Poet Meleri Davies has been appointed as Eryri National Park's first Artist in Residence.

Meleri will support the authority as it develops the Plas y Bobol project to establish a new headquarters and community hub at Plas Tan y Bwlch, near Maentwrog.

Meleri will support, document and communicate this journey through artistic expression, using poetry and other creative approaches to share news about the project and engage with local communities.

Meleri said: "I see myself as a bridge between the National Park Authority and the local communities surrounding Plas Tan y Bwlch.

“There are so many considerations involved in developing an iconic centre such as Plas Tan y Bwlch, but there is also a wealth of local and community knowledge that needs to feed into the process.

"I hope to work creatively with local communities to communicate important stories and messages to the authority as it plans the development of Plas Tan y Bwlch."

Jonathan Cawley, Eryri National Park Authority Chief Executive, said: "The Plas y Bobol project was established in response to a clear demand from local residents and young people for high-quality artistic and cultural opportunities in the area.

"Access to live arts and creative opportunities in rural areas is limited, and this project aims to address that gap by providing a platform for local voices.

"In doing so, the project will build on the legacy of Plas Tan y Bwlch as an educational centre that has inspired conservationists and artists from across the country and beyond."

Meleri will work with the authority for almost a year, engaging with Maentwrog, Llanfrothen, Ffestiniog, Talsarnau, Porthmadog and Penrhyndeudraeth.

Her work will encourage local residents, particularly youngsters, to become involved in the project.

This will complement the authority's plans with Frân Wen Theatre Company to develop arts projects in the area.

Naomi Jones, the authority’s Director of Land Management, said: "The partnership with youth theatre company Frân Wen and other local multidisciplinary artists will offer fantastic and unique opportunities for young people.

"Through a programme of co-produced activities that bring together the natural environment, the Welsh language and creative expression, young people will have opportunities to develop creative skills, build confidence and strengthen their connection with the landscape around them and their cultural identity."

Meleri is originally from Meirionnydd and grew up in Cwm Prysor.

Meleri said: "I'm a Meirionnydd girl, and I'm delighted to have the opportunity to come back home to work on this project.

"Drawing on my community development experience, I'll start at grassroots level, connecting with community initiatives across the area and attending relevant local events.

"I'll also work with the National Park Authority's team and local artists to organise creative workshops in the area."

She added@ "Creativity has been a transformative force in my own life, and I hope to share that power to engage and inspire people during my time as Artist in Residence.

"I'm confident that doing so will strengthen the relationship between the National Park Authority and local communities as they develop Plas y Bobol."