ONE hundred years since Deri Woods was gifted to the Llanfair Caereinion community, the town is marking the anniversary with a series of celebration events.

Centenary celebrations include a scarecrow competition, a barefoot walk, face painting, a horse logging demonstration, story telling, a teddy bear’s picnic – including a prize for the best dressed teddy – woodland crafts and trail, refreshments from noon to 4pm at Deri Woods on Saturday, September 7.

“We are lucky to have on our doorstep one of the best woodlands in Wales,” Powys county councillor for Llanfair Caereinion Cllr Gareth Jones said.

“Be good to see lots of you there on Saturday celebrating the centenary of the woods.”

The High Sheriff of Powys David Peate will present prizes at the free community event hosted by Llanfair Caereinion Town Council and Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust.

At the same time there will be an exhibition of photos of ‘Old Llanfair’ at the Public Institute where tea, coffee and cakes will be served by the Women’s Institute.

The 10-acre woodland was gifted by Mr and Mrs Hilton, of Cefn Coch Road, to celebrate the end of the First World War. It was also a gesture of gratitude to the people of the town when the couple retired in Llanfair Caereinion.

Former county councillor Viola E Evans said it was “a marvellous gesture” by Mr and Mrs Hilton.

She said: “It is so well used by walkers and picnic-goers. It is a great asset to the town. Long may it continue as it is.”

Plenty of free parking at Watergate Street car park and, if dry, on the fields adjacent to Deri Woods will be sign posted on the day.

Llanfair Caereinion Town Council will also be offering lifts for any elderly residents who are unable to make their own way to the woods.

Anyone needing more information about the day’s events or requiring a lift to the Deri Woods should contact the Town Clerk, Vickie Griffith on 01938 850461 or the Chair of the Town Council, Kate Roberts on 01938 811195.