Carmarthen’s famous opera singer, comic insurance TV advertiser and BBC Radio Wales presenter, Wynne Evans announced on his show last Thursday that he was a big fan of Narberth. In his town of the week feature, he was delighted to learn that you could park for five hours for £1 and pay your 20p contactless at the public toilets.

Wynne recalled his knowledge of the independent shops saying he had visited a Kurdish restaurant, a Spanish deli and a place selling just sorbets.

He told of Narberth’s reference in the Maginobion where Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed held his court there, also the legend of the ghost of Pwyll’s wife, Rhiannon, riding around the area. Wynne joked that this could just be Folly Farm!

He also told his audience that Joe Allen the international footballer went to primary school in Narberth.

Recorded interviews with local people were then played, starting with Sarah from the Jailhouse Gallery. She described that the Grade II listed building that now sold art work, clocks and gifts had previously been a lock up house, magistrate court and town hall. The cells which held the leaders of the Rebecca Riots remain beneath the gallery.

Lyndon and Emily from the Narberth Food Festival said that this year on?September 22 and 23, the festival would be celebrating 20 years. The festival, which attracted 8,000 visitors last year was run by volunteers who organised a fabulous selection of local foods and drinks. They said it was a family orientated, whole town event which had a great atmosphere.

Rowan from Span Arts told of how Span delivered interesting and fun events for the local community. All events are primarily organised, set-up and run by volunteers on their goodwill. This summer, Span is working towards Narberth Carnival where it will celebrate Wonder Women, with a procession of three giant puppets. These will represent a local, national and international woman who has led the fight for equality.

Wynne handed over live to his lucky West Wales colleague, Jason Phelps who reported that he was sat on a golden sofa in Plum Vanilla Café and Deli. Jason recognised that this establishment had been at the forefront of the Plastic Free Narberth movement for some years.

Jason asked Plum Harrison, who had set-up the business with her sister Vanilla, about their commitment to the Plastic Free Narberth movement.

Plum replied: “We buy in bulk and encourage customers to bring their own containers. All our packaging is non plastic, biodegradable or recyclable. We also sell cleaning products that you can fill into your own containers.”

Jason felt that Narberth was a foodie mecca and Plum replied: “We make all our colourful international food here. We have a range of vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and free range meet dishes.

“Today on the menu, we have roast pepper frittata, Moroccan chick pea and tomato soup and an Asian platter of fritters and curry along with preserved lemon and goat cheese salad.”

Jason went on to ask local County Councillor, Vic Dennis whether the Plastic Free Narberth movement reflect the way the whole community buys into the way of life.

“Absolutely,” replied Vic. “Narberth has a long track record of community spirit demonstrated by the establishment of the Queen’s Hall as an arts venue and Bloomfield Community Centre as centre for adult learning and sports.

“The local swimming pool and library were both hit by the public sector funding cuts as a result of the austerity agenda. Now they are both run and mostly staffed by local volunteers.”

Asked about Plastic Free Narberth, Vic replied: “As well as Plum Vanilla, other businesses are moving away from plastic.

“The Spar shop sells milk in returnable glass bottles and Selwyn Davies has a milk delivery business that also uses glass when requested. Local butcher Andrew Rees is using greaseproof and paper to wrap and reduce.”

Jason wanted to know more about the community fridge he had heard about.

Vic explained “This is being set-up at Bloomfield. They are going to accept donations of surplus food, which are nearing their sell by date, from suppliers and retailers.

“The food will then be available to the community. This excellent initiative will keep more food out of the waste stream.”

Jason finished by asking about Narberth punching above its weight and the success of Narberth RFC.

Vic retorted: “The Otters have being performing at the highest level for the last 25-30 years and long may that continue. I can’t wait for the next season to start.”

Jason then drew Wynne’s attention to a clip on BBC Radio Wales social media sites from 1966.

“In 1966, Narberth allegedly had a pub for every 100 residents now Wynne it feels like it has a café for every 100 residents.”