Campaign target reached to buy home of red dragon legend

A million pound appeal by the National Trust to buy one of Wales’ most iconic farms has reached its target in just over seven months, raising more than ’4,000 a day thanks to donations from twenty thousand people.

The fundraising drive launched in March this year aimed to acquire the stunning 248 hectare (614 acre) Llyndy Isaf farm on the shores of Llyn Dinas near Beddgelert. It was spearheaded by Welsh Hollywood actor Matthew Rhys and supported by Catherine Zeta Jones.

Llyn Dinas was the site of the legendary battle between the red dragon and white dragon, with the former’s victory leading to its mythical status as the emblem of Wales.

Hollywood actor and appeal supporter Matthew Rhys said: ’We’ve made it. Thank you so much to so many of you who dug so deep and supported our campaign to save Llyndy Isaf, this very special farm in the heart of Snowdonia.

’You raised a million pounds which now means it will be cared for forever by the National Trust, and secures that future generations shall also enjoy it free from the threat of commercial development.’

The plight of Llyndy Isaf sparked a number of other Welsh stars to join Matthew in urging the public to back the campaign. The appeal was also supported by actor Ioan Gruffudd and wildlife presenters Iolo Williams and Kate Humble.

Rhys Evans, National Trust’s Snowdonia Manager, explained: ’We have been completely bowled over by the response from public ’ it has been extraordinary how generous people have been.

’Despite these tough financial times they have really backed the appeal which really does show how much people care about protecting special places like Llyndy Isaf.’

Llyndy Isaf lies in the beautiful Nant Gwynant valley, near Beddgelert. It is one of the most well-known and environmentally important stretches of countryside in Snowdonia, untouched by intensive farming and home to many threatened wildlife species of international importance such as kingfishers, otters and the chough.

Rhys Evans added: ’The challenge was always to raise the money by the end of the year to secure the future of Llyndy Isaf. Thanks to the generosity of so many we can begin consulting with the local community and the farming unions to decide on the next step for this special part of Wales.’