Veterans and organisations from Rhondda Cynon Taf have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Armed Forces community after being shortlisted as finalists for the Welsh Veterans Awards 2026.
The prestigious awards, which celebrates the achievements of veterans, volunteers and organisations across Wales, will take place on July 8 at the four-star Vale Resort and will be hosted by Radio X’s Polly James.
This year, Rhondda Cynon Taf is proudly represented by several finalists across six categories:
- Nigel Locke – The Community Awards
- Nigel Locke – Military Charity Fundraiser of the Year
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg Health Board (Veterans NHS Wales) – Health and Well-being Award
- Cynon Valley Veterans Group – Veterans Group of the Year
- Phil Richards – Volunteer of the Year
- Liam O’Leary (Maerdy Veterans Group) – Volunteer of the Year
- Gareth Pennell – Lifetime Achievement
The Welsh Veterans Awards recognise the dedication, resilience and positive impact of veterans and those supporting them, with organisers confirming that this year they received the highest number of applications for any of their UK awards.
The finalists from Rhondda Cynon Taf have been recognised for a wide range of work, including supporting fellow veterans, fundraising for important causes, and helping improve health and wellbeing services for the Armed Forces community.
Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhonda Cynon Taf Council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “We are incredibly proud to see so many individuals and organisations from Rhondda Cynon Taf recognised at a national level through the prestigious Welsh Veterans Awards. This fantastic achievement reflects the strength, dedication and community spirit of our local Armed Forces network.
“This year’s finalists highlight the valuable work being undertaken to support veterans and their families across the County Borough. I’d like to wish all finalists the very best at the awards ceremony in July.”
The Welsh Veterans Awards were established in 2018 to celebrate the achievements of veterans, reservists and serving Armed Forces personnel. The awards are supported across the UK by main sponsor Thales Group, with Sierra Nevada Mission Systems UK as the lead sponsor in Wales, in support of The Army Benevolent Fund and the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity.
The awards aim to inspire current and future service leavers by showcasing the achievements of those who have gone on to make a positive impact in civilian life.
All shortlisted finalists have been invited to a special certificate presentation and networking event in Cardiff ahead of the awards ceremony, celebrating their achievements regardless of the final results. View the full list of finalists here.
Find out more: Welsh Veterans Awards - The Veterans Awards
The Council’s Veteran Advice Service offers free, impartial, and dedicated support and assistance for veterans and their family members. 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
If you would like to learn more about the Council’s larger commitment to the Armed Forces and veteran community, please visit: RCT Armed Forces Covenant
Posted on 15/06/2026