The Artel Press announces publication of the first title by Llanwrst-born author Janet Corke, whose memoir of a pioneering restoration of a historic cottage in 1950’s North Wales is the remarkable account of an original ‘grand design’.
‘A Hidden Home in the Gwydyr Forest‘ tells the true story of rural life in North Wales, from the perspective of a young couple from post-war Liverpool who set-out to rescue an abandoned cottage in their dream of creating a unique family home.
Only after its purchase in 1955 did the building’s past as the birthplace of celebrated Welsh language poet Trebor Mai come to light, as well as revealing previously unknown family links to the author.
A six year restoration project of Ty’n yr Ardd followed, inspired by larger than life engineer and husband Charlie Corke, whose hands-on approach to all the challenges thrown at them is told with Janet Corke’s keen wit and insight earned from her 52 years’ practice as a solicitor.
Family life provides the evocative backdrop to the trials and tribulations of restoring an old building with no running water, heating or sanitation, and on very limited means.
‘A Hidden Home in the Gwydyr Forest‘ also reveals with great detail and affection the important social history of this little-known corner of North Wales.
picture credit: Llanrwst © Sion Jones
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