Dragons in the rain at Llwyngwril

Yesterday I hopped on the train in the rain and headed up the coast to Llwyngwril, where I was meeting Pam, one of Transport for Wales’ long‑standing Station Adopters. She was waiting for me on the platform with Bryn, her lovely little black‑and‑tan terrier. After Bryn had given me a thorough inspection for snacks, and found me sadly lacking, we set off for a brisk walk around the village.

This year’s yarn‑bombing theme is dragons, and Llwyngwril has absolutely outdone itself. Even in the pouring rain the colours glowed, wings fluttered, and knitted scales shimmered on walls, railings, and rooftops. It was imaginative, joyful, and wonderfully bonkers, exactly the kind of community creativity that makes this village so special. If you have an hour to spare, it’s well worth a wander.

We looped back along the river to visit the fairy garden, where the fairies had clearly been very busy. Among the tiny doors and woodland decorations were two dragon eggs, one of which had already hatched, revealing a pair of baby dragons nestled in the moss. It was pure magic.

Our usual café wasn’t open on a Tuesday, so Pam led me to the village hall, where the ladies were in the middle of a keep‑fit session. I was warmly invited to join in, but declined, and instead Pam, Bryn and I sat with a cup of tea and watched the class. There was as much chatting and catching up as exercising, the kind of social, easy community warmth that makes these villages feel like home.

One of my reasons for visiting was to sign for a new planter being delivered for the station. My phone rang to say the driver had arrived, so we finished our tea and hurried down. The planter was impressively large and looked very smart; Pam and her friend Pat will be planting it up on Thursday, and I’m looking forward to seeing it flourish.

While we waited for my train, Pam told me about the other volunteering she does. She’s off on Friday to an Headway event in Colwyn Bay to celebrate Volunteer week. I’m humbled by all the volunteers that volunteer their time along the Cambrian Line. Volunteering and volunteers should be celebrated and treasured all year round.

Soon my train arrived and it was time to head back to Newtown. I promised Bryn I’d bring him a treat next time, he’ll certainly hold me to it, and said I’d see Pam later in the week.

Another day on the Cambrian Line filled with creativity, kindness, and community. Even in the rain, Llwyngwril sparkles with dragons and fairies.