Fundraising ceilidh will help meet church repair costs

* One of Llangollen's most famous riverside landmarks, the Methodist Church, is in desperate need of help.

What's claimed to be Llangollen's first pop-up zero alcohol bar is set to open for business later this month.

It will take pride of place at the Town Hall where Llangollen Methodist Church is hosting a ceilidh evening to help pay for an urgent repair programme to its historic riverside building, on which 122 years of rain, frost and ice have taken a heavy toll.

A church spokesperson said: "It’s one of Llangollen’s best-known landmarks but right now, this much-loved building desperately needs our help.

"Water is getting through cracks in the stonework, damaging the walls, plaster and woodwork inside. Essential repairs to the parapets, spire, guttering, eaves and fascias are urgently needed and because of the height of the building, the church will need to be surrounded by scaffolding just to carry out the work safely.

"We need to raise around £20,000 and we need our community behind us."

The ceilidh at the Town Hall is planned for the evening of Friday September 18 and, according to the spokesperson, the zero alcohol bar will be a first for Llangollen.

"We’re planning a great selection of zero-alcohol beers, lagers and ales, 0% spirits and mixers, sparkling 'Nosecco', soft drinks and more, with favourites such as Guinness 0.0 hopefully making an appearance.

"Whether you’re alcohol-free, driving, doing a challenge, cutting down, or simply fancy trying something different, come and see what the zero-alcohol buzz is all about.

"We’ve got the fantastic Five Speed Box providing the music, so bring your friends, bring the family and get ready for a great night of dancing, laughter and community spirit. Refreshments and snacks will also be available to purchase.

"Every penny we raise will help save our church building. We genuinely need the support of Llangollen and the surrounding community to make these essential repairs possible. This beautiful building has been part of our town for more than 120 years, and we want to make sure it remains here, safe and welcoming, for generations to come."

On the night, doors open at 6.30pm and dancing takes place between 7pm and 10pm and all ages are welcome.

* Tickets - cash only - are £10 for adults and £5 for school-age children. They are available from Porters Delicatessen in Market Street, or on the door, card or cash.