An Ammanford based community group faces the danger of closure unless members of the community show their support to the centre.

Pantyffynnon Partnership Group originated in September 2012 and currently run different classes, events and activities for the benefit of the community, but the lack of public support is affecting the sustainability of the group.

Paula Treharne, chairman and one of the directors at the group, said: “When there were Welsh Government cuts to the Communities First programme in 2012 we were faced with either close the community centre or run it ourselves as there was no longer funding for the Pantyffynnon centre.

“We were only given about six weeks’ notice, and overnight we basically had to become business minded people to gather ideas on how to generate enough income by maximising the use of the premises.”

The Communities First programme is facing further cuts, and there is currently a consultation in the area which is ongoing, but Ms Treharne believes that losing the backing of the Government funding over the last few years has had an effect on the area.

“Losing a permanently based Community First team has had a detrimental effect on the group, and the Pantyffynnon area is a designated community first programme area so we should have someone on board”, added Paula, who has been involved in the group for eight years.

In order for the group to be able to continue directors of the group, which includes two Ammanford town councillors and a county councillor, have come up with ideas to generate income for the organisation.

Paula said: “We have recently rebranded our table top sales which have been really positive and also we are also holding an event in Pantyffynnon Social Club, which will potentially make income for the group.”

The group offers a cuppa club every Monday and Tuesday, a knitters n’ natter class on a Monday and also family history and learn direct classes on a Tuesday. Although, some classes are well attended, Paula says they need to be supported more by the community.

She said: “The Learn Direct course on a Tuesday is full every week but I organised a children’s club over the Christmas period where parents could drop their children off to do Christmas shopping on a Saturday morning, despite advertising there was no community support apart from my nephews who thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

“I think the community need to be made aware that this excellent facility is in their community and they need to take advantage of the fact that these groups are for the local people to use.”

Pantyffynnon Partnership Group are hosting an Elvis tribute night on February 10. Tickets are priced at £10 and available by contacting Carol on 01269 594487 or Jackie on 01269 591149.

If you would like to get involved with the group, you can email pantyffynnon@hotmail.co.uk.