On November 1, the Ridgeway History Group were treated to a most enjoyable evening when Jonathan Hughes, property manager for the Trust in Pembrokeshire, brought along some stunning slides to illustrate his talk on 'The Work of the National Trust in Pembrokeshire and beyond'. He explained that, although the Trust worked closely with the National Park, and had similar aspirations, they were in fact very different organisations. Apart from some spectacular views of the coastline now owned by the Trust, extending from Newgale to St. David's Head, the group were shown many of the properties being typical examples from gentlemen's country residences to simple farmhouses. It was these latter which left the greatest impression. They were not, as Jonathan explained, significant in the sense of grandeur, but good, honest dwellings built for a genuine purpose, which allowed them to sit comfortably in our countryside. Even more satisfying than the farmhouses themselves were the range of outbuildings and yards, cobbled with stones, probably carted from local beaches. It was good to be reminded of the Trust's involvement in maintaining these gems of our heritage. The Trust, set up in 1895, is a charity which does not receive money from the Government, but is reliant on its membership, currently approaching three-and-a-half million. To meet the cost of some massive projects, e.g. new septic tank at Stackpole Quay - £80,000, extra funding has to be sought from the Heritage Lottery Fund, CADW, and various charitable trusts. New acquisitions were itemised and the aims of the Trust, and often the problems faced in achieving the outcome expected of them, were discussed. A property, 'Llanerchaeron', Aberaeron, left to the Trust in 1989, had needed 15 years' work before opening in 2004. A team of skilled carpenters and voluntary workers are a vital part of the Trust's work. The talk covered properties including 'Newton House' (Dynevor), restored at a cost of £3 million, 'Aberdulais Falls' and 'Dolaucothi'. Nearer home were Colby, Stackpole and the 400 years' old 'Tudor Merchant's House', Tenby. Some interesting statistics followed. In Pembrokeshire, the Trust owns 55 miles of coast (25 per cent). Also held are substantial areas of Fishguard, Strumble Head, Dinas, St. Davids, Marloes and Stackpole Estate, in total about 10,000 acres, the majority of which is tenanted farms, but also 2,500 acres of common land including nature reservations. Questions from the floor cleared up points regarding access to the Trust's coastal areas. In the time available, it was only possible to touch on the Trust's commitments, but the group had gained many ideas for future 'outings'. The chairman thanked the speaker and reminded all of the AGM, 7.30 pm, on January 3, at Skrinkle Centre, with buffet, wine and now traditional popular quiz. Visitors always welcome. For further details, contact Denise, 01834 871209.