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North Wales Chronicle
24-07-2025
- General
- North Wales Chronicle
Anglesey church with 12th century features to extend burial ground
St Morhaiarn's near Gwalchmai only sees two to three burials a year, but the existing cemetery is almost full. An application has been lodged with Anglesey County Council planners for the change of use of agricultural land to extend the existing cemetery. It has been made by Cyngor Cymuned Trewalchmai Community Council. The exact date of the church is unclear but according to the Coflein website, the chapel is circa 1500 with the chancel and nave being rebuilt in 1674. However, a doorway arch appears to include stone features dating back over 800 years. St Morhaiarn\'S Church, Gwalchmai (Ioacc Planning Document) A well at the church was recorded on early maps including the 1888 Ordnance Survey Map, but was thought to have been filled in many years later with no trace remaining today. The proposed extension will be south of the existing cemetery on the eastern area of the church, a site of approximately 638 square metres. The Churchyard Extension (Ioacc Planning Documents) The land is currently unused pasture and plans note that all existing boundary plants will be retained and a further hedgerow boundary created, as part of the development. MORE ISLAND NEWS: Natural boundaries will be planted to the east and south boundaries and a new gate to the extension area will be installed that will 'provide a sufficient gap allowing hedgehogs to roam freely and forage for food and shelter without restriction,' plans say. 'This will also be of benefit to other small native species.' One document notes that records had shown there may be otters, a protected species, in the vicinity of the site. Proposed Cemetry Plan (Images Ioacc Planning Document) A Groundwater Pollution Risk Assessment for the burial site was carried out. It stated: 'A risk screening exercise was undertaken which indicated that as the rate of burial is low, it is considered that any discharge will have low concentrations of hazardous and non-hazardous substances. 'Additionally, as there are limited water features within the area and limited potential for groundwater within the underlying geology, the risk of the cemetery extension on the groundwater and surface water is low.' As the 'anticipated rate of burial is low at 2-3 burials per year and therefore is considered any discharge will have low concentrations of hazardous and non-hazardous substances'. It also states: 'There are no other springs, boreholes or water features within 250m of the site where the water is intended for human consumption or used in food production. 'The closest water course is over 30m from the proposed extension boundary (a stream located approximately 40m east).' According to the Well Hopper blog website, which explores the ancient holy wells and healing wells of North Wales, the lost well was unlikely to have been a holy well, and was known locally as 'The Church Well'. Little is also known of St Morhaiarn. The website suggests 'maybe he is a local saint or the name may be a corruption of something else. It has been suggested that it is a variation of Mordeyrn, the saint of Nantglyn church in Denbighshire'. The Coflein website describes the features and history of the historic church as 'constructed of limestone rubble with grit dressings and modern slate roof'. It adds: 'The chancel, which is structurally undivided from the nave, has two single light windows of circa 1674, into one of which has been carved the date and initials OH 1674. 'The nave features a blocked doorway of a similar date and although the North doorway is modern, it appears to incorporate the voussoirs [a stone feature] of a C12 arch. 'The North Chapel was added circa 1500 and is divided from the chancel by an arcade of two four-centred arches. 'There is an original window of two 'tre-foiled' lights in a square frame in the North wall. The roof to the chapel may also be original.'
North Wales Live
21-07-2025
- General
- North Wales Live
Historic Anglesey church in bid to extend its graveyard
An Anglesey church on the site of a "lost well" and with features dating back to the 12th century is bidding to extend its burial ground. St Morhaiarn's near Gwalchmai only sees two to three burials a year, but the existing cemetery is almost full. An application has been lodged with Anglesey County Council planners for the change of use of agricultural land to extend the existing cemetery. Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday It has been made by Cyngor Cymuned Trewalchmai Community Council. The exact date of the church is unclear but according to the Coflein website, the chapel is circa 1500 with the chancel and nave being rebuilt in 1674. However, a doorway arch appears to include stone features dating back over 800 years. A well at the church was recorded on early maps including the 1888 Ordnance Survey Map, but was thought to have been filled in many years later with no trace remaining today. The proposed extension will be south of the existing cemetery on the eastern area of the church, a site of approximately 638 square metres. The land is currently unused pasture and plans note that all existing boundary plants will be retained and a further hedgerow boundary created, as part of the development. Natural boundaries will be planted to the east and south boundaries and a new gate to the extension area will be installed that will "provide a sufficient gap allowing hedgehogs to roam freely and forage for food and shelter without restriction," plans say. "This will also be of benefit to other small native species." One document notes that records had shown there may be otters, a protected species, in the vicinity of the site. A Groundwater Pollution Risk Assessment for the burial site was carried out. It stated: "A risk screening exercise was undertaken which indicated that as the rate of burial is low, it is considered that any discharge will have low concentrations of hazardous and non-hazardous substances. "Additionally, as there are limited water features within the area and limited potential for groundwater within the underlying geology, the risk of the cemetery extension on the groundwater and surface water is low." As the "anticipated rate of burial is low at 2-3 burials per year and therefore is considered any discharge will have low concentrations of hazardous and non-hazardous substances". It also states: "There are no other springs, boreholes or water features within 250m of the site where the water is intended for human consumption or used in food production. "The closest water course is over 30m from the proposed extension boundary (a stream located approximately 40m east)." According to the Well Hopper blog website, which explores the ancient holy wells and healing wells of North Wales, the lost well was unlikely to have been a holy well, and was known locally as "The Church Well". Little is also known of St Morhaiarn. The website suggests "maybe he is a local saint or the name may be a corruption of something else. It has been suggested that it is a variation of Mordeyrn, the saint of Nantglyn church in Denbighshire". The Coflein website describes the features and history of the historic church as "constructed of limestone rubble with grit dressings and modern slate roof". It adds: "The chancel, which is structurally undivided from the nave, has two single light windows of circa 1674, into one of which has been carved the date and initials OH 1674. "The nave features a blocked doorway of a similar date and although the North doorway is modern, it appears to incorporate the voussoirs [a stone feature ] of a C12 arch. "The North Chapel was added circa 1500 and is divided from the chancel by an arcade of two four-centred arches. "There is an original window of two 'tre-foiled' lights in a square frame in the North wall. The roof to the chapel may also be original." .
Wales Online
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Mansion in one of the most iconic locations in Wales could now be yours
Certain locations are immediately identifiable to many as unique Welsh sites, rich in history, literature, culture or breathtaking views. Cliff House offers all of these as well as the chance to move-in and add your own personal style to the spaces - if you can concentrate for long enough with the mesmerising view constantly there and constantly changing to distract you. This magnificent Georgian mansion is situated next to Dylan Thomas' renowned Laugharne boathouse and writing shed, sharing the same captivating, panoramic view across the River Tâf estuary before it merges into Carmarthen Bay. According to the Coflein website, Cliff House is believed to be where Kingsley Amis penned 'The Old Devils' in 1986. This additional piece of literary history further enhances the cultural significance of this waterside town and of this particularly unique home. For more property stories sent to your inbox twice a week sign up to the property newsletter here Laugharne is a Welsh town celebrated for its array of charming properties that are a joy to explore as you meander through the small, winding lanes. It boasts its own castle, characterful accommodations, and a range of eateries offering the finest local cuisine, from cosy cafes to fish and chips, from gourmet dining to excellent pub food. It's undeniable that Thomas must have been inspired by the extraordinary and captivating water views stretching out from this incredible property. His writing shed is tucked into the hillside just above the main house, which commands a panoramic view of three estuaries. While owning the boathouse might be a pipe dream, Cliff House offers its own slice of paradise in this renowned location. Nestled behind towering gates and lush hedges, this white-washed mansion, spread across four floors, is a sight to behold as it peeks out from the surrounding greenery. This grand family residence occupies a private plot of just under half an acre, offering a haven of breathtaking views and spacious living. The sprawling mansion provides approximately 5,000 square feet of accommodation. Secluded behind private gates, a garden with landscaped terraces presents numerous spots for you to sit back and soak in the vast landscape that unfolds before your eyes - a truly remarkable sight and arguably one of the best waterside views and locations in Wales. The property features tranquil and secluded patches of lawn encircled by mature trees and shrubs, providing a natural retreat for outdoor relaxation. Alternatively, you could enjoy the spacious ground floor terrace or step out from any of the river-facing rooms on the first floor onto the balcony that spans the width of the house. Arriving by car is straightforward with ample parking space and a ground-floor garage. However, arriving by boat is undoubtedly more thrilling. It's said that Dylan Thomas first arrived in the town by disembarking from a ferry directly below, and this mode of transport remains feasible as the property comes with its own mooring. The mansion's ground floor primarily houses the garage and a laundry room. With appropriate planning and a generous budget, this space could be transformed into additional accommodation for multi-generational living or a holiday let, complementing the existing flat on the top floor. The first floor is where the views truly captivate you from its elevated position above the garden terrace. This level hosts a sitting room, dining room, kitchen and breakfast sunroom - all of which enjoy stunning views across the water. Ascending to the second floor, the main bedroom offers direct water views right from the pillows, with an ensuite and dressing room enhancing its appeal as a special space. This floor also features two more double bedrooms, a bathroom equipped with a multi-jet spa bath, and a useful storage room. The top floor currently serves as a self-contained two-bedroom apartment, complete with its own reception area, sitting room, kitchen diner, and bathroom - a perfect abode for the lucky grandparents or younger family member who gets to call this space home. Cliff House is for sale with Country Living Group with a guide price of £1.25m, call 01437 616101 to find out more. For more property stories join our Amazing Welsh Homes Facebook group here.
