Last week, Chemical Corporation (UK) Ltd held a special event at Barry Island Pleasure Park in honour of NHS and care home staff across the Vale of Glamorgan.

With 1,100 people registered to attend the invitation only event, locals were certainly looking forward to enjoying the free rides and discounted food at the amusement park made famous by BBC’s Gavin and Stacey.

The event, organised by Chemical Corporation (UK) Ltd and sponsored by Henry Danter, owner of the Barry Island Pleasure Park, was a gesture to thank NHS and care home staff of the Vale of Glamorgan for their incredible work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The popularity of the event exceeded all expectations. Alan Barham, Chairman at Chemical Corporation, said: “It makes my day seeing the kids excitement. I hope everyone has a memorable day”.

Rhian Jones, a Service Manager at Recovery Care Limited, in Barry, explained how lockdown was a struggle for her and her team:

“Recovery Care is a provider of supported living services and accommodation, offering 24/7 support to adults with mental health and learning disability. We all moved in for a week at a time, our shift would start at 10am on Monday morning until the following Monday at the same time – we all worked over our hours. It was hard, especially for our families, but it was worth it as we didn’t have any cases of Covid-19 during this period.”

Rhian attended the family event with her son, sister and nieces.

“The children have really enjoyed it! Events like this are a boost, it’s nice for us to be recognised for our work.”

A few famous faces made an appearance at the event, including Craig Quinnell, former Welsh Rugby Union player.

Craig said: “It’s a lovely way to say thank you to the workers that had to put their lives on hold for our community. It’s great seeing them enjoy some time with their families.”