Seaside resort imports palm trees

The promenade is a popular destination for a stroll

A Gwynedd seaside town has imported 60 palm trees from Italy, to give the resort a Mediterranean makeover.

Businesses in Barmouth have got together to sponsor the 13ft (4m) trees at £500 each along the promenade over the summer months.

It is the latest idea to improve the town's image.

Matthew Harries, of Barmouth Resort Impovement Group (Brig), said: "We've had lots of comments with many saying it gives the place a feelgood factor".

The not-for-profit group got together in March last year with the objective of improving the town for both residents and tourists.

this has all been paid for by local businesses and individuals Matthew Harries

In October they installed a bronze statue of four dolphins jumping out of water in the town.

"I'd love to see people's reaction when they turn the corner and see the trees," said Mr Harries.

"It really works with the dolphin feature.

"Not everyone likes everything but I don't see how they cannot like this," he added.

Two of the palm trees (Cordyline Australis) were brought over in October to make sure they could survive the Welsh winter.

"They have been battered a bit although they are still fine, but these new ones will probably be taken to a more sheltered location over next winter," said Mr Harries.

Local businesses paid £500 each to sponsor a tree.

"Some people have been asking if this is being funded with public money, but I think it is important to stress that this has all been paid for by local businesses and individuals, it has cost the ratepayers nothing.

"The project cost well over £40,000 and the money raised was by us and us alone," he added.