If you are interested in understanding a bit more about your locality and the history behind your current environment then Kilgetty Community Hall is the place to be at 7 pm on Thursday (January 17)

The MY SQUARE MILE event at Kilgetty starts with a presentation by Dr. James January McCann entitled “Protecting Local Place Names”

Dr. McCann’s role is to curate and maintain the Statutory List of Historic Welsh Place Names established as part of the Historic Environment (Wales) Act 2016

James will explore the historic place names of Kilgetty, Begelly and surroundings, creating an opportunity to celebrate language and meaning, delving into the area’s rich history, identifying factors that have shaped its historical journey and influences that contribute to its unique identity, priorities and living culture.

He will also discuss the efforts being made to protect Wales’ heritage through the List of Historic Place Names. The presentation will be in English.

The talk is the opening event in the Big Lottery funded ‘Rural Futures’ Programme that features Kilgetty and Begelly and takes place from January 17 to 19.

The steering group for the programme includes members from various organisations and the community. They and are looking forward to seeing a large number of local people turn up for this initial talk which promises to be a fascinating insight into the local history of Kilgetty, Begelly and the surrounding district.

Commenting on the talk Community Councillor Gavin Thomas said “Every one who lives in this area should have an interest in the historical environment as it has shaped the development of these two villages and surrounding area. Understanding the past and knowing about the local connections will help in shaping the future for all residents.”

For your diary: Protecting Local Place Names, 7 pm Thursday, January 17, Kilgetty Community Centre.