Fund in memory of Mick Bates opens

The Mick Bates Community Memorial Fund is inviting groups and charities that work to benefit the people of Llanfair Caereinion and the Banwy Valley to apply for grant funding.

The Fund was set up by the former politician’s family following his death of bone cancer in August 2022. Since then, over £15,000 has been distributed through grants.  

Cadvan Evans, Chair of The Mick Bates Community Memorial Trust Fund, said: “The Mick Bates Community Memorial Fund exists to keep Mick’s legacy alive by supporting the causes he cared about most about. We know that even a small grant can make a big difference, and we hope these awards will play a meaningful role in improving lives and strengthening local communities.”

Community groups and charities can apply for small grants of up to £500 that benefit the people of Montgomeryshire, but particularly the people of Llanfair Caereinion and the Banwy Valley. The scheme is open until Friday, July 31 and application forms are available at Grants | Mick Bates Fund  www.mickbatescommunitymemorialfund.co.uk

Ruth Bates, Mick’s daughter said: “Mick always believed in the power of people working together, and this is what is behind the setting up of the Fund.

“We’re very grateful to everyone who has supported the Fund whether through events or online donations.”

Groups that have previously benefitted include: The Institute, Ffrindiau Ysgol Bro Caereinion Friends; Cancer Research; Llanfair Caereinion Branch; Llanfair Caereinion Bowling; Club New Life Church; Cylch Meithrin Banw; Llanfair United Football Club;  Caffi Cymundeol Llanfair Caereinion Community Café; Llanidloes Chamber of Trade; Ysgol Cwm Banwy; Llanfair Caereinion YFC; Dyffryn Banw FC and Llanfair Caereinion and District Support Group for the Severn Hospice.

The Fund is managed by the Trustees which include Ruth Bates, Cllr Gareth Jones, Nic Davies, Betsan Llwyd, Wyn Williams, Cerys Metcalf and Cadvan Evans. PAVO administer the Fund on behalf of the Trustees.

Groups that apply must demonstrate they are a properly formed group, club, committee or charity, which must show that the group has charitable aims whilst also benefitting the people of Montgomeryshire.

Organisations will also need to show that they possess a constitution and a bank account and carry out activities that provide public benefit.

Successful applicants will be announced in August 2026.