Fforest Fawr - Wales’ only European and UNESCO Global Geopark - was awarded a coveted green card by the European Geoparks Network at a meeting held in the Czech Republic last month.

The European Geoparks Network co-ordination committee was unanimous in their decision to award the Green Card to Fforest Fawr Geopark for the next four years. In reaching their decision, the EGN committee took account of the enthusiasm shown by the various partner organisations and local communities in making the Geopark work for the local economy.

The green card embodies the recognition of three years hard work achieved by the Fforest Fawr Geopark Management Committee, consisting of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority and its many Geopark partners, since membership was gained in October 2005.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive our revalidation green card for Fforest Fawr. Three years ago, when we first started out we knew we had a lot to achieve to gain this recognition. This award means we can continue to work with all our partners to raise the profile of the area, to conserve its geological, natural and cultural heritage and to improve the experience for our visitors” said Dr. Tony Ramsay, Scientific Director of Fforest Fawr Geopark. “Our successful revalidation also recognises the important contribution made by our smaller communities, and their readiness to continue working with us to develop geotourism within the Fforest Fawr Geopark.”

John Cook, Acting Chief Executive for Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said: “Fforest Fawr Geopark has given us the opportunity to focus on the distinctive culture and beauty of the Western area of the National Park - which in part has been shaped by our geological heritage. This unanimous recognition by the EGM is testament to the hard work done by all our staff, partners and communities. It’s a true reflection of what we can achieve when we all work together.”