Campaigners expressed their deep disappointment today after Gwynedd Council voted to continue with plans to close Ysgol y Parc, near Bala.The councillors' decision follows an eighty-strong protest outside the council offices from those opposing the plans. mong the protestors were members of Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg who had treked seventy miles from Tryweryn to Caernarfon for five days to the protest. The organisation is campaigning to keep the school open and save money by federalising schools instead.

Following the protest, Menna Machreth, Chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith, said:"The turnout at the protest today shows the overwhelming local opposition to these plans. We and the local community will continue to fight the closure of the school every step of the way. It's incredible it's Gwynedd Council, of all bodies, which is knowingly undermining this vibrant Welsh-speaking community. It's clear that the battle to save this school is significant for the future of every Welsh-speaking community in the country. ""There will be a chance for everoyne to show their support for Ysgol y Parc in a festival being held in the village on the August bank holiday Monday. It will be a Welsh community festival with plays, sports and other entertainment. A number of celebrities including Gai Toms have already agreed to take part."A festival is being held in the local village on Monday 31st August as part of the school campaign.