Latest news with #NationalTrustCymru
Leader Live
4 hours ago
- Leader Live
Smoking ban introduced on three North Wales beaches
Cared for by National Trust Cymru, the beaches are part of a new scheme launched in partnership with ASH Wales aimed at protect wildlife, nature, and public health. The 'smoke-free' zones were introduced on June 19 to mark National Clean Air Day and include Porth Dafarch and Cemlyn on Anglesey, as well as Porthor on the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd. The shores of Porth Dafarch, Anglesey, North Wales (Image: National Trust Images/John Miller) Dewi Davies, project manager for National Trust Cymru in North Wales, said: "We are delighted to partner with ASH Wales Cymru on this initiative which will benefit both people and nature. "All three locations we've chosen as voluntary smoke-free zones have been selected because they are environmentally significant. "We work hard to look after these special places and are requesting that people who visit these beautiful locations help us to care for them by not smoking and disposing of harmful smoking materials which could pose a risk to these special habitats and the wildlife that lives in them, or spark a wildfire. "As a conservation charity, people and nature are at the heart of everything we do, and we all have a role to play in helping to protect our natural environment for future generations to enjoy." Cemlyn, Anglesey (Image: National Trust Images/Paul Harris) The scheme aims to reduce cigarette litter, which poses a threat to marine environments and wildlife. Cigarette butts break down into microplastics and release toxic chemicals into the water, and discarded smoking materials can also pose a wildfire risk. The beaches were chosen for their environmental importance. Porth Dafarch, on Holy Island, is home to a colony of choughs, the rarest member of the crow family, as well as seals and porpoises. Cemlyn supports one of the UK's largest colonies of Sandwich terns, with around 1,500 pairs, and is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a National Nature Reserve. Porthor, known for its 'whistling sands,' is a haven for birds and marine life, including choughs, razorbills, guillemots, and seals. Notice boards have been placed at each site to inform visitors of the scheme. Suzanne Cass, chief executive of ASH Wales, said: "Smoke-free spaces are not only popular—they're essential for protecting our wildlife, natural landscapes, and future generations. "Expanding smoke-free outdoor spaces sends a clear message: smoking is not the norm - people, wildlife and the planet come first." According to National Trust Cymru, public opinion shows 'strong support' for the scheme, with 56 per cent of Welsh adults supporting a smoking ban on beaches. In Anglesey, support for the ban rises to 87 per cent. The launch was marked with a beach clean at Porth Dafarch, involving pupils from Kingsland Primary School on June 19.
North Wales Chronicle
4 hours ago
- North Wales Chronicle
Smoking ban introduced on three North Wales beaches
Cared for by National Trust Cymru, the beaches are part of a new scheme launched in partnership with ASH Wales aimed at protect wildlife, nature, and public health. The 'smoke-free' zones were introduced on June 19 to mark National Clean Air Day and include Porth Dafarch and Cemlyn on Anglesey, as well as Porthor on the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd. The shores of Porth Dafarch, Anglesey, North Wales (Image: National Trust Images/John Miller) Dewi Davies, project manager for National Trust Cymru in North Wales, said: "We are delighted to partner with ASH Wales Cymru on this initiative which will benefit both people and nature. "All three locations we've chosen as voluntary smoke-free zones have been selected because they are environmentally significant. "We work hard to look after these special places and are requesting that people who visit these beautiful locations help us to care for them by not smoking and disposing of harmful smoking materials which could pose a risk to these special habitats and the wildlife that lives in them, or spark a wildfire. "As a conservation charity, people and nature are at the heart of everything we do, and we all have a role to play in helping to protect our natural environment for future generations to enjoy." Cemlyn, Anglesey (Image: National Trust Images/Paul Harris) The scheme aims to reduce cigarette litter, which poses a threat to marine environments and wildlife. Cigarette butts break down into microplastics and release toxic chemicals into the water, and discarded smoking materials can also pose a wildfire risk. The beaches were chosen for their environmental importance. Porth Dafarch, on Holy Island, is home to a colony of choughs, the rarest member of the crow family, as well as seals and porpoises. Cemlyn supports one of the UK's largest colonies of Sandwich terns, with around 1,500 pairs, and is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a National Nature Reserve. Porthor, known for its 'whistling sands,' is a haven for birds and marine life, including choughs, razorbills, guillemots, and seals. Notice boards have been placed at each site to inform visitors of the scheme. Suzanne Cass, chief executive of ASH Wales, said: "Smoke-free spaces are not only popular—they're essential for protecting our wildlife, natural landscapes, and future generations. "Expanding smoke-free outdoor spaces sends a clear message: smoking is not the norm - people, wildlife and the planet come first." According to National Trust Cymru, public opinion shows 'strong support' for the scheme, with 56 per cent of Welsh adults supporting a smoking ban on beaches. In Anglesey, support for the ban rises to 87 per cent. The launch was marked with a beach clean at Porth Dafarch, involving pupils from Kingsland Primary School on June 19.
Wales Online
a day ago
- Health
- Wales Online
Three popular beaches in North Wales where common activity now frowned upon
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Three popular beaches in North Wales have become 'smoke-free zones' to safeguard nature and reduce the risk of wildfires. The initiative is only voluntary, with noticeboards erected at each site asking visitors not to light cigarettes. The beaches – Porth Dafarch and Cemlyn on Anglesey, and Porthor on the Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd – are all managed by National Trust Cymru. They were selected for their 'environmental significance' with support from RSPB Cymru. National Trust Cymru hopes smoke-free beaches will help protect wildlife and the coastlines by reducing environmental litter. According to Ash Wales Cymru, cigarette butts are one of the world's most littered items, posing a serious threat to marine environment and wildlife. Over time, said the charity, each butt will break up into microplastics, leaching toxic chemicals including lead, arsenic and formaldehyde into fragile marine ecosystems. It's hoped that by stopping people smoking on beaches, this will also protect young people from second-hand smoke and encourage them not to take up smoking. Backing the initiative - launched today on National Clean Air Day (June 19) - is Sarah Murphy, minister for mental health and wellbeing. She said: 'Our ambition is to create a smoke-free Wales by 2030 and creating more smoke-free spaces is one way to achieve this. "It is important we work together to limit the harmful effects of smoking as well as the associated health and environmental risks to our beautiful landscapes.' Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone In March 2024, Benllech and Trearddur Bay on Anglesey became the first smoke-free beaches in North Wales. This followed similar designations at Caswell Bay, Langland Bay, Port Eynon and Little Haven in South Wales. (Image: John Miller/National Trust) Last year, Spain banned smoking and vaping on beaches and restaurant terraces in an attempt to tackle cigarette butt blight. France has had similar bans since 2011, while stricter anti-smoking measures have been introduced in Italy and Greece. The latest North Wales additions are all renowned for the bird colonies and visitors. Cemlyn, on Anglesey's north coast, is home to an internationally important colony of Sandwich terns. Nesting colonies of Arctic and Common terns are also seen here, and, occasionally, the rarer Roseate tern. With around 1,500 pairs of terns counted in recent years, Cemlyn has the UK's third largest colony, with good water quality key to their prospects. Much of the surrounding coastline is a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Porth Dafarch, on Anglesey's Holy Island, has ancient rock formations that host a colony of choughs - the least common member of the crow family and recognised by its red bill and legs. The surrounding sea is home to seals and porpoises. (Image: Paul Harris Photography/National Trust) The beach at Porthor, famous for its 'whistling sands', is a stronghold for all manner of birds, from Choughs to Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Cormorants, Shags and Yellowhammers. Other visitors here include seals and dolphins. Dewi Davies, project manager for National Trust Cymru in North Wales, said: 'We work hard to look after these special places. "We are requesting that people who visit these beautiful locations help us to care for them by not smoking and disposing of harmful smoking materials. They could pose a risk to these special habitats and the wildlife that lives in them, or spark a wildfire.' The launch of the latest smoke-free spaces will be celebrated with a beach clean at Porth Dafarch on Thursday, June 19. Involving children from Ysgol Gynradd Kingsland, Holyhead, the event aims to highlight the dangers of cigarette waste on marine life. Smoke-free beaches are a partnership between the National Trust and ASH Wales. They believe there is strong public support for the idea in Wales. A national survey earlier this year showed 56% in favour of a smoking ban on beaches. A local survey in Anglesey showed even stronger support, with 87% in favour. Suzanne Cass, chief executive of ASH Wales, said: 'With 325,000 people in Wales still smoking, we must do everything we can to help them quit while creating a cleaner, healthier environment for all. "Expanding smoke-free outdoor spaces sends a clear message: smoking is not the norm - people, wildlife and the planet come first.' Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox See what's on in your area
North Wales Live
a day ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
Three popular beaches in North Wales where common activity now frowned upon
Three popular beaches in North Wales have become 'smoke-free zones' to safeguard nature and reduce the risk of wildfires. The initiative is only voluntary, with noticeboards erected at each site asking visitors not to light cigarettes. The beaches – Porth Dafarch and Cemlyn on Anglesey, and Porthor on the Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd – are all managed by National Trust Cymru. They were selected for their 'environmental significance' with support from RSPB Cymru. National Trust Cymru hopes smoke-free beaches will help protect wildlife and the coastlines by reducing environmental litter. According to Ash Wales Cymru, cigarette butts are one of the world's most littered items, posing a serious threat to marine environment and wildlife. Over time, said the charity, each butt will break up into microplastics, leaching toxic chemicals including lead, arsenic and formaldehyde into fragile marine ecosystems. It's hoped that by stopping people smoking on beaches, this will also protect young people from second-hand smoke and encourage them not to take up smoking. Backing the initiative - launched today on National Clean Air Day (June 19) - is Sarah Murphy, minister for mental health and wellbeing. She said: 'Our ambition is to create a smoke-free Wales by 2030 and creating more smoke-free spaces is one way to achieve this. "It is important we work together to limit the harmful effects of smoking as well as the associated health and environmental risks to our beautiful landscapes.' Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone In March 2024, Benllech and Trearddur Bay on Anglesey became the first smoke-free beaches in North Wales. This followed similar designations at Caswell Bay, Langland Bay, Port Eynon and Little Haven in South Wales. Last year, Spain banned smoking and vaping on beaches and restaurant terraces in an attempt to tackle cigarette butt blight. France has had similar bans since 2011, while stricter anti-smoking measures have been introduced in Italy and Greece. The latest North Wales additions are all renowned for the bird colonies and visitors. Cemlyn, on Anglesey's north coast, is home to an internationally important colony of Sandwich terns. Nesting colonies of Arctic and Common terns are also seen here, and, occasionally, the rarer Roseate tern. With around 1,500 pairs of terns counted in recent years, Cemlyn has the UK's third largest colony, with good water quality key to their prospects. Much of the surrounding coastline is a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Porth Dafarch, on Anglesey's Holy Island, has ancient rock formations that host a colony of choughs - the least common member of the crow family and recognised by its red bill and legs. The surrounding sea is home to seals and porpoises. The beach at Porthor, famous for its 'whistling sands', is a stronghold for all manner of birds, from Choughs to Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Cormorants, Shags and Yellowhammers. Other visitors here include seals and dolphins. Dewi Davies, project manager for National Trust Cymru in North Wales, said: 'We work hard to look after these special places. "We are requesting that people who visit these beautiful locations help us to care for them by not smoking and disposing of harmful smoking materials. They could pose a risk to these special habitats and the wildlife that lives in them, or spark a wildfire.' The launch of the latest smoke-free spaces will be celebrated with a beach clean at Porth Dafarch on Thursday, June 19. Involving children from Ysgol Gynradd Kingsland, Holyhead, the event aims to highlight the dangers of cigarette waste on marine life. Smoke-free beaches are a partnership between the National Trust and ASH Wales. They believe there is strong public support for the idea in Wales. A national survey earlier this year showed 56% in favour of a smoking ban on beaches. A local survey in Anglesey showed even stronger support, with 87% in favour. Suzanne Cass, chief executive of ASH Wales, said: 'With 325,000 people in Wales still smoking, we must do everything we can to help them quit while creating a cleaner, healthier environment for all. "Expanding smoke-free outdoor spaces sends a clear message: smoking is not the norm - people, wildlife and the planet come first.'
South Wales Argus
08-06-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Tredegar House to be transformed into bumblebee sanctuary
Tredegar House in Newport is part of a new project by National Trust Cymru and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust to protect declining bumblebee species, including the rare shrill carder bee (Bombus sylvarum). The estate, located on the Gwent Levels, is one of just five areas in Wales and England where the shrill carder bee still survives. Chris Flynn, head gardener at Tredegar House, said: "We are pleased to be working alongside the Bumblebee Conservation Trust on this important conservation project. "Bumblebees urgently need our help, and we want to ensure species such as the shrill carder can continue to thrive here at Tredegar House." Orchard Garden in Tredegar House, on the Gwent Levels, one of five areas in England and Wales where the rare shrill carder bee still survives (Image: James Beck) The work is part of the Natur am Byth programme, Wales' largest-ever species recovery initiative, funded by the Welsh Government and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Planned habitat improvements will take place across 90 acres of gardens and parkland at Tredegar House, focusing on the creation of flower-rich meadows to support the shrill carder and other pollinators. Mr Flynn said: "Our aim is to enhance the diversity of plants in the garden, thoughtfully extending flowering periods throughout the year to provide crucial nectar sources from early spring through to late autumn. "We are carefully introducing nectar-rich grassland plants such as cowslip, crocus, snake's head fritillary, red clover, ivy, and bird's-foot trefoil. "We hope these subtle, yet significant changes continue to support and attract bumblebees and other pollinators, while also enriching the beauty and biodiversity of our gardens for everyone to enjoy." Other bumblebee species expected to benefit include the brown-banded carder bee and the more common garden bumblebee. To monitor the impact of the project, National Trust staff and volunteers have joined the Bumblebee Conservation Trust's BeeWalk scheme, a citizen science programme that collects monthly bumblebee sightings from March to October. Tom Bucher-Flynn, shrill carder bee project officer for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, said: "We're delighted to announce that National Trust Cymru and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust are teaming up at Tredegar House."
