A FESTIVITY that has been celebrated in Pembrokeshire’s Gwaun Valley for more than 200 years was marked last week.

Pupils from Ysgol Bro Brynach performed traditional Welsh songs at Bluestone National Park Resort to welcome in the ‘old’ New Year, based on the ancient Julian calendar.

When the old calendar was superseded in the 18th century by the Gregorian calendar, which cut 11 days from the year, residents in the north Pembrokeshire community resisted change and have maintained their New Year on January 13 ever since.

“Children and families would visit local homes and sing to celebrate the old New Year and in return the children would be given sweets,” said Glenn Hewer of Bluestone.

“Pupils from Ysgol Bro Brynach and teachers wanted to celebrate the occasion and it was a great opportunity to celebrate Hen Galan at Bluestone, allowing guests and staff to join in the festivities – and the youngsters were given some treats as part of the tradition too.”