THE latest community news from Tywyn

Ysgol Uwchradd

PUPILS at Ysgol Uwchradd Tywyn aiming to raise funds for their expedition to Morocco in 2020 certainly put the fun into fundraising on Friday evening with their multi-sports community challenge.

Local businesses and clubs had been invited to take part in the competition, and there was a good mix of skills, and age, running from the Young Farmers to the veterans in Bro Dysynni Athletics Club.

There were seven teams in total, and some came bearing gifts for raffle prizes: Genesis donated a hoodie and Brighter foods brought Wild Trail bars for everyone and Halo ice cream vouchers.

Co-op had very generously donated £250 to the event, and Spar, Magic Lantern and Talyllyn Railway also donated prizes, despite not being able to field a team.

The sporting competition included a variety of activities – an obstacle course, football, hockey, netball, rugby, badminton and bowls, which allowed all teams an opportunity to excel at some sport. There was certainly a competitive air in the evening, but the atmosphere was one of fun and friendship.

The event was deemed a huge success – not simply in terms of raising money, but raising many a laugh and community spirit.

Nick Aitken summed up the event: “Great evening had by all and Brighter Foods were delighted to be able to support this fundraiser to help the school children travel to Morocco.

“The event was well organised and it was fantastic to see the students having such an active part organising, running and marshalling each individual activity as all teams battled it out to become Sporting Challenge Champions!

“Each activity, whether as a team or individual, was just the right length and competitive enough to create engaging competition yet fun to create a fantastic social occasion with plenty of banter between opposing teams.

“The refreshments were excellent, again served by the students and Wild Trail were honoured to be invited and supply some snack bars for competitors. We hope this will become an annual event”.

The pupils running the show seemed to enjoy themselves too.

Ruby Carney said: “Friday night was a success! I was in charge of scoring and selling raffle tickets, whilst others marshalled events on the astro. The Morocco crew and I were very grateful of the help from our parents selling refreshments, and to Nicola Davies from the leisure centre for staying late to lock up. I had a great time and was pleased that everyone taking part seemed to be enjoying our event.”

First place went to the Young Farmers, who were presented with a slate shield and a slate coaster each, engraved with the title ‘Multi Sports Champion’, kindly produced by Mr Phillips on the school’s laser cutter.

Rhys Roberts, team captain said: “It was a great evening. It was good to see sports chosen specifically to suit everyone. The competition was full of fun, with tension building in the final play off between our Young Farmers team and the hockey team. Success came the Young Farmers’ way after a tough game with some very determined girls!”

Bro Dysynni Hockey Club were second, and Brighter Foods and Bro Dysynni Athletics Club joint third. Coop, Tywyn Netball Club and Genesis also played well and final scores were close.

Many thanks to staff, pupils, their parents, the local businesses and all the teams together with their supporters for making the evening one to remember – and possibly repeat. Better get into training now!

Young reporters

YSGOL Uwchradd Tywyn were runners up in the Young Reporters for the Environment Litter Less competition in Wales.

The results were announced on 9 May and the judges made the following comments: “Sean Garret achieved second place for his article in the 11-14 age category, titled ‘A Welsh Wonder’. The jury enjoyed Sean’s article and were impressed by his understanding that everyone needs to change behaviour and take responsibility for the state of our oceans.

“Team Seaside Savers came third for their film in the 11-14 age category. The film saw strong competition this year and it was very difficult to choose the top three films. The jury particularly liked the presentation style of The Seaside Savers as well as good quality filming on location at the beach.”

The pupils received cash prizes: £50 for Sean, and £25 each for the team Seaside Savers.

All pupils received certificates (pictured).

Michelle Bain, group leader, said “I am so proud of the pupils’ success in the Young Reports for the Environment Competition.

“They all worked so hard and have a clear understanding of the effects of plastic on the environment. The pupils have thoroughly enjoyed working on the project for the competition and learning new skills in the process.”

Dysynni Ladies

THE final gathering of the Dysynni Ladies for the 2018/19 season was a decadent afternoon tea courtesy of The Trefeddian Hotel in Aberdyfi on 8 May.

The chairperson, Anne Rowlands, welcomed the members present and proposed a toast with glasses of Prosecco and soft drinks to the success of the group over the past 50+ years and thanked all who had participated in any way during the year of her office.

The Trefeddian provided a variety of sandwiches and a plethora of dainty cakes to please the taste buds of all, accompanied by tea or coffee.

The comfortable lounge area gave all an opportunity to chat and catch up but it was unfortunate that the weather was somewhat inclement so the planned games of croquet and putting were abandoned. The staff at the hotel were very welcoming and efficient and as always gave excellent service.

At each Meeting there is a competition with points awarded for placing and entering. The chairperson announced the overall competition winners and presented prizes to Anne Rowlands, 14 points; Gwyneth Thomas, 12 points; Gwenfair Pierce, 11 points; and Linda Kelly, 8 points. She thanked all for attending and wished Myra Dods well as chairperson for the ensuing year.

Health care discussion

FOUR years ago meetings were held in Tywyn to discuss the future of Health Care Services for the community, following the formation of the ‘Mid Wales Health Care Collaborative’.

This was set up to ensure that the Health Boards covering mid Wales. work together to provide services for the people of mid Wales.

Now four years on, they would like to hear your views on the workplan of the collaborative, (now the Mid Wales Joint Committee), and to discuss what has been achieved. This event is designed to be informal, so you can raise any issues you wish.

Call by at the leisure centre on Thursday, 23 May, anytime between 2.30pm and 5.30pm.

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