Tafarn yr Heliwr in Nefyn is to benefit from a long-term tenancy agreement with Rhug Estate which will allow them to grow fresh produce for the community pub. Lord Newborough, who owns land in and around Nefyn, has let a field on Stryd y Plas to the owners of Yr Heliwr to help them in their endeavour.
Lord Newborough, Owner of Rhug Estate said, “I’m pleased to be able to support the local community in this way and play a small part in what they are trying to achieve. The group’s efforts to reduce the community pub’s food miles must be commended. I wish them good fortune in their gardening endeavours.”
Yr Heliwr pub, in the heart of Nefyn, was once a thriving pub, all year round. Popular with local sports clubs and all age groups, it attracted people from across the Llyn Peninsula and was especially packed during the holidays. In 2009 the pub shut after the owner decided they no longer wanted to run it. Determined to bring the pub back to life, in January 2018 a meeting was called to gauge local interest in buying the pub to reopen it as a community pub. The support was outstanding and the community haven’t looked back since buying the pub. It is now run as a not-for-profit community-owned business.
Eifion Davies, Tafarn yr Heliwr committee member, said, “The objective of the Society that run the community pub is always to be of benefit to the community of Nefyn and the surrounding area. By developing the public house we aim to decrease loneliness, protect the Welsh language and local cultural heritage, as well as provide employment, tourism amenities and generally use the pub’s services to benefit the community in any way possible. Within our sustainability aims we are keen to reduce our food miles with the meals we cook onsite.”
Eifion continued, “The garden will offer members of the community volunteering opportunities and a space to use and enjoy. We are very excited to develop this aspect of the project and are grateful to Lord Newborough for working with us and providing this long-term tenancy agreement.”
The community will come together to prepare the land and grow the produce. They very much see this as an opportunity for local residents to socialise, exercise and share gardening knowledge.
Estate Manager for Rhug, Emma Story, said, “I’m very pleased to see this come together. Eifion’s lateral thinking has sparked what I hope will be a success. An extension to the community pub offering, reduced food miles, and a focal area for many. I look forward to seeing the produce appear on the menu at Tafarn yr Heliwr.”
