A BLAENAU Ffestiniog boy whose family has worked in the slate industry in the area for generations has called for an old mill in the town to be protected.

Owen Jones, who is 12 and attends Ysgol y Moelwyn, wants to see the mill at Maenofferen quarry protected, to preserve the historical building.

Owen’s father, Dylan, worked in the slate industry from the age of 16 for around 20 years. He has a great interest in the industry and its heritage. His family’s connections to the quarry go back generations, right back to his great-great-grandfather.

Speaking to the Cambrian News, Owen explained why the preservation of the mill is so important to him. He said: “When I see the old mill and stand in Maenofferen quarry I feel quite emotional and it gives me goosebumps. I feel sad that it has declined so much and been vandalised, but also happy that I can be there and feel part of my roots.

“My taid died three months before I was born and worked in this mill for most of his life.

“When I’m here I feel close to him, but I also feel close to everything about the past of Blaenau.

“I can feel the history when I’m there and I believe that other local people should also be able to experience this feeling of belonging.

“I’m scared that one day there’ll be nothing left and the story and history of what made Blaenau Ffestiniog will be lost forever.

“I want it to be protected, with 24-hour CCTV and make it watertight and secure.

“In time it would be amazing to make it into a museum like in Llanberis.

“I’ve loved going there for as long as I can remember and Blaenau children could enjoy something like it on our doorstep.”

Dylan, Owen’s father, said: “This is one of the last examples of a stone built slate mill still standing here in Blaenau.

“At its peak there were over 400 men working at the site and to see it in its current state is tragic. I’ve always encouraged Owen, and his brothers, to appreciate the importance of our history here in Blaenau and I’m proud that he is as passionate about the place as myself.

“The truth is, the mill is a standing example of why Blaenau exists and why we’re here.”