AROUND 60 people gathered at Monmouth Priory on Saturday July 18 for an evening of live music and food in support of Bridges Community Centre.

The fundraising event featured a lively performance from Afro Welsh Connection, whose blend of African and Welsh musical influences kept the audience entertained throughout.

Guests also enjoyed a jollof rice supper prepared by Richard, Bridges’ Head Chef, and served to tables by a team of volunteers.

The event raised £1,205.82 for Bridges, which is helping the charity to continue its hard work supporting local people through its wellbeing services, community projects and activities.

Ben Ford, Events and Marketing Manager at Bridges Centre, said: “It was a wonderful evening and a real celebration of music, food and community.

“Afro Welsh Connection gave us a fantastic performance, and we are extremely grateful to everyone who bought a ticket and supported the event.

“We would also like to thank Monmouth Priory for kindly reducing the venue hire fee, which helped ensure that more of the proceeds could go directly towards Bridges’ work.

“Richard prepared a fantastic jollof rice supper for our guests, while our volunteers did a brilliant job waiting on the tables, serving the food and helping everything run smoothly. The evening simply could not have happened without them.”

The fundraiser formed part of Bridges’ ongoing efforts to raise funds and maintain awareness of its work following the flooding of Drybridge House in November 2025.

Although the building remains closed for repairs, Bridges continues to deliver the majority of its services across Monmouthshire.

“The support Bridges continues to receive from local people, performers, venues and volunteers means a great deal to us. Events like this are not only important fundraisers; they also bring people together and remind us of what a generous and supportive community we have.”