THE latest community news from Barmouth

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AFTER Mari, the president, had welcomed everyone to the May meeting, Meirion was sung.

Mari then told the group that the British Empire Medal that had been awarded to Sheila Davies in recognition of the many years she served as a lollipop lady, had been donated to Ysgol y Traeth as Sheila had said that she decided to accepted the honour for the school “for giving me such a happy life”.

Sheila sadly passed away last year.

Birthday greetings were given to Linda Hills, Pauline Owen and Pat Hopkins as they will be celebrating their special day in the coming month.

Pam read the minutes of the last meeting after which Jacqui gave a short report about the recent Spring Council and an update about the litter picking which takes place on the first Monday of every month.

Pam and the other seven ladies that went to the 10 pin bowling at Glanllyn, Llanuwchllyn, found it very enjoyable, especially the tea that followed.

Susan told all about the recent Preserve, Protect and Plant Urban Trees Project at Wern Mynach and as a result of the very enjoyable and informative day, she and Mari are both adopting trees.

Christine reported that the dining out evening at the local Chinese restaurant was enjoyed by all that went and the taster evening at the Rugby Club in Dolgellau was very well received, thanks going to Loraine and Jeanette for their contributions.

A vote was taken on the resolutions and then Mari talked about the Tudor Rose Bowl at the Royal Welsh Show.

This year is the Federation’s 100th year so every member has been asked to contribute two leaves each to be mounted on a Tree of Life as part of the display.

Templates and fabric were available for making leaves during social time.

The dates for upcoming events – ramble, healthy living, treasure hunt and flat green bowls were noted and then Pam asked for names to be given to her if interested in walking netball.

Mari then introduced the speaker for the evening, Jack Brooks talking about ‘Barmouth High Street against the Tide’.

Jack began by telling the group that he has no qualifications, no degree and yet he owns three shops in Barmouth.

After leaving school and successful completion of his A-levels he worked in Australia, Germany and France and then returned to Barmouth where in 2014 he established his own interior design business.

With help from his family he restored and preserved Caersalem Chapel and opened it as a furniture and homeware store called Pieces for Places, showcasing his passion for design, interiors and architecture. Six months later he opened his smaller second shop followed in 2017 by SWAX. A totally different kind of shop offering a collection of beautiful stylish jewellery.

Jack takes a holistic approach to business and aims to be a desirable provider of furniture and homeware to a design appreciative customer, acting always with dignity, honesty and kindness. His wish is that Pieces for Places should be a pleasure to deal with and a pleasure to work for.

His business is going from strength to strength, he hosts late night events, Santa’s grotto at Christmas, supports charities and clubs and sponsors local sportsmen.

Pieces for Places and SWAX is definitely contributing to a vibrant High Street in Barmouth.

To quote Jack: “We’re doing something good.”

The raffle was won by Pam, the flowers by Rose and the competition winner was Joan Probert.

Next month on Wednesday, 26 June at 7pm in the Arts Room at The Dragon Theatre, the speaker will be Sandy Andrews talking about felt making. The competition is for a sensory glove.

Visitors are always welcome.

If you’re a member of a club, society or group, send your news to [email protected]