A FESTIVE competition in Porthmadog provided an opportunity for young people to learn about local high street businesses, as well as promoting the use of the Welsh language.

The joint initiative between Caru Port, a Porthmadog community group, and Hunaniaith, a Welsh language initiative by Gwynedd County Council, saw 10 baby Welsh Dragons wearing Santa hats hidden in different shops in Porthmadog.

The task for children from local primary schools was to find them all for the chance to win the prize of a large Welsh dragon and a Welsh book token. The winner was Nel Dafydd from Borth-y-gest.

Gwynedd Cllr Nia Jeffreys said: “One of Caru Port’s main aims is to get people to spend their money in Porthmadog and support local businesses and jobs.

“We were delighted when Hunaniaith asked to work with us on an initiative that not only supported local businesses but also showed children that the Welsh language is part of the fabric of Porthmadog and can be used in so many of the businesses that are locally owned.”

Ifan Llewelyn, language development officer with Hunaniaith said: “We are keen to show children the language is a viable part of business life and hopefully this will lead them to making Welsh a part of their lives and choices as they become adults.”