Much-needed structural repairs to the 109-year-old protected chapel will be accompanied by an exhibition in the chapel vestry about the building’s history and the rise of Nonconformity in Wales.

[quote=Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards]“Bethania is a very important part of the heritage of Maesteg and the Llynfi Valley. Let's hope we see more projects getting this kind of support.”[/quote]

Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, who is Patron of Addoldai Cymru which owns Bethania, commented: "This is a great boost for Addoldai Cymru as it develops its vital work to protect some of our best chapel buildings. Bethania, Maesteg, is a great example of Nonconformist architecture and is a very important part of the heritage of Maesteg and the Llynfi Valley. Let's hope we see more projects getting this kind of support."

Designed by local architect Sir William Beddoe Rees, Bethania is today recognised as one of his greatest accomplishments. 

Shared passion

Local history groups will work with project leaders to source artefacts, archive material and information for the exhibition. Visitors can also speak to chapel history experts and bring their own artefacts along for logging digitally, while memories of the chapel can be recorded and preserved for the future.

Local Assembly Member Huw Irranca-Davies added: “Wales’ historic and diverse places of worship are so often at the heart of our communities, and Bethania Chapel is no exception.

[quote=Rochard Bellamy, Head of HLF Wales]“Thanks to National Lottery players, this usually closed building will be able to be accessed once again by the public.”[/quote]

"This project will not only conserve this hugely important building, which is in dire need of repair, but will also bring together local groups with a shared passion for preserving their community’s heritage in the process. I look forward to paying the exhibition a visit myself when it opens.”

Richard Bellamy is Head of HLF in Wales. He said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, this usually closed building will be able to be accessed once again by the public who can also contribute to the project themselves - an excellent example of how National Lottery money can help protect a much-loved building so it can continue to serve its local community.”

Find out more

To find out more about the sort of projects the National Lottery can help fund, come along to the Ogmore Funding Fair on Friday 10 February with Huw Irranca-Davies AM and Chris Elmore MP. You can find them in Pencoed Rugby Club between 10am-12pm.

Find out more on our Looking for Funding page.