The Revd Roger Hewett, Vicar of Blaina and Area Dean of Blaina Gwent, is one of the short-listed finalists in the ‘Leading Wales Awards’.  He is one of four finalists in the category ‘Leadership Success through Partnership, to develop skills in the work place or the community’ sponsored by the Department of Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills. Roger and his wife, Molly, will be attending the presentation lunch at the Hilton Hotel, Cardiff, on 21 February. The Leading Wales Awards recognise great leadership at all levels across the public, private and voluntary sectors in Wales, celebrating individuals whose excellent leadership skills have made a strong impact and resulted in positive change within their organisations. Roger has been nominated for his work in the communities of Blaina and Nantyglo. He is dedicated to looking after not only his parish, but the community as a whole. He is chairman of Blaina Community First, a member of the Chartist Regeneration Committee, and active in projects involving young children and the elderly. He has been the person behind most of the development which has taken place in the community in the areas he takes responsibility for. Roger is somewhat embarrassed at being singled out for nomination. He says: ‘I am one of a team, and even the most recent members of that team are as important as I am. The work I do is part of the church’s programme of involvement with the community. Through such projects as our Kids’ Clubs, our Care and Share lunch club for the elderly, our work with the Hospice of the Valleys, we are working to build the confidence and the capacity of the community to look after itself.’ The Bishop of Monmouth, Rt Revd Dominic Walker OGS, says: ‘Roger is an amazing community priest who has done a tremendous job to promote social cohesion in his community. I am encouraged that a mature, faithful priest, who is making a difference to the community he is serving, is recognised alongside business people and the younger generation.’ END 13 February 2008 Notes to editor For more information, visit www.leadingwalesawards.com