The Discover Llangorse and Bwlch Alliance group were recently highly commended in the group category of the 2015 National Park Volunteer Awards. The awards are presented to individuals, projects, and groups that have gone above and beyond the expectations of volunteers. Each year thousands of hours are given by volunteers throughout National Parks across the UK and the Volunteer Awards are a way of saying “thank you”.
Garnet Davies, a Llangorse and Bwlch Alliance Volunteer with the ‘Awesome Walks’ guide produced by the group
The Alliance group was formed when the two communities of Llangorse and Bwlch – two villages within the boundaries of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, decided to join together to encourage visits to the area which include Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales and the castles, ancient Iron Age forts and standing stones of Bwlch. Another of the group’s aims is to educate visitors on how best to enjoy and help protect the area through new signage and a new website. Achievements that were recognised by the Awards include developing a 12-mile walking route that links the two communities, and organising stargazing evenings that capitalise on the Bannau Brycheiniog’ Dark Skies status.
Norman Lowe, Chair of the Discover Llangorse and Bwlch Alliance group:
“ Our volunteers and community have worked incredibly hard to promote this area and we are pleased that this work has been recognised with this National commendation. We look forward to even more visitors coming in 2016 to experience the wide variety of attractions the area has to offer, including our Awesome Walks and the Dark Skies events.”
Member Champion for Business and Communities at the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, Councillor Gareth Ratcliffe added:
“ Llangorse and Bwlch are just two of the beautiful places to visit within the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and the work which this group has done to promote how special these places are is outstanding. Congratulations to all involved, this recognition is well deserved.”
ENDS