NINE local young adults have been given the opportunity to spend four days at Brecon Beacons National Park and gain experience within a range of vocational activities.

The work experience program is part of a National Lottery Funded project taking place at the Glynneath Gunpowder Works at Pontneddfechan that is being managed and implemented by Brecon Beacons National Park Authority.

The youngsters, aged between fifteen and seventeen, were provided with a taster of the different job roles that exist within the National Park Authority and completed activities ranging from archaeological digs to writing press releases.

The Gunpowder Works project is focused on securing the historical site, which is a scheduled ancient monument, conserving its main remaining structures and bringing the site’s rich history back to life through interpretation. Through work experience, the young people have had the chance to engage with their local heritage and environment, whilst also learning new skills that will benefit them in the future.

Ed Evans, recently newly appointed Chair of Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said;

“It’s great to welcome these youngsters to our National Park and provide them with valuable work experience that will help them moving forward in the future. We understand the importance of engaging with the younger generation and through programs such as this we hope to be developing our future National Park ambassadors.”

Julian Atkins, CEO of Brecon Beacons National Park Authority added;

“I’d like to thank the young people who have taken part in this work experience program for their hard work in doing the activities that they’ve taken part in. I hope that their short time with us has provided them with an insight to our National Park and provided inspiration for their future career choices.”

About the Heritage Lottery Fund

Thanks to National Lottery players, we invest money to help people across the UK explore, enjoy and protect the heritage they care about - from the archaeology under our feet to the historic parks and buildings we love, from precious memories and collections to rare wildlife. www.hlf.org.uk. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLottery and #HLFsupported.