"There have also been a huge number of volunteers working behind the scenes, who have given their time to help and support the project's development. One particular team have given in excess of 1000 hours, working two days per week in their workshop; the Volunteer Construction Group are producing furniture, fixtures and fittings for the Gallery and reception.
The group is co-ordinated by Richard Taylor in his role as Community Museum Building Development Co-ordinator and local volunteers; Edgar Price, Guy Rennison, John Lloyd, Peter Sleet and Ralph Oakley. The men began work in November 2008 and have already installed a number of fixtures and items of furniture in the Museum building.
The group have varied backgrounds and bring a huge wealth of experience and skills to the project.
Ralph Oakley has worked as a carpenter for over fifty eight years, beginning his career as apprentice to Morgan Lloyd, learning his trade as a house builder and crafting coffins. He spent two years National Service in the Army, then returned to carpentry, eventually becoming self employed. Ralph now enjoys spending his leisure time playing golf and time spent with his family.
Edgar Price left school to work in 'Ryders,' now known as Hafod Hardware in Rhayader, before his National Service and a brief spell working on the Claerwen Dam. He then returned to 'Ryders' and worked as a retained fireman until his retirement. He enjoys carpentry, gardening and D.I.Y. as hobbies and commits a lot of his time to local groups.
John Lloyd became an apprentice plumber after leaving school, during his working life he was also a general builder and painter and was self employed for much of this time. John also gives time to local groups including the Moto club and is a Community car driver.
Peter Sleet, originally from Bedford, travelled across the world with his job in HM Diplomatic Service working for the Foreign Commonwealth Office. Particular highlights were Moscow, Washington DC and Helsinki, where he was responsible for security and communications equipment and had to undertake small construction works as part of these projects.
Peter has always had a keen interest in home improvement and also enjoys fly fishing and golf in his spare time.
Guy Rennison started his working life as a diamond cutter before he trained as a boat builder in Southampton and worked on the Isle of Wight for 30 years building boats. He has transferred his boat building skills to the fitting out of the Museum and is the only member of the team who is still actively working and not retired. Guy enjoys crafting during his spare time with a particular interest in woodturning, metalwork, pottery and tayloring, as well as working in the grounds of his home.
The members of the team all bring differing skills and experience to their work and have learnt from each other, sharing their talents and knowledge.
Ralph said that the best thing is 'working together and the camaraderie between the group' and Edgar added that 'learning new skills and sharing ideas' make it very enjoyable.
Kerena Pugh, Volunteer Co-ordinator said; 'All of us at CARAD are very grateful for the time that each and every one of our volunteers gives to the organisation. With National Volunteers Week from the 1 - 7 June it is the perfect opportunity to highlight all the hard work that our dedicated team contribute, and to encourage potential new volunteers to get involved.
Volunteering is very fulfilling and is a chance to share your talents and learn new skills while bringing people together and helping the local community.'
There are a number of ways for volunteers to become involved in the Community Museum Development and our arts activities, for full details visit or contact Kerena on 01597 810192.
This project has been supported by our key funders; the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Welsh Assembly Government Community Facilities and Amenities Programme and Powys County Council, alongside independent trusts and many private donations."
Article written by Helen Beal
