Wales’ oldest city was celebrated in the heart of Westminster this week. Claire Hughes, MP for Bangor Aberconwy, hosted ‘Bangor Day’ on the very day the city commemorates its founder, St Deiniol.
The special reception, part of the wider Bangor 1500 programme taking place this year, brought together MPs, business leaders from across Wales, Bangor institutions, community groups and local representatives.
The day shone a spotlight on the city’s present-day talent and ambitious future, as well as its proud history and rich heritage.
Attendees included the Vice Chancellor of Bangor University and several university departments: School of Ocean Science, School of Environmental Science and the new North Wales Medical School. These along with Mor Ni Gwynedd, Treborth Botanic Garden, BBC Bangor, FA Wales, Grŵp Llandrillo-Menai, and Bangor City Council hosted stands, sharing their innovative work and opportunities they’re driving in their field and for the local community.
The Mayor of Bangor, local business owners, university alumni, Friends of Bangor Garth Pier, and many more local organisations and cultural groups made the trip to London to celebrate the city, connect with each other and discuss what’s next in store for Bangor.
Claire Hughes, Member of Parliament for Bangor Aberconwy said:
“I’m fighting hard to get Bangor the recognition – and funding – it deserves. This anniversary is a perfect opportunity to show what makes our city so special, from its deep historic roots to its vibrant community and institutions.
“We had a fantastic range of local voices in the room to tell the movers and shakers in Westminster what’s so great about Bangor. This isn’t just about looking back – it’s about unlocking its potential and building a better future for Bangor.”
Professor Edmund Burke, Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University said:
“Bangor University is and has always been integral to the city of Bangor’s story since the University was established over 140 years ago. Through world-class teaching and research, the University has transformed lives, driven innovation, and made vital contributions to regional growth and national productivity. We’re proud, together with our stakeholders, to be part of this event which celebrates the City’s rich heritage, history, language and culture as it marks 1500 years.”
