NEW secondary pupils from the Llanfyllin cluster got a flavour of what life was like for some in Victorian Britain – and for those in the workhouse that flavour was often Gruel.

The porridge-like substance which was a staple of many workhouse diets might not have been to everyone’s taste, but around a hundred year six students who will be heading to Llanfyllin High School next year gained valuable experience when they met up for a “Transition Day”, aimed at giving them an idea of what was in store when they joined the school and to meet future class-mates from other schools in the area.

Children from Llanfyllin, Llangedwyn, Bro Cynllaith, Llanrhaeadr, Pennant, Carreghofa, Llansantffraid and Bryn Hafren Primary Schools took part in the day, which saw them find out more about the workhouse building and the work children of their age would have had to do there.