On Friday, December 12, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council brought festive cheer to the local veteran community by hosting a special Christmas lunch at Lido Ponty. The event brought together veterans from across the County Borough to celebrate their service and sacrifice, while also saying thank you to everyone who has supported them over the past year.
Guests enjoyed a heartwarming performance from Maes-Y-Coed Primary School choir, who sang some Christmas favourites, with a modern twist. Santa Claus also made a surprise appearance, delighting pupils with festive gifts.
The lunch was attended by Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of the Council, and Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Armed Forces Champion, alongside Alex Davies-Jones, Member of Parliament for Pontypridd, Mick Antoniw, Member of the Senedd for Pontypridd, Sharon Dixon, High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan, and members of the local veteran community.
Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Armed Forced Champion, said: “Christmas is a time for giving and for spending time with people who bring you happiness and joy. There is no better way to help our Armed Forces community than to support events such as our festive Veterans lunch.
“This event is about bringing people together and showing our appreciation for those who have served It’s a chance to celebrate, reflect, and ensure that no veteran feels alone during the festive season.
“Special thanks to the Maes-y-Coed Primary School choir for their wonderful performance which brought so much joy to the day.
“The Council supports its veterans throughout the year, and I am grateful to all those involved for making this event happen.”
Rhondda Cyon Taf is home to more than 7,500 Armed Forces veterans. The Council was among the first Welsh local authorities to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, reaffirming its commitment in 2018 – symbolising mutual respect between the civilian and Armed Forces communities.
In recognition of its support, the Council received the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in 2017, retaining the accolade in October 2022 after the introduction of the Guaranteed Interview Scheme for Veterans and Reservists.
The Council’s Veteran Advice Service offers free, confidential support for veterans and their families. To speak to dedicated officers in strict confidence, call 07747 485 619 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm), or email: VeteranService@rctcbc.gov.uk.
For more information on the Council’s larger commitment to the Armed Forces and veteran community, please visit: RCT Armed Forces Covenant
Posted on 23/12/2025