Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn have marked a historic moment this week as Helen Kynaston was officially named the very first Freewoman of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn – the highest honour the Town Council can award. This extraordinary recognition reflects Helen’s decades long dedication to community service and the lasting, positive impact she has made on thousands of local residents.
A Legacy Built on Compassion and Action
Helen retired last year after an exceptional lifetime of voluntary work, during which she was instrumental in founding, supporting, or strengthening a remarkable number of community projects, organisations, and services across the town. Her contributions span a wide range of initiatives, including:
- Cae Post Recycling Centre
- Trewern – The Phoenix Furniture Project
- Pont Hafren
- Newtown Community Café
- Montgomery Citizen Advocacy Project
- Newtown Volunteer Bureau
- Mother and Baby Groups
- Brownie and Girl Guide Units (including District Commissioner)
- Newtown Food Surplus
Each project stands as a testament to Helen’s passion for building a kinder, more connected community.
A Lifeline During the Pandemic
One of Helen’s most inspiring achievements came during the COVID‑19 pandemic, when she helped establish and lead the Newtown Community Café. At the height of lockdown, the café was producing and delivering more than 80 meals a week to vulnerable and isolated residents – a vital service for those who needed support the most. Today, Helen continues to volunteer with the café and serves as its Treasurer, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to the town she has long served.
Warm Praise from the Mayor
Councillor Pete Lewington, Mayor of Newtown, shared heartfelt words about Helen’s award, praising her unwavering energy, kindness, and leadership:
“We all know that Helen retired last year after a lifetime of service to Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn, during which time she was incredibly hardworking and displayed endless community spirit and kindness… I’m sure we all agree that Helen has made an incredible difference to our town and, on behalf of the Town Council, I would like to congratulate Helen on becoming the first Freewoman of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn. It is so very well deserved.”
A Truly Deserved Honour
The title of Freewoman is reserved for individuals whose contributions leave a profound and lasting legacy. In Helen’s case, it symbolises far more than recognition – it celebrates a life dedicated to empathy, leadership, and community empowerment.
The Town Council extends its deepest thanks to Helen for her remarkable service and for the countless hours she has devoted to making Newtown a stronger, kinder, and more connected place to live.