County's 2023 tourism figure up 6% on previous year

* Llangollen is one of the county's premier tourism areas. 

Denbighshire's tourism figures have seen a rise for 2023 in comparison to the previous year. 

Latest STEAM (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor) figures show that the total visitor numbers for Denbighshire in 2023 reached 6.39 million, an increase of almost 6% (5.9%) in comparison to 2022 figures.

The data also shows that the number of day visitors to the county for 2023 was 4.72 million, a 7.5% change when compared to 2022.

The total economic impact of tourism was £736.05 million, a jump of 17.1% on the previous year.

STEAM is a tourism economic impact modelling process which approaches the measurement of tourism from the bottom up, through its use of local supply side data and tourism performance and visitor survey data collection.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation, said:

“Denbighshire has both stunning coastal areas as well as scenic rural patches, which allows it to be a very well-rounded offer for tourists, who travel far and wide to come and visit our beautiful county.

"Once again, we welcome increased tourism figures for Denbighshire year on year, which demonstrate the importance of tourism to the local economy, and the bounce back the tourism industry has achieved after a difficult few years.”

Cooking with your family session at Pengwern Hub

 

Railway welcomes back popular Swinging Sixties event

* Mandy Towers and Joe Walker have organised the 60s weekend. 

Llangollen Railway says it is looking forward to turning the clock back for its 60s Weekend on the weekend of August 3 and 4.

Making a very welcome return after several years’ absence, the event will include live music on Llangollen station, vintage vehicles, a heritage bus service from Corwen, a real ale bar at Llangollen station and the chance to drive a diesel shunting locomotive at Corwen station. 

There will be a busy timetable of steam, diesel and railcar trains, all of which would have been seen at work around the country in the 1960s.

The 1960’s saw monumental political, social and technological change. The railways in Britain were no different, seeing the end of steam locomotives, the birth of the famous "double arrow logo" and the controversial closure of a third of Britain's rail network, masterminded by BR Board Chairman Dr Richard Beeching and controversial Transport Minister Ernest Marples. 

The Ruabon-Barmouth railway was one of the victims of the Beeching Cuts, closing at the end of 1964. The closure of rural railways was extremely unpopular and attracted considerable resistance from the communities about to lose their transport links. 

Demonstrations were not uncommon and Llangollen Railway volunteers, dressed in period clothes and bearing placards, will recreate anti-closure protests at Glyndyfrdwy station over the weekend. 

Volunteers worked for nearly 50 years to rebuild 10 miles of the abandoned line between Llangollen and Corwen, with the first trains running in 1985 and a new station at Corwen finally opening in June 2023.

The event is being organised by mother-and-son team Mandy Towers and Joe Walker, who both volunteer on Llangollen station.

Visitors can find out more and book tickets on the railway’s events webpage: https://llangollen-railway.co.uk/1960s-weekend/

* Llangollen & Corwen Railway continues to make a successful recovery following the collapse of its operating company in 2021 and rescue by the Llangollen Railway Trust under new management. 

July 9 saw the third anniversary of the first train to be operated by the Trust, whose manager Tom Taylor said: "Three years on from our first train to Berwyn under Trust management we have achieved what many said would be impossible. 

"Corwen station has been completed, opened and is proving very popular. Our much-loved Pannier steam locomotive No 7754 has ben restored and is steaming again. Our legendary events have returned, including the exciting return of our 60’s Weekend. 

"We have also secured significant grant aid by working with local partners, like Denbighshire County Council. 

"Through their Shared Prosperity Fund, we have been able to recruit new staff who are helping take our volunteer, interpretation, environmental and training needs forward. The SPF has also funded an in-depth consultant-led project to assess how we can secure the railway's future sustainability. 

"We have a wonderful railway and a brilliant team of volunteers and staff who care passionately about it. We are all optimistic about its future."

Beer tasting event planned for St Collen's Church

St Collen’s Church has announced a "unique and inclusive" beer tasting event in celebration of St Arnold of Soissons, the patron saint of beer. 

This special occasion, from 6-8pm on  Wednesday August 14, is supported by local breweries, including Evan Evans Brewery and Conwy Brewery, bringing together a wide selection of local brews up for sampling. 

Saint Arnold of Soissons, revered as the patron saint of brewers, was an 11th-century monk known for his miraculous works and advocacy for the health benefits of beer over the unsafe drinking water of the day.

* Father Lee enjoys a pint down by the river. Picture: Andrei Daniel Productions’

Before his calling to the priesthood St Collen's priest-in-charge, Father Lee Taylor, worked in pubs in Wigan and Bolton, learning the trade from his mother who was a publican.

He said: "From mediaeval times to the present day, church buildings have hosted markets, town meetings, and cultural festivities. This beer tasting event continues that tradition, highlighting the church's role as a gathering place for the entire community.”

As part of the festivities, Fr. Lee will perform a blessing of the ales using an ancient, largely forgotten prayer dating back to the 16th century. 

* The carving of a man with beer barrels depicted in the roof of St Collen's.

This rare ritual not only honours the heritage of beer but also aims to reconnect people with historical traditions that have been celebrated in churches for centuries. 

Added Fr Lee: "This event is open to all in our community, whether they come to church regularly or not, regardless of beliefs and background. The church is here to serve the whole community, not just the ‘religious’. 

"Our church building has always been used for public and secular events. We are here to celebrate and bring people together in all sorts of ways. I want St Collen’s to be a place where everyone feels welcome and included.

"The mediaeval hammer-beam roof at St Collen’s, one of the finest in Wales, even tells the tale of a man who drank too much beer—a fitting backdrop for our celebration.

“We encourage responsible consumption of alcohol throughout the event. Please be aware that ID checks may be conducted if necessary to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. Let's raise a glass together responsibly and celebrate this special occasion in good spirits.”

County council to consult on new public toilet scheme

* The public toilets in Market Street.

Denbighshire County Council has launched a public consultation exercise on the future of its public toilets.

In a statement today it says: "Like many local authorities, Denbighshire County Council is facing significant challenges to set a balanced budget.

"The council has had to deliver £10.4m of savings as part of the 2024/25 budget, and the proposal to review the public convenience provision in the county is one of the savings proposals identified.

"Whilst there is no legal requirement for the council itself to provide public conveniences, The Public Health (Wales) Act 2017 requires the local authority to evidence that it has reviewed the needs of the local population and to produce a strategy that shows how it will try to meet these needs.

"As a result, Denbighshire County Council is currently carrying out a needs assessment for the public conveniences in the County. This will identify the number of public conveniences needed in Denbighshire and will help the council to develop a suitable Public Toilet Strategy."

The statement adds: "To develop this strategy, a public consultation is being undertaken and residents, business owners and visitors are encouraged to take part and have their say."

Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We understand that public conveniences are highly valued assets by certain parts of the community. However, the fact remains that the provision of public conveniences is not a statutory duty, and we do not now have a big enough budget to enable us to keep delivering services in the same way that we have always delivered them in the past.

“In areas where the provision of public conveniences is considered essential, we hope to work with City, Town and Community Councils to look at alternative arrangements.

“No decision has been made about closing any public conveniences at this stage, and any decisions on this will be made by our Cabinet, following a further report to our Communities Scrutiny Committee."

News that the county council was considering ridding itself of all its public toilets in a bid to save money has sparked a wave of criticism in Llangollen where opponents argue that as a prime tourism location the loos in Market Street are badly needed.

Llangollen Town Council has already rejected a suggestion that it might take them over as impractical and beyond its financial resources.   

* To take part in the consultation, go to www.denbighshire.gov.uk/consultations

John plans sky dive charity challenge at the age of 77

* The illustration on John's fundraising page. But he'll be jumping over Shropshire rather than Castell Dinas Bran.

An intrepid local man has high hopes for his fundraiser on behalf of The Friends of Llangollen Health Centre.

At the age of 77 John Palmer is planning to do a sky dive from a plane over a Shropshire airfield in August to support the work of the group which helps patients and staff of the centre and its GP practice by providing facilities, services and equipment not normally covered by statutory funding.

John’s charity challenge will be a tandem affair in which he will be linked to a professional parachutist.

John said: “I am doing the sky dive next month at a time when the weather is suitable. At 77 years old I’m cracking a bit but I reckon I’m still able to jump out of a plane. 

“I haven’t done this before but I am doing all the necessary training required by the company organising the jump. 

“I ran the Bryntysilio outdoor education centre in Llangollen for 20 years and have done a lot of climbing, caving and canoeing but that was 15 years ago. 

He added: “Over the years The Friends of Llangollen Health Centre, which also covers the practices at Glyn Ceiriog and Plas Madoc, has funded, amongst other projects, additional specialist equipment for the medical staff, contributed to a number of defibrillators, helped to fund the set-up cost of the Parkrun, funded the venue for armchair exercises and staff training for the Foodshare. 

“The trust is always interested to hear from any organisation whose request meets our remit for funding.” 

Actually, John is no stranger to going the extra mile for charity. Last August, he and son Nic jointly raised £1,000 for Alzheimer's Research by each completing in a triathlon event.

 * John, left, and son Nic with their triathlon medals last year.

* The initial target for John’s sky dive fundraiser is £500. For more details, go to his gofund.me page at: https://gofund.me/7935d2aa

Have your say on how your neighbourhood is policed

* North Wales PCC Andy Dunbobbin.

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin was re-elected in May 2024. 

An important part of his role is to create a plan for police to work to in order to fight crime across the region. 

To be able to write this plan, he says he wants to ensure he is listening to local people about how they want to see North Wales policed and that he is addressing the concerns they have. 

He is consulting with the people of North Wales in a survey to get their thoughts and responses.

The feedback will be incorporated into the plan and will help shape future services and the allocation of resources by police.

It is important that all sections of the population have the opportunity for their views to be represented and reflected in North Wales Police’s priorities. So have your say.

Head here to fill in the 5-minute survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/PCC-consultation2024

Alternatively, to receive a paper copy by post, contact the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner in the following ways: 

* Email: OPCC@northwales.police.uk 

* Phone: 01492 805486

* Post: Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner North Wales, Police Headquarters. Glan y Don, Colwyn Bay, LL29 8AW.

Collen Players make a splash with Seaside Serenade

 

* The Collen Players cast on stage for the grand finale. All pictures by Jeanette Robinson.

Llangollen’s famous Collen Players took their audience on a rip-roaring trip to the seaside as they made a triumphant return to the stage last night (Friday).

The versatile local entertainers, who specialise in old time music hall and variety shows, presented their latest offering – entitled Seaside Serenade and with a salty nautical theme - to a crowded Community Hall.

Back by popular demand was special guest star Colin Bourdeic, who is acknowledged as the UK’s foremost George Formby impersonator.

One of the only song and dance men reliving the golden age of variety and Vaudeville, he appeared in both halves of the show, firstly doing his memorable Formby act, then returning for a Flanagan and Allen routine.

After some cheekily witty introductory songs to get everyone in the mood from the evening’s chairman and Players founder Lee Taylor, it was off to the coast we headed with Bertie and Flo’s rousing medley which came complete with big beachballs.

Also making a return was Players’ regular Phil Robinson with a brace of appealing music hall numbers.

The first act came to close with a Wilson, Keppel and Betty-style sand-dance special courtesy of Julie and Jan.

Young Shea Ferron, direct from his vaunted victory in the Eisteddfod’s Voice of Musical Theatre award earlier this month, opened act two with his stylish presentation which ended with Monty Python’s Always Look on the Bright Side of Life to maintain the evening’s jaunty atmosphere.

In contrast came a captivating performance by Selana Kong, the first number of which was a beautiful melody sung in Chinese.

Another Players’ favourite, John Williams, prompted some audience participation with a couple of sea-based favourites, including What Shall We Do With a Drunken Sailor?  

On hand for some accomplished accompaniments were musicians Jayne (keyboard) and Clayton (drums).

The entire cast was back on stage for their traditional finale piece of Down at the Old Bull and Bush.

* Before the curtain fell to ringing applause, chairman Lee announced that the Players’ Christmas show will be on Friday December 13 at 6.30pm. Tickets: Email stcollens@gmail.com, or call 01978 861768 (leave a message if there’s no answer and someone will get back to you).  

* Chairman Lee Taylor presides. 

* Bertie and Flo's seaside routine.

 * Music hall tribute by Phil Robinson.

* Colin Bourdeic as George Formby.

* A sand-dance special from Julie and Phil.

* Favourites from Shea Ferron.

* Haunting melodies from Selana Kong.

* Crooner John Williams.

* Musicians Clayton and Jayne.

Extra rangers to help visitors to Horseshoe Falls this summer

* Extra countryside rangers will be in place at Llangollen's Horseshoe Falls.

Denbighshire County Council and the Clwydian Range and Dee valley National Landscapes are reminding visitors to park responsibly while visiting countryside attractions this summer.

Visitors looking to enjoy countryside hotspots around the Dee Valley and Clwydian Ranges are urged to plan ahead before travelling into the areas.

A number of preparations have already been made for an increase in traffic into the area as the summer holidays get underway.

Extra countryside rangers will be in place at areas including Llangollen’s Horseshoe Falls, Moel Famau and Loggerheads Country Park to provide support and information for visitors.

Civil enforcement officers will also be monitoring sites, especially at predicated peak busy time.

Visitors coming into the Llangollen area on a Saturday can now use the Dee Valley Picturesque Bus which provides a circular route running every Saturday until August 30, linking Llangollen and the surrounding villages to Horseshoe Falls and popular local attractions including Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wenffrwd Nature Reserve, Valle Crucis Abbey, Plas Newydd Historic House and the Horseshoe Pass.

The service will enable visitors and residents to visit and explore these locations without the need of having to constantly find car parking spaces at the sites.

Stops include Llangollen Pavilion where there is ample parking to leave vehicles for the day.

A series of measures have also been introduced at Moel Famau to relieve congestion in the area including double yellow lines, additional parking spaces and road side parking provision to improve visitor flow.

Visitors are also urged to respect the countryside and be sensible by parking responsibly, not littering and only riding bikes on permitted routes.

If the weather is fine over the period, people ae urged not to have BBQ’s, camping stoves or campfires on moorland areas because of the significant risk of fire. Bring a picnic rather than a BBQ and take all litter home with you.

Councillor Alan James, Denbighshire Cabinet Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, said: “We want people to enjoy the great outdoor attractions we have to offer but also remind them that parking restrictions are important for both road safety and ensuring there is a fair turnover of parking spaces. Anyone not complying with parking restrictions risk receiving a Penalty Charge Notice from civil enforcement officers.

“Our rangers are working every weekend to provide advice and guidance to visitors coming to the site and I would ask that the public also respect the role they are there to carry out.

“Please plan your day in advance, try to use facilities such as the Dee Valley bus to travel on which will save parking spaces and make sure you have other options planned for visiting and parking if you cannot stop at your first choice of venue as our fantastic area has plenty of attractions to visit."

Ysgol Dinas Bran celebrates its latest eco award success

* Staff and students at Ysgol Dinas Bran with their latest Platinum Eco Award.

Ysgol Dinas Bran has announced its successful application for the Platinum Eco Award.

This is the highest level award given to schools for their environmental work and only a few secondary schools in North Wales have it.

In a post of its Facebook page the school says: "We have to submit an action plan and a case study each year involving a new initiative to regain the award, so after six successful awards this does get more challenging, which makes the award again this year all the more pleasing.

"Catrin the awarding officer stated: 'It was very interesting to read about the partnership project to raise awareness about the Llangollen Whitebeam, as well as to plant more of the trees locally. I was also pleased to see from your evaluated action plan how a range of other targets have been successful this year.

"'I am delighted to confirm that you have retained your Platinum Eco-Schools status and wish you every success with this year’s projects. Maintaining the Eco-Schools Platinum status is a fantastic achievement. The school, staff and pupils, should feel proud of their hard work and commitment.'"

Police witness appeal after serious collision in Glyndyrdwy

North Wales Police have made an appeal for witnesses following a serious collision on the A5 at Glyndyrdwy earlier today (Thursday) in which a motorcyclist sustained serious injuries. 

In a statement they say: "A motorcyclist has sustained serious injuries following a road traffic collision on the A5 in Glyndyfrdwy between Corwen and Llangollen.

" At 11:52 on Thursday, 18 July 2024, we were informed of a two-vehicle collision involving a silver Toyota Granvia and a red BMW RT motorcycle. 

" The rider, a 78 year-old-man, was taken via air ambulance to the Royal University Stoke Hospital where he remains under treatment.

" The road is closed for initial collision investigation and we will further update when the road is re-opened."

Sergeant Alun Jones of the Roads Crime Unit is appealing for witnesses. 

He said:  “We are urging anybody who may have witnessed the collision, or anybody who may have been travelling near this location and who may have dash cam footage, to contact us."

"Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at the Roads Crime Unit, either via the website or by calling 101, quoting reference number Q104866."

Railway line blocked after person struck by train, says report

UPDATE: IT IS UNDERSTOOD THE INCIDENT IS OVER AND NORMAL SERVICES HAVE BEEN RESUMED

North Wales Live is reporting this morning (Thursday) that a railway line is blocked after a person was struck by a train. Police have shut Station Road in Preesgweene, near Weston Rhyn, on the border with Wrexham, following the incident.

* For the full story, see: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-updates-railway-line-blocked-29564055?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR39o5640CMOGCdj7VAaOfdD9hjDx9J-Fgr0qGN61U0qsY2TJxyqfBcsnl8_aem_thvDlKiQ9qYuP1sUovEvLg 

County council's latest roadworks alerts

Latest roadworks alerts from Denbighshire County Council are:

A539

O/S NUMBER 23

MILL STREET

18/07/2024

19/07/2024

Gwaith Dwr / Water Works HAFREN DYFRDWY

A539

OPPOSITE OERNANT UCHAF, HORSESHOE PASS

HORSESHOE PASS

25/07/2024

25/07/2024

Gwaith BT/ BT Works GT WILLIAMS

A542

BACHE MILL ROAD....SIDE OF WHITEGATE

BACHE MILL ROAD

17/07/2024

19/07/2024

Adnewyddu Polyn / Renew Pole GT WILLIAMS

A539

A542 - Upper Crust Cafe to Brittannia Inn

HORSESHOE PASS

15/07/2024

19/07/2024

Lladd Gwair/ Grass Cutting LEVERETT CONTRACTING 

Update on plan for National Park in this area

 

* From left, Gareth Ludkin (Campaign for National Parks), Caroline Conway (CPRW), John Roberts (Friends of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley) in Carrog in the current National Landscape on the River Dee.

A joint statement, led by Campaign for National Parks and signed by 18 organisations including the Alliance for Welsh Designated Landscapes, RSPB Cymru, WWF and National Trust, has been released ahead of an expected public consultation on plans for a new National Park in North East Wales this autumn.

The statement calls on Welsh Government to set high ambitions for the proposed area with a supporting framework that will enable a new National Park, the first to be designated in Wales in over 60 years, to be an exemplar in the UK.

In meeting the multiple challenges facing Wales, including the nature and climate emergencies and increasing pressure on rural communities, the statement recommends a series of actions which will enable a new National Park to fulfil its purposes and thrive. These include:

1. An emphasis on species recovery, climate change and a boundary which considers the full diversity of habitats and species present in the area. There should be targeted support for farmers and land managers in the area and an emphasis on nature recovery. 

2. A commitment to new and ongoing funding at a level which will enable the new National Park to achieve its full potential whilst ensuring that there are no detrimental impacts on the existing National Parks in Wales. 

3. Maintaining economic and social resilience for local communities. The new National Park will be an area where people live and work. The small towns, villages and communities within it must be supported to retain resilience, Welsh heritage and sustainability. 

4. Modernised governance arrangements which ensure that those involved in making decisions about the new National Park have the necessary skills and are representative of both local communities and the wider population of Wales.  

Gareth Ludkin, Senior Policy Officer at Campaign for National Parks said: “We welcome proposals for a new National Park in North East Wales and believe this is a once in a generation opportunity for Wales to create a truly exemplar National Park that leads the way for the rest of the UK.

We want to see a new National Park which can tackle the dual climate and nature crises of today whilst also taking hold of the opportunity to build resilient communities, manage visitor pressures and innovate for the future health and wellbeing of Wales and the UK.”

Caroline Conway from the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to model the way we would like to see all designated landscapes managed, and can act as a bridgehead to further expansion of existing national parks and national landscapes.”

Friends of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Chair, Martyn Holland, commented: “Friends are keen to see the opportunity taken to enhance and protect the special landscape in our area, with biodiversity and nature recovery to the fore. We welcome the emphasis that this must be done whilst maintaining the resilience and sustainability of local communities.”

Natural Resources Wales, the organisation leading work on the new National Park, has just released an Engagement Period Report which highlights a number of key opportunities as well as concerns which were raised during a period of public engagement in November 2023.

With attention now turning to the consultation in the autumn, the signatories are keen to ensure their joint statement is used to strengthen the proposals and create a truly transformative National Park.  

Work to take place in Lower Dee Mill Park this weekend

* Lower Dee Mill Park where work has been going on. 

Some noise and disruption will result this weekend from the latest move to get part of the Four Great Highways scheme finished, according to the project team.

The scheme aims to enhance the landscape and improve accessibility, interpretation and signage in Llangollen.

The project is part of investment by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund that was secured through a joint application between Denbighshire County Council and Wrexham County Borough Council for the Clwyd South Constituency. 

The application was supported by former MP for the area Simon Baynes and £3.8 million was allocated to Denbighshire to invest in the communities of Llangollen, Llantysilio, Corwen and surrounding areas.

In their latest update, issued this afternoon (Wednesday), the project team says: "The project has experienced a delay due to unexpected ground conditions in the area.  

"The delivery of the steel from R&R has unfortunately also been delayed due to issues at the supplier’s end, which have been out of the Contractor’s control.

"In order to mitigate some of the time lost, the steel supplier has requested to work in Lower Dee Mill Park this weekend (Saturday & Sunday).  

"This will involve loading the steel from Mill Street car park, moving it to the park and lifting it into position.  There will be some noise and disruption, but this will be kept to a minimum.

"A letter drop informing residents and businesses within the vicinity will be completed either later today or tomorrow by OBR and the OBR Works Manager will be on site both days to supervise the work should anyone have any queries or concerns."

Police renew appeal for missing man Anthony

* A picture issued by police of the missing Anthony.

North Wales Police have renewed their appeal for information to help find a man named Anthony who has been missing in the Chirk and Acrefair are since earlier this month.

In a statement they say: "We have grave concerns for the 62-year-old, who was reported missing on Wednesday, July 3rd.

"Searches were carried out by the Underwater Search Team along the Chirk Aqueduct on Monday, July 8th and Wednesday, July 10th after his belongings were discovered near to the canal on July 7th.

"Further searches by specialist officers have continued since in areas between Chirk and Acrefair to help locate Anthony.

"The last confirmed eyewitness sighting of him was in Acrefair cemetery between 6.30pm and 7pm on Monday, July 1st.

"Anthony is described to be around 5ft10, of a large build, has short grey hair with a moustache."

Yesterday, Inspector Matt Subacchi said: “Anthony has now been missing for 15 days and we have serious concerns for his welfare.

“Anyone who thinks they might have seen him after 7pm on Monday, July 1st, is urged to get in touch with us.

“I am also appealing to all residents who live in between Chirk and Acrefair to check their gardens, sheds, outbuildings and any allotments, where Anthony may have sought shelter.

“Those on narrow boats along the Shropshire Union Canal are also being asked to keep an eye out for sightings of him.

“Anyone with information can contact us via the website, or by calling 101, quoting itrace reference 47761.”

Eisteddfod's official photographer snaps up top industry award

* The image of Morcheeba performing at Devafest landed Stephen Cain a top industry award.

The official photographer for this year’s Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has snapped up a prestigious industry award.

Stephen Cain, who specialises in photographing arts events including theatre, live music and dance, captured hundreds of images vividly depicting how visitors, competitors and performers enjoyed the 2024 festival.

And the Wrexham-based lensman is now celebrating after his stunning photograph of Electronica legends Morcheeba performing at the Chester-based music festival Devafest last year landed a top honour in the 2024 Event Photography Awards.

Stephen, who works across Chester, Wrexham and North Wales, won the award for the best photograph in the Music Events - Performance Category after beating off stiff competition from nearly 800 entries.

* Photographer Stephen Cain with his award.

The Event Photography Awards are open to professional and amateur photographers, with awards in 16 core categories, including music events, concerts and performers, behind the scenes, food and drink, corporate events and conferences, cultural events, weddings and A-listers.

Stephen said: "I have a great passion for photographing the performing arts and creating images that have impact and personality.

"It’s a good feeling to have your work appreciated and this will encourage me to continue this wonderful journey and further develop my photography."

Since developing his passion for photography and becoming an events photographer 15 years ago, Stephen has gone on to become much sought after across a wide area.

Apart from the Eisteddfod in Llangollen he has captured performances for several local theatre companies, including Against The Grain, Chester Little Theatre, Grove Park Theatre and Tip Top Productions, as well as live music events, concerts, operas, dance and other events.

In addition to photographing live events, Stephen provides industry- standard headshots for actors, performers and business professionals at his studio in Wrexham, which he set up five years ago.

Eisteddfod trustee board member Dave Hennigan said: “Steven Cain is an outstanding photographer and this acclaim is long overdue. 

“His attention to detail is second to none as his ability to capture unique and glorious occasions. 

“This is precisely why this year Stephen was appointed official photographer at our biggest Llangollen Eisteddfod for generations. 

“Over the next few months, we will be releasing his work from this year's festival featuring over 3,000 competitors from 30 different countries as well as top artists like Simple Minds, Madness, Calan, Johns’ Boys Chorus and many others,

• More details of Stephen's work can be found on his website at: www.stephencainphotography.co.uk

So it's a sad farewell to Suzuki's mighty midget

Suzuki Ignis drive by Steve Rogers

Imagine England taking the field for the Euros final with just seven players,

It didn’t work out with 11 on the pitch but would have been a nightmare with four of the best players watching from the sidelines.

So spare a thought for Suzuki which has been forced to drop four models from its line-up. The problem is the UK’s strict zero emission rule which forces manufacturers to ramp up EV sales between now and 2030 when they must hit 80 per cent. In the meantime there is a £15k hit for every ICE car outside the limit.

Suzuki has not enough hybrid models to meet the target so Ignis, Swift Sport, Swace and Jimny are being phased out, possibly by the end of the year if the stocks are gone.

UK director Dale Wyatt told me the move will make room for EV growth from the end of next year. For now the sales focus is on new Swift and the three SUV models, Vitara, S Cross and Across.

Axing the funky Ignis is a big blow. It has been a favourite since arriving here in 2017 winning loads of awards and could easily have survived another decade or more. It is the standout model of the Suzuki range with character and charm, as well as being remarkably roomy for a car with tiny dimensions. Definitely a mighty midget.

My friend who is just shy of six feet could not believe the amount of legroom in the back seat for a car that looks so small. There is a bit of flexibility here because the back seat is on runners so take your pick of max legroom or more space in the boot. As a small SUV Ignis gets that little bit of extra height so headroom is generous as well.

The eye-catching body styling is mirrored in the cabin. The biggest moan will be the swathes of hard black plastic, which marks too easily, but Suzuki has cleverly introduced visual features to pep up the overall look the best of which is the full width ivory indent along the dashboard.

Against the opposition, which numbers the likes of Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i10 and Volkswagen UP, the little Suzuki fares well, even stealing a march on its rivals with a four wheel drive model. The Allgrip system is highly efficient but it pushes the price up to £20 grand, quite a lot for a small car, so unless you live on a snow-capped mountain I would opt for the cheaper front wheel drive. It also eats into boot space losing 56 litres to the two wheel drive.

Ignis has upgraded the hybrid system with a 12V electric motor giving a small increase in acceleration, lower engine emissions and smoother stop/start system. It can’t match the 60 plus economy of some hybrid rivals yet it made a good fist of it. My average over 450 miles in the Allgrip model was 59.6mpg, way ahead of the official figure.

Drop a 1.2 litre into a car weighing just 895kg and you could reasonably expect sprightly performance but Ignis is a bit underwhelming. It needs to be worked in the gears especially on hills where it quickly runs out of puff.

On the road is a mixed bag. The short wheelbase, narrow track and 16in wheels means it can be unsettled on poorer surfaces and there is a good bit of road noise, yet it is still fun to drive.

Equipment across the range is good with keyless entry, rear camera, smartphone links, and LED headlights on the list (unusual at entry level). Some of the safety features, like lane departure and collision alert are warings rather than interventions.

Push the boat out for the range topping SZ5 and you get navigation, cruise control and automatic air conditioning. 

I have been recommending Ignis since my first drive in 2017 and will be sorry to see it go. Of course there will be used Ignis on the forecourts but if you want a new one best to get the order in soon.

Fast facts

Ignis SZ5 Allgrip

£19,949 (starts £17,949)

1.2 litre petrol; 83bhp

0-62mph 12.8secs; 103mph

52.4mpg combined

121g/km. 1st VED £210

Insurance group 15

Boot: 204-1086 litres