An art workshop near Llanidloes that supports ex-service personnel with their mental health can continue to run after receiving a National Lottery grant worth almost £10,000.

Radiate Arts runs wellbeing sessions in the Creative Hub overlooking the stunning Llyn Clywedog reservoir to help army veterans talk, open up and discuss their feelings.

The not-for-profit organisation received £9,973 from The National Lottery Community Fund, to support their project ‘Working With The Hard Stuff’, a weekly stone carving session for those with mental health problems.

Montgomeryshire Senedd Member Russell George joined the celebrations at the Llyn Clywedog Visitor Centre and visited the ex-army personnel who are taking part in the course, to experience first-hand, the impact of the creative workshop.

County Times: Ian (Radiate Arts), Mark (Change Step and WWTHS), Russell George MS. Picture by Radiate ArtsIan (Radiate Arts), Mark (Change Step and WWTHS), Russell George MS. Picture by Radiate Arts

“It was fantastic to see the positive impact Radiate Arts is having in the community, and how art plays an important role for physical and mental wellbeing," Mr George said.

"The not-for-profit organisation delivers very welcome experiences for many in the local area of Llanidloes and beyond.

“I had the pleasure in speaking with the tutor for ‘Working With The Hard Stuff’, which provides stone carving for ex-service personnel. It was clear to see how the creative and focused process helps with mindfulness and is it the perfect way to stay in the moment. I’m pleased to hear that they have secured funding to carry on with their work supporting the community here in mid-Wales – and what a peaceful and inspirational spot overlooking the Clywedog Reservoir”.

Radiate Arts directors Pam Gordon and Ian Bellingham said they were "thrilled" to have been chosen to receive lottery funding.

County Times:  Montgomeryshire MS Russell George and Amy Sterly,an artist in residence at the creative hub in the Llyn Clywedog Visitor Centre. Picture by Radiate Arts Montgomeryshire MS Russell George and Amy Sterly,an artist in residence at the creative hub in the Llyn Clywedog Visitor Centre. Picture by Radiate Arts

"Thank you to The Lottery Community Fund for supporting our creative workshops which generates positive impact within the community. With this fund, we can continue to run our weekly sessions and carry on delivering this service to those who need it.

"Thank you to Russell George for taking his time to meet our team, speaking with each person involved. It was great to have a conversation around our vision and ways to promote wider leisure and tourism at the ‘Source of the River Severn’ here at in mid Wales. We are excited to continue ‘Working With The Hard Stuff’ as we continue to support the needs of those in our community”.