THIS week, Narberth, the picturesque market town in Pembrokeshire, Wales, received national recognition through an in-depth feature in the i newspaper. The article, titled “Narberth: Pembrokeshire’s Market Town with Foodie Highlights and Folkloric Heritage,” showcases the town’s vibrant culinary scene and rich cultural tapestry.

Culinary Highlights

The i newspaper article delved into Narberth’s transformation into a culinary destination, highlighting several local establishments that contribute to its gastronomic appeal:​

• Ultracomida: This Spanish deli and tapas bar offers a fusion of Welsh and Spanish flavors, providing patrons with a unique dining experience.​
• The Peppercorn: A contemporary restaurant known for its innovative dishes that emphasize locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the region’s bounty.​
• Fire & Ice: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, this café and ice cream parlor is renowned for its artisanal gelato and delectable desserts.​

Cultural and folkloric heritage

Beyond its culinary attractions, the article shed light on Narberth’s rich cultural heritage:​

• Narberth Museum: The museum offers insights into the town’s history, including its connections to Welsh folklore and legends.​
• Local Legends: The town is steeped in tales such as the Mabinogion, with stories of knights and mythical creatures adding to its allure.​

This national coverage not only highlights Narberth’s status as a haven for food enthusiasts but also underscores its dedication to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Wales.

A NEW initiative to transform a historic chapel in Cardigan into a thriving community hub was launched on St David’s Day.

The £600,000 Hwb Aberteifi project aims to breathe new life into the iconic Tabernacl Chapel on Cardigan’s main street. The plan is to create a multi-purpose space celebrating the town’s rich cultural heritage while providing a centre for education, music, poetry, and community activities.

A public meeting is scheduled for next Saturday (March 8) at 1:00pm at the chapel, inviting those interested in supporting the scheme. The project offers an opportunity for cooperative ownership, where individuals can lend £1,000 over three years, earning an annual interest rate of 4%.

To kickstart the scheme, £150,000 must be raised by the end of the month.

Community-driven vision

Richard Jones, a spokesperson for Hwb Aberteifi, said: “This is more than just a building – it’s a vision for a stronger, more connected community.

“By transforming the historic Tabernacl Chapel, we can create a space that brings people together, celebrates our heritage, and supports local creativity and innovation. We urge everyone who cares about Cardigan to help make this dream a reality.”

A space for culture and creativity

The project will provide:

• A cultural and educational centre featuring the works of renowned local poet and Archdruid, Dic Jones.
• A music studio and recording space for community record label Fflach, which plans to return to Tabernacl’s vestry to showcase local artists.
• A drop-in area for residents and visitors to discuss and develop new activities and initiatives for the town.

The initiative is a collaborative effort led by local volunteers, Cardigan Aberteifi Society (CAS), 4CG Cymru Cyf., and Planed. It has also received initial start-up funding from the Welsh Government’s Perthyn initiative, which supports Welsh language projects.

How to get involved

Those interested in supporting the campaign can find details of the loan scheme and further information at www.hwbaberteifi.cymru. Application forms are available at Awen Teifi shop in Cardigan and the Community Book Shop. The project team can also be contacted via hwbaberteifi@gmail.com.

Building on past success

Cris Tomos, community assets coordinator at Planed, welcomed the initiative, saying: “It’s inspiring to see local groups taking the lead in repurposing empty buildings as community hubs.

“I am confident that the people of Cardigan will support this venture, just as they did in September last year when a similar campaign raised £148,000 in one month to secure Bethlehem Chapel in Newport, Pembrokeshire. That space is now a thriving centre for cultural activities.”

With a rich history and a bold vision for the future, Hwb Aberteifi is set to become a key part of Cardigan’s community landscape.

CASTLE Ward County Councillor Thomas Baden Tudor has attended a Water Quality Drop-in Session hosted by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water at HaverHub.

Speaking about the event, held on Wednesday (Feb 28), Cllr Tudor said it was an “interesting and informative” opportunity to engage with River Quality Liaison Managers about past and future investments in Haverfordwest.

As part of ongoing efforts to address water management concerns, Cllr Tudor confirmed that he would be arranging a site visit with Dŵr Cymru officers to Slade Lane, Haverfordwest, to assess potential improvements for surface flood and drainage issues.