Snowdonia beauty captured in book

Crib Goch, a ridge on the summit of Snowdon, made of volcanic rock. Enlarge Image

The beauty of Snowdonia has been captured in a new book by those who work on the land.

Famous names - as well as hill farmers - have been asked to choose their favourite places for the book, called Private Views of Snowdonia.

A total of 30 contributors' views feature alongside the work of photographer Steve Lewis.

Published in collaboration with the Snowdonia Society, its launch takes place on Tuesday evening.

'Everyday people'

Bryn Terfel is among those who have given their insights to the book, which is available in Welsh and English and published by Gomer Press.

This river flows in Snowdonia national park

In its foreword, Mr Terfel says the book "provides a perspective on Snowdonia rarely seen; that of the everyday people who live and work in the area, who have helped, and are still helping, to shape the area and its culture."

One of those who was asked to take part is hill farmer and shepherd Gwyn Thomas, a tenant for eight years at Blaen-y-Nant, an uplands organic farm in Dyffryn Nant Ffrancon.

He keeps 350 Welsh mountain sheep, five working dogs and 20 Welsh black cattle.

He told the BBC News website he appreciates the beauty of Snowdonia every day.

Cwm Pennant was once home to slate quarries

"We didn't create it, it was here for us to develop and the best part is I see it every day," said Mr Thomas.

"I appreciate it and respect it. There's no other place to be, I have told my daughters to have my ashes spread here."

Morag McGrath, from the society, said they came up with a list of those they wanted to contribute and said Steve Lewis' photography in the book was "superb".

Sir Kyffin Williams, Dafydd Elis Thomas and Jim Perrin also contributed.

Private Views of Snowdonia, Ar Orwel Eryri, will be launched at Llanberis.