Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is inviting residents, businesses, and visitors to take part in a special Dark Skies Switch-Off today (Sunday).

This initiative, which will take place between 7pm and 8pm.,is part of Welsh Dark Skies Week, a celebration of the beauty and importance of our night skies here in Wales.

Welsh Dark Skies Week brings together National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in a collective effort to raise awareness of light pollution. Artificial light not only reduces our view of the stars but also disrupts wildlife and impacts human health. By switching off non-essential lights for one hour, participants will help highlight the importance of protecting our natural nightscapes.

Carol Williams, Sustainable Tourism Officer at Bannau Brycheiniog, said: “As an International Dark Sky Reserve, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. Some of the highest quality dark skies in the UK can be found right here. The Dark Skies Switch Off is a simple yet powerful way to reconnect with the wonders of the night sky. By encouraging our community in the National Park to switch off their lights, or close their curtains for an hour, we aim to raise awareness of the impact of light pollution.”

Theatr Brycheiniog and the National Park Visitor Centre will be joining the Switch-Off and turning off their lights.

Anna Wormleighton, Marketing, Communications and Audiences Manager at Theatr Brycheiniog, said: “Theatr Brycheiniog are proud to sit within Bannau Brycheiniog and beneath the spectacular International Dark Skies Reserve. On Sunday, February 23 we will be joining the ‘switch off’ and hoping for a clear night so that everyone in the reserve can gaze up at the alluring night sky and see something magical.”

Bannau Brycheiniog National Park encourages everyone to take part by turning off their lights on Sunday, stepping outside, and taking a moment to appreciate our magical night sky.