To celebrate St David’s Day (Saturday 1 March), Norman Parselle was invited to 10 Downing Street by the Prime Minister and local MP Jess Morden. This event aimed to honour individuals in sports, business, and those who strive to make a positive impact in their communities.
Norman is the CEO of County In The Community (CITC), a charity in association with Newport County AFC. CITC uses the power of sport, education and training to engage with the community in South East Wales, with the determination to provide opportunities and enhance lives. They provide sessions throughout the community to all – regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, physical ability or economic status. Through the delivery of their various projects, CITC aims to change lives, inspire sport and physical activity participation, improve health and wellbeing, and build greater community cohesion.
Norman was welcomed into Number 10 by Labour MP for Newport East, Jess Morden, who chose him for the honour of being one of Wales’ Community Champions.
Chief Executive Officer of County In The Community, Norman Parselle, said: "It was a surprise to get the invite in the first place. It's lovely to be recognised as someone who's trying to make a positive impact in the community. I've always strived to give something back to my community, and in my current role at County In The Community, I'm lucky enough to do so with the support of great colleagues and trustees."
They gathered with Ruth Jones, the Labour MP for Newport West and Islwyn, along with her guest Amanda Reynolds, who advocates for the Save the Six Bells campaign aimed at transforming their pub in Peterstone into a community hub.
The Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, was present to greet the guests and launch the St David’s Day 2025 celebrations. Norman had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which they talked about the initiatives he and CITC are undertaking in and around Newport to enhance the community. Those invited were overjoyed to be around prominent Welsh figures, including Alun Wyn Jones, Ken Owens, Larry Lamb, Melanie Walters, and Steffan Rhodri – better known as Dave Coaches.
Norman has dedicated himself to giving back to his community since the age of 17. He played for Newport County AFC and Newport AFC, and later became the club's Community Development Officer. In 2015, he was honoured with induction into the Newport County AFC Hall of Fame. Known as Norm by his peers, he has been involved with County In The Community since 2013, and it’s clear that he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
To illustrate the deep appreciation for Norman within his community, one Instagram user remarked, "Thoroughly deserved. The work this man has done for his community has been invaluable! I’m very pleased to see his selfless efforts being recognised." Another user added, "Norman and County In The Community do a fantastic job! It's wonderful to see him receiving this recognition."
Norman was honoured by his invitation to Number 10. It represented a significant acknowledgement of his hard work and dedication, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.
To find out more about County In The Community, visit their website here or find them on social media (@countyinthecommunity)
