EMPLOYEES at a factory in Chirk have selected an Oswestry-based not-for-profit organisation to receive a grant of £5,000.

Open Spaces Studios, located above Oswestry Library in Arthur Street, was selected by Chirk employees at Mondelēz International to receive the sum.

The community studio, which aims to improve community physical and mental wellbeing, was granted the substantial donation by the The Cadbury Foundation, as part of its ‘Your Charity Your Choice’ scheme.

Chloe Yeomans, founder and director at Open Spaces Studio, said the generous donation will go a long way.

She said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have received this donation from The Cadbury Foundation.

“The creative industries are suffering more than most in this pandemic, so this generous contribution will allow us to continue functioning as an independent community hub, and hopefully very soon, provide face-to-face creative sessions for our members.”

The studio runs weekly classes, events and activities for locals of all ages and abilities and is committed to inspiring and motivating members to lead a happy and healthy lifestyle.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the organisation has shifted its key focus from weekly face-to-face events and activities, to providing creative locals with the opportunity to partake in free-of-charge online sessions.

The £5,000 grant will enable Open Spaces Studios to continue operating remotely and will also support the organisation in running its face-to-face classes and sessions when lockdown restrictions lift.

Jake Williams, technical operator at the Chirk Mondelēz International site, nominated the community studio to receive the significant donation.

He said: “Open Space Studios delivers a fantastic array of creative sessions, classes and activities for our local community, so I nominated them to receive the grant so they can continue to deliver the wonderful work they do, which positively impacts so many across the region.”

Kelly Farrell, community affairs manager at Mondelēz International, added: “Open Spaces Studios provides an important creative outlet for so many.

"We’re delighted to know that with The Cadbury Foundation’s help, the studio can continue to inspire and motivate through its creative community sessions.”