"Over the past 3 months nine senior citizens have been interviewed and their memories recorded. I welcomed those present and thanked the senior citizens who participated, as well as the seven year 10 pupils who, with Bob Fry and Tudor Thomas, undertook the interviews.

I also made special mention of Caryl Evans' contribution. Caryl was unfortunately unable to attend, but has to date spent over 45 hours transcribing the recordings. Elizabeth Nicholas, head of media studies and Marina James, headmistress of Aberaeron Comprehensive were also present and were thanked for their assistance in facilitating the participation of their students.

After tea Clare Thomas explained that the project had been very successful in bringing together different generations, and in preserving the fascinating stories of life in Aberaeron. She thanked those who recorded their histories - Mari Sarah Evans, Margaret Makin, Jane James, Rhiannon Davies, Henry Jones, Graham Howells, Lloyd Thomas, Ron Davies and Eddie Parry.

Although they found the experience a little daunting at first, they were all delighted to contribute to the Bicentenary. Unfortunately Ron Davies and Eddie Parry were unable to be present.

As a thank you from the Bicentenary Committee the 7 volunteer pupils were presented with tickets for the Rock Concert, which is being held during Festival Week.

Also present were Euros Lewis, a consultant who is organising performing and visual arts workshops, based on the stories, in Aberaeron Primary School, together with the teaching staff of the Primary School.

Isabel Hind, headmistress, and teacher Mair Davies explained to those present how they are planning to use the stories to form the basis of the Primary School's concert, to be held in the Memorial Hall on the 4th and 5th July at 1807 hours.

Clare then initiated a lively feedback session which generated even more ideas, anecdotes and memories, ensuring that this is just the beginning of an ongoing process to celebrate and capture the lives of Aberaeron people."

Article by Mair Lloyd