Ruthin, St Asaph, Denbigh, and Nantglyn were buzzing with Welsh-language activity during the autumn half-term, as nearly 80 children enjoyed creative and cultural events across the county.
A visit, a song and a story with Magi Ann
Singing and storytelling sessions featuring the beloved character, Magi Ann, took place at Denbigh and St Asaph libraries, while the leaves outside began to change colour.
In the warm and cosy atmosphere of the libraries, the tales of Magi Ann and her friends came alive within the books created specifically for young children.
And when Magi Ann appeared in person, many happy faces were eager to shake her hand and say hello.
During the sessions, the parents and toddlers danced and sang to the accompaniment of the ukulele, thanks to the talents of Aled Siôn, who came along to assist the Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych team. The babies, children and parents were beaming as Magi Ann said her goodbyes at the end of the busy morning sessions.
As always, we are grateful to the staff at Denbighshire Libraries for their co-operation, as we work together to provide high-quality, fun activities in Welsh for families across the county.
Weaving at Rhuthun
Weaving was the activity on offer for families looking to try their hand at a creative workshop during the autumn half-term at Yr Hen Lys in Ruthin. Thanks to support from Ruthin Town Council, the workshop was an eye-opener for many who had never before experienced crafting with willow.
Eirian Muse led the session; guiding a room full of children and their parents as they learned the craft of weaving through the medium of Welsh, was a testament to her patience, skill and expertise.
Participants had a wonderful time learning the craft and discovering the history of creating willow baskets, which were once essential items on Welsh farms and in fishing communities. They were used for carrying everything from potatoes and peat to fish and clothing; since willow grew in hedgerows and along riverbanks, the rods were easily accessible.
Elegant stars, little hearts, a deer and lively fish were all created from willow by the participants. Families left the session with their creations, ready to be displayed as natural decorations within their homes.
Bingo at Nantglyn
Another successful event that took place in the village of Nantglyn, near Denbigh was a bingo evening for local families and adults, organised by the area’s social club. It was wonderful to see so many members of the community in attendance, enjoying the social atmosphere and winning plenty of prizes! Thank goes to Hefin Edwards for bringing such fun to his role as the bingo caller, and to the Tir Mostyn Wind Fund for their generous contribution towards the cost of the evening.
Pumpkins and ghosts at the Museum
To round off a busy half-term, an afternoon of Halloween fun was held at Denbigh Museum, thanks to collaboration between Menter Iaith and the museum’s volunteers. It was part of a wider programme marking Welsh Museums Week.
Pumpkin and ghost hunts gave families the chance to learn a little about their local heritage while exploring the museum’s galleries. In addition, children and young people enjoyed arts and crafts activities at the ‘Stiwdio Gee’ area, where they could turn their hand to printing using a typewriter and equipment that were once common place at Gwasg Gee printworks located just a stone’s throw from the museum.
The team at Menter Iaith look forward to organising more family activities as they help Santa Claus on his journey around the county this December! Keep an eye on Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych’s Facebook and Instagram pages for more information about Welsh-language Christmas activities.