Llygad Llŷn Issue 8 English

No 8 • 2014 Llyˆn AONB Newsletter

In this issue… projects, events and news Exploring

The Sustainable Development Fund

Events

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special area

Welcome to the 2014 edition of Llygad Llyˆn – the annual newsletter for the Llyˆn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The newsletter’s purpose is to provide background information about the area and its special designation and to report about the recent work of the Llŷn AONB Team – as well as other partners who work for the benefit of the area.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) AONB stands for an Area of Outstanding y n is one of five Natural Beauty. Llˆ AONB’s in Wales, designated under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. The other areas are the Gower Peninsula, Anglesey, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, and Wye Valley. The designation’s main purpose is to protect, maintain and nurture an area’s natural beauty. This includes protecting wildlife and plants, as well as the area’s geological features and landscape. It is also important that archaeological features, historical remains and architectural features are also protected. For more information about each Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Wales, England and Northern Ireland, visit the website for the Society of AONB’s - www.aonb.org.uk

Contents Llyˆn AONB Map .......................3

Llyˆn Peninsula The main basis for designating parts of Llˆ y n as an AONB back in 1956 was the varied and interesting coastline and the beautiful landscape.

Around a quarter of the peninsula, a total of 15,500 hectares, is designated. Most of that land is coastal, but it also reaches inland to include Foel Gron and Garn Fadryn. Although the main basis is the natural beauty of the landscape and coastline, many other qualities belong to the area such as the varied wildlife, historical remains, the sea, the unique culture and the Welsh language which continues to thrive.

The Llyˆn AONB Joint-Advisory Committee The Llˆ y n AONB Joint-Advisory Committee was established in 1997 in order to contribute to the work of protecting and caring for the AONB. Among the members are local Councillors, members of Community Councils, and representatives from local agencies and y n, the organizations such as Cyfeillion Llˆ Agricultural Unions and the National Trust. At the meetings, held about 2-3 times a year, members will discuss relevant national and local issues.

They also contribute to the work of preparing the Management Plan and are informed about the work of other organizations relevant to the AONB. Also, there is a Sub-Committee (known as the Grants Panel) that decides on applications for a grant from the Sustainable Development Fund.

Llyˆn’s New Digital Walks .....4 & 5 Nefyn - twinned with Puerto Madryn …..................... 6 Clearing in the AONB ...........…7 Wind Turbines in Llyˆn ................8 Photography Competition 2013 ….................9 The Sustainable Development Fund ..........10 & 11 Walking Llyˆn’s Coast…......12 & 13 Events in Llyˆn ...................14 & 15 Meet our Partners …...............16

Published by: Llyˆn AONB Unit Printed by: Gwasg Carreg Gwalch, Llwyndyrys and Llanrwst

The Llyˆn AONB Team Two members of staff work for the Unit: Bleddyn Prys Jones – Llyˆn AONB Officer As AONB Officer, Bleddyn leads Gwynedd Council’s work on the AONB’s core activities, national issues, and the task of preparing and implementing the Management Plan.

Elin Wyn Hughes – Llyˆn AONB Projects Officer As Projects Officer, Elin leads on projects that derive from the Management Plan and administers the Sustainable Development Fund. Other duties include arranging events to raise awareness of the Llyˆn AONB and assisting in updating the Management Plan.

Jonathan Neale worked with the Unit over the past few months as temporary Projects Officer. He worked on updating the website and on interpretation projects alongside the Llyˆn Landscape Partnership. Jonathan also co-ordinated the Llyˆn Coastal Festival.

Photos: Copyright of Gwynedd Council (unless stated otherwise) Cover photo: Garn Fadryn

by Gareth Jenkins

Contact Details Llyˆn AONB Unit, Countryside and Access Department, Gwynedd Council Offices, Ffordd y Cob, Pwllheli, Gwynedd - LL53 5AA (:

01758 704 155 / 01758 704 176

E-Mail: ahnellynaonb@gwynedd.gov.uk Website: www.ahne-llyn-aonb.org

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digital walks

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Llyˆn’s New Digital Walks

AONB Unit Project Officer, Jonathan Gwyn Neale has been busy in recent months putting into place the various aspects of the Llyˆn Landscape Partnership’s Interpretation Strategy. One exciting new initiative is a series of digital walks, based on Porthdinllaen, Nefyn, Pwllheli, Llanbedrog, Rhiw and Aberdaron.

Jonathan has been walking these paths with special software installed on a mobile phone to accurately record the routes. He said: ‘These paths follow public rights of way or open access land, so there’s nothing new in this. What’s different with this system is that you can now follow the paths with a mobile phone or tablet which describe features of interest along the way.

This is a new development in terms of visitor experience, as people can download the information from an app on the AONB website via Wi-Fi, and then read up about the various paths beforehand.

There is no need for leaflets or signs here and there. The system, once downloaded, is

• • • •

easily accessible and does not require a phone signal when out and about.’

Llyˆn Landscape Partnership Manager, Arwel Jones, said: ‘Today, technology - and the way we use it, is an integral part of any successful business. The Partnership

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Hillforts Interpretation Another interesting project recently implemented was the interpretation of Llyˆn’s most notable hillforts - Tre'r Ceiri, Garn Boduan and Garn Fadryn. The signs were created with the intention of conveying the hillforts in a visual way that’s easy to follow, with John Dilwyn Williams preparing the written content. The signs will be placed at start of the footpaths leading up to Tre’r Ceiri and Garn Fadryn, and not far from the summit of Garn Boduan.

Tre’r Ceiri

digital walks

thinks it’s important therefore, to offer this facility to locals and the many visitors to the area as a way of enriching their experience of the culture and unique heritage of Llyˆn.

It is crucial that we use new technologies to connect with visitors in order to attract them to the area and to try to get them to stay longer. Llyˆn has so many features of interest – from the traditional industries to the unique nature and landscape of the area. This app brings all this at the click of a button.’

The Partnership has employed local Caernarfon-based company Geosho, who have developed software for use with such projects. It is also hoped that this bilingual resource will soon be available in other languages, with the hope of attracting more overseas visitors to enjoy the area’s heritage.

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nefyn - twinned with puerto madryn

‘Nefyn – Twinned with Puerto Madryn’ For some years, the Llyˆn AONB Unit has leaded a project to erect traditional signs on the outskirts of various villages. The project is part of the ongoing attempt to maintain and conserve the traditional and unique character of the area. The most recent sign was erected at Nefyn.

As the sign states, Nefyn is twinned with Puerto Madryn. Why is that? And in which part of the world is Puerto Madryn? Whilst researching the story, we stumbled across an interesting article by Dave Holcroft, who writes travel blogs. This article gives a new, and independent insight to the twinning of Nefyn and Puerto Madryn and we decided to include an extract in Llygad Llyˆn: How on earth is Nefyn, on the idyllic Llyˆn Peninsula twinned with Puerto Madryn, 8,000 miles away on the rugged coast of Patagonian Argentina? I’m always little amused at how towns in Britain are continuously linked to obscure places in far flung corners of the world. However, this Welsh-Argentinian link is not as random as you might think.

I had been in Nefyn a few weeks before beginning my South American backpacking trip and distinctly remember seeing the ambiguous sign “Nefyn - Twinned with Puerto Madryn”. Several months later in Argentina, I was staring at the same sign confirming this bizarre pairing of two regions thousands of miles apart. I had to know more.

I began to piece together a fascinating history of a region steeped in Welsh heritage. A group of 160 patriarchal Welsh, spearheaded by the staunch nationalist Michael D. Jones, set sail for Argentina aboard the tea clipper “Mimosa” in 1865. Their dream was to establish a “New Wales” where their religion, language and traditions could flourish without the English Government’s intrusion. On the strength of surveys carried out by seafaring explorers and the promise of farmland by the Argentine Government, these hardy early settlers persisted with the unfamiliar and

harsh terrain and eventually established a Welsh colony near the modern day Puerto Madryn.

Gradually the communities began to thrive.

More boats arrived from Wales, firstly in 1874 continuing up to 1911.

Chapels were built not only for religious worship but also for educational and judicial reasons. Despite living under Argentine laws and sovereignty, they met no opposition over maintaining Welsh customs and practices.

Arriving some 140 years after the first Welsh, we were pleasantly surprised to see Welsh traditions still prominent in the communities surrounding Puerto Madryn. In the neighbouring town of Gaiman, there were teahouses with obvious Cymru origin and décor with such names as Tyˆ Gwyn and Plas y Coed. There are people who still speak the Welsh language fluently and at Gaiman, an Eisteddfod Festival is held every October.

The landscape of coastal Patagonia is of stark contrast to the green, grassy hills of north Wales. Vast, treeless, brown arid plains stretch out hundreds of miles into the hinterland of the Chubut province. In winter, temperatures are fairly mild around Puerto Madryn and Trelew but in the summer months of January and February, temperatures boil up to 40c. Rain is infrequent on the coast and virtually nonexistent on the desert lands of the Patagonian plateau.

Strong winds torment the whole area – in winter these winds are bitterly cold.

This is a desolate and inhospitable region of Patagonia, which makes the settlers’ efforts all the more impressive. It was an incredible achievement on the part of the pioneers to leave Wales behind, spend months at sea and then work incredibly hard to start a new life in Argentina. More than a century later the Welsh legacy is still very much alive and prominent. For the people of north Wales to be twinned with such an area, having understood it’s colourful history and on-going role in preserving Welsh tradition, it is quite an honour.

The AONB Unit wish to thank Dave Holcroft for his permission to include this article in Llygad Llyˆn.

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Clearance work was undertaken during the past few months at untidy sites within the AONB. The condition of these sites was affecting the landscape and special environment.

Porth Neigwl Severe storms battered Llyˆn at the beginning of 2014 – with winds over 100mph gusting over the entire Peninsula. Several properties were damaged and many trees fell.

Also, a great deal of rubbish became washed up on our beaches. One beach in particular, littered with waste of all kind, was Porth Neigwl. Two clean-up days were arranged during March by Keep Wales Tidy. It was great to see so many Pupils from Ysgol Botwnnog volunteers willing to help – including young people from Ysgol Botwnnog.

Hill slopes of Tre’r Ceiri

Tre’r Ceiri - before ...

It was brought to the attention of the AONB Unit that a caravan had been abandoned on the slopes of Tre’s Ceiri, near the footpath to the summit. This is a site within the Llyˆn AONB boundary, also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Tre’r Ceiri is also an important historical site, listed by CADW. The AONB Unit co-operated with a local contractor to clear the caravan’s remains. This has improved the surrounding environment – and hopefully the experience of the many visitors to the site. ... and after

clearance work

Clearance Work in the AONB

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w i n d t u r b i n e s i n l l ˆy n

Wind Turbines in Llˆy n Recently, wind turbines have become quite a hot topic here in Llyˆn. Some are supportive of them and see them as a suitable method of creating renewable energy and reducing the dependence on fossil fuels while others see them as harmful to the landscape and the scenery of the area.

Interest in wind turbines has increased because the Welsh and UK Governments are promoting ways to create renewable energy in order to reduce dependency on coal, gas and oil and reducing carbon emissions. This is done by offering guaranteed payments to developers or property owners who create solar energy, wind energy etc. through the feed-in tariff.

Although wind turbines can create renewable energy, thereby reducing electricity demand through traditional means, unacceptable effects on the landscape and coast should be avoided - especially within, or adjacent to protected landscapes such as AONB’s. AONB’s are of equal importance to National Parks and the need to maintain and protect them are equally important. Also, the tourism industry is very important here in Llyˆn, and the beautiful landscape and coast are some of the main attractions.

The issue has caused concern to members of the Llyˆn AONB Joint Advisory Committee, due to the potential impact on the natural beauty of this special area of Wales.

There has been much discussion at the Joint Committee’s meetings during the past year and a decision has been made that the following statements are to be submitted in response to each planning application for a wind turbine in the area:

Solar panels on agricultural buildings

• “Every application for a wind turbine within the Llyˆn AONB should be refused, in accordance with policy – C26 (Wind Turbine Developments) – ‘Proposals for wind turbine developments on sites within the Llyˆn AONB will be refused’.”

• “Every application for a wind turbine greater than 11 meters within the boundary and views of the Llyˆn Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest and Bardsey Island should be refused to prevent significant harm to the setting and views of the Llyˆn AONB” In terms of protecting the landscape and local scenery, it is important to consider other forms of generating renewable energy. For example, installing solar panels on agricultural sheds is a suitable way of creating renewable energy without affecting the landscape.

Through the Llyˆn AONB Management Plan, which will be reviewed during 2014, there will be an opportunity to address renewable energy and other important issues relating to the future of the area.

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The 2013 photography competition was a great success. The theme this time was My Favourite Place in Llŷn, and it was wonderful to see some many competitors with fantastic photos.

The winner was Mr Rory Trappe from Manod near Blaenau Ffestiniog with his photo of Porthor (Whistling Sands). His prize was a gift voucher to spend at Dewi Wyn Photography Shop, Pwllheli.

Rory Trappe (centre) receiving his prize from Jonathan Neale from the Llŷn AONB Unit and Gareth Jenkins, the competition judge. The awards evening was held at Oriel Tonnau, Pwllheli.

Amongst other competitors who were shortlisted:

A photo of Ynys Enlli (Bardsey)

by Michael Ellis from Flintshire

A photo of Morfa Nefyn beach

by Greta Hughes from Llanbedrog

Thanks to each competitor who took part. We are showcasing some of the photos that were entered on our website and we hope you enjoy having a look – www.ahne-llyn-aonb.org

photography competition 2013

Photography Competition 2013

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sustainable development fund

••• The

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Sustainable Development Fund •••

The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) was established by the Welsh Government in 2001.

The Fund provides grants for projects that benefit the environment, the economy, the culture or community in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The projects should be innovative and should develop a more sustainable way of living.

Here are a few examples of projects in Llyˆn that were supported over the past few months.

Llanbedrog Parish Footpaths Guidebook Have you ever heard of the smuggler, Wil Puw? Do you know the fate of the historic farm of Penyberth? Or do you know who were hanged at the gallows near Carreg y Defaid – and why? The answers to all these, and much more can be found in a guidebook jointly developed by Llanbedrog Community Council and the designer, Gareth Roberts. The bilingual guidebook contains a map of the area’s footpaths with information also about important historical sites that can be seen as you wander around. The project’s aim is to educate people about the area’s rich history and to venture out into the fresh air. You can claim your copy at many local attractions.

Improvements to Beuno’s Well Beuno’s Well is a historical feature of high significance within the Llyˆn AONB. It is situated a stone’s throw from Saint Beuno’s Church in Clynnog Fawr, not far from the Wales Coastal Path. It has been a popular attraction for centuries with pilgrims congregating at Clynnog on their way to Ynys Enlli (Bardsey).

According to tradition, this was a healing well - and pilgrims of ill health were immersed in its water and laid on Saint Beuno’s grave in the Church overnight hoping for a cure. A project was developed recently by Clynnog Community Council to improve Beuno’s Well and ensure that people can continue to appreciate the site safely. Local contractors repaired one of the surrounding walls and cleared overgrowth that was surrounding the entrance.

Traditional Kissing Gates on Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island) This project was developed by the Bardsey Island Trust (www.enlli.org). This Island has been a popular attraction for centuries with people visiting annually to enjoy the tranquillity, the spectacular wildlife and the interesting historical remains. Over time, the stiles on Ynys Enlli had deteriorated and were in a dangerous condition. This project’s aim was to replace them with traditional kissing gates. Local Contractors carried out the work. The new gates are well suited to the Island’s character, and they also ensure the safety of those who wander around.

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Major refurbishment work has been done over recent years to Llannor Community Hall. This project was developed by the Hall’s committee to coincide with that. The aim was to bring the community together so see the newly renovated Hall, and celebrate their heritage. The Committee secured the Fund’s support to hold a photograph exhibition and also to install an information board outside the Hall with a map of interesting sites to visit. A lecture was also held with the historian Mr John Dilwyn Williams. The project is a great example of how to promote a community centre and how to convey local history in an interesting and alternative way.

Parêd Dewi Sant Pwllheli (Saint David’s Day Parade) On March 1st 2014, the town of Pwllheli was bustling with hundreds of people who came together to celebrate St David's Day and enjoy a fun and colourful parade through the streets. At the end of the parade the winners of the Tapas Llyˆn competition were announced – a competition to experiment with local produce and create Tapas with catchy Welsh names. Funding was given towards facilitating the day’s arrangements – mainly because of the opportunity for Llyˆn communities to come together to celebrate the Welsh language and culture. The celebrations also contributed to the sustainability of the area, by being a boost to the economy. A huge crowd was attracted to Pwllheli where quality local products were showcased.

Re-visiting Past Projects . . . . . .

Llaniestyn’s Community Garden Some time has now passed since this project was supported by the Sustainable Development Fund. Around £1,800 was contributed during 2008 to develop and clear an area within the village of Llaniestyn. (As well as being within the Llyˆn AONB’s boundary, this plot of land is also situated within a designated Conservation Area).

As part of the work of administrating the Fund, the AONB Unit staff re-visit past successful projects to ensure that they have made a real difference to communities in Llyˆn and that sites such as this are maintained. It was a pleasure to re-visit this site in recent months, with beautiful mature plants and wildlife of all kind. The garden is immaculate, and is obviously respected and enjoyed by the locals.

For more information about the Fund, please see our website or get in touch:01758 704 155 / 01758 704 176 www.ahne-llyn-aonb.org

sustainable development fund

Celebrating Llannor’s Heritage

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w a l k i n g l l ˆy n ’ s c o a s t

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Wa l k i n g L l ˆy n ’ s C o a s t

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Every year, the Llŷn AONB Unit arranges guided walks. They offer a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery, meet new people and learn more about the area’s rich history.

An interesting walk was held during 2013 in the Llanfaelrhys area, led by Mr John Dilwyn Williams. Why not try this walk yourself? It may take about two hours to complete, and is suitable for families.

COUNTRYSIDE CODE RESPECT • PROTECT • ENJOY

• Be safe, plan ahead

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and and follow any signs Leave gates and property as you find them Protect plants and animals and take your litter home Keep dogs under close control Consider other people

The Llanfaelrhys area is situated above Cardigan Bay, between Aberdaron and Rhiw at the far end of Llyˆn. This area is steeped in history, with stunning views and interesting wildlife. It’s a perfect place to explore and enjoy. You can begin your journey at the parking area near Ysgo farm.

From here, follow the Wales Coastal Path signs towards the sea. Soon, you’ll find yourself Porth Ysgo taken from the sea above Porth Ysgo. This is a delightful spot, and is part of the area’s important designation as the Pen Llyˆn a’r Sarnau Special Area of Conservation – thanks to the wide variety of marine wildlife that lives here (www.penllynarsarnau.co.uk).

From here, you’ll be able to view Ynys Enlli (Bardsey) and Ynysoedd Gwylanod in the distance. Another prominent feature is Maen Gwenonwy – a rock that reaches out to the sea from Porth Cadlan. According to legend, Gwenonwy was the mother of Saint Hywyn (whom Aberdaron Church is consecrated to) and was the sister of King Arthur. It is rumoured that Arthur fought his last battle not far from here. There are many stories that link this legendary character with Llyˆn. For example, the

Porth Ysgo

Maen Gwenonwy

old name for the chough (the bird seen on the Llyˆn AONB’s logo) is Bird of Arthur. Also, a burial chamber known as Coetan Arthur can be found not far from here on Mynydd Cefn Amwlch, and legend has it that King Arthur’s ship sank near Ynys Enlli. But that’s enough about that for now – this is a subject for an article in its own right!

Mine ruins

If you proceed along the Path, you will soon reach Nant y Gadwen. This is a very special spot. As well as being within the Llyˆn AONB boundary, it is also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This site was once a bustling manganese mine. It is difficult to picture this today in such a quiet place. Remains and ruins from the period when the mine was in its heyday are still visible.

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Church of Saint Maelrhys

If you’d like to visit the cemetery, a few graves here are of national interest. Among those buried here, the artist Mildred Eldrigde, who was once married to R.S Thomas, the famous poet who was also the vicar at Aberdaron between 1967 and 1978. Also buried here are the Keating sisters, who once owned Plas yn Rhiw. The sisters were responsible for the restoration of the Plas to its former glory. Now owned by the National Trust, the house, gardens and woodland are well worth exploring with spectacular views towards Porth Neigwl and beyond.

Ty’n Llan ruins

For more information about the Llanfaelrhys area, visit www.rhiw.com.

Before leaving the cemetery and reaching the end of your journey near Ysgo, take a look at an old ruin directly opposite the Church. According to tradition, this was home to the famous salt smuggler, Huw Andro.

Llyˆn has been a haven over the centuries to smugglers and pirates, with all the inlets and caves dotted around the coastline – but once again that is another story!

w a l k i n g l l ˆy n ’ s c o a s t

Following the path to the far end of Nant y Gadwen, will lead to the main road. Turn left here towards Ysgo farm. This is the only section of the walk that is not part of the Wales Coastal Path. The road is a public highway, so be careful. As you follow this road, you’ll soon reach the Church of Saint Maelrhys, who was said to be Saint Hywyn’s cousin and one of the Saints of Bardsey.

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e v e n t s i n l l ˆy n

Events in Lly ˆn Lly ˆn Coastal Festival ˆn Coastal Festival was a great success.

The 2013 Lly A wide variety of events were held that celebrated the fact the Lly ˆn coast boasts a very special and rich heritage. Here’s a taste of some of the highlights…..

“Re-discovering the Cyprian” Exhibition An exciting exhibition was held in Nefyn by the Llyˆn Maritime Museum. This was an exhibition about the tragic story of the Cyprian – a steamship wrecked in a violent storm on rocks near Edern in 1881. 18 crew members drowned, and were buried in Edern cemetery. The Captain, John Alexander Strachan, also drowned - and his brave act has caused this story to live in the memory of local residents to this day. He sacrificed his own life by giving his life jacket to a 12 year old boy who was travelling on the ship as a stowaway. The exhibition traced the history of the tragedy and displayed artefacts that have been found around the area where the ship’s remains lies today.

Photo: Jamie Davies from the Maritime Museum with the Cyprian’s bell – one of the artefacts on display at the exhibition.

Fun Day on Llanbedrog Beach Llanbedrog boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Llyˆn.

This was a perfect spot to enjoy a fun day full of exiting activities.

Children were offered the opportunity to try kayaking, a football tournament was held and a member of Gwynedd Council’s Biodiversity Team was present to draw attention to the variety of interesting wildlife that dwells here. A sandcastle competition was also held as well as a face painting activity for children.

Photo: Alison Hargrave exhibiting little creatures of the sea.

Mynydd Rhiw Guided Walk An interesting guided walk was held early in September on Mynydd Rhiw with Rhys Mwyn. Important archaeological sites could be seen near and far, such as Castell Odo on Mynydd Ystum that dates back to the Iron Age. There was an opportunity also to visit the old axe factory on the southern part of the mountain. Traces of holes can be seen in the ground where people mined about 5,000 years ago, since the type of rock here was suitable for creating axes.

Photo: Rhys Mwyn with the group who joined the Mynydd Rhiw guided walk.

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What’s On In 2014?

There’s something for everyone happening in Llyˆn throughout the year.

The Llyˆn Coastal Festival will return, with a series of guided walks, fun days and lectures about local history. The Llŷn AONB Unit will be working with many local organizations such as the National Trust, the Llyˆn Maritime Museum and Gwynedd Council’s Biodiversity Team to hold interesting and exiting events to people of all ages.

Agricultural Shows will happen in Nefyn, Trefor and Tudweiliog during the summer months and they’re a popular attraction with a fine display of livestock, local produce, flowers and so on.

You could also drop by to the Sarn and District Ploughing Match. This is a historical and popular event, usually held towards the end of April in different locations each year. People flock from all over to compete or to socialize. Traditional rural skills thrive here such as ploughing (with a tractor or horse!) and dry stone walling. There are also stalls of all kinds.

Remember the small Eisteddfodau also. They’re held in many villages such as Llanaelhaearn, Mynytho and Uwchmynydd to name but a few. Undoubtedly, there will be keen competition and a wealth of culture and art.

The area’s main events will be noted on the Events Calendar on the Llyˆn AONB website.

Take a look, venture and enjoy! od Eisteddf n Aelhaear

Llyˆn Coastal Fes tival

-

www.ahne-llyn-aonb.org Sarn and District P loughing Match

z Festival Abersoch Jaz

Tudweiliog Show

Photos: Dewi Wyn

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meeting our partners

Meet Our Partners As well as the AONB Unit, a number of groups and organizations in Llŷn work for the benefit of the area. Come and meet some of our partners and hear about their interesting and valuable projects . . .

Name: Laura Hughes

Name: Meinir Pierce Jones

Job Title:

Job Title:

Coastal Ranger with The National Trust

Development Manager for the Llyˆn Maritime Museum and Heritage Centre

What do you do on a daily basis?

The aim of the National Trust is to look after special places forever for all to enjoy. I work as part of a team of keepers that look after about 3000 acres of land in Llyˆn (much of this land is held by tenants of course). One of my main objectives is to raise awareness about our valuable conservation work on the coast and try to encourage and provide opportunities for everyone to get out and enjoy these special places. The work is varied. I can be doing anything from planning and conducting events, to taking a group of school children out to our sites to learn about the history and wildlife of the area. Also, I will be working on the content of our website and information panels or leaflets, and also work on specific conservation projects such as the Porthdinllaen Seagrass Project.

We’ll be busy with many events in 2014 such as educational sessions, property maintenance and conservation projects. Also we are very excited to see the opening of Porth y Swnt - which is our new visitor centre at Aberdaron.

What do you do on a daily basis?

All kind of things. I will undertake financial aspects, correspondence, write reports, attend meetings and committees and work with volunteers. Also, I will discuss artefacts (dealing with our existing collection or new items that are offered). Part of the work also includes discussing the construction project with builders and archaeologists, and work on the new interpretation for the Museum. I gather new Friends to the Museum and organize activities such as the J Glyn Davies Festival. The role also includes coordinating our Summer Centre, hold exhibitions and talks and organizing coffee mornings.

The Maritime Museum will reopen its doors in 2014 following a period of fundraising, activities, renovations and organizing a new exhibition. There will be an important role for volunteers there, and we will have a performance stage, a screen to show films, a research corner, shop and café. A program of activities, hopefully with something for everyone, will be arranged including school children, Llyˆn residents, visitors and pilgrims.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/llyn-peninsula

www.llyn-maritime-museum.co.uk

Describe your work in three words:

Describe your work in three words:

Valuable / Interesting / Varied

Fulfilling / Social / Busy