Wales & West Utilities backs Pontypridd running club with £500 donation to support women’s wellbeing
Wales & West Utilities is proudly supporting Blister Sisters Running Club with a £500 donation, which will help the group continue its mission of promoting fitness, confidence and connection for women across Pontypridd, and the surrounding areas.
The funding will be used to improve safety and accessibility for members and volunteers, allowing the club to invest in high-visibility lights, reflective gear, bibs and reusable equipment for volunteer leaders. It will also support sustainable initiatives such as reusable water bottles and eco-friendly resources, as well as helping the club professionally capture its events to showcase the positive impact it has within the community.
Wales & West Utilities colleagues, Ellie Atherton and Danielle Pugh, are members of the club and put in the request to their employer to support the efforts of founder Cath Owen, who volunteers between 170 and 280 hours each year to organise sessions, lead runs and support members. Cath’s dedication has helped create a strong, supportive network where women feel empowered to take part and build confidence.
Cath said:
“Blister Sisters is so much more than a running group. It’s a space where women can show up exactly as they are, feel supported and grow in confidence together. It provides a welcoming and inclusive space for women of all abilities to take part in running, whether they are complete beginners or experienced runners.
“We see members achieve things they never thought possible - whether that’s their first 5K or simply making new friends - is really rewarding. To have the support from Wales & West Utilities means we can make our sessions safer, more inclusive and even more welcoming for everyone.”
The club marked the donation and celebrated International Women’s Day, hosting a special 5K run around Ponty Park, with participants dressing in pink and glitter to mark the occasion. Members continued the celebrations at Bar Number 12, which kindly donated its venue for the day, serving a buffet provided by a local company allowing runners to socialise and celebrate their achievements together.
Wales & West Utilities colleague and member of the club Ellie Atherton commented:
“I am thrilled that my employer has got behind and supported Blister Sisters, and the fantastic work they do to bring women together through fitness and friendship.
“Volunteers like Cath are making a real difference in our communities and it’s great that with Wales & West Utilities support, her efforts will go further.”
Blister Sisters Running Club continues to welcome new members and remains committed to creating a safe, supportive and uplifting environment where women can prioritise their health and wellbeing while building lasting friendships.
Wales & West Utilities is the gas emergency and pipeline service, delivering energy to over 7.5 million people across Wales and the south west of England. We don’t sell gas; we transport it through an extensive underground network of more than 35,000 kilometres of pipes.