts
Founder and First Chief Executive Officer of The Parish Trust
on
Friday 1st August 2025
“For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation”
Psalm 100:5
This place stands as a testament
to the goodness and faithfulness of God
and is built to be a blessing to all who cross its threshold.
After the formalities, the centre came to life. Guests shared food, stories, and laughter, exploring the building that now stands as a modern community centre fit to serve The Parish Trust’s work and the wider community at large.
The Parish Trust now turns its attention to the next phase: developing landscaped outdoor spaces for play and wellbeing. Supporters were invited to consider helping through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word.
The transformation of the building would not have been possible without the generous financial support of several funders, whose contributions made the renovation viable and timely. Once the grounds are landscaped and the full site is complete, a second plaque will be installed inside the building to formally recognise and thank all those who helped fund the project.
The opening of the Trethomas Life Centre marks a new chapter not only for The Parish Trust, but for the whole community. Whether offering care, comfort, companionship or simply a place to be, the TLC is set to become a cornerstone of community life in Trethomas for generations to come.
Photographs by Firefly Photograffi
