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AWDURDOD PARC CENEDLAETHOL ERYRI
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
Press Release - 19 November 2009

IOLO INSPIRES BLIND WALKERS

Broadcaster and naturalist Iolo Williams enjoyed the company of a group of people with sight impairment yesterday (18 November 2009) along the Morfa Mawddach Trail.
As part of an activity arranged by Snowdonia National Park Authority, 27 people joined the Voice Trail along 5 miles of the Morfa Mawddach path. Owned by the Authority, the path stretches for 9 miles between Dolgellau and Barmouth and is considered to be one of the best trails in Britain for cyclists. It is also as popular with walkers and most of the path is suitable for wheelchair users.
The idea for the Voice Trails originated from a meeting of the Snowdonia Disability Equality Forum when one of its members mentioned the lack of opportunity for people with sight impairment to have access to the countryside. As a result, a programme of monthly walks was organised with people travelling from as far as Amlwch and Abergele to join the walks. This week, Iolo Williams led the party and along the route commentated on the rich environment surrounding the walkers.
Carys Dafydd, Snowdonia National Park Authority’s Community Officer and one of the walk’s organisers said,
“Although the weather forecast predicted rain and wind, everyone was very enthusiastic. Iolo’s company was infectious and everyone thought that we had an inspirational walk. We’re currently working on next year’s programme of walks and people are welcome to contact me for more details at the National Park Office or telephone me on 01766 772269.”
This project was funded by the Sports Council for Wales and Snowdonia National Park Authority.
For further details on the trail or on the area in general, including public transport in the area, contact or visit SNPA’s Information Centre in Dolgellau – 01341 422888 or tic.dolgellau@eryri-npa.gov.uk.