Big day as castle opens (From Western Telegraph)

Big day as castle opens

HUNDREDS of Narberth residents gathered to mark one of the most important days in the town's history on Saturday, as Narberth Castle was officially opened to the public.

The 12th century castle, which in its time is rumoured to have homed Welsh princes and has defended the town against invaders, will now be a tourist attraction and a source of enjoyment for generations of Narberth townspeople.

One of the main driving forces behind the opening, county councillor Wynne Evans, said: "Today's celebrations are the result of a lot of hard work by local people and I am delighted to see so many children here as this castle is a big part of their heritage and now they can come here and play in safety.

"This special place will also be a focal point for visitors to the town and something local people can be proud of."

The idyllic setting can be hired out for £50 a day and is expected to be the venue for music and drama events and maybe even weddings.

It has taken more than two years of repair and restoration work and cost over £400,000 to make the ruins, which were neglected for two centuries, safe for the public.

A 99-year lease was negotiated by Pembrokeshire County Council who, together with CADW and SPARC (now PLANED), provided the funding, which was spent on conservation work and improvements.

The day-to-day management and care of the site will now be the responsibility of Narberth Town Council.

Celebrations began with a 150 person-strong parade led by a Chinese dragon, Welsh piper and Twlch Twrth, the giant Mabinogion boar, and continued into the night featuring a variety of music and entertainment.

An enthralled audience listened to addresses from castle owner, Graham Browning, Wyn Calvin, the Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, the Rt. Hon the Lord Morris of Aberavon and chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council Clive Collins who officially opened the castle.

l Saturday was a double celebration, as the twinning ceremony between Narberth and Ludlow also took place, with speeches from both mayors and an exchange of gifts.