Farewell and Happy Retirement to Helen Blackmore

Before joining the Council in 2012 as part of Creative Rural Communities, Helen brought a wealth of experience from her previous roles as a planner and regeneration officer in London, Bridgend, and Cardiff. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in shaping and delivering projects that have made a real and lasting difference to our communities and local businesses.

Helen’s commitment, creativity, and passion for regeneration have left a significant legacy—not just in the places she’s helped to transform, but among the colleagues who’ve had the pleasure of working alongside her.

Phil Chappell, Operational Manager for Regeneration, said:

"Helen has been trying to retire for a while, but constant begging on our part kept her that little while longer! We’ve all loved working with her over the years, and now it’s finally time for a bit of downtime."

If you've ever been involved in grant funding at the Vale, chances are you’ve worked with Helen. In recent years she’s been at the helm of the Strong Communities Grant Fund, supporting countless local groups and initiatives.

And if you've ever picked up a Vale Trail leaflet and gone exploring, you’ve experienced another of Helen’s legacies. She led the development of the Vale Trails for several years, helping to create what has become the Council’s flagship tourism product. Her work mapping walks and collaborating with landowners and walking groups has truly paid off.

Thank you, Helen, for everything you've contributed. You’ll be greatly missed by all of us at the Council. We wish you all the very best for a happy, healthy, food, and travel filled retirement!