Piecing together art and history, pupils from Ysgol Caer Drewyn, Corwen (Denbighshire, north-east Wales), took part in a mosaic project with artist Patricia Jones aimed at promoting the Iron Age hillfort Caer Drewyn whose site lies above the town. Since the beginning of the year, Caer Drewyn pupils from years five and six have been hard at work with Patricia of Classical Mosaic and the Heather and Hillforts Project to create a large mosaic, which will be displayed outside Corwen Leisure Centre. "The aim was to incorporate imagery of the hillfort and its historical Celtic associations, as well as flora and fauna of the area and references to distinctive buildings from the town of Corwen," said Patricia. Materials used included mosaic vitreous glass, Italian smalti, ceramic, recycled china and porcelain, glass beads and granite pebbles within a frame of wind-blown, seasoned, locally sourced oak.
     Erin Robinson, Heather and Hillforts interpretation officer, said: "Caer Drewyn hillfort is managed by Denbighshire County Council's Countryside Service and enjoyed and visited by many. We hope that this beautiful mosaic at the start of the trail to the fort will encourage more people to enjoy this spectacular and special place for years to come." The three year Heather and Hillforts Project is developing a £2.3 million initiative for upland conservation work and has received a grant of £1.5 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund. For more information visit heatherandhillforts.co.uk

Source: Denbigshire Free Press (30 July 2009)