Caldicot Castle was the backdrop for a special event to celebrate the success of Monmouthshire’s Rural Development Programme which has attracted more than £3.3m into the county to benefit rural communities and small businesses.

More than 70 guests, including representatives from rural businesses and community groups, attended the event to mark the end of the programme. Project officers were on hand to explain the exciting projects which were part of an innovative programme which has given a significant boost to the local rural economy over the past three years.

The event was organised by adventa, which has worked to deliver part of the county’s RDP.

Cllr Bob Greenland, deputy leader of Monmouthshire County Council, outlined the programme and highlighted how RDP funding has helped rural communities, encouraging diversification.

He also explained how adventa's projects have inspired rural communities and enterprises to develop new ideas and pilot new approaches in rural development.

Monmouthshire’ s RDP was funded by the Rural Development Plan for Wales which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development with Monmouthshire County Council providing additional programme funding.

Cllr Greenland said he was delighted at the way the county's rural businesses and communities had been able to benefit by working together with adventa and MCC, taking advantage of their support and expertise.

He said: “I would like to acknowledge the invaluable contribution made by the RDP Partnership members who have overseen the governance and delivery of the RDP Programme in Monmouthshire and to thank and congratulate them and the RDP project officers for the success of the programme.”

Adventa has also been responsible for coordinating the cross-border Walking with Offa initiative, which has attracted an additional estimated £270,000 to support projects in Monmouthshire.