Members of the Penarth Civic Society will meet in-person tomorrow for the first time in two years for a discussion about nature and environmental issues.

The Responding to a Nature Emergency – what is happening? talk will take place at St Augustine's Parish Hall on Albert Road on February 17 and hosted by Colin Cheesman, county ecologist for the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

Anne Evans, chair of the Penarth Civic Society, told Nub News: "We used to always have monthly meetings before the pandemic hit and now, I'm glad to say that we're getting back to that."

The talk will centre on the projects Mr Cheesman is working on with the council, as well as goals for the future to tackle the issue of climate and natural emergencies. A Q&A session will also be held after Mr Cheesman's presentation.

"For a while, I don't believe we had an ecologist so it will be really interesting to hear Colin's take on what his role is and what work he's doing in the community," said Anne.

The society has focused a lot more on environmental issues in recent times and has worked closely with different organisations such as Gwyrddio Penarth Greening (GPG). "Over the last few years, we've moved our focus more into the environmental field," said Anne.

In particular, the society set up the Penarth Tree Forum in 2016 and the group liaises with the council to suggest sites for new trees and existing trees that need attention.

"We set up the Penarth Tree Forum because, about five years ago, we opened up a discussion to members about concerns in the town. To my surprise, everyone's major concern was trees and not parking."

The talk is due to start at 19:00 and face masks must be worn inside the hall.

If you would like to attend, please let Penarth Civic Society know as soon as possible by sending an email to [email protected] or call 029 20411396.

Members can attend the talk for free, but non-members will have to pay £2.

Click here to find out more about the Penarth Civic Society and become a member.