And what amazing weather they had for their stay- Enlli at her best!   

The first workshop arranged by the Project Officer was with Laura Hughes, Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau’s Marine Project Officer. She is currently working with the Bardsey Bird and Field Observatory on a Marine Mammals Project focusing on recording sightings of marine mammals off the coast of Enlli and Llŷn, notably Risso’s Dolphins. Laura began the workshop by teaching everyone how to differentiate between different marine mammals. Following this, everyone took part in a Shorewatch near Pen Diban, where everyone used binoculars to systematically scan the sea. Unfortunately, no sightings on this day! Some of the group had an interest in sharks, therefore the next part of the session was spent combing Henllwyn for egg cases (mermaid’s purse) and identifying which type of shark these belong to. A beach clean was also had at the end. 

On Monday, Reverend Jane Finn who is the Pilgrim Priest came over to Enlli to run a crash course in navigation with maps and compasses. There was plenty of time to practice reading bearings in ‘Lle Cul’ (The Narrows) between Cafn and Porth Solfach. They were also taught what to do if an incorrect beaing was taken, a very useful skill to have, especially when without a phone signal. This led to discussions about spirituality- what do you do when you find yourself lost in life? 

The Bardsey Bird and Field Observatory took the young people for a wildlife walk and explained the work they do on the island. After nightfall, they all went with Steven Stansfield to see the Manx Shearwaters. This was an amazing opportunity to learn more about these special birds. 

Joseph Conran, the first Artist in Residence of the year, was also in Enlli and was working on an interesting project to do with Carl Linnaeus’ classification system. Linked with this, he had another project on the go, asking which words belonged to different parts of the island. Everyone had the opportunity to add their words to a map of Enlli. 

Outside of all the workshops, the young people and staff spent their time baking, making music and creating art; a very restful and rejuvenating stay. 

A special thanks to the National Heritage Lottery Fund for making this possible!