. Column for Mid Wales Journal [Run contact details at the top of each column: National Assembly for Wales, Cardiff Bay, CF99 1NA, T:02920 898743, E: Kirsty.Williams@Wales.gov.uk] Living in Mid Wales we are lucky to be surrounded not only by a spectacular natural landscape with rolling hills and sparkling streams but also by a rich tapestry of cultural and human history. We have castles sprinkled throughout the marches, forts topping our hilltops and ancient settlements in our lakes. We have beautiful spa towns and battle field sites from the age of Owain Glyndwr – we are indeed fortunate to have such a full and visible history. I spend a recent afternoon at the opening of the new Rhayader Museum and Gallery. Housed in a fantastic new building, there was a wonderful array of displays mapping the history of the local area. It was a pleasure to see and learn about the culture of the Rhayader district and it is a very valuable asset for the community. In a period of recession an
