Brecon Beacons National Park Authority and their partners worked hard to make sure there was something for everyone at their recent National Park Open Day held last Saturday (7th July) to further celebrate the Park’s 50th Anniversary.
Held at the National Park Visitor Centre, near Libanus, staff, volunteers and Members of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority showcased vital ‘behind the scenes’ work of the National Park along with over 25 of its important partner organisations.
Exhibits were provided by the National Trust, Brecknock Wildlife Trust, Forestry Commission, Cambridge University’s Time Truck Team, the British Geological Survey (BGS), the Army, Brecknock Spinners, Weavers and Dyers, Cardiff University and many more, demonstrating the breadth of the cross partnership working throughout the National Park.
A diverse range of activities was on offer, including gold panning, fossil hunting, sheepdog trials, interactive mapping, safaris, mason bee nest making and children’s games.
The bird box making workshop provided by National Park Wardens proved quite a crowd-puller, giving children a chance to get their hands dirty and make something really useful for their gardens – not to mention, learn more about the abundant wildlife of the area.
The Open Day also coincided with the launch of the National Park’s dynamic new website and a unique 50th Anniversary DVD – an initiative produced by the National Park Authority and the Sleeping Giant Foundation – highlighting the history of the park with voices and memories from the local communities.
Mrs Mary Taylor, Chairman for Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said: “We are delighted with the turn out at our Open Day and we hope that people walked a way with a sense of how the National Park and its partner organisations operate.
“It was also a great learning opportunity for our staff and Members to find out what visitors and residents really want to see happen in their National Park.”
Richard Levy, Visitor Centres Manager at the National Park Visitor Centre, said: “The National Park Open Day was a great success, not only allowing the public to see behind the scenes of our partner organisations and the National Park Authority, but also showcasing the everyday practical work undertaken by all of our staff and volunteers who help make the Brecon Beacons a great place.”