This morning Rhys Ifans received rave reviews for his latest West End performance in Don Juan in Soho, at the Donmar Warehouse Theatre. Tonight he is giving his backing to the Burberry workers whose Rhondda factory is threatened with closure.
Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans announced at a meeting in Ton Pentre tonight that Rhys had contacted Plaid to express his amazement that such a successful company could close the Treorci factory when there is so little alternative employment in the area. In a message to the meeting, Rhys Ifans, who starred in Notting Hill and received a BAFTA award for his television portrayal of the late Peter Cook, said:
"If Burberry does go ahead and close this factory, it will be a devastating blow to the communities of Treorci and Treherbert. It is my intention to convey this message to as many people as possible and to make sure that voices are raised against the plan at every opportunity."
Rhondda's Jill Evans said:
"This is a very welcome intervention from Rhys Ifans, especially at a time when he is busily involved with his new play at the Donmar. The support of such a high profile internationally-recognised actor will raise the profile of the Burberry workers' campaign, and focus on unemployment in Rhondda Fawr. Rhys recognises the value of being rooted in a community.
"As we make our case for keeping these jobs to the company's Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, there is no doubt that the voice of Rhys Ifans will add weight to the argument.
"I am hopeful that other celebrities will recognise the justness of the Burberry workers' cause and will back the campaign."
