How Llangollen is being affected by coronavirus

NOW UPDATED ... SEE FOOT OF STORY

* Postponed: the XX Club production of 'Allo 'Allo.

On the day that the number of confirmed cases in Wales reached 38, llanblogger has done a round-up of those local businesses and groups affected – or not affected – by coronavirus so far.

Earlier today (Friday) Llangollen XX Club announced that it had decided to postpone its forthcoming production of the comedy ‘Allo ‘Allo, which was due to be staged at the Town Hall from March 18-21.

A message posted on Facebook from the group’s chair, Sian Glynne-Jones, said: “In the light of the current coronavirus situation and the speed that it is escalating, we cannot put the health of our cast, crew, helpers and audience at risk.

“We are therefore postponing ‘Allo ‘Allo until November. The dates will be confirmed at a later stage.

“Any tickets already purchased either online or physical tickets will be valid for the November show or can be refunded.

“Anyone purchasing tickets at The Oggie Shop, Jenni’s or Courtyard Books can get a refund at Courtyard Books or by contacting Courtyard Books on 01978 869394.

“Anyone purchasing tickets online can have a refund via Ticketsource, but the refund will only be for the price of the ticket and will not include the booking fee as that is a Ticketsource charge. These tickets can be transferred to November which will not occur any additional charge.

“As a club, we are heartbroken to be in this situation, especially considering how close we are to the performance, but strongly believe that we should put health first.”

Another virus casualty is tonight’s scheduled screening of by New Dot Cinema of the film Home.

In a Facebook statement the voluntary local cinema group said: “We have been carefully following advice from the government, health services and cinema organisations regarding COVID-19.

“After much consideration we have decided to cancel the screening of Home, as we don’t feel we can provide adequate hygiene facilities to our audience and volunteers, as recommended by the above organisations.

“We hope to reschedule the films, but in the meantime we will refund tickets already purchased. Online tickets will be automatically refunded, paper tickets can be returned at Llangollen Oggie Shop & Fine Foods.”

Despite only re-opening today after its annual winter break, Llangollen Country Market held in the Methodist Hall, has decided to temporarily close down again until further notice.

Organiser Joan Sneyd said: "The Country Market has been suspended due to the risk of Coronavirus. We plan to reopen as soon as possible, when things improve.! 

   * Postponed: Shape My Llangollen's Planning Party.

Shape My Llangollen, the voluntary group drawing up local people’s views on Denbighshire’s next Local Development Plan, had been due to stage its next public consultation exercise at the Band Hut next weekend, on March 21 and 22.

But group chair Phil Robinson said this had been postponed as a direct result of concerns over coronavirus.

“We will notify people of a fresh date as soon as possible,” he added.

Bethan Mascarenhas, boss of the Old Vicarage care home in the town, yesterday put out the call for help in the event of a local coronavirus out break.

On Facebook she said: “As you know, those in our care at The Old Vicarage Care Home are most vulnerable to Covid-19 but we also have a duty to care for our staff who have vulnerable dependents. 

We need a group of people that we can call on in the event of a crisis, where a lot of staff go off sick at once, or have to look after vulnerable dependents.

“In the event of Covid-19 coming to the area, we would need additional help with care, kitchen and cleaning duties.

“We are asking for anyone with care, kitchen or cleaning experience to get in touch if they are ready, willing and able to help us out if a worst case scenario happens.

“Any help would be massively appreciated.”

However, there were more positive messages from at least two local businesses.

Sam’s Coffee based at Gales Wine Bar posted on Facebook: “Open as usual. We’re taking some sensible steps to protect you and ourselves at the moment so please feel confident in coming to visit if you’re feeling well.
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- We have increased hand washing facilities around so please take advantage of them.
- we have takeaway cups available to drink in too if you prefer.
- we are moving to disposable menus for the time being.
- please pay contactless if possible.
- tables will be fully sanitised after each use.
- we will make sure there is adequate space around tables.
- fresh sugar with be brought to you if needed, not left on the tables as usual.
.
“We will keep adding to these measures as we can. See you all soon.

“Please continue to support local businesses as much as possible at this time.”

And Llangollen Railway says in its Facebook post (pictured above) on the subject of coronavirus: “Llangollen Railway is running as normal, if the government advice changes we will update our website and social media pages.”

It goes on to ask people to follow the government advice on self-isolation in the case of coughs and fever and the washing of hands.

6.30pm UPDATE ...

Llangollen Group of Anglican Churches has announced that the 11am mass from St Collen’s (pictured) will be streamed live his Sunday. The advice for those who want to join in is to visit the group's Facebook page.

The Facebook post adds: "Please share so those unable to get to church can tune in."

Due to the infection risk Llangollen Museum has decided to close to visitors with immediate effect, 

initially for a fortnight or until they can see what the next public health update says.

* If anyone has further information on the local affects on the area of coronavirus, please let llanblogger know at: llanblogger@gmail.com