Tributes paid to ‘superb ambassador’ for Llandudno on 90th birthday

Tom Parry, a historian who had lived in Llandudno for all of his life until recently moving from his previous home on the Great Orme to Conwy, turns 90 today (April 19).

Tom was also formerly a part of the Great Orme Exploration Society, a group initially set up in 1985 by mine explorers in the area who wanted to study, investigate, and promote the history of “Llandudno's Mountain”, with a particular focus on the old mine workings.

Tom at Ffynnon Galchog (Lime Well). Photo: Gareth Pritchard

Gareth Pritchard, a Llandudno resident and friend of Tom’s, congratulated a “superb ambassador” for the town on celebrating his 90th birthday, and sent him and his wife, Eve, his best wishes.

Gareth said: “Tom has been, over the years, a superb ambassador for Llandudno in a quiet, unassuming way because of his unrivalled knowledge of the town and its history.

“Many have described him has a unique gentleman. Furthermore, he has always been more than ready to share his knowledge, his documents and photos, with others.

Tom exploring a copper mine. Photo: Gareth Pritchard

“I, personally, have benefitted from his help over many years. Tom led me to 13 wells on the Great Orme, providing the history of all.

“One, we failed to visit, Ffynnon Llech, because it needs ropes, but Tom has visited it many times in the past. It is said that Saint Tudno had a cell there in the sixth century.

“The secret Rhiwledyn printing press cave on the Little Orme always fascinated him, with the story of Richard Puw of Neuadd y Penrhyn and fellow Catholics using the cave in 1587-88 to print a book, ‘Y Drych Cristionogawl’, against the orders of the Protestants.

Tom and Eve at their new home in Conwy. Photo: Gareth Pritchard

“Tom loved to explore caves; however, I think his favourite has been exploring the Great Orme Mines, which he has done over many years.

“We wish both Tom and Eve a special day when Tom celebrates his 90th birthday on April 19. They certainly deserve it!”