Seventeen days of roadworks for Abbey Road

 

Car that comes complete with a backseat driver

Geely Starray EM-i drive by Steve Rogers

Who is thinking an electric car might be the solution to an expensive trip to the pumps?

The sky high cost of fuel could persuade those teetering on the brink to go full leccy but it is still a touchy subject so is this plug-in hybrid the answer to the conundrum?

The Starray Super Hybrid is the second Chinese Geely to reach our shores this year and has a potential electric range of 84 miles. That is better than the Audi Q3's 73 miles and the MG HS with 75 miles.

With ranges like this it is hardly surprising plug-in hybrid sales were up 35 per cent last year. The MG set the pace and was one of my stars of ’25.

Starray is a sibling to the electric EX5 mid size SUV, built on the same platform and virtually the same shape apart from a restyled front. It is the usual drill from China, incredible value for money, the Starray starts at a fiver under £30k, lots of space, lots of kit, it even has its own back seat driver but more of that later.

Chinese manufacturers are investing billions in PHEV technology and can bring it to the market faster than anyone else. This range more than covers most drivers' daily commute and there are no charging worries for longer journeys because the petrol engine kicks in when the battery is spent.

Geely does it by pairing a 29.8kWh battery with a 1.5 litre petrol engine. You need to go top of the range Ultra for the potential 84 miles, the entry Pro and Max models have a 18.4kWh battery which is good for up to 51 miles. Ultra can take 60kW fast charging and gets to 80 per cent in 16 minutes and that is faster than its rivals. A home charge for Ultra takes 4.6 hours and just over three hours for the lower battery capacity.

Isn’t it interesting how charging times are now more relevant than which car has the best acceleration.

Economy figures are eye watering combining electric and engine, but once driving on petrol only expect mid forties although I regularly cracked 50mpg on longer runs. The petrol engine gets noisy under hard acceleration but there are no complaints about performance which is brisk enough off the line and for overtaking.

It is early days for Geely and people haven’t clocked the badge. I was often asked ‘what car is this’ and the reply was always positive. The styling is neat, if a little conservative, and a similar shape to the Leapmotor B10.

The main thing is that it has an incredibly spacious cabin which is ideal for a family with three growing children. The back seat easily takes three lanky adults thanks to the width, generous legroom and flat floor.

I have almost reached the stage when I will stop complaining about the lack of switches and every function going through a touchscreen. It is no surprise this is the case with Starray, all 15.4in of it dominating the dashboard, although I did manage to work it out without too much frustration and there are some quick keys along the base of the screen and by swiping down the screen.

I liked the large rotary dial for adjusting the radio volume and liked it even more when I found, by accident, that it performs other functions as well.

Voice control helps but the Starray ‘lady’ hasn’t got her act together yet. You also have to learn ‘voice control speak’. Asking to adjust the temperature of the heated seat draws a blank but saying seat heating does the trick.

By far the greatest irritation is the way the car tries to take over the driving, hence the back seat driver jibe. Yes it is all meant to improve safety but it is far too sensitive and intrusive. I don’t want to be told to pay attention because I glance at the screen, even more irritating is feeling a tug on the steering wheel if veering to the centre on a narrow back road, and that is with the lane assist switched off.

And steering wheel paddles are needed to select regenerative braking levels rather than diving into the touchscreen menu. Better still lets have one pedal that brings the car to a stop and ironically is fitted to Volvos which is owned by Geely.

Whatever the frustrations, Starray is a compelling package for its sheer value for money, class leading electric range, good build quality, specification, which would take all day to list, and an excellent driver safety package.

The priority now is building a dealer network and a warehouse full of spares. It’s a long way to China…

Favourite feature: Automatic heated or ventilated seats.

Fast facts

Starray Ultra £34,990 (starts £29,990)

1.5 litre petrol/29.8kWh battery 257bhp

0-62mph 8secs; 105mph

117-201mpg (battery and engine)

32g/km. 1st VED £115

Boot: 528-2065 litres

Insurance group 32

Super Furry Animals to perform Mwng album at Llangollen

 

History will be made this summer as Super Furry Animals reveal they will perform their groundbreaking, millennium Welsh language album Mwng live in full for the very first time. 

Following overwhelming demand for tickets for their SOLD OUT Supacabra 2026 Tour, the band’s headline date at TK Maxx presents Live at Llangollen Pavilion on Thursday July 2 will be a special, dedicated celebration of the critically acclaimed album. 

Super Furry Animals’ appearance in the northern Wales town, and their first at the International Pavilion venue since 1998, will also include a second set filled with fan favourites and career-spanning hits. Joining them on the bill is two of Wales’ most exciting live acts in the sharp‑witted punk five‑piece Panic Shack and the kaleidoscopic, genre‑defying Melin Melyn, whose theatrical shows and psychedelic storytelling have earned them critical acclaim and a rapidly growing fanbase.

 

Released on Monday May 15 2000, Mwng was the band’s fourth studio album, their first entirely in Welsh and first music to be independently released on their Placid Casual label. Stripped‑back, intimate and defiantly independent, it remains one of the most culturally significant records in modern Welsh music, becoming a bold statement of identity that resonated far beyond language and international borders.

 

A rare chance to experience a defining chapter of the Super Furry Animals catalogue in full, on-stage-definition, their Llangollen set will open with the short, fuzzy rush of track one, Drygioni. Tripping through to wiry, punk-pop highlights including Ysbeidiau Heulog and closing with the woozy, brass-layered Gwreiddiau Dwfn/Mawrth Oer ar y Blaned Neifion, fans will join the band in completing a journey through one of the band’s most treasured albums.

 

Super Furry Animals Play Mwng at Llangollen Pavilion is one of only a few live dates confirmed to take place in Wales throughout 2026 and follows the immediate sell out of their two Supacabra shows at Llandudno Venue Cymru and huge ‘homecoming’ at Cardiff’s 7,500-capacity Utilita Arena in May. Full information and final remaining tickets can be found at www.llangollen.net

 

Formed in Cardiff in 1993, Huw Bunford, Cian Ciarán, Daf Ieuan, Guto Pryce and Gruff Rhys, built their reputation as Super Furry Animals on fearless experimentation, surreal visuals and a catalogue that refuses to sit still. From Fuzzy Logic to Dark Days/Light Years, their genre‑bending sound and mischievous spirit have earned them a devoted global following and legendary status in Welsh music history.

 

Artistic Director of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Dave Danford said: “Super Furry Animals performing ‘Mwng’ in full is something fans have hoped to experience for years, and we’re thrilled it’s happening here in Llangollen. It’s a landmark Welsh‑language album and hearing it brought to life in North Wales will be a truly special moment for both the audience and for Welsh music as a whole. Anyone lucky enough to have a ticket is in for something truly unforgettable.”

 

Following the reissue of the band’s seventh album, Love Kraft, in late 2025, the band has dug even deeper into their vault of rarities to plot the release of early years compilation, Precreation Percolation on Friday May 1 2026. Concentrating on the period of the band’s formation to the point of signing to Alan McGee’s legendary Creation Records, the release restores Super Furry Animals’ first two EPs, each released on influential Welsh independent label, Ankst, to vinyl for the first time since their original 1995 release.

 

The opportunity to sign up to the band’s mailing list, being first to hear about any subsequent announcements, as well as links to find the band on social media can be found at www.superfurry.com

Super Furry Animals Play Mwng

Llangollen Pavilion – Thursday July 2 2026

Final Tickets On Sale Now

www.superfurry.com / www.llangollen.net

       

 

Railway promises three days of steam, diesel and entertainment

Llangollen and Corwen Railway is preparing to host its flagship Branch Line Gala from this Friday to Sunday, promising three days of steam, diesel and entertainment in the heart of the Dee Valley. 

Iain Ross, Branch Line Gala Organiser, said: “This year’s event is shaping up to be something really special. It really showcases our amazing railway, right up the line, with activity at every station and a fantastic atmosphere throughout. 

"This three-day spectacular is delivered by our incredible volunteers, who work tirelessly to bring the railway to life. There really is something for everyone, whether you’re an enthusiast or just looking for a great day out. Across the weekend there will be plenty of food and drink available, and our Station Master’s marquee at Llangollen will be at the heart of the action, creating a real festival feel.”

Here are five reasons why you should not miss it, says the railway..

1. A Rare and Exciting Line-Up of Locomotives

This year’s Gala features an outstanding mix of visiting engines and home fleet favourites.

Highlights include:

• GWR Small Prairie No. 4555, returning to the line for the first time in over 60 years
• GWR No. 1369, the sole surviving example of its class
• Class 14 D9525, appearing during its final running weekend at Llangollen

Alongside these are home fleet favourites No. 3802 and No. 7754, offering a varied and authentic heritage experience.

2. Intensive Timetable Across the Full Line

For three days, the railway will operate an intensive timetable, giving visitors the chance to travel behind multiple locomotives, experience different combinations of stock and traction, and explore the full line from Llangollen to Corwen.

This is a rare opportunity to see the railway operating at full capacity.

3. Footplate Rides and Unique Experiences

The Gala will see the return of footplate rides, offering a rare chance to step aboard a working locomotive and experience life on the railway first-hand.

These experiences are extremely limited and highly sought after, making them a must for enthusiasts looking for something truly special.

4. Entertainment, Food and a Festival Atmosphere

The Branch Line Gala is more than just trains, with a packed programme of entertainment across the weekend, as recently highlighted in regional coverage. Visitors can enjoy live music and evening performances, including a special Saturday evening concert starting at 6pm, featuring international folk musician Chris Greve, joined by award-winning Richard Powell and the ever-popular Singing Farmer, John Hughes. Together they will bring a lively mix of folk, fiddle and entertainment to the Dee Valley.

Across all three days there will be a wide range of food and drink available, alongside the lively Station Master’s marquee at Llangollen, creating a real festival atmosphere. Craft stalls and attractions will also be in place, adding to the experience. Gala ticket holders are also invited to a special Friday evening reception, offering the opportunity to mingle with volunteers, soak up the atmosphere and be part of the railway community that makes the event possible.

Stations across the line will be fully open, each offering something unique, from traditional tearooms to museums and guided tours, ensuring there is something to enjoy at every stop.

5. A Full Day Out in the Stunning Dee Valley

Set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK, the Gala offers spectacular scenery, historic stations including Berwyn, Glyndyfrdwy and Carrog and opportunities to explore, walk and relax.

It is the perfect combination of heritage, scenery and experience.

Tickets and Pricing

Tickets are available for flexible options across the three-day event.

• Adult Day Ticket: £36
• Child Day Ticket: £6
• Two-Day Ticket: £65 (Adult) / £10 (Child)
• Three-Day Ticket: £86 (Adult) / £15 (Child)

Additional experiences:

• Dogs, bikes and kayaks: £3

Footplate passes are available in limited numbers and are expected to sell out.

Eisteddfod Friends coffee morning is today

 

Next steps planned for Our Llangollen - Our Future

 

Thailand-bound trio outline what lies ahead for them

* What lies ahead for the Westheads.

A challenging route taking in China and Mongolia now lies ahead of the three lads from the local area cycling to Thailand to raise money for charity.

As they rested up in Uzbekistan after a gruelling trip through the desert this week they reflected on what still lies ahead of them on their mammoth journey and how much they've raised for the British Heart Foundation.

Dyfan Hughes, 18, from Llangollen, Louis Dennis, 19, from Garth, and James Thomas,19, from Wrexham aim to pedal the 10,000 miles to the Far East in memory of Tony Edge, the father of a friend who died following a heart attack in 2024.

* The lads have so far raised £27,000 for heart research.

Over the past week or the intrepid trio, calling themselves the Westheads, have put in some hard pedalling in the deserts of Kakakhstan and Uzbekistan, managing to notch up an average 110 kms a day despite the intense heat but brightened by a  passing car stopping to hand them free bread and an ice-cream seller donating iced treats to then all.

Taking a well-earned break in the city of Nukus, they reflected on raising £27,000 of their £50,000 charity since they left Llangollen eight months ago and outlined the next steps along the long, long trail.

* A passing motorist donates some bread in the middle of the desert.

A they've planned it, ahead of them lie the legendary cities of Samarkand and Tashkent before they cross the border into China.

They then face the extreme test of the Gobi Desert in Mongolia before reaching that country's capital of Ulaanbaatar and heading back into China where they aim to take a good look at one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Great Wall and also Beijing.

The hill country of neighbouring Vietnam next awaits them before they eventually reach their final destination of Thailand.

* llanblogger will be recording their adventures along the way. To follow the journey on their social media and make a donation if you wish, go to: https://linktr.ee/westheads