18 December 2017

Welsh rugby legend Sir Gareth Edwards converts prizes into cash for GWCT Cymru

Sir Gareth Dinner

With over 150 people present, Sir Gareth Edwards thrilled guests regaling colourful tales of playing for Wales and the British Lions during his rugby career which started 50 years ago.

“Yet again people really can’t get enough of this man who speaks with such passion and delights the crowd with his animated stories,” said close friend, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Cymru chairman Nick Williams.

 Sir Gareth, who had spent the day shooting on Anglesey, said: “It was probably one of the best days shooting I’ve ever had,” as he was standing on the beach with a snow covered Snowdonia as a backdrop. “Absolutely amazing,” he said, promising to visit again before too long.

 The North Wales committee for GWCT Cymru raised over £22,000 at the dinner & auction held at St George’s Hotel in Llandudno last Wednesday (November 29). Sponsors for the evening were Dragon Investment Managers, Conwy Land Rover, Clogau and Carter Jonas.

Chairman Mr Williams stressed the need to boost GWCT membership at a critical time in history when there are many uncertainties. “Having a strong voice for the Welsh Countryside has never been so important and the value placed by the private sector must be recognised and strengthened.

“If we want to improve biodiversity and build resilience into our landscapes we have the capabilities still to do so, but GWCT membership will really help drive that forward and get some much needed action on the ground.”

“We have plenty of scientific evidence at GWCT and we really do know how the countryside can flourish and which will help address the new Welsh Futures Generations Act which wants public money to benefit the whole community in which it is spent,” he said.

“Ambitious as it is this Act gives us an opportunity to spell out why the work of GWCT really does mean more enjoyment for more people by engaging better with nature delivering more and improved biodiversity.”

GWCT Cymru director Sue Evans comments: “Influencing our politicians at the Senedd & Westminster is a major priority for us so that they really do understand what GWCT has to offer in Wales.

“Our mission is to bring GWCT science back into Wales for practical application on the ground to improve biodiversity and influence policy particularly timely now with Brexit.”

“We have lost a lot of key iconic bird species in Wales for example over the past 30 years as habitats have gone and some are now at a dangerously low figure. We must act now.”  

For more information on this press release please contact Sue Evans on sevans@gwct.org.uk or call her on 07767019305.


Notes to editors

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.

For information, contact:
Eleanor Williams
Telephone: 07592 025476
Email: press@gwct.org.uk