HERITAGE, tourism and community projects for Llanrwst have been given a boost with the appointment of a business development officer for St Grwst Church.

Jon Richmond, who lives in Dolwyddelan and has a background in tourism and church restoration, has started work for St Grwst. He will be responsible for developing a programme of events, activities and clubs for the newly refurbished medieval church.

The first event, last weekend, saw the church open, to show visitors the restoration work done so far.

Jon, who worked for North Wales Tourism for more than 11 years, will also coordinate volunteers for the heritage site. His three year post has been funded by the National Lottery.

Jon, who is married with two children said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this role, which combines my professional skills with my passion for tourism, heritage and faith.

“I have been involved with several churches in the area over the last 30 years, I love old buildings and have worked in tourism in North Wales since the mid1990s.

“This is a really exciting, interesting and creative opportunity for Llanrwst which has so much history and heritage to offer visitors and I’m looking forward to working with local people to show the heritage they are rightly very proud.”

Jon added: “My priority will be raising the profile of St Grwst, making it visible through good signage and clear communication. There is so much scope to offer a wide variety of activities, events and meetings in the newly developed space. I’ll be looking to encourage people to volunteer to support St Grwst as the hub of the local community.”

The 17th century Gwydir Chapel, which is built on the side of the ancient church and houses the coffin of Llywelyn the Great, will be fully restored and series of interpretation panels developed to highlight the building’s historical significance. In addition, a new kitchen, toilets, disabled access and underfloor heating system will be installed. The church is due to reopen next Spring.

St Grwst was built originally in 1170 and is reported to be the only known church dedicated to the saint. After being partially destroyed during Owain Glyndwr’s uprising in the 1400s it was fully demolished during the War of the Roses in 1468. The current building was constructed in 1470, with further alterations and additions made over the following centuries.