A NATIONWIDE institution which began in Meirionnydd is celebrating 50 years - with the help of a glamour model and a young actress.

Merched y Wawr is a voluntary organisation for women in Wales, whose activities are conducted through the medium of Welsh.

However, in the movement’s 50th year, the two unlikely members have joined the sisters.

In a special programme, 50! Penblwydd Hapus Merched y Wawr (Happy Birthday Merched y Wawr) on S4C Sunday, 10 September, viewers can follow Jess Davies and Hannah Daniel as they discover the true nature of the organisation which is so much more than the tea and Bara Brith for which they’re famous for!

Lads’ mag favourite, 24 year old Jess Davies, from Penrhyncoch near Aberystwyth has made a name for herself as one of Britain’s top glamour models, whilst also studying for a Sociology Degree at the University of South Wales. She now lives in Cardiff and runs her own swimwear and yoga clothing range.

Actress Hannah Daniel, who is 31 years old, from Cardiff is well-known for her role as D S Siân Owens in the detective drama Y Gwyll/Hinterland.

In the programme, they get to know some of the members – including Zonia Bowen, Sulwen Lloyd Davies and Lona Puw who set up the organisation in Parc, Y Bala back in 1967.

It was founded when the WI branch in the village broke away and formed their own Welsh language group as a result of dissatisfaction among some members at the time regarding the Women’s Institute English-language only policy.

Hannah Daniels said: “It’s quite annoying that the movement has such a stereotype because they have, and still do, so much amazing work without any fuss. And because of that, they do not get the recognition they deserve.

“Merched y Wawr was set up in a political era, and this energy is what brought about its establishment. I’ve come to realise just how inspirational these women are, and they’re full of fighting spirit."See this week's north editions for the full story, in shops and online on Thursday