A Llyn man who has fought with addiction for several years has hosted the first-ever ‘Soberfest’ in Gwynedd.

‘Soberfest’, which was held at Abererch Sands Camp Site, was organised by 45-year-old Chris Rees from Llannor with the help of his wife Alisson Chappell Rees, his 14-year-old daughter Katie, his parents Aled Rees and Mary Lou, his sister Karen Rees and other family members and many friends.

Chris has had many problems with alcohol, drugs, smoking and food over the years but is now fighting fit and enjoying life without any of the previous demons which wrecked his life. He hasn’t drunk a drop of alcohol in just over four and a half years, free of drugs for three years and has not smoked tobacco in over two years.

Chris says he owes a great deal of gratitude to Felin Fach in Pwllheli.

Chris said: “I attended a AGRO (Anglesey & Gwynedd Recovery Organisation) Recovery Group at Felin Fach and they specialised in giving informal chats in a non-judgmental relaxed atmosphere, which worked for me. If I get the opportunity I will try and attend some of their meetings now even though I’m feeling great.”

When asked how the event went Chris said: “It was a great success with plenty of entertainment with four individuals or groups playing music from 4pm to 10pm, face painting for children, a tasty barbecue and family fun for everybody. It was nice to have a festival where there was no alcohol or drugs and proved that they are not needed to have a great time.”

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