Anything Goes has a great maiden voyage

 

First night review

 

It was full steam ahead for fun as the good ship SS American, crewed by a talented Llangollen Operatic Society cast, headed out into the Atlantic on its maiden voyage earlier tonight (Tuesday).

The society has a five-night run until Saturday at the Town Hall with the classic Cole Porter musical Anything Goes, which is set aboard the ocean liner as it journeys from New York to London sometime in the Jazz Age.

And the opening performance was a real Blue Riband affair as the 24-strong cast powered their way through a marvellous collection of songs, some ship-shape acting and enough tots of humour to make a sailor groggy.    

The story involves madcap antics aboard SS American as she heads across the pond.

Billy Crocker is a stowaway in love with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to Sir Evelyn Oakleigh.

Nightclub singer Reno Sweeney and Public Enemy #13 Moonface Martin aid Billy in his quest to get the girl.

Along the way there are some delicious renditions of memorable numbers such as Anything Goes, You’re the Top and I Get a Kick Out of You.

Certainly getting a kick out of her role as Reno Sweeney is Llangollen stalwart Louisa Jones who vamps it up in fine style at Reno, a racy gal but with a heart of gold and a voice like a touch of velvet.

A true song and danceman who can also handle a range of spoof accents as he assumes different guises to avoid a spell in the brig is called for when it comes the role of Billy.

And that’s just what it gets in the shape of relative Llangollen newcomer Paul Bailey.

His love interest, Hope Harcourt, is nicely played by another member of the society’s growing band of new singings, Danielle Chamberlain. She can act and she surely can sing.

Bill Hughes, one of Llangollen’s regulars, who can seemingly turn his hand to any leading role, superbly fills the upper class shoes of Sir Evelyn Oakleigh.

A neat comedy touch is applied by Richard Mascarenhas as the gangster Moonface Martin, who ain’t nearly so bad as his reputed position as America’s public enemy number 13 suggests.

Bonnie, Moonface’s moll, is played believably by Stephanie Cottam and Mrs Harcourt, Hope’s battleaxe of a mum, is well handled by Jeanette Robinson.

More laughs come from the direction of Llangollen faithfuls Tony Jones and Jan Bellis as a couple of comedy Chinese men.

The songs – solos, duets and three-handers – are all expertly performed and the chorus numbers are toe-tappingly powerful.

The whole show is a credit to director Chrissie Ashworth and the entire behind-the-scenes team deserve applause every bit as warm as the ones directed at the cast as the curtain falls.

The only pity is that the first night audience was so small.

If you fancy a real treat try a voyage aboard the SS American any time over the next four nights at 7.30pm.

Anything Goes opens tonight

Llangollen Operatic Society's production of  Cole Porter's Anything Goes takes to the stage tonight (Tuesday) for a five-night run at the Town Hall.

Set on board an ocean liner bound for England in the 1930s, this lively, witty musical tells the story of stowaway Billy Crocker who, aided by a glamorous evangelist turned nightclub singer and a New York gangster, sets out on a mission to get his girl before she marries an ageing English gentleman.

This show has everything from comedy to romance, poignant solos and rousing chorus numbers guaranteed to have your toes tapping.

Porter’s jazzy score is a triumph and recognisable songs include I Get a Kick Out of You, Blow Gabriel Blow and the title number Anything Goes.   

Tickets are priced £9 and £7.50 (concessions) and are on sale now from Llangollen Tourist Information Centre, Jades Hair & Beauty or for telephone bookings call Stella Bond on 01978 860441. 

KLS chair hits out at planners

Local planning authorities “run scared of corporates and their highly paid professional advisors” and fail to protect independent local businesses as they did when granting planning consent for an out-of-town Sainsbury's supermarket, to the detriment of Llangollen town centre.  

That is the view of Mike Edwards, chair of Keep Llangollen Special (KLS). 

He was reacting to a new report that says the Welsh planning system should be focused on economic development and not climate change or affordable housing.

The report, from newly launched think tank Gorwel, claims that discussions about planning have too often centred on issues that Wales cannot address on its own and much more should be done to drive the economy forward.

Evidence of the failure of the planning system to help local businesses can been seen, authors Steve Belzak and Russell Deacon claim, in the “increasing homogenisation of town centres” and the development of “out-of-town retail centres dominated by large, often multinational corporations”.

Mr Edwards said: “In their panic to avoid a costly planning enquiry local planning authorities ignore Planning Policy Wales and fall down in front of speculative property developers and corporate supermarkets. 

“Building out of town increases traffic journeys and is not environmentally friendly. Wales needs to give priority to town centres and independent Welsh businesses and support the employment and income generation from shops and local suppliers.  

“This keeps money recirculating in local economies to the community's benefit, whereas supermarkets export money out of local economies to corporate HQs mainly in the South of England. 

“Elected representatives need to stand up for local businesses and the employment they provide and not encourage corporate businesses and the low-paid part time work they offer whilst exploiting local communities and suppliers.”

Explosions at Boston Marathon

The BBC and other media are reporting that two explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon race have left an unknown number of people injured.

For the full BBC version of the story see http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-22160691

Power cut homes urged to seek compensation

Susan Elan Jones, MP for Clwyd South, is urging any of her constituents left without power for 24 hours or more during the recent severe weather who has not yet received a compensation payment to contact their energy supplier as soon as possible.
 
As soon as the bad weather spell began, Ms Jones was in contact with ScottishPower, the main energy supplier in the Dee Valley, which was one of the worst affected areas in the UK with 10 foot high snow drifts and 6,000 customers left without power. 
 
Ms Jones has now received a comprehensive response from ScottishPower.

In it, the company advises customers who were without power for 24 hours or more and have not yet been contacted by staff to put in a claim. ScottishPower customers can do this by calling 0330 1010 158 or visiting www.spenergynetworks.com
 
"I pay huge tribute to power company engineers, local authority staff and so many other people who battled really treacherous weather conditions in the cause of their public duty last month," said Ms Jones
 
"However, I would also like to remind local residents not to forget to make a claim from the power companies if they are entitled to one. Any of my constituents who is entitled to a compensation payment should either contact their power company direct, or get in touch with my office via my website susanelanjones.co.uk, by phone on 01978 824288 or by letter to me at The Enterprise Centre, Well Street, Cefn Mawr, LL14 3AL.”

Supermarkets to cut petrol prices

The ITV news website is reporting that four supermarkets are to cut the price of petrol from tomorrow.

See the full story at http://www.itv.com/news/update/2013-04-15/four-supermarkets-reduce-petrol-prices-from-tomorrow/

Anti-dog fouling firm wins warm praise

Shop the dog foulers by ringing 0800 2300234


A company employed by Denbighshire County Council to help address issues around dog fouling and littering has been praised by residents for creating visibly cleaner streets in the county.

Kingdom Security Services, the company contracted to carry out environmental enforcement for the council, has teams of enforcement staff working across the county who have joined forces with the authority to rid our streets of dog mess and litter.

Teams are kitted out with video cameras to patrol hot spot areas on the lookout for anyone who fails to clean up after their dog or throws litter on the street.

A resident of Maes Afallen, Corwen recently reported dog fouling in a children's play area.

They said: "I complained to the council about a woman who was regularly allowing her dog to foul in the children's play ground near to my home and not picking it up and also about the dog owners allowing their dogs to foul on Railway Walk near Maes Afallen.

"The response I received was without doubt everything I could have asked for. Enforcement officers came here immediately and now the problem has been sorted out. I have been given dog bags, signs and have been promised a bin for the play area.  I understand that the litter has also been cleared from the Railway Walk.

"I am over the moon with Denbighshire's response I can't fault them. Some commitment is clearly being shown dealing with the problem of irresponsible dog owners."

A Rhyl business owner said of their experience:  "As a local business owner in Rhyl town I am heartened to see the introduction of high profile enforcement officers regularly patrolling the town centre.

"I have watched the officers carefully since they started and have questioned them about their role, they were very open and told me what they did and the reasons why Denbighshire had engaged them.

"In the short time they have patrolled Rhyl I can see that there has been a huge improvement, the streets are much cleaner and more pleasant to walk in. I fully support the enforcement of littering and especially dog fouling. It is about time the couldn't care less culture changed and I believe that the reputation of Rhyl will change for the better. I can say I actually feel safer being in Rhyl.

"The council provide plenty of bins in the town so there is no excuse for anyone littering especially throwing the cigarette ends on the floor. We should report people we see allowing their dogs to foul and accept that we can help clean up our environment. Anyone who gets caught and fined has only themselves to blame. I support the council's actions."

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, said: "We are delighted to receive such positive feedback for our efforts to clean up the streets of Denbighshire. The company is an integral part of this success.

“Dog fouling and littering are two of the most common complaints we receive here in Denbighshire. It was highlighted in our latest resident’s survey as one of the most pressing issues in communities.

“Not only is dog fouling a health hazard, it blights the environment in communities across the authority and now is the time to tackle the issue robustly.

“We will be looking to engage with communities, educate people on the need to clear up after their dogs and make it much easier for people to report through a freephone number and social media as well as the more traditional methods of making a complaint.”

To report problems with dog fouling please call freephone 0800 2300234.

Police launch speeding crack-down

A crackdown on speeding motorists is set to take place throughout north Wales this week.

 

North Wales Police will be taking part in a European-wide initiative to crack down on speeding motorists from Monday, April 15^th to Sunday April 21^st.

 

 

The TISPOL (European Traffic Police Network) campaign will see police forces across Europe tackling speeding by conducting random speed checks.

 

North Wales Police Roads Policing Officers along with Go Safe will be combining their efforts to deter and detect motorists who choose to ignore the speed limits. Drivers who are caught speeding will be issued with anything from a Fixed Penalty Ticket to a summons to attend court.

 

Acting Sergeant Mark Jones from North Wales Police’ Roads Policing Unit said: “We want to work with drivers and that is why we are giving advance notice of this week-long operation.

 

“Speeding is an issue that concerns many residents and one that we take extremely seriously.

 

“Those who choose to ignore the speed limits can expect to be prosecuted for their actions.”

 

The campaign starts shortly after North Wales Police released figures under the Freedom of Information Act highlighting some of the highest recorded speeds on roads throughout the region – which included 125mph recorded on the A5 near Corwen.

 

A/Sgt Jones added: “We are committed to making our roads a safer place for all who use them and we will continue to crack down on those irresponsible drivers who choose to ignore speed limits and drive irresponsibly, not only risking their own lives but the lives of others.”

 

North Wales Police has a robust strategy around enforcing the ‘Fatal 5’ offences which are speeding, drink and drug driving, dangerous driving including unnecessary risk taking, failing to wear a seat belt and using a mobile phone whilst driving.

 

Further information regarding TISPOL can be accessed via their website

.

New Llan community book previews at museum

* Guests at the book preview in Llangollen Museum where the exhibition

continues until May 3. 

Around 30 local people - many of them featuring in it - were at the town's museum on Friday evening for the preview of a new book recording images of everyday life in Llangollen.

The book, entitled Llangollen Community, includes stunningly atmospheric pictures of about 100 groups and organisations based in the area.

The glossy 144-page work is the brainchild of local man Simon Collinge who has directed the project while Llangollen-based cameraman Andrew Gale has taken the pictures. 

They have been working steadily away since late last year and the pictures have all been taken in the muted style of Old Masters painters such as Rembrandt and Frans Hals.  

Simon said: “We have produced the book as we felt it was about time that a documented pictorial history of these groups was recorded for posterity – it also seemed rather a fun idea.” 

He and Andrew thought originally that there would be about 50 groups from the area needing to be photographed but the final tally was over 100 groups, societies and organisations.  

These included outfits as diverse as Llangollen Silver Band and the Christmas Festival Committee. 

Simon added: “The book is now back from the printers - all on schedule for revised launch date of  Thursday, April 25 at Llangollen Town Hall, starting at 7.30pm. 

“We’ve invited Courtyard Books, Llangollen Library and the museum to bring along copies of their local Llangollen history books to make this a literary evening to remember.”

Selected images from the book are on exhibition at Llangollen Museum until May 3.

For more information on the book, see http://llangollencommunity.co.uk

Town's Cittaslow bid on track

* Tessa Holland talks to Gill Thomas at the Country Market in Llangollen Town Hall. 

PhD student Tessa Holland from Newcastle University came to town on Friday to meet some of the Cittaslow bid team and look around the town.  

Tessa's research is focusing on how the various Cittaslow towns in the UK network with each other, learn from each other and from the global Cittaslow movement. 

She's only just started her research and is visiting existing Cittaslow towns, to get a sense of what they are doing.  

She is interested in Llangollen as a town that is just starting out on the Cittaslow process.  

Bid group leader Phil Thane showed Tessa around town and introduced her to several team members.

Llangollen's Cittaslow group is on track to complete the application process by June.

County council's guidance on benefits shake-up

The Welfare and Tax Credits system is currently going through its biggest shake-up for 60 years with many planned changes to working age benefits by the UK Government and Denbighshire County Council is making people aware of the changes and support helplines available.

Many have already happened but some of the biggest changes are due to come into force after April 2013.

Some of the important changes are listed below:

■ Most benefits and tax credits started to be increased yearly at a lower rate from April 2011 using the consumer price index. From April 2013 Local Housing Allowances (LHA) will be increased yearly in the same way.

■ People on Incapacity Benefit are being moved over to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). ESA decisions are based mainly on face to face assessments, many of which are resulting in people being refused ESA.

■ Personal Independence Payments (PIP) will replace Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for new claims from June 2013 which will involve a face to face assessment. People already on DLA will be asked to claim PIP between October 2013 and Spring 2016, earlier if you report a change in your circumstances.

■ Bedroom Tax: From April 2013 people under 61 who rent from the Council or a Housing Association will have their rent limited to the number of bedrooms considered to be suited to them. If you have one bedroom too many, your Housing Benefit will only be calculated on 86% of your rent, 2 or more too many then your benefit will be calculated on only 75% of your rent.

■ The DWPʼs Social Fund: made up of Community Care grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans will end during April 2013. A new grant scheme across Wales will be delivered by the Family Fund, based in Wrexham. This
scheme is likely to have less money.

■ The Benefits Cap: will limit benefits to the median income from April 2013. It is likely to affect out of work families who have a combination of several children and high rents.

■ Universal Credit: may be replacing the six main means tested benefits for new claims from October 2013. You will receive one monthly payment in arrears into your bank account. With this money you will have to budget to pay all your housing and living costs. For all existing working age benefit claims there will be a gradual transfer to the new schemes over a
number of years.

Information and advice on all of these changes can be obtained at:

■ DCC Welfare Rights Team
Free phone advice line: 0800 169 6625
(10am to 4pm)

■ Denbighshire Citizens Advice Bureau
Phone 01745 334568 or 814336

Labour team hit out over welfare changes

Local Labour duo Ken Skates and Susan Elan Jones have hit out at the UK Government after new figures revealed that welfare changes will cost working age people in Denbighshire £589 a year.

 

The research produced for the Financial Times also highlights that welfare cuts will cost the Denbighshire economy £34m a year.

 

The pair said the figures were shocking and highlighted the devastating impact benefit reform would have on communities in North East Wales over the next few years.

 

Clwyd South MP Ms Jones said: “These punitive welfare cuts will only serve to increase the inequality gap in our communities and will have a devastating effect on businesses and local jobs. 

 

“The Government is hurting the communities I represent in Clwyd South where one in 20 economically active people is now unemployed. My constituents are paying the price for the Tories incompetent handling of the economy over the last few years.

 

“These changes will take £34m out of the Denbighshire economy each year, sucking out much needed demand for local businesses at a time when they need it most. 

 

“It’s economic illiteracy from the government because the cuts mean less money in the local economy, only pushing the recovery further away.  Just as with the VAT rise, it will be another blow for small and medium sized businesses in our area.”

 

Clwyd South AM Ken Skates said: “The changes will cost the average working age adult in Denbighshire £589 and will have a catastrophic impact on families already struggling to make ends meet.”

 

“These figures are a sobering reminder of the how uncaring and unaware the UK Government are about the devastation welfare reform will have on our already vulnerable communities.

 

“The figures show that the changes are hitting everyone in Denbighshire, working families, those on unemployment benefits, the disabled, and children.  The only people not getting battered by this Tory Lib Dem coalition government are the millionaires who are just seeing their top rate tax cut kick in.

“This isn’t my idea of fairness.”

  

According to the research, the financial loss per working age adult, by local authority:

 

 

• Bleanau Gwent £698
• Bridgend £599
• Caerphilly £644
• Cardiff £477
• Carmarthenshire £579
• Ceredigion £432
• Conwy £558
• Denbighshire £589
• Flintshire £458
• Gwynedd £438
• Isle of Anglesey £511
• Merthyr Tydfil £722
• Monmouthshire £393
• Neath Port Talbot £696
• Newport £560
• Pembrokeshire £539
• Powys £433
• Rhondda Cynon Taf £668
• Swansea £559
• Torfaen £589
• Vale of Glamorgan £473
• Wrexham £511

Health board's £1.5M mental health investment

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is investing nearly £1.5million over five years in Counselling services for people with common mental health problems.

 

The service, known as ‘Parabl’, which means ‘to talk or discuss’ in Welsh, became operational on 2^nd April, 2013.

 

The service is being managed by CAIS on behalf of a consortium of North Wales charities. Partners include Advance Brighter Futures, Flintshire Mind, Aberconwy Mind, CAIS, Tan y Maen, Ynys Mon and Gwynedd Mind, Vale of Clwyd Mind and Relate.

 

Referral to the service can be through a health professional, such as a GP, or individuals may refer themselves by telephone. Once a referral is received a telephone assessment is carried out to establish the most appropriate support for that individual. Support ranges from self-help resources, one-to-one counselling, through to group sessions, available in Community settings such as GP practices, leisure centres and community centres throughout North Wales.  

 

Wyn Thomas, Assistant Director, Community Partnership Development for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board,  said “We are pleased to be working with partners to offer such a comprehensive service for people throughout North Wales.  The Parabl Talking Therapies is a service to meet the needs of adults over the age of 18, who are resident in North Wales. The service is aimed at people with common mental health problems, including bereavement and relationship difficulties.”

 

“As well as providing self-help resources, including an interactive self-help programme called the Serenity Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy programme, group sessions are available over 7-8 weeks to cover such subjects as Coping with Life, Stress Management and Mindfulness.  Up to 6 weekly sessions of individual counselling sessions are also available for individuals who want to discuss any challenging life events which are impacting on their mental well being.”

 

Self-referrals can be made by telephoning 0300 777 2257.

Support Buy Local day today

Don't forget that today (Friday, April 12) is Llangollen's latest Buy Local Day ...

 

Support your local shops.

Loco restoration is a family affair

 

 

 

* The Hymas family group with No.72 at Llangollen.

 

* The engine on arrival at Carrog later.

 

Three generations of an Essex family came together to celebrate the successful completion of a steam locomotive restoration project at Llangollen Railway.

 

James Hymas, 42, was joined by his partner Bobby and their eight-week-old baby son, Tristram, and father Dick to see their other pride and joy, No.72, a six wheel saddle tank steam engine, back in operation after a nine-year personal project to restore it from scrapyard condition.

 

After No.72 successfully took the 1pm train from Llangollen down the Dee Valley line to Carrog and back an ecstatic James said: "That was terrific! For the engine to be able work its first ever passenger train in its entire career was worth all the time and effort involved in its restoration."

 

Father, Dick, who now lives in Penrhyndeudraeth, and who originally bought the engine from the scrapman at South Hetton Colliery in Northumberland in 1973, said: " It is fantastic to see the engine back in working condition. When I bought the engine it had been literally run into the ground by the National Coal Board.

 

"Everything possible on it was worn out and its restoration was going to be a big challenge when I took it to the Colne Valley Railway in Essex."

 

That challenge was taken on by his son James in 2004 when he set about rebuilding the mechanical parts, renewing the smokebox and bunker and arranging for a boiler repair.

 

Seeking expert help and advice he brought the kit of parts to Llangollen in 2006. 

 

This move allowed a difficult task to be brought to a successful conclusion earlier this week when the locomotive in a smart black NCB livery as No.72  had a steam test and then ran with a service train.

 

James said: "The engine is the last known example of the wartime Austerity type built at the Vulcan Foundry, Newton-le-Willows in 1945, as part of an order for the British Army and was delivered to the Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire.

 

"However, it was sold on to the National Coal Board for work hauling heavy coal trains in the Northumbrian coal field, a task for which it was well suited."

 

Dave Owen, chief engineer at Llangollen Railway, said: "No.72 is a powerful locomotive and performed well on its two trips down the line. 

 

"It is always satisfying to see a steam locomotive come back into service after a long restoration job and we are pleased to have played a part in ensuring that the ambitions of Dick and James have been finally fulfilled here at Llangollen."

 

George Jones, press officer for Llangollen Railway,  said: "During the trip down the line the steam train attracted the attention of two Army Air Corps helicopters on low level flying exercises.

 

"They came past for a close look and it seems incredible that they unwittingly acknowledged the special occasion for a former British Army locomotive!

 

"Their interest in the occasion was enjoyed by all."

Statement on measles outbreak

Public Health Wales has issued the following statement about the current measles outbreak:

"You may be aware that there is a very large outbreak of measles in Swansea that is spreading across Wales.

The illness spreads very quickly through schools if many of the pupils have not been protected by having two Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine injections.

There have been 38 children admitted to hospital during this outbreak as a result of their measles infection.

We are likely to see cases of measles in North Wales and it is possible that we will have a school outbreak soon, as MMR uptake is not high enough to stop measles circulating.

If your child/teenager has not had MMR vaccine/s or you think they might have missed a vaccination you should contact your GP, health visitor or practice nurse now to get them protected.

Children who are allergic to eggs can receive the vaccine as normal. If your household or close family contains young babies, pregnant women or family members with serious immune conditions who cannot have the MMR vaccine, please make sure that all children and teenagers in the house are fully vaccinated. This will help protect these vulnerable individuals.

Measles is highly infectious and is spread from person to person by coughs and sneezes. Early symptoms include a high temperature, cough, cold and conjunctivitis (painful, red eyes).

A red, blotchy rash appears 3 to 7 days later which usually begins on the face and spreads down over the rest of the body. The person is usually quite ill and often prefers to lie quietly in a darkened room. Serious complications can occur.

Any child who develops symptoms of measles should not attend school for four days after the start of the rash.

If your child is not fully protected please act now to protect them and those around them. You can get more information on measles on the Public Health Wales website: 
http://www.publichealthwales.org/measles

* For further information about measles or MMR please contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47."

Denbighshire backs North Wales prison plan

Councillors in Denbighshire have supported calls by the North Wales Regional Leadership Board to have a prison built in the region.

Representatives of the Board, made up of Leaders from the six North Wales Councils, the Police and Crime Commissioner, the North Wales Police,The North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board  have lobbied the Ministry of Justice for over five years.

Their campaign was backed by Denbighshire members meeting at County Hall, Ruthin today (Tuesday).

Councillor Hugh Evans, Leader of Denbighshire County Council said: "It is great news that North Wales is on the shortlist of regions to be considered for a new prison and councillors in Denbighshire unanimously supported the proposal.

"We are excited about the potential of a prison being built in North Wales. It would involve a substantial investment in the region's economy and could create hundreds of new jobs.  We need the investment and the jobs but we also need to have a prison where the Welsh Language Act applies so that Welsh culture can be recognised in the prison system.

"We believe there is a strong argument for securing a prison in North Wales and the Regional Leadership Board will continue to lobby the Government. It is very early days, but we will continue with dialogue and await a decision on whether our region has been successful."

All systems go for Llan Eisteddfod

* Eisteddfod Musical Director Eilir Owen Griffiths. 

 

It's all systems go for the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

Snow damage caused to the Royal International Pavilion in Llangollen is being repaired this week by Denbighshire County Council.

The weight of heavy snow had caused a rip to a panel of the roof at the building, the home of the popular international festival which attracts thousands of visitors to the town every July.

A spokesperson for the Pavilion said that a temporary panel had been fitted and that the programme of events at the Pavilion had been unaffected with an antiques fair taking place at the weekend and a comedy night scheduled for Saturday, April 20.

Gareth Edwards, Siting Officer for the Eisteddfod, said: “We have had one or two enquiries as a result of the snowfall which caused some minor damage but we have an excellent relationship with Denbighshire County Council who have put a temporary cover on the damaged panel.

“They will be completing the repairs this month and we have been assured that the Pavilion will be ready long before we take it over for a month from June 24.”

This year’s Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod takes play from Tuesday, July 9, to Sunday, July 14, and features six days of high quality concerts and top class music and dance competitions.

Strictly Come Dancing stars James and Ola Jordan are part of a stunning lineup at this year’s Eisteddfod.

They will perform with Cuban maestros Buena Vista Social Club and other top attractions are Jools Holland, harpist Claire Jones, tenor Noah Stewart and percussionist Evelyn Glennie.

In addition there is the VERDI 200 on the Friday night of the Eisteddfod, a 200^th anniversary performance of Verdi’s Requiem with Claire Rutter, Mirouslava Yordanova , Gwyn Hughes Jones, Jonathan Lemalu and accompanied by the Eisteddfod Orchestra conducted by Andrew Greenwood.

And the event will open on the Tuesday with the colourful procession of the competitors to the Royal International Pavilion, led by Eisteddfod President Terry Waite, CBE, the former Archbishop’s Special Envoy and a long-time supporter.

Eilir Owen Griffiths said: “I am delighted to have put together such a strong line-up and one that is truly global in its scope and one that shows that Llangollen still attracts the very best to come and perform here.

“It’s a very exciting programme and is very different and we need to show that we can do that and remain true to the spirit of the International Eisteddfod.

"The Choir of the World competition is internationally recognised and we want to elevate dance to the same level by giving it a place on the stage on the big night.

“We have a truly worldwide line-up which is a real mixture but I feel it is a good fit.

“We have international class performers from around the world and that combined with the colour and atmosphere generated by our competitors and the welcome they receive makes this a unique event.”

This year’s event is from Tuesday, July 9, to Sunday, July 14. For more information go to the website at www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/llangollen

Police and council team up to tackle dog fouling

North Wales Police is lending its support to a major campaign by Denbighshire County Council to tackle dog fouling in the county.

A multi-media campaign has been launched by the council after persistent complaints from residents about problems with dog fouling.

The campaign looks at education people on the dangers of dog fouling, taking enforcement action against those that allow their dogs to foul in public without clearing the mess and getting the community involved in reporting problems to the council.

Now the North Wales Police team in Denbighshire has instructed Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and Community Beat Managers to issue fixed penalty notices if they spot any dog-fouling incidents and to provide information to the council on where there is a problem with dog fouling as part of their day to day duties, .

Councillor David Smith, Denbighshire's Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, said: "We are delighted that North Wales Police is joining forces with the council to rid our streets of dog fouling.

"It is anti-social form of behaviour and will not be tolerated by the Council or the police, or indeed local communities. Residents tell us it is one of the issues of greatest concerns. We are listening to our communities and working with them to address the issue."

Graham Boase, Denbighshire's Head of Planning & Public Protection, said: "We have officers working for the council who patrol areas across Denbighshire and will take action against those who fail to clean up after their dogs.

"The officers have the powers to issue fixed penalty notices and will do so if they witness individuals who carry out these offences. It is however difficult to be in the right place at the right time - that is why we need the public's help.

 "If people have information about those responsible, we need to know. In the past some people have been unwilling to provide the Council with relevant information and we recognise this concern. However, to put a stop to this anti-social behaviour and to take action against the culprits, we need local people to speak up on behalf of their communities and tell us who is responsible or provide any other information that can help us capture those who are responsible."

Local Policing Area Superintendent Wayne Jones said: "North Wales Police are committed to working closely with Denbighshire County Council to tackle crime, anti social behaviour and keep the public safe.

"We recognise the impact that crime and anti-social behaviour can have in our communities and we will do everything in our power to help reduce crime, protect people and work hard to improve the quality of life for all. We will continue to build on our partnership working in order to provide the best quality of service for the people of Denbighshire."

The campaign has launched a dedicated freephone number for residents to report dog fouling culprits and hot spot areas 0800 230 0234.

Operatic is hothouse for young stage talent

* From left, Joanna Stallard, George Nelson, Laura Halliwell and Danielle Short.
  

LLANGOLLEN  Operatic Society has become a real hot-house for nurturing new theatrical talent.

A host of young members, past and present, have either already embarked on stage careers or are planning a future in the performing arts.

A magnificent seven rising young stars are appearing in the society’s latest production, the Cole Porter evergreen Anything Goes, which hits the stage for a five-night run at Llangollen Town Hall on Tuesday, April 16.

They are all studying performing arts at A Level or aiming to take the subject next year.

Laura Halliwell, who joined the society this year, is studying IT at Yale College in Wrexham but is applying to do the BTEC in Performing Arts next year.

Luke Meyers, who also joined the society this year, is studying for the BTEC in Performing Arts at Yale and aiming to go on to take the same subject at university next year.

He was part of the chorus in the debut of new musical entitled Ruby and the 13th Door performed by The Magical Opera Company in York last December.

Luke also performed with the Llangollen 20 Club in its recent production of Fawlty Towers.

 
Appearing alongside Luke in York was another Llangollen newcomer George Nelson who is also studying for the BTEC in Performing Arts at Yale.

George is looking to get some acting work next year before deciding whether to go on to further study.

Elysha Cookson, who was previously part of Llangollen’s junior stage group,  the Young ‘Uns, is currently studying for A Levels including drama at Ysgol Dinas Bran and hoping to go on to study it at Warwick University next year.

Joanna Stallard, who also cut her dramatic teeth in the Young ‘Uns, is taking A Levels including drama at Dinas Bran this year and also considering it as a possibility for university in two years.

Danielle Short is studying A Level Drama at Dinas Bran and hoping to go on to study Theatre at Derby University next year.

Aaron Davies has landed a place at the prestigious Central School of Speech and Drama in London to study Muscial Theatre next year.

He recently appeared in Llangollen 20 Club’s production of The Glass Menagerie.

Among the former society members who have moved on to become professional performers is Matthew Quinn who gained a first class degree in Performing Arts at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and is currently playing Mike in new musical Carnaby Street after appearing in a number of professional productions such as Dreamboats and Petticoats and The Rocky Horror Show.

Ceri-Lyn Cissone moved on from Llangollen Operatic Society to appear in the Merry Wives of Windsor at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.  

A fine singer, she has also featured as a soloist in A Night of 1000 Voices at the Royal Albert Hall in London.  

Chrissie Ashworth, who is producing the society’s production of Anything Goes later this month, said: “Our society is a real hothouse for bringing on top-class stage talent of the future. 

“Many of our past young members have gone on to carve out professional careers for themselves and some of the large number of youngsters we have with us at the moment look set to do the same thing. 

“It’s fantastic to think that an initial grounding with the society has produced so many potential stars of tomorrow.” 

Tickets for Anything Goes, priced at £9 and £7.50 concessions, are available from Llangollen Tourist Information Centre, or Gwyn's the Butchers in Castle Street.  

Latest North Wales crime figures released

Latest figures show that North Wales Police is succeeding in making the region safer with significant reductions being made in a number of key crimes.

 

Figures for the end of the 2012-13 performance year show that:

 

·         Victim based crime is down 11.6%, with 4,381 fewer victims.

·         Violence with injury is down 7%, with 314 fewer victims.

·         Violence without injury is down 5%, with 217 fewer  victims.

·         Domestic burglary is down 16.2%, with a reduction of 304 victims.

·         Burglary other than dwelling is down 14.3%, with a reduction of 502 victims.

·         Robbery is down 8.8%, with 14 less victims.

·         Vehicle theft is down 17.3%, a reduction of 123 victims.

·         Anti Social Behaviour (ASB) is down 11.6%, a reduction of 3,550 incidents.

 

Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard said: "The year was a challenging one, with many serious incidents for the force to contend with, which makes these successes even more significant.  

I am grateful for all the hard work, commitment and application teams have put in to reducing crime and ASB, their efforts have made a real contribution to making North Wales safer. Everyone has contributed, it has been a real team effort from all operational areas and support departments."

 

On a national level North Wales has comparatively low levels of crime in terms of robbery, other theft and vehicle crime. But there are however high levels of crime in terms of violence against the person and there has been an increase in sexual offences, with rape up 27.9%.

 

ACC Pritchard added: "We recognise that there is still work to be done to reduce violent crimes and sexual offences and there are a number of initiatives underway across the Force to address this. For example, we will shortly have a dedicated rape and sexual assault team who will ensure that victims have a high standard of care and that investigations are thorough and detailed. Many of these crimes are historical in nature and it is good that victims have the confidence to report these serious offences."

 

The force says it will continue to work towards reducing violent crime across North Wales, focusing on all types of violence including domestic abuse and alcohol related violence.

 

The figures also suggest that preventative strategies and awareness raising campaigns are contributing towards changing attitudes and behaviour.

 

Calls into the force's control room were down 10% (55,165) and there were 289 fewer people injured in road traffic collisions.

Police appeal over missing man

North Wales Police are appealing for help in tracing a 69 year old man missing from the Trefynant Park area of Acrefair,  Wrexham. 

David Clwyd Davies has not been seen since the afternoon of Saturday 6^th April 2013 and a concerned neighbour made contact with police earlier today.

North Wales Police and the North East Wales Search and Rescue team are currently conducting enquiries in the immediate vicinity of Mr Davies’ home but they are asking the public’s help with any information on sightings.  

 

Mr Davies (pictured right) is described as 5’ 11” tall, heavy build and sporting a thick beard.  He ordinarily wears jeans, fleece top and woolly hat and is well known in the local community.

 

Inspector Alan Hughes of Wrexham Police, who is coordinating the search said; “Mr Davies was due to meet up with a neighbour last Saturday and he failed to keep that appointment.  

 

He hasn’t been seen since and this is out of character. We are concerned and are appealing for any person who has seen Mr Davies or knows of his whereabouts, to contact the police.”

 

Anyone with any information should contact North Wales police on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800555111.

Quiz for Cancer Research at RAFA this Friday

Cancer Research UK is hosting a quiz night at the RAFA Club in Llangollen this Friday evening (April 12).

 

Teams of four are invited to enter the quiz, which starts at 8pm, at a cost of £2.50 per team member.

 

All are welcome.

County council workers poised for protest

The BBC North East Wales news website is reporting today that workers at Denbighshire County Council are to protest against changes which they say could mean employees being sacked for refusing new conditions of work.

See the full story at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-22069545

New book of Llangollen group pictures set for launch

* The new book is due for launch later this month.

* The Christmas Festival Committee pose for their picture.

 

Images of over 100 local groups have now been captured for a book recording the rich pattern of everyday life in Llangollen. 

The glossy 144-page work will be officially unveiled to members of the local public – many of whom are featured in it – at a launch ceremony later this month. 

Meanwhile, some of the pictures appearing in the book can be seen at an exhibition which is running at the town’s museum until May 3.  

The book, entitled Llangollen Community, is the brainchild of local man Simon Collinge who has directed the project while Llangollen-based cameraman Andrew Gale has taken the pictures. 

They have been working steadily away since late last year and the pictures have all been taken in the muted style of Old Masters painters such as Rembrandt and Frans Hals.  

Simon said: “We are producing the book as we felt it was about time that a documented pictorial history of these groups was recorded for posterity – it also seemed rather a fun idea.” 

He and Andrew thought originally that there would be about 50 groups from the area needing to be photographed but the final tally was over 100 groups, societies and organisations.  

These included outfits as diverse as Llangollen Silver Band and the Christmas Festival Committee. 

Simon added: “The book is now back from the printers - all on schedule for revised launch date of  Thursday, April 25 at Llangollen Town Hall, starting at 7.30pm. 

“We’ve invited Courtyard Books, Llangollen Library and the museum to bring along copies of their local Llangollen history books to make this a literary evening to remember.”

Llangollen stars in new fantasy thriller novel

Llangollen features prominently in a new e-book in which the villains are a breed of malevolent fairies intent on world domination.

And its author has explained how the idea for the fantasy thriller The Last Changeling came to her in a dream. 

Fiona Maher, who writes under the name of F R Maher, said: “We’ve had wizards and vampires, and I wondered what other supernatural beings would appeal to readers. 

“After a dream, I came up with the idea that it would be fairies - not the cutesy pink confections of modern cartoons, but the ancient malign creatures that haunted the forests, and stole children. 

“I called them metahominids - literally 'other men' - and I ask what if population pressure meant they started moving out of the country, and began invading our city spaces, like urban foxes? 

“What if we've been at war with them for centuries and the evidence was all around us? 

“If myxamatosis hadn't been developed for rabbits, but to spray on the barrows, the metahominid strongholds?”

Hero of the book is a young policeman named Watkin who gets caught up in a battle between a secret government department and metahominids in Kew Gardens.

In the melee, he is injured, and believes he has been involved in a UFO incident. 

However much he tries to find out what really happened, the government organisation, D9, evades all of his investigations. 

Dispirited, he gives up that line of research, and returns to his interest in UFOs. 

Watkin travels up from London to investigate the Beings of Bodfari, a legend that has been linked to UFO activity. 

En route, he stops off in Llangollen of which the author gives a vivid description taking in a number of well-known local sights and businesses such as Dinas Bran Castle, the Corn Mill, the station, the florists in Oak Steet and the Watkin Williams store in Regent Street. 

Coincidentally in Llangollen at the same time as Watkin is a D9 operative, travelling under the name of Sarah Deakin.

Her weapon of choice is a meaty survival knife, which she has brought to Llangollen to have its edges laced with silver - a lethal metal to all metahominids – at a local jewellers shop.

The author knows Llangollen well because although she lives on the Wirral, she works in the town and has been associated with the area for the past 30 years.  

The Last Changeling can be seen at http://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Changeling-Enigma-Wars-ebook/dp/B00B90EIRQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365110490&sr=8-1&keywords=the+last+changeling