Penygroes Ward Forum has recently appointed a Community Development Officer for the villages of Penygroes, Caerbryn and Blaenau.

Phil Owen, who lives in Waterloo Road Penygroes, has been given 11 months to help improve the sense of community.

Phil has lived in the area for the past 20 years and has seen a lot of changes during that time.

"When I first came here, 75% of the children in the primary school had Welsh as their first language. It's more like 25% now. With the large numbers of new houses planned here over the next few years, this change will be even faster in the future. This is a very exciting time for the area, but can also be worrying for existing residents. I hope that I can set things up to help the new people feel at home and join in with the many community activities here. I'd also like to see new activities and events starting up."

One of his first tasks has been to help set up a Community News Blog where people can post details of events, news, etc. and publish photos of what's been happening. It can be found at: http://crosshandslife.co.uk/penygroescommunitynews He will also be setting up an on-line diary for the buildings available to hold events. "At the moment, if a group of people want to hold an event, whether its a flower show, a craft workshop, or a club meeting, they have to ring each of the organisers of the venues to see when they are available. With an on-line diary, they can check to see first.

Phil is based at Neuadd Goffa on Waterloo Rd. Penygroes. He'll be happy to see you if you want to call in for a chat. Ideas for new events are always welcome. If you have a skill you think could be shared or would like to set up a club, why not call in or give him a ring on 01269 841427.