AM Gwenda Thomas was clowning around last week when she paid a visit to Gwaun cae Gurwen's Organised Kaos Youth Circus.

The Neath AM called in to meet staff at the group as part of Global Enterprise Week and Social Enterprise Day to discover how such organisations benefit local communities.

This innovative social enterprise looks to "transform communities through circus" by creating a centre of excellence for youth circus training in the borough of Neath Port Talbot.

The activitivies on offer aim to motivatie young people and adults to become more involved in their community and participate in the arts as well as realising their potential, along with creating sustainable local employment.

Gwenda Thomas said: “I was delighted to visit Organised Chaos and meet with the Managing Director, Nicola Helmsley and her fantastic staff.

"Their commitment and passion is commendable, with the benefits being far wider than the teaching of circus skills.

"Not only do local children and adults learn these skills but also develop a personal and community identity, learning to work in partnership and friendship, travelling across Wales, the UK and abroad demonstrating and sharing their knowledge.

"I was particularly interested to learn of the support and encouragement given to young people who have become excluded from education and indeed children living in care, who have been given direction and new meaning to their lives.”

“Social enterprises are strengthening the economy, helping tackle poverty and making Wales a better place to live. Organised Kaos Youth Circus is a great example of a social enterprise which is giving back to its local community and making a difference.”

Wales Co-operative Centre Chief Executive Derek Walker, welcomed the visit and said: “Global Entrepreneurship Week provides an opportunity for us all to consider the positive impact that social enterprises have in our communities and on our economy."