ANGLESEY rocks! That’s according to two heritage attractions that aim to increase awareness of the diverse and unique history and geology of the island whilst helping to boost tourism.

Geo Môn and the Copper Kingdom Centre both want to attract more visitors but are especially keen to promote the historic Amlwch Port, and Parys Mountain heritage areas, which they say there are “hidden gems” and often overlooked.

The GeoMôn visitor centre is based at the historic Watch House, on Amlwch Port.

It tells the story of Anglesey and the worldwide importance of its geology. The island has European and global ‘geopark’ status, awarded by UNESCO.

Internationally recognised, the island geopark covers some 720 square kilometres and has 125 miles of coastal walks.

Geopark status recognises Anglesey as a world class visitor attraction because of its diverse and spectacular rocks, its tectonics and it has some of the oldest fossils in the world.

The nearby award-winning Copper Kingdom Centre, also on Amlwch Port, tells the story of copper mining, the area’s industrial heritage and its transformation over time.

Copper has been mined at Parys Mountain since the Bronze Age.

The centre describes how the area evolved and how its fortunes changed after the “great discovery” of copper in 1768.

Amlwch was the second biggest town in Wales and until the 20th century was a hive of industry with worldwide influence.

Mike Cross, from Bull Bay, a retired chemical engineer, has volunteered at Geo Môn for two years.

“I came to help because I am fascinated by Anglesey’s geology and history. It’s of international significance.

“People just don’t realise how special Anglesey’s geopark status is.

“We help to inform the public and hope to enhance the visitor experience.

“We’d like to attract more people, especially anyone interested in volunteering to help us.”

Elfed Rowlands, who runs the nearby Copper Kingdom Centre, said: “The heritage of this part of Anglesey is a hidden gem.p

“The areas around Amlwch, the Port and Parys Mountain are some of our most important assets.

“The area is crying out for more investment into the local infrastructure to promote what we have here.

“It is so important, it should be part of the Welsh school curriculum. We need youngsters to learn about this heritage or we could lose it.”

l To volunteer at Geo Môn, telephoneMike Cross on 01407 830753. To find out more about the Copper Kingdom, go online at http://www.copperkingdom.co.uk/copper-kingdom/