A COMMUNITY centre tucked away in the corner of Garnswllt is bursting with events – you just don’t know about it.

That is the opinion of the volunteers and officers at the activity centre on Heol y Mynydd, who have been working tirelessly to provide a community facility for the area of Mawr.

Run by the Mawr Development Trust – which serves rural communities including Garnswllt, Craigcefnparc and Felindre – the centre provides a host of activities from walking events, art classes and cookery lessons for all ages.

The centre’s most recent event, a trail run, saw more than 150 people turn up, although the volunteers would like to see more locals attending.

“We are tucked away at the top of Garnswllt and local people for some reason or another don’t seem to want to venture up here,” said development officer Phil Owen.

“We really are just a stone’s throw from Ammanford and we would love to see more locals pop up to see what we have on offer.”

The centre, at the site of the villages’ former school, is hoping to attract a large crowd this May has it plays host to an Art Experience weekend.

“We have a lot planned for the weekend kicking off a summer of art,” said centre volunteer Jane Carpenter.

Events running on May 2 and 3 include a variety of art workshops and exhibitions with a number of local artists, who will be exhibiting and selling their work, plus performances and workshops from theatre groups.

You can also try your hand at making a stained glass mosaic, make a cushion, or learn a new skill such as crochet or collage art.

Plus you can get involved in outdoor fun with Splat Cymru who create sculptures from recycled materials, all of which can be climbed, jumped on, crawled over and painted, a fun activity for all children.

“There will be something for everyone and for all ages,” said Jane.

“You can book a half-day or full-day art session or just simply drop by and take a look around the centre.”

Following the event the centre will be opening every Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

“We have a state-of-the-art kitchen, lots of rooms and facilities available for all kinds of events, from birthdays, functions, and work groups.

“Anyone is welcome to make enquiries,” said Phil.

“We could also do with a few more volunteers to help out the centre, there is no commitment, even if it is just for an hour a week, it all helps.

“What we would really like is a centre for the community, used by the community, run by the community.”

If you would like to find out more information on the activity centre or book for a function you can contact Phil Owen on 01792 781521 or email phil.owen@mawrcommunity.org.uk.

For more information on the May Art Experience weekend get in touch with Jane on 07749835542 or email info@arowndit.co.uk.

If you take along a copy of this article in this week's South Wales Guardian the centre is also offering a £5 discount for a bookable workshop over the weekend.