From the Beatles to Beeching at Llangollen

* Foxcote Manor leaving Llangollen in an evocative black and

white image from last year's 60s event.

 

 

* One of the locomotives that will be used at the event subject to repairs.

 

* A young lady in a classic 60's dress posing with a classic 60's Bubble car at Glyndyfrdwy.

 

* Sophie Francis performing at last year's event,

looking and sounding the 60s part.

The clocks are all set to be turned back to the swinging 60's in Llangollen this Saturday and Sunday when Llangollen Railway hosts its fourth annual 1960's Weekend.

This year sees the 50th anniversary of the publication of Dr Beeching's infamous report that led to the closure of thousands of miles of railway and 45 years since the anniversary of the "15 Guinea Special", the last official steam-hauled passenger train on British Railways.

 

Organisers say they are determined not to allow the recent incident of suspected vandalism on the track to spoil the event. 

 

Black 5 locomotive number 44806, one of those due to take part in this weekend's event, was damaged when it hit an object placed on the track on the July 13.

 

Llangollen Railway press officer George Jones said: "Black 5 cannot be repaired in time for our 60's weekend, which is a real shame.

 

"We are, however, hopeful that a second Black 5 currently visiting us for repairs can star in the event. 

 

"It's a race against time but we are hopeful that our engineering team can get our visitor back in steam by this weekend.  

 

"We are determined not to let this unfortunate and mindless act spoil our weekend. All other plans for the weekend remain unchanged - it's business as usual."

 

Event co-organiser Tez Pickthall said: "Our latest event is going to be our biggest yet. The railway will be running a busy timetable of steam, diesel and railcar trains - just like you would have been seen on Britain's railways in the 60's.

 

"It was a time of great change with steam locomotives disappearing altogether in 1969 along with many stations and lines thanks to Dr Beeching's "Reshaping of Britain's Railways" report - including the line that is now the Llangollen Railway. 

 

"There is lots to do. We have great live music, which is all being provided by volunteers who work on the railway. 

 

"We have a range of trade stands and Dr Beeching's Bar at Llangollen, with seven local real ales to try.

 

"You can enjoy a vintage open-top bus ride between Llangollen and Carrog and at Glyndyfrdwy station you will find a staggering array of vintage vehicles on display, from the ubiquitous VW Beetle to the legendary E-Type Jaguar.

 

"We will also be applying special temporary rust-coloured paint to one of our usually immaculate steam locomotives to show visitors how run-down and unloved these engines were at the end of their careers in the late 60's.

 

"Whether you're a railway fan or just looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Lots of folk dress up in 60's clothes which make the event a lot of fun and add to the fantastic retro atmosphere."

 

Musical performances will be given at Llangollen station by 19-year old A-level student Sophie Francis, who can usually be found hard at work in Victoria's tea rooms on the station, and Matthew Grindley, a locomotive fireman, on both Saturday and Sunday afternoon at 4pm.

 

Saturday evening sees Harry Barber, a Llangollen engine driver, perform a concert with his band. The concert starts at 7pm on Llangollen station.Anyone interested in bringing a vintage vehicle to the rally or purchasing a discounted advanced ticket is encouraged to contact the railway on 01978 860979 or visit its website http://www.llangollen-railway.co.uk/. 

Town Council vacancy is filled

The vacancy left on Llangollen Town Council by a recent resignation will soon be filled.

Tim Palmer, who had served on the council for a short while, recently announced he was leaving as he and his family were moving to live in the United States

The process of finding a replacement then started.

After first establishing that there was no official demand for a bye-election, town clerk Gareth Thomas then sought applications from anyone interested in becoming a councillor

At last week's council meeting, he reported to members that two people had initially sent in applications but that one had withdrawn on the basis they couldn’t afford the time the role required.

This left just one applicant of whose application former mayor, Cllr Jon Haddy, said: “I can see from her CV that we couldn’t have had a better applicant.”

He proposed that she be co-opted on to the council and this was unanimously agreed by members.

The new councillor will be formally co-opted at the next council meeting.      

Royal baby is a boy, says palace

The BBC reported just after 8.30pm tonight that the Duchess of Cambridge has given birth to a baby boy, according to Kensington Palace.

The baby weighed in at 8lbs 6ozs at 4.24pm.

Alexei Sayle guns up the Fringe audience

Why is it that Roy Chubby Brown has performed in Wrexham when Alexei Sayle has not?

According to Mr Sayle himself, that's because no-one bothered to shoot "the ****" with a Heckler & Koch rifle before he took to the stage at Glyndwr University last November.

This was one of Sayle's characteristically blunt answers to a question from a member of the audience during his own appearance at the Llangollen Fringe last night (Sunday).

* Alexei Sayle copies of his books for fans
after the show. 

Of course it got a big laugh, as did his expletive-seasoned references to some other big names of showbiz, including former poet laureate Sir Andrew Motion who is due to make his own appearance at the Fringe on Thursday.

In fact, his verbal attacks on the great man became sort of a running gag threading its way through Sayle’s two-hour some show in a packed Town Hall.

The gig revolved around the 80s comedy legend’s readings from his two books, Stalin Ate My Hamster and, the latest, Overtaken – copies of which he signed for delighted fans at the end of the evening.

These were amusing enough, as Sayle recounted his unusual Liverpool upbringing by parents who were both committed Communists.

His recollections sound funnier coming from the foul mouth of the Scouser himself rather than being paraphrased here.

But one that doesn’t lose too much in the re-telling was the story about how, in his early teens, he used a couple of heavy duty swear words to shock his mother only to discover to his horror that his own outburst brought forth a torrent of  language from her foul enough to shock a Liverpool docker.

The second half of the show was taken up with the question and answer session that prompted his attacks on old-style comics such as Roy Chubby Brown and Jim Davidson.

There were also some vicious side-swipes at the likes of Eddie Izzard and Alan Davies which again seemed to go down very well with the audience.   

He got a similar reaction when he had a pop at the late Lady Thatcher, saying he considered himself lucky to have been on a stage the day she died.

But one suspects it was nothing like the acclaim the same attack would have won him in the halcyon days when he was known as the abusive fat bloke in a too-tight suit.

Sayle’s now heading for the Edinburgh Fringe where, he admitted, he’d be louder and jump about quite a bit more on stage.

But judging by his warm reception in Llangollen, he can afford to dump that hackneyed old routine – now every bit as clichéd as the Roy Chubby Brown’s jokes he so obviously despises – and be just as funny by being gentler with his audiences.   

He also promised his Fringe audience that one day he will appear in Wrexham.

That’s presumably just as long as he’s not picked off first by a Chubby Brown fan with a high powered rifle.

AM re-opens hospital closure argument

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood is concerned that the Health Minister has overlooked “very serious reservations”  expressed by the North Wales Community Health Council regarding community hospital closures.  

 

The Labour Health Minister Mark Drakeford’s Written Statement to Assembly Members ‘Changes to Health Services in North Wales’ on 17 July failed to refer to the “very serious reservations” expressed by the North Wales Community Health Council about the transition and implementation plans in the communities affected by hospital closures and related service withdrawal - Flint, Llangollen, Prestatyn and Blaenau Ffestiniog.   

 

Concerned by the omission, Mr Isherwood has written to the Minister asking him to “detail the agreed transition and implementation plans in the communities affected by hospital closures and related service withdrawal.”

 

His letter states:  “In your Statement, you state that you are ‘very pleased to report that I have now received a joint letter from the CHC and Health Board which confirms agreement has been reached on the outstanding issues’. 

 

“You further state that the elements of the Health Board’s proposals which the CHC referred to the former Minister for Health and Social Services for determination on 4 March related to:  minor injury services in South Gwynedd;  the removal of X-Ray services from Tywyn Hospital and older people’s mental health service for people living in Gwynedd.

 

“However, specific reference is not made to other elements of the Health Board’s proposals referred to by the North Wales Community Health Council in their letter to the former Minister for Health and Social Services.

 

“This includes the statement that “The CHC has already confirmed that it will not be referring the changes to four of the nineteen community hospitals in North Wales to the Minister. However, the CHC’s letter also says that it has ‘very serious reservations’ about the transition and implementation plans for these community hospitals…….”.

 

“Serious concern about this remains in the communities affected by withdrawal of local services. If these are not addressed, it is of little comfort to them if “the CHC is now content, subject to the outcome of the agreed monitoring and review."

Local directory "is a good idea"

A reply to the story below from Gill Thomas ...

The local directory suggested by the Town Council is a very good idea.

Just to let you know the Llangollen Chamber of Trade & Tourism is in the process of listing Professional & Emergency Services on the www.llangollen.org.uk website in the Information section.

We are also undertaking a disabled access survey and the results will also appear on the website.

We would be grateful for any information on access and facilities for people with disabilities, provided by local businesses. Details can be sent to Gill Thomas, email: thomastheelms@hotmail.co.uk

At-a-glance local directory idea wins approval

Llangollen Town Council is to look into the possibility of financing the production of a quick guide to local services.

The idea was put forward at Tuesday night’s council meeting by Cllr Sheena Burrell (pictured left) who said it would be handy if there was a single sheet containing the contact details for local services such as doctors, hospitals, council offices and the opening times for public toilets.

“I think something like that could be very useful for people who are staying here for a week or so on holiday and want to use local services. It might also be of use to local people,” she said.

“I think we should take this on board because it could raise the profile of the town council.”

Members voted to have the town clerk look further into the idea.

Police urge us to keep an eye on schools during holidays

As the school holidays begin a scheme which encourages everyone to keep an eagle eye on schools across North Wales and safe from crime over the summer break has been launched.

 

School Watch aims to get parents, residents, and teachers as well as the emergency services and the local authorities working together to keep schools and their immediate surrounding areas safe and free from crime and anti-social behaviour.

 

The latest launch happened in Conwy at Ysgol Bro Gwydir in Llanrwst on Monday, July 15 following launches last week in Denbighshire, as well as in Gwynedd and Flintshire.  

 

At the latest launch pupils in Llanrwst got to opportunity to learn a little more about the initiative and keeping safe over the summer holidays by Community Safety Officer Ifan Hughes and School Community Liaison Officer PC Meirion Williams. The youngsters then got to explore the police and fire cars present and speak with members of the Arson Reduction Team, the Fire and Rescue Service and Conwy County Borough Council.

 

“School buildings can become a target for graffiti and vandalism during the summer break and along with encouraging pupils and their parents to keep an eye on their school, members of the local community living nearby are also urged to do the same,” said Ifan Hughes.

 

“It is important that people continue to support the initiative by being vigilant and contacting us should they see any suspicious or criminal activity in and around the schools.”

 

Head of Ysgol Bro Gwydir, Meinir Jones said: “School Watch is a good initiative that raises awareness and encourages children to take responsibility for looking after their school.”

 

Inspector Julie Sheard, who is responsible for the North Wales Police Community Safety Department said: “Schools have a limited budget and valuable resources which should be used to educate children are being diverted to combat theft and criminal damage. School buildings can also become a target for graffiti and vandalism during the long summer break.

 

“We rely on members of the public for their support and encourage all to report incidents to the police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”

 

Leaflets and posters have been distributed throughout North Wales, reminding the public of the scheme which also aims to help stamp out mindless acts which not only affects the school, but the whole community.

 

Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour in or around schools or at school buildings is urged to contact North Wales Police. If you witness a crime in progress always dial 999. Non-emergency calls should be made to 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

Town's CCTV system undergoes an upgrade

Repairs to part of Llangollen’s inefficient CCTV had to be speeded up when police needed to look at it for evidence.

This was revealed at Tuesday’s town council meeting as town clerk Gareth Thomas was giving an update on repairs to the system.

At the June meeting, town councillors agreed to spend around £5,000 on upgrading the eye in the sky camera network, which helps keep a watchful eye on the streets around the town centre.

They heard how the ageing system has become increasingly unreliable and badly in need of an upgrade. 

Two of the cameras had completely broken down while others were faulty – one due to interference from a third party wi-fi system – and another was verging on a breakdown, they were told. 

At Tuesday’s meeting, Mr Thomas said two new cameras had now been fitted but that the one overseeing Riverside was “beyond its sell-by date." 

However, he added: “We have done all we can this year.”

He then revealed how the system’s hard disk, which had also been giving problems, had needed to be repaired as speedily as possible recently when West Mercia Police asked to look at it for possible evidence in a case they were working on.

Fringe gets under way

An evening of stand-up comedy headlined by Alun Cochrane launched the 15th Llangollen Fringe Festival last night (Thursday). 

 

With ten full nights of entertainment to come and 17 workshops during the day, there is a lot to look forward to.

A ten piece band from Ghana and London will really thrill you on Saturday night.  Yaaba Funk is a well-known band with an ever growing reputation who can’t fail to have the whole audience asking for more.

(£10, 20th July).

 

If you fancy something more thought provoking, then on Sunday night there's an audience with Alexei Sayle, well known comedian, broadcaster and writer.  He will entertain with readings from his autobiography ‘Stalin Ate my Homework’ and other as yet unpublished work. (£15, 21st July)

The Jazz Train on Sunday 21st July has three separate bands providing live music.  The first band will play on the platform before departure.

 

The second band will entertain you on your journey to and from Carrog whilst you sip a complimentary glass of wine as the train is pulled through the Dee Valley being hauled by a steam locomotive.

 

A third band will entertain you on Carrog station. A great night for jazz music and the nostalgia evoked by the era of the steam train. £18, 5pm.

 

Look at the website and the programme to see the extensive range of workshops happening over the weekend.

Tickets are still available for Abba Solution and The Blockheads next week, but if you want to guarantee your place then book online now.

Sir Andrew Motion is one of the UK’s literary giants and appears on Thursday 25th July, £10.

 

He will talk about his latest book, The Customs House, and his work with the spoken and written word.

 

Tickets are available to buy at our website:

Tel: 0800 1455 779 or visit: www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

Sun turns up heat for emergency services

Emergency Services in North Wales are hoping local communities and visitors alike can make the most of the recent spell of hot weather but to do so safely and responsibly and consider the extra burden placed on emergency responders in the region.


Chief Superintendent Jeremy Vaughan North Wales Police said: “Whilst it’s great to see the sun we must remember that with the hot weather comes increase visitors to our towns, beaches and parks, more traffic on our roads, increases risk of weather related medical incidents as well more alcohol related incidents.  

"Together with our colleagues in the Welsh Ambulance and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service we are all experiencing increased demands upon our service and whilst we want everyone to enjoy the sun and have fun please do so responsibly and consider the 999 system is for emergencies only.”

Andrew Jenkins, Deputy Director of Medical and Clinical Services at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “It is fair to say that the weather has affected all the demand across Wales. We would really appreciate if people would be considerate when dialling 999, and only do so in life-threatening situations. NHS Direct Wales, GP out-of-hours and pharmacies are all available for help and support with less serious injuries and illnesses.”

NHS Direct Wales, which is part of the Welsh Ambulance Service, has issued some simple advice to help people cope in the heat.   For further information contact  http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/54328

Gary Brandrick, Senior Fire Safety Manager at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Have fun but stay safe in the summer heat – that is our message to the people of North Wales as the sun continues to shine across our region. 

"We want people to take on board the safety advice we are issuing – it could mean the difference between life and death.   It is important to be extra safety conscious and take more responsibility for your own actions.”

For more safety tips during the summer please click  http://www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk/keeping-you-safe/near-water/advice.aspx?lang=en

Church Street parking goes under microscope

The issue of parking in Church Street was highlighted at Tuesday night’s meeting of Llangollen Town Council.

And Cllr Melvyn Miles (pictured right) who placed it on the agenda, described it as a “nightmare”.

He said: “There are only 20 spaces reserved for residents and there are also a couple of holiday lets down there. All of these are full all the time.

“There is no easy solution but is there any way we could ask the county council if the residents’ parking could be extended into Bridge Street or Chapel Street?”

Cllr Sheena Burrell asked whether residents’ parking passes, which are held by a number of people in the town, could be used by people from Church Street to leave their vehicles in local public car parks elsewhere in the town.

It was suggested this might be possible but members agreed to have the town clerk refer the issue to the county council and also to seek clarification on parking permits.

Keep Llangollen Special's AGM set for next Tuesday

The Keep Llangollen Special group has sent in this reminder about is annual general meeting next Tuesday, July 23:

Shoulder To Shoulder For Llangollen

·        What can you do when the consultation you’ve been invited to is a biased, pre-determined sham?

·        What can you do when the heritage of Llangollen is bartered for things that look good on paper but turn out to be deeply flawed and second-rate in practice?

·        What can you do when you report a potentially hazardous crossing but find out there has to be a certain number of casualties before anything is done?,

·        What can you do when people who don’t live in Llangollen decide its future without asking us?

 

Lock and load - using our rights and freedoms, combining the new technologies of social media and digital communication, and plain, old-fashioned meetings, to elect people just like you to be your spearhead. We come together to take our lives and livelihoods back into our own hands against those who would exploit us, who think we’re a soft touch.

Keep Llangollen Special, a strictly not-for-profit Community Group – the people behind the popular Buy Local days – was designed to be that spearhead.

It’s holding its first Annual General Meeting on July the 23^rd, in the lounge of the Hand Hotel (pictured left) at 7:30 pm, where all the Committee positions are up for election by members of KLS.

You can become a member by going to www.keepllanollenspecial .org.uk and there are no fees or obligations placed on you. You can attend even if you’re not a member, so you can speak but not vote or stand for Committee.

Over the last twelve months, we’ve realised we don’t have enough people to take lead roles in projects that will bring prosperity and well-being to Llangollen. That’s where you come in; that’s why we need you, the huge number of people who volunteer and do great work: The people who are the heart of Llangollen and make it such an extraordinary place to live – and we’ll work co-operatively with any groups, societies or like-minded individuals for our mutual benefit.

Can you influence what KLS does? Yes – that’s why KLS exists. Can you raise issues affecting Town or inspire projects to attract more business, jobs or facilities we sorely need? Yes again – every project idea will be discussed and voted upon, so make sure you’re a member.

Whether you’re a resident or running a business in Llangollen, it’s worth your while coming along. Together we’ll get more done, and it’ll only take a small amount of your time to be active in KLS.

Keep Llangollen Special

Outgoing health board chair denies `clash of personalities'

The outgoing chair of Wales' largest NHS body has denied that "a clash of personalities" was at the root of management failings in north Wales.

Prof Merfyn Jones was giving evidence to AMs on how the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) operated.

See the full story on the BBC Wales website at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23361966

Latest figures show crime down in North Wales

This morning (Thursday) saw the release of the Crime Survey for England and Wales Data to year ending March 2013.

 

Latest figures show recorded crime in North Wales went down by 12.4% during the 12 months under review.

 

The figures also show that a low proportion of people experienced or witnessed anti-social behaviour in the force area.

 

In North Wales 19.9% had experienced or witnessed anti-social behaviour, which is significantly lower than the England and Wales average of 28.9% and the Wales average of 28.3%.

 

During the year there has been a significant increase in the reporting of rape and sexual offences, the number being up 30.8% the majority now being managed by the newly established multi-agency dedicated rape investigators on ‘Team Amethyst’.

 

The Operation Pallial investigation into recent allegations of historic child abuse, commenced during the same period,  has also contributed towards an increase in reported offences which we hope suggests greater public confidence in how we manage the victims and investigation of such offences.

 

Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard said: “North Wales Police is maintaining a reduction in crime. We are aware of the increase in the reporting rape and sexual offences and in June this year we set up Amethyst, a dedicated rape team.  We are continuing to work hard to drive crime down further and make North Wales safer.

 

“The Force is working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner and focusing on the objectives in the Police and Crime Plan. Rural crime officers will be launched  later this summer, which is one of the significant targets in the plan.”

Eisteddfod brings quiet Saturday night in town

The evening of eisteddfod Saturday was quieter than a usual Saturday night in the town.

* Cllr Bob Lube.

That was the good news delivered to members of the town council at their meeting on Tuesday.

The mayor, Cllr Bob Lube , said he wished to commend the police for maintaining a high-level presence in the town throughout eisteddfod week, adding: “There appears to have been very few actual bookings for anti-social behaviour over last weekend.

“In fact, the police tell me that it was quieter than a normal Saturday night here

“Well done to them for that.”  

Chain Bridge facelift can go ahead thanks to £350,000 grant

* The historic Chain Bridge is to be brought back to life after 30 years of dereliction.

A VISIONARY scheme to bring Llangollen’s world famous Chain Bridge back to life is set to go ahead after receiving a £350,000 cash boost.

At their meeting last night (Tuesday) members of the town council were given the good news that their grant application to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) – made jointly with neighbouring Llantysilio Community Council – has just been approved.
 

And Llangollen’s mayor said he was hopeful the historic bridge spanning the River Dee, which has been closed for safety reasons for 30 years, will be re-opened to the public early next year.
 

The two councils bought the bridge from its previous owner, businesswoman Stephanie Booth who also ran the adjacent Chain Bridge Hotel, in 2007 and have since been working to secure the funding necessary to see it repaired and returned to its former glory as a major tourist attraction.
 

First injection of cash came a few years later when the HLF made a grant of £28,900 to pay for the preparation of a detailed report on how the bridge could be restored.
 

The project took another step forward last month when it landed a grant of £50,000 from WREN, a not-for-profit business which awards cash to community, environmental and heritage projects.
 

The bridge crosses the river, which itself runs parallel to the Llangollen heritage railway line on one side and Llangollen Canal on the other near its source, the Horseshoe Falls.
 

The plan is to fix the bridge and create disabled access via nearby Berwyn Station along with an exhibition and other community events.
 

The HLF grant bid included working with community groups such as local schools and history groups, including Llangollen Museum.
 

One of the aims is to see tourists travelling along Llangollen Canal via horse-drawn boats and then crossing the bridge to take a steam train ride back into Llangollen.
 

The original bridge was built around 1817 by Exuperius Pickering, a local entrepreneur dealing in coal, limestone, slate and iron bar, who is reputed to have called on engineer Thomas Telford to help with the design and construction.
 

The new bridge allowed Pickering to monopolise the local coal trade as it gave him access to the adjacent London to Holyhead road - the A5.
 

It also meant he avoided paying tolls to cross the main bridge over the river in Llangollen.
 

In 1876 the bridge was replaced by Sir Henry Robertson, a part owner of Wrexham's former Brymbo Ironworks.
 

In 1928, freak flooding washed away most of the bridge and it rebuilt in a style similar to Anglesey's Menai Suspension Bridge.
 

It was closed in the mid-1980s due to concerns over its safety.
 

At the Llangollen Town Council meeting, town clerk Gareth Thomas told members: “Our Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £350,000 has now been confirmed.
 

“All things being equal we should now be able to proceed in August.”
 

The mayor of Llangollen, Cllr Bob Lube, said later: “This is fantastic news.
 

“We now look forward to creating a circular route for tourists between the canal and the railway via the bridge, which I am sure will add to the visitor experience we already have.
 

“It is great that the council has been able to do this. Work can now go ahead and we are hopeful the bridge will open again early next year.” 

Man dies after river rescue drama

A man has died after getting into difficulties while in a river on the Shropshire-North Wales border.

Emergency services were called to an isolated location near the confluence of the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog, near Chirk, shortly before 7pm last night.

A search was carried out involving officers from West Mercia Police and North Wales Police and the man was located in the water at around 7.50pm.

He was airlifted to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital where he was pronounced dead late last night.

The Fire and Rescue Service and Ambulance Service also attended and the North Wales Police helicopter assisted in the search.

The man has not yet been named but is believed to a 21-year-old from Shropshire.

West Mercia Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances and renewed warnings about swimming or cooling off in open water.

A force spokesperson said: “There have been a number of recent tragedies in Shropshire and neighbouring counties where people have got into difficulties after entering rivers or quarry pools.

“Please don't be tempted.  These types of water can be highly dangerous with strong under currents, low temperatures which can cause muscle cramps and hidden obstacles beneath the surface.

“Sadly, we are now dealing with another such tragedy.”

Steam loco damaged as yobs leave log on the track

* The Black Five locomotive, which was damaged in Saturday’s incident

on the track, pictured on a Santa Special Train near Berwyn.

An historic steam engine was damaged by yobs leaving a wooden log on the track … as it hauled a murder mystery special carrying over 100 people on the heritage railway line from Carrog to Llangollen on Saturday.

A railway chief says the incident could easily have caused a derailment and serious injury to passengers and crew.  

North Wales police, who say extensive damage was caused to the train, are now investigating the incident which took place at around 9.20pm and have launched an appeal for witnesses.

Railway spokesman George Jones said:  “Llangollen Railway Plc holds a number of evening events throughout the year.

“On Saturday evening, the summertime Murder & Mystery Special operated along the line from Llangollen to Carrog with the Black Five steam locomotive No.44806.

“During the return journey from Carrog, when the locomotive was working tender first, an incident took place involving the placement of a wooden log between the rails of the track at a remote point below Pen-y-Garth, between Glyndyfrdwy and Deeside loop.

“The locomotive involved has been examined and has been found to have sustained damage to the running gear of the tender and locomotive.

“An assessment is being made as to the repair costs, but it will be out of service for some time and this means that no stand-by engine will be available during the busy summer season.”

Railway chairman, Jim Ritchie, commenting on this incident, said: “The board of Llangollen Railway is pleased that, although this incident could have resulted in the derailment and potential injury of crew and passengers, it was fortunate that no one was injured and the train was able to continue its journey back to Llangollen.

“The board attaches the greatest priority to the safe operation of the railway and such an act of vandalism by persons unknown is of the deepest concern.

“The object placed on the track was of a size which could potentially have caused a derailment to a smaller locomotive or a diesel railcar. With over 100 passengers on the train that would have resulted in injury or worse to crew or passengers.”

He added: “The Llangollen Railway is co-operating with North Wales Police who are investigating this incident and appeals for anyone who has information to provide it to the police. The incident has been reported to the Office of the Rail Regulator.

“The penalty for trespassing on any railway, including heritage lines such as Llangollen Railway, is £1,000 and, of course, anyone involved in such practice endangers not just themselves, but also the train crew and passengers using the railway.” 

·         Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact PC 2820 Sarah Smith at Llangollen on 101. Alternatively, anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Man rescued from river near Chirk

The BBC news website is reporting this morning (Wednesday) that a man was rescued from a river near Chirk yesterday evening.

See the full story at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-23337829

Butchers praised for its apprentices

A young butcher from Llangollen shows how a small business can benefit from having apprentices, First Minister Carwyn Jones has said.

 

Twenty-three-year old Tomi Lee Jones is the shop manager at Jones’ Butchers in the town and is an apprentice himself since 2010.

 

Based on his experience of apprenticeships he is also training two of his employees, Jac Jones and Chris Roberts, through an apprentices scheme using support from the Young Recruit Programme, which is funded by the Welsh Government backed by the European Social Fund.  

 

Tomi is also VQ Learner of the Year 2013 and the Welsh Young Butcher of the Year 2012.

 

Last week as he visited the eisteddfod, the First Minister called into Jones’ Butchers to hear how the business is benefiting from having apprentices.

Later he said: "The success Jones’ Butchers has had with apprentices shows how smaller businesses can benefit from schemes such as the Young Recruit Programme.  Training our young people for the workplace is vital for creating sustainable growth and is a key part of our Programme for Government.

“The Young Recruits Programme was introduced to support apprenticeship training during the economic downturn and in 2012-13 we exceeded our target of supporting 2,000 places through this scheme.

“I am pleased to see the results of the scheme here in Llangollen, and to see young people successfully embarking on their careers.”

Tomi said “The apprenticeship allowed me to learn the skills I needed to do the job while gaining experience at the same time.  That’s why I wanted the rest of the staff to have the same opportunity so that they can learn the skills they need and be part of the business.”

Vandals damage train with timber on track

Police are appealing for information after timber was placed between two rails which caused extensive damage to a train.

 

At around 9.20pm on Saturday, July 13, an offender or offenders placed a large timber log between two rails on the Glyndyfrdwy to Llangollen train track.

 

Extensive damage was caused to one train but no one was injured.

 

Anyone with information is regarding the incident is urged to contact PC 2820 Sarah Smith at Llangollen on 101. Alternatively, anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

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AM slams Welsh Government over its NHS management

The Welsh Labour Government has “catastrophically mismanaged our NHS”, claims the Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for North Wales Aled Roberts.

His criticism follows the publication of a report by the Wales Audit Office which reveals scheduled operations were postponed and hospital waiting lists allowed to grow as the Welsh NHS struggled to cut costs in the last year.

Managers balanced the books but need to save £404m this year, the report concludes.

Aled Roberts (pictured left), who is a member of the Welsh Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee, said: “The Welsh Labour Government explicitly warned that it would not bail out Health Boards that lost control of their finances. 

“Yet, the Welsh Labour Government went back on its word and dished out additional funding totalling £92 million.  As the report acknowledges, this inconsistency sends out unhelpful mixed messages.

“The Welsh NHS is under a colossal amount of strain.  The report notes that the NHS is likely to struggle to sustain current levels of service and performance. 

“Wales has the longest ambulance waiting times in any part of mainland UK, cancer waiting times not met since 2008 and A&E targets that have never been met.  To think some of our NHS services could continue to deteriorate further is shocking. "

Mr Roberts slammed: “The truth is the Welsh Labour Government has catastrophically mismanaged our NHS and it is the people of Wales who are paying the price for Labour’s failure. 

“How can we expect Health Boards to be financially prudent when, as the report acknowledges, there are unfunded commitments in the Welsh Labour Government’s manifesto and programme for Government?

“Of course it’s important that Health Boards meet their financial targets.  But this isn’t just about money, it’s people’s lives that we are talking about. The report highlights that NHS bodies reduced activity to help manage financial pressures

“I found it particularly galling last week when the Health Minister congratulated Health Boards on their ‘careful financial management’.  This is despite knowing that Betsi Cadwaladr UHB was only able to do so by allowing waiting lists to grow and cancelling routine operations.

Health Minister Mark Drakeford said the NHS "remains resilient" despite challenging circumstances.

Agenda for tonight's Town Council meeting

LLANGOLLEN TOWN COUNCIL

COUNCIL MEETING 16th JULY 2013

AGENDA
1. Apologies for absence. To receive apologies for absence. 2. Declaration of Interest. To receive any known declarations of interest in items on the agenda. 3. Presentation To receive a presentation form Haf Wyn-Hughes, Workplace Skills Officer on the Essential Skills in the Workplace project, on behalf of the Welsh Government. 4. Mayors Announcements. To receive announcements form the Town Mayor. 5. To receive statements from the public.

6. Minutes of Meeting. To authorise the Chairman to sign the minutes of the previous meeting of the Council held on the held on the 21st May 2013, as a correct record.

7. Minutes of the Annual Council Meeting.

To authorise the Chairman to sign the minutes of the Annual Council Meeting held on Tuesday 21st May 2013.

8. Planning Committee.


To accept the Minutes of the meeting Planning Committee held on 23rd April 2013, previously circulated.

9. General Purposes Committee


To adopt the Minutes of the meeting of the General Purposes Committee held on 19th February 2013, previously circulated.




10. Financial Matters.
To consider financial matters and make any necessary decisions thereon.

a) Financial Statement

b) Authorised Payments.

c) Donations.
d) Annual Return.
11. Members Reports.



To accept reports arising from Members attendance on outside bodies, and to make any necessary decisions thereon.
12. Notices of Motion.



Cllr S Burrell: That the Town Council compile and produce an amenities directory.

Cllr M Mile: That the Town Council consider on street parking issues in Church Street.


13. County Councillors Report.
To receive reports form County Councillors.
13. Casual Vacancy.
To consider applications for consideration to be co-opted as a Member of the Council
14. Clerk's Reports.
a) Monthly update.

b) Chain bridge project; to confirm acceptance of grant in aid from the Heritage lottery Fund.

c) Standing Orders; to consider the adoption of the National Association of Local Councils / One Voice Wales Model Standing Orders, copy attached.

d) Consultation Document Local Government (Wales) Measure 2011, copy attached..
15. Correspondence
To consider correspondence received and to make any necessary decisions thereon.  

Eating at the yellow Aqueduct is certainly no peril

llanblogger taste test

* The startlingly yellow Aqueduct Inn at Fron.

THE new vivid yellow external paintjob might be a little startling but there’s nothing disturbing about the welcome and the food at the Aqueduct Inn in Fron.

If discerning Llangollen folk would care to travel just a couple of miles up the road to sample Sunday lunch there, they are not likely to be disappointed.

The historic pub in its prime position overlooking the Dee Valley and the World Heritage site was empty for quite a few months but, just as the place where we did our last taste test, the Sun at Rhewl, enterprising new people have now moved in and are doing their best to make a go of  what was once a thriving village boozer.

Despite the canary-like exterior, the interior of the Aqueduct is still reassuringly old world, from its muted, heritage-style painted walls to the old-fashioned tables and chairs.

The guy behind the bar when llanblogger went there recently was extremely welcoming and chatty and offered us something cool to drink as soon as we stepped in looking hot from the sun-baked A5.

There was a couple of interesting-looking real ales and one of them made a very refreshing pint of bitter shandy.

The Sunday lunch menu was hardly vast but featured the essential roasts – good old beef and lamb.

There was a slightly wider choice of starters, including the tasty garlic mushrooms we ordered at £3.95.

We then went for a couple of beef main courses at a very reasonable £5.99.

The beef was succulent and came with all the usual trimmings – mashed and roast potatoes, two veg, a Yorkshire pudding and some very pleasant gravy.

Helpings weren’t lavish but perfectly adequate and left enough room for a couple of desserts.

The last helpings of chocolate cake and cream having been snaffled just before we got around to ordering, it had to be apple pie and ice cream times two for us, at £2.50 apiece.

But that was certainly no imposition as these were delicious, with a nice crust, plenty of apple filling and two scoops of vanilla ice cream to top them off.

Service came with a smile, the landlord called at our table for a chat and we were able to sit in one of the two main rooms and look out over an idyllic canal scene as we enjoyed lunch for a very digestible total of £26 including our shandies.

The Aqueduct is definitely worth driving up the A5 to try. 

Importance of fire drill emphasized after big blaze

A senior fire officer is highlighting the importance of working smoke alarms and having a practiced fire escape plan after a family of seven escaped a serious fire in their New Brighton home last night.
 
Firefighters from Llangollen along with those from Johnstown, Wrexham and Chirk were called to the fire at a rural property in the New Brighton area of Minera, Wrexham at 10.56pm yesterday (Sunday, July 14).

The female occupant, her teenage daughter and her daughter’s partner along with another four of her children were in the property at the time of the fire.

The female occupant was upstairs sleeping and was woken by bangs and crackling coming from downstairs. She went to investigate and alerted the other sleeping occupants as the smoke alarms activated.

Their regular route of escape was blocked and so the daughter’s partner kicked down an alternative door.

All occupants escaped safely and were taken to hospital for precautionary checks before being discharged earlier today.

The cause of the fire is currently being investigated.

Paul Whybro, Head of Risk and Resilience for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “This incident clearly highlights the importance of working smoke alarms and practiced fire escape plans.

“Smoke alarms give an early warning which help you to escape safely and quickly in the event of a fire. Plan your escape route with everyone - always include children and the elderly so that everyone knows how to get out. Also, make sure that you know where door and window keys are kept so that you can escape quickly in the event of an emergency.
 
“Thankfully no one was hurt in this fire which had the potential for a major tragedy. This was a rural property and residents living in rural areas should take extra care with fire safety as it is likely that there will not be a fire station in the immediate area. This will mean that the firefighters will have to take time to travel to the property - so early detection of the fire is especially important. “

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also offer free home fire safety checks for all residents in North Wales. During a home fire safety check, a member of the Service will visit your home, help formulate a safety escape plan, give tips and guidance on fire safety in the home, and if necessary, install a new smoke alarm free of charge. For a free home fire safety check, please call our 24 hour hotline on 0800 169 1234, visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk or e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk

More colourful Llanfest pictures

Guest photographer Barrie Potter has sent us more pictures from yesterday (Sunday's) Llanfest at the eisteddfod. 

Local musical talent on show at Llanfest

 

Our guest photographer Barrie Potter was back on the eisteddfod field today afternoon (Sunday) to picture the array of local musical talent on display during the traditional Llanfest staged in the amphitheatre.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Countdown begins to prestigious cycling event

* Riders in last year's Etape Cymru head up the Horseshoe Pass.

The countdown has begun to welcome one of the UK's most prestigious cycling sportives to North East Wales.

 

The route of Wiggle Etape Cymru 2013, to be held on Sunday, September 8,  starts and finishes at Bangor on Dee Racecourse and passes through communities in Wrexham County Borough before it enters into Denbighshire through the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Beauty.

The route takes in several well-known climbs including the legendary Horseshoe Pass which incorporates a timed King of the Mountains challenge.

This incredible event was voted Sportive of the Year 2012 by readers of Road Cycling UK and has been widely acclaimed for its success by all of the top cycling media outlets.

The event is being staged by Human Race, who are the UK's largest mass participation events company and fully is supported by Wrexham and Denbighshire Councils.

Leader of Denbighshire, Councillor Hugh Evans, said: "Cycling is becoming an ever more popular sport, especially in the wake of the tremendous cycling success at London 2012 and we are extremely keen to capitalise on this renewed interest in the sport.

"Here in Denbighshire we are working hard to establish the county as a centre for cycling excellence. We have the infrastructure to deliver this, with resources such as the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Cycling Centre at Llandegla right on our very own doorstep.

"This year will be the third year in a row that Denbighshire County Council has been actively involved in assisting event organisers to ensure the safe running of this event and we are confident that it will continue to be a great success."

Nick Rusling, CEO of Human Race said: "We welcome the support of Wrexham and Denbighshire Council in making this year's Etape Cymru the best yet. After the fantastic success of last year's event cyclists are anticipating a great event for 2013 and we look forward to welcoming thousands of cyclists to the region."

For further information, please visit the website: www.humanrace.co.uk