NEWCASTLE Emlyn-based charity HUTS has had its outstanding work recognised.

Each year the Office of the High Sheriff of Dyfed selects organisations which have made a significant contribution to charity and voluntary work within the community.

HUTS, based at Teifi Terrace, in Adpar, was thrilled when a letter arrived recently informing the charity it had had been selected for such an honour by the High Sheriff, Professor Medwin Hughes.

The charity, which has been established more than 20 years, helps people with mental health challenges and learning disabilities in Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

It employs 11 full and part-time staff, along with volunteers, and is helping more than 100 people through its services.

HUTS Workshop offers a wide range of activities such as pottery, woodwork, cookery, IT and all manner of crafting, from jewellery enamelling to flower arranging and paper craft.

It also offers a Big Lottery-funded home befriending service throughout South Ceredigion, which aims to provide individuals suffering from mental ill health and who are socially isolated the chance to grow in confidence.

Befriending co-ordinator Kim Bacon said: “This is a great honour for HUTS, the staff, the volunteers and our members. Professor Hughes writes of his awareness of the outstanding work we have done for members of our community and that we provide a valuable service. HUTS is greatly honoured by this award.”

Representatives from HUTS Workshop attended the award ceremony held in The Cothi Suite at The University of Wales, Trinity St David’s, Carmarthen.

For more information about HUTS, call 01239 710377 or visit the website www.hutsworkshop.org