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News

Local Food Producers Encouraged to Partner with Welsh Schools in Supplying Fresh Produce

Independent food producers and growers across North Wales are being urged to seize new opportunities through partnerships with Conwy schools.

A pilot project led by Conwy County Borough Council’s Catering department, in collaboration with the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy and Business Wales initiatives, is exploring how local authorities can better incorporate Welsh-grown produce into primary school menus.

The initial phase of the pilot focused on green vegetables—specifically broccoli—and highlighted a strong preference among pupils for fresh over frozen options. Now, the project partners are appealing to regional growers to meet this growing demand and help develop supply pathways for fresh vegetables destined for school kitchens.

Dafydd Aled Williams, a consultant and former Health and Wellbeing Manager for Conwy, explained that these partnerships align with the Welsh Government’s Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) programme, which prioritizes health, sustainability, and support for families during the cost-of-living crisis.

“There has been a lot of research and work behind the scenes over the last year to introduce more Welsh produce onto schools’ menus,” said Dafydd.

“Taking broccoli as an example, there was a test period where pupils were given fresh broccoli for a period of 3 weeks and much preferred it to frozen.

“The task then is to see how financially viable it would be to introduce fresh locally grown broccoli, which on evaluation would be on a long-term basis, but at present there is nobody in the region producing the quantities needed to supply schools.

“We can see the project unfolding over the next three years initially, identifying potential local commercial vegetable growers to work with the current fruit and veg wholesaler to explore budgets and costs.

“This demonstrates that there are commercial opportunities in growing other foodstuffs including leeks, onions and also salad vegetables such as cucumber, tomatoes and lettuce, which would have a positive knock-on effect for the local economy, for the environment and ultimately the healthy eating habits of future generations of children.”

Dafydd also praised the council’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses:

“Conwy council has worked incredibly hard to use independent businesses and local produce where possible and other local authorities have done the same, so hopefully if everyone keeps moving in that direction it will be of long-term benefit to businesses and schools in North Wales and beyond.”

The momentum is building. Earlier this year, Business Wales hosted virtual events focusing on social value in public sector procurement, supply chains, and tendering processes to help businesses access these emerging opportunities.

David Wylie, Food Project Manager at Menter Môn, echoed the enthusiasm and potential for growth in the region:

“We have interested parties and are working hard to encourage more independent producers and businesses to capitalise on what will be huge demand,” he added.

“We want them to play a major role in public sector supply chains and appear on the menus of schools in Conwy and other local authorities keen to use more local food and drink.

“This in turn will boost the economy, employment, and give these small businesses a new revenue stream.”

One standout example is the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools initiative, supported by the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy Team. The scheme champions Welsh produce and shortens supply chains, contributing to sustainability and reduced carbon emissions, while promoting healthy eating in schools.

News

250+ Welsh start-ups and entrepreneurs boosted by business hub backing

HUNDREDS of start-ups and small businesses have been transformed with the support of an innovative business hub.

A staggering 258 new and existing companies in Gwynedd and Anglesey received backing from Menter Môn Enterprise Hub (Hwb Menter) in the last 18 months.

The organisation has two main locations, M-SParc in Gaerwen and Hwb Arloesi, Porthmadog, and facilitated a £2,500 ‘start-up support package’ which included access to one-to-one advice and information, technology, financial guidance and more.

They also welcomed up to 500 people for a series of online and in-person networking and training events across the year.

Menter Môn – which according to an external evaluation report made an “important contribution to the entrepreneurial landscape in Gwynedd and Anglesey” – was praised for the “seamless support experience” it provided participants.

Among them was award-winning XR Creative Director Klaire Tanner, from Llanrug, who said: “They genuinely cared to help, they were prompt in sending me any templates, talking me through the processes, and helping me gain the funding I needed to start. They also sent me on workshops for business.

“I honestly wouldn’t know what I would have done if it wasn’t for Hwb Menter’s support.”

Emma Roberts and Vicky Roberts from Kico’s Dessert Bar in Llangefni also thanked Hwb Menter for its support in getting their venture off the ground.

“We realised there was a gap in the market for this kind of establishment and with our business adviser, Aled, were able to draw up plans, look at cash flow projections and grants and he was on hand with advice throughout the start-up process,” said Emma.

Vicky added: “We also took part in online workshops which were especially helpful with things we had never learnt before, from accounts to using social media to generate publicity.”

Mark Chapman, Master Carpenter and Managing Director at Arfon Timber Frames in Caernarfon, echoed those words.

Grant funding enabled them to achieve industry accreditation and join professional trade bodies, all of which supported growth last year.

“We have had a lot of enquiries and seven people now work for us in total,” said Mark.

“The grant was a big help in us achieving accreditation, we would not have been able to go for these things and achieve them in our first year if not for help from Hwb Menter.”

Hwb Menter Project Manager, Sara Lois Roberts paid tribute to their “incredible team” for having such a positive effect on so many entrepreneurs across the region in such a short space of time.

“It is truly amazing how far we have reached, and how many small businesses have benefited from our support,” she said.

“For some, the financial backing was pivotal in taking next steps, for others it was advice and signposting, desk space, building confidence and meeting others to share best practice.

“We are so glad to have made a difference and hope we can continue to do so for the many hundreds of business owners in Gwynedd and Anglesey contributing so much to the local economies, creating employment opportunities and developing innovative ideas in a wide range of industries.”

For more on how the Enterprise Hub can help, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru or follow @hwbmenter on social media. 

News

Public sector supply chain events to whet appetite of food producers in Wales

Workshops to shine a light on supplying food and drink to the public sector in Wales.

Organised by Business Wales, the events will be held in the new year and will begin with a virtual session on Social Value in the Public Sector with Ian McGrady, Director of Ellesmere Port-based Edsential Catering, and Huw Griffiths, Procurement Adviser at Gwynedd County Council, on 22nd January.

This will be followed by an interactive presentation on 28th January, focusing on Welsh public sector supply chains, particularly NHS procurement, including frameworks and tendering processes.

There will also be a session for food procurement teams and SMEs on joint-bidding and the importance of taking a share in the market, on 11th February.

Delivered by Jane Lynch, Professor of Procurement at Cardiff Business School, it will explore how to forge relationships and give examples of best practice and collaborative outcomes.

These workshops are fully funded, and places can be booked at: Business Wales Events Finder – Business Wales.

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager, David Wylie, said: “Via Business Wales we have worked hard to provide independent producers, small businesses, and larger companies in Wales with a platform to break into public sector supply chains. Whether that be local authorities, schools, hospitals or relevant organisations, we want to encourage the use of more local food and drink in their menus.

“Doing so has a major impact on the environment as it lowers their carbon footprint but also supports regional economies across the country, which in turn has a knock-on effect for employment.

“Local produce can also be more nutritious as it hasn’t travelled hundreds or in some case thousands of miles. The benefits are limitless.”

Examples of recent projects include the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools scheme, backed by the Welsh Government Foundational Economy Team, which promotes Welsh produce and producers from across Wales and highlights how, by buying from them, schools will shorten their supply chains, encouraging sustainability, lowering carbon emissions and increasing profitability.

The upcoming sessions will further develop these ideas, notably the workshop on public sector frameworks, which aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and insight into how best to navigate them.

“For some businesses procurement and frameworks will be an unknown quantity, as often they are aimed at larger companies, but by collaborating and working together producers can apply and will have a very good chance of being successful,” said David.

“Focusing on objectives, scope, accreditation and compliance requirements, tendering procedures, and more will be key themes looked at by our experts, who have a lot of experience in these areas and are here to help.”

He added: “The ultimate aim is for more public sector bodies in Wales to be using local produce, supporting local businesses and becoming more sustainable, with the target of net zero and a boost to the economy.

“These workshops will be invaluable for producers at a crucial time for the food sector nationwide, so we hope to see a good mix of procurement, catering, and carbon officers, as well as suppliers and distributors wanting to explore new opportunities.”

For a full list of dates and more information, email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow Business Wales on social media and visit Business Wales

News

Council leads way on school menus by almost doubling spend on Welsh produce

PRIMARY schools have given small businesses and independent producers a well-deserved break in partnership with Larder Cymru.

Caerphilly County Borough Council is the first in Wales to fully implement a new menu featuring their Welsh supply base following a test period earlier this year.

With support from the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools initiative, Caerphilly was one of six counties – the others being Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, and Cardiff – to use more locally sourced ingredients in their St David’s Day dinner menus.

Now, following the success of the initiative – delivered by Menter Môn and supported by the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy Backing Local Firms Fund – the council has almost doubled the amount it spends on Welsh produce.

Marcia Lewis, Principal Officer for Caerphilly’s catering service, said they have made huge strides in the two years since the Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) programme was rolled across Wales to help combat the cost-of-living crisis.

“Looking back over this period it’s fantastic to see the progress Caerphilly has made,” she added.

“We were fortunate to hit our target a year ahead of schedule which was a true reflection of the commitment and determination of all involved in making it a great success.

“All this was achieved whilst prioritising the use of local produce on school menus, which not only enhances the project’s value for pupils but also supports the local economy and promotes sustainability.”

Marcia says closer links with Larder Cymru and working alongside the talented Michelle Griffiths from Rose-Innes Design, and photographer Huw Jones – who together created vibrant, informative menus for the schools – also had a positive impact.

“The dedication to provide free meals to all primary-aged pupils means Caerphilly is setting a positive precedent for other authorities,” said Marcia.

“Access to nutritious meals is crucial for children’s development, learning, and well-being, and our proactive approach showcases a commitment to making a meaningful difference in learners’ lives whilst increasing local products and the supply chain.”

Among the companies supplying the schools are Llaeth y Llan village dairy, Woosnam Dairies, Brace’s Family Bread, Castell Howell, The Celtic Pie Co, Ellis Eggs, Celtica, Authentic Curries and World Foods, Celtic Pride, Langford’s, Popty Bakery, Bishop, Dragon, Mario’s Welsh ice cream, and Farm Fresh meat specialists.

The news of Caerphilly’s achievement coincides with LACA’s National School Meals Week (NSMW24) which runs until Friday and promotes the role school meals play in children’s mental wellbeing as well as physically and academically, with events and activities taking place across the UK.

Michelle has designed for many brands over the years, including major high street retailers, and was even an advisor to esteemed chef Marco Pierre White.

She says this was one of the most rewarding briefs she has been tasked with, adding: “I went all out to design engaging menus with professional photos of mouthwatering meals that showcased this quality food and nutritious ingredients. Supplier brand logos were used on the menu footer along with Welsh dragon icons to indicate Welsh produce was used.

“Great school dinners in Caerphilly with lower food miles as well as an uplift to the Welsh economy – this is a win!”

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager David Wylie says the Caerphilly model could now be replicated by other local authorities in Wales.

“They have shown a real determination to make this work and been a huge supporter of local producers in their region, which is demonstrated by both the uplift in spend and the number of pupils signing up for free school meals,” he added.

“We are working side-by-side with them and other councils to instil change, boost local economies and bolster supply chains while promoting sustainability and helping families at a challenging time economically.

“We have incredible food and drink producers all over Wales and it’s important we get behind them while ensuring future generations have access to nutritious, affordable food and drink – this is a fantastic first step in that direction.”

News

Welsh food producers unite to cook-up sustainable ways to boost economy and tackle poverty

FOOD and drink companies united to showcase their products and cook-up new ways to tackle poverty and benefit the Welsh economy.

Gwynedd and Ynys Môn Food Partnership hosted the event at the popular Catch 22 Brasserie in Valley, near Holyhead.

More than 35 people were in attendance, celebrating the value of the Partnership – which is delivered by Menter Môn on behalf of the two local authorities – and its mission to supply nutritious, locally sourced and sustainable food to communities in the region.

Lowering the sector’s carbon footprint in north west Wales, healthy living and targeting the cost-of-living crisis are other aims of the collective.

Among those in attendance was Dafydd Jones, who alongside wife Dawn manages Llanddaniel-based Anglesey Bees.

He said: “Building in opportunities for our customer base to meet and chat with us and put a face to our company is crucial to developing our brand, and brand loyalty.

“We are passionate about biodiversity, sustainable food production, science education and connecting with nature, so this was a great event for us.”

Neil Davies, head chef and proprietor at Catch 22 agreed and said regular meetings will further reinforce the importance of the hospitality industry locally as it continues to build back from the pandemic.

“It was brilliant to meet with regular suppliers and local producers, and to welcome some new faces as well,” he added.

“The event was a big success and shows how pivotal the Partnership is, and the value of food and drink to the economy here.”

The forum also included stalls, networking and discussions over how best, as a group, to capitalise on opportunities to work together and localise supply chains.

Neil and wife Mel gave a presentation on the success and story of Catch 22, followed by a Q&A and panel conversation with Medwyn and Alwyn Williams from Llysiau Medwyn; Bragdy Cybi; Llaeth Medra’s Huw Jones, and Dafydd and Dawn from Anglesey Bees.

Among those exhibiting on the day were Anglesey Foods, Ored Foods, Derw Coffee, Tyddyn Teg, Gwenyn Mon, Llysiau Medwyn, Cosyn Cymru, Bragdy Cybi, Mon Bakery and Y Cwt Mwg.

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager David Wylie thanked them and said the Partnership has played a vital role in creating new relationships and links among small businesses and venues in Gwynedd and Ynys Môn.

“It was a very positive event and a platform to explore and identify the challenges these producers are facing, while working together to find solutions,” said David.

“The feedback has been incredibly positive and I’m sure being in the same room and able to discuss local supply chains and prospective commercial opportunities in person will be of great benefit to those in attendance.

“We would like to thank everyone who came along, and of course Catch 22 and Lafan Consulting for helping to host and organise the event.”

In 2022, the Welsh Government announced £3million in funding to support the development of cross-sector food partnerships and to strengthen existing projects to help build resilience in local food networks while tackling the root-causes of food poverty.

These partnerships were tasked with joining up, drawing in support and expertise from other services such as Public Health Wales, Welsh housing associations and advice services, and to understand and address local need.

News

Welsh food producers on mission to make school menus more sustainable at national expo

CELEBRATING Welsh produce is food and drink to Larder Cymru.

The team behind the pioneering initiative will be attending the LACA School Food Show in Birmingham over two days from Wednesday July 3.

Delivered by Menter Môn, Larder Cymru – which is working with Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, Cardiff, and Caerphilly councils as part of the Welsh Food for Schools pilot scheme – is to be joined by two heavyweights of the industry, Harlech Foodservice and Llanelli’s Castell Howell.

With support from the Food and Drink Wales Foodservice programme they are on a mission to showcase the very best produce and producers from across Wales and highlight how, by buying from them, schools will shorten their supply chains, encouraging sustainability, lowering carbon emissions and supporting the economy.

Larder Cymru Food Lead David Wylie from Anglesey believes developing regional supply chains will benefit both local authorities and the private sector.

“The LACA School Food Show is a key date in the calendar for us,” he said.

“It’s an important platform to shine a light on the amazing companies of all sizes we have producing high-quality food and drink in Wales, and an opportunity to champion their case among the education sector’s big decision makers.

“Buying Welsh is a message we have driven for several years now, and it is more vital than ever, for both environmental and financial reasons given the challenges facing both the planet and business owners, in Wales and beyond.”

David added: “We hope to meet up and discuss these issues while at the show, and to forge new partnerships that will foster collaboration long-term and put more Welsh produce on the menu for school pupils.”

The theme for this year’s conference, exhibition, competitions, and awards extravaganza is ‘Levelling Up School Food’, which has been chosen to put the focus on the fact that providing nutritious meals to children has become increasingly challenging due to significant cost increases, staff shortages and funding shortfalls.

Various speakers and panel sessions will explore strategies that can help to ensure that all children and young people receive the very best school food to support their growth and learning.

Among the highlights will be LACA’s new ambassador, former National Chef of the Year Mark Sargeant.

National Vice Chair of LACA, Judith Gregory said the organisation is there to give everyone who provides catering within the education sector “a voice”.

She added: “We are pleased to again have Larder Cymru in attendance, celebrating and raising awareness of the many great food producers in Wales and the role they can play in supplying healthy, nutritious food to the education sector.

“By all working together we will continue to do all we can to raise standards, for this and future generations, and to bring down the carbon footprints of local authorities across the UK.”

Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools is funded by the Welsh Government Backing Local Firms Fund.

Menter Môn, through this scheme and other innovative projects, seeks to make a positive impact on communities by creating and providing opportunities for businesses and individuals.

For more on the LACA School Food Show, visit LACA School Food Show | LACA, the school food people.

For more information on Larder Cymru, visit www.lardercymru.wales or email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.

News

Restaurant group and enterprise hub serve-up 900+ healthy food boxes for children

AN ACCLAIMED restaurant group and social enterprise organisation are serving up more than 900 wellbeing food boxes for families in North Wales.

Led by the Children’s University and supported by Menter Môn’s Neges scheme, the initiative is funded by HEFCW (Higher Education Funding Council for Wales).

The boxes will be given to children in Wrexham, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Conwy, Anglesey, and Flintshire, and contain locally sourced ingredients and recipe cards to help educate pupils, parents and carers on nutrition and healthy eating.

The food and drink will be prepared and distributed by the award-winning Dylan’s group, which has restaurants in Conwy, Llandudno, Criccieth, and Menai Bridge.

Nina Ruddle, Head of Public Policy Engagement at Wrexham University – a driving force behind the North Wales Children’s University – said the collaborative project will benefit hundreds of people living in areas of food poverty across the region.

“Healthy eating is a challenge for young people in certain areas, so we want to develop the food boxes with locally sourced items where possible, with the aim of encouraging families to cook together and enjoy a fresh, hearty meal,” said Nina.

“We are working with schools in each county and there will be three meals in a box with delicious ingredients, and information cards will come with a QR code that opens to YouTube videos demonstrations, so they can cook along with them.”

She added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to extend the reach of the Children’s University while working alongside Menter Môn and Dylan’s, who have been incredibly supportive.

“The project is a pivotal element of our overarching civic mission, with the aim of ending social inequality and developing strong partnerships to tackle key issues facing families across North Wales and beyond.”

Menter Môn’s David Wylie added: “We hope this will be the start of a long-running collaboration that will help families in this region.

“This is a chance for us to really make a difference to how young people in particular approach food and nutrition, encourage healthy eating and also develop independent skills for the future – we are privileged to be a part of it.”

David Evans, Dylan’s owner and founder, said: “This project fits perfectly with our mission of showcasing the best that this region and nation has to offer. We are extremely proud to be working with schools across all counties of North Wales, providing boxes full of fresh, nutritious food sourced wherever possible from superb local suppliers.

“Working on an initiative such as this gives the whole team a sense of pride, being part of something which supports so many families in our communities.

“We are proud to be partnering with North Wales Children’s University and Menter Môn, who share our commitment to supporting communities and driving positive change.”

Gwynedd’s Deputy Leader Cllr Nia Jeffreys reinforced those comments and says ensuring all children and young people in the county have access to locally sourced, healthy, and fresh food is a priority for the council.

“This scheme is to be welcomed and I hope it will complement the other food schemes currently available within the county such as the Gwynedd Community Hubs and Food Pantries,” she said.

“I am grateful to all the partners involved in this scheme and am optimistic it will be another way of breaking down some of the barriers preventing our young people from enjoying nutritious and affordable food.”

The project comes after local authorities in Wales signed up to the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools pilot scheme – Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, Cardiff, and Caerphilly councils – with the aim of increasing the volume and range of Welsh produce purchased and used by education catering departments in their counties.

For more information, visit the website www.lardercymru.wales or email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.

News

Pan-Wales project showcasing high street regeneration tech takes to the road

A PIONEERING project which uses cutting-edge technology to help shape town centre regeneration will hit the road this summer.

Smart Towns Cymru will host a series of events across Wales beginning in Newport on Thursday (May 16).

Having welcomed up to 120 people to its inaugural conference, held at Ty Pawb in Wrexham earlier this year, the programme – delivered by Anglesey and Porthmadog-based Menter Mon – wants to engage with even more businesses and local authorities in Wales.

The aim is to bring together key high street decision makers with retailers and relevant parties to help breathe life into local economies across the country.

Project Manager Kiki Rees-Stavros said: “We are encouraging businesses to attend and engage with their local authorities and town and community councils to look at ways to move forward together, to discuss what issues they are facing and how they can work in partnership to resolve them.

“This is a great platform to bring organisations together under one roof and share best practice in an informal setting, and to learn how other areas have benefited from the incredible technology and innovative practices that have had a positive impact on other towns and villages.”

She added: “I hope people will capitalise on this opportunity – in Newport and the other regions we will be visiting this summer – especially following the success of our first ever conference in Wrexham, where we signed up 19 new Smart Ambassadors and had representatives from 19 of the 22 local authorities in Wales.

“Together we will continue to explore and develop sustainable solutions that will benefit businesses, help increase footfall and shine a light on trends in our town centres, which in turn will influence decision making in the future.”

More than 50 people have already registered for the Newport event, and there will be presentations on the day from Owen Davies Consulting from Abergavenny, Caerphilly-based VZTA, leaders in Smart Towns ecosystems, BABLE Smart Cities, and software development pioneers Kodergarten, from Gwynedd, who trialled innovative seismology technology as part of the wider Patrwm Smart Places project at last summer’s National Eisteddfod.

The roadshow will then move on to the following areas: Brecon (June 4), Newtown (June 5), Anglesey (July 5), and Flintshire (July 10).

Launched in 2021, the Trefi Smart Towns Cymru project, funded by Welsh Government, has promoted the use of technology and data to rejuvenate high streets all over Wales and encourage data driven decision making.

Visit www.mentermon.com for more news and information from Menter Mon.

To book on one of the upcoming events, visit Eventbrite: Trefi SMART Towns Cymru Events – 7 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite

For more on the Smart Towns Cymru conference, watch the video here: Cynhadledd Trefi SMART Towns Cymru Conference (youtube.com)

News

Revolutionary seismology sensors to shape future of town centre regeneration in Wales

REVOLUTIONARY new seismology software will shake up the way organisations measure footfall and have a positive impact on town centre regeneration.

Menter Môn trialled the innovative Raspberry Shake wireless technology as part of the wider Patrwm Smart Places project at last summer’s National Eisteddfod, held in Boduan, Gwynedd.

Created by software development pioneers Kodergarten, sensors were placed in strategic areas locally, including the neighbouring towns and villages of Abersoch, Nefyn, Pwllheli, Y Ffor and Y Maes at the Eisteddfod itself.

Ahead of the country’s first ever Smart Towns Cymru conference in Wrexham this Friday (March 15), results have revealed significant increases in activity at peak times during the week-long event, and insights into footfall and traffic flow statistics in the towns and villages that surrounded the Eisteddfod site.

Kodergarten co-founder Paul Sandham said processing WiFi sensor and seismometer data – while adhering to GDPR rules – has demonstrated the viability of this approach and helped to deliver more accurate information about a place.

“Using innovative and low-cost technologies, we were able to produce more accurate footfall data which demonstrated how many people were at the Eisteddfod and in surrounding communities whilst at the same time delivering real-time data on traffic volumes at key locations,” he said.

“Going forward that will help influence the decision-making process for event organisers and nearby communities, information that could play a key part in helping to regenerate our high streets and town centres.”

Paul added: “We used microseismology to do this – recording and processing data derived from tiny vibrations in the ground – and that allowed us to capture data without ‘tracking’ anyone.

“It also gave an insight and real confidence in the numbers obtained via Wi-Fi sensors. This was a trial of the equipment we hope to deploy to build confidence in the quality of data – there is so much more we can do with this technology.

“This was a fantastic exercise for Menter Môn and ourselves to work in collaboration, and for us as a company looking for future investment it demonstrates that by using seismometer sensors, we can produce distinct and valid patterns of visitor behaviour, and traffic flow.”

During the trial, the Patrwm system processed a sliding 10-minute window of data every 30 seconds, which meant near real-time information was available for analysis. This innovative and scalable data pipeline now processes all sensor information on the Patrwm database.

Their report also revealed the two most popular areas during the week outside of the Eisteddfod were the predominantly Welsh-speaking villages of Nefyn and Aberdaron, and delays were minimal at peak times which indicates traffic flow and management implemented by Gwynedd Council was working well, despite the large number of vehicles.

Launched in 2021, the Trefi Smart Towns Cymru project, funded by the Welsh Government and delivered by Menter Môn, has promoted the use of technology and data to rejuvenate high streets all over Wales and encourage data driven decision making.

Project Manager Kiki Rees-Stavros said: “This technology complements existing Wi-Fi provision in north west Wales and allows for incredibly accurate figures. It adds a lot of value for local authorities and town planners, and anyone wanting to garner this information at an affordable cost.

“This is a Welsh solution to what is a global issue, so we are very proud as an organisation to have worked with Kodergarten on this initiative.”

Visit www.mentermon.com for more news and information from Menter Mon.

For more information on Kodergarten, visit the website: www.kodergarten.com.

To view the report, visit Eisteddfod shake report – Final Version – Feb 26th (smarttowns.cymru) (English) and eisteddfod-addroddiad-traffig-a-gweithgaredd-dynol-eisteddfod-23.pdf (smarttowns.cymru) (Cymraeg).

Menter Mon and Kodergarten will be hosting a webinar following the Smart Towns conference. Register for free here: Monitoring Footfall with Seismology / Monitro Nifer Ymwelwyr gyda Seismoleg Tickets, Wed 10 Apr 2024 at 13:00 | Eventbrite

News

Welsh schools show support for local food producers with patriotic St David’s Day menus

SCHOOLS are showing their support for patriotic producers and using more locally sourced ingredients for their St David’s Day dinner menus.

Specially prepared items for today’s (Friday) lunchtime celebrations at a select number of primary and secondary schools will incorporate food and drink manufactured and distributed right on their doorstep, where possible.

As part of Larder Cymru’s Welsh Food for Schools pilot scheme – delivered by Menter Mon – the local authorities of Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, Cardiff, and Caerphilly have pledged to review their current offering and do more to utilise Welsh produce.

Marcia Lewis, Principal Officer for Caerphilly’s catering service, is fully behind the initiative.

“St David’s Day is a special celebration for all schools in Caerphilly,” she said.

“This year we are celebrating the event by using Welsh produce from local manufacturers, which will appeal to our pupils across the borough.

“Our strategy is to enable pupils to have greater access to nutritious, high-quality local foods, enhanced learning about food, agriculture, and healthy lifestyles whilst increasing the use of Welsh produce on our menus.”

Among the Welsh and locally produced delights being served up in Caerphilly are lamb leek and mint sausage, potatoes and other vegetables, wholemeal bread, yoghurt, ice cream, fruit bars, and still water.

Supported by the Welsh Government’s Backing Local Firms Fund, the overall aim of Welsh Food for Schools is to increase the volume and range of Welsh produce purchased and used by education catering departments in their counties going forward.

Larder Cymru’s Food Lead David Wylie is delighted with the commitment of the schools and councils and hopes it will have a significant impact on the food and drink economy in North Wales.

“We are working in collaboration not only to give these sectors more support at a crucial time for them, but also to focus on health and wellbeing of young people, sustainability and the environment,” said David.

“And what better time than on St David’s Day to shine a light on these issues and champion the incredible producers we have across Wales, particularly here in the north where this project is gaining real momentum.

“We thank everyone for their support – Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!”

For more information, visit the website www.lardercymru.wales or email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.