A new nature trail has been launched at St Tetti’s Church in Llandetty, encouraging visitors to explore the wildlife and history of its peaceful churchyard.

The medieval church, which dates back to the 13th century or possibly earlier, sits between the River Usk and the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal.

With support from the Friends of Llandetty Church, local people and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, five new trail signs and an information board have been installed around the churchyard.

The project is also being carried out in memory of Ann Doyle (née Burgess), whose family supported the project.

The five trails are based around the elements, with each focusing on a different aspect of the churchyard and its wildlife.

The WATER trail encourages visitors to look for otters, while EARTH focuses on wildflowers, woodland, fungi and insects. FIRE explores the changing colours of flowers and ferns, SPIRIT highlights the churchyard’s ancient trees, and AIR looks towards birds, bats and the church buildings.

The churchyard is home to two ancient yew trees which may be as old as the church itself. In spring, daffodils and bluebells grow among the gravestones, while areas are managed specifically for wildlife.

Visitors may spot a range of birds and other wildlife, with the River Usk also providing the occasional chance of seeing an otter.

Benches are also available for people who want to sit and enjoy the surroundings.

Llandetty Church is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and visitors are being encouraged to explore the trails and discover the natural environment around the historic building.

The project organisers hope the trails will encourage more people to visit and perhaps even support the church through a donation, helping to maintain both the historic church and churchyard for future generations.