Crime tsar defends online surveillance to net cyber criminals.

 

* Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales,

Winston Roddick and his deputy Julian Sandham at a Cyber

Crime training day. They are pictured with student,

Detective Sgt Lisa Jones and Detective

Sgt Peter Jarvis of the Cyber Crime team.

 

A crime tsar has defended the use of internet surveillance to catch cyber criminals.

According to North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Winston Roddick CB QC, there was always a balance to be struck between personal freedom and public safety.

Mr Roddick was speaking after attending a training session for police officers at the police station in Penygroes, in Gwynedd, as part of a new campaign to combat an increase in cyber crime by serious and organised crime groups targeting North Wales.

North Wales Police launched their St Asaph-based Cyber Crime Team to coincide with National Cyber Crime Awareness Week.

The force has pledged to train more than 100 officers to combat the growing threat of online crime.

The campaign is being watched closely by forces in other parts of the UK.

The team have also agreed to hold training sessions for groups of vulnerable people so they can learn to stay safe online.

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Winston Roddick CB QC says people rightly want assurances that the police are one step ahead of the criminal elements that use the internet to commit crime.

He said: “There will always be tension between freedom and liberty and surveillance. But the security of people is essential if they are to be free to enjoy their liberty. Surveillance is necessary to protect those freedoms.

“We need to be able to use all legal means to catch and arrest criminals who use the internet to commit crime and without effective internet surveillance that is not always possible.

“The police are savvy and are adapting to change, that is evident from what I have seen today. The police have to use every resource at their disposal if they are to prevent and detect crime. And that has to include electronic and internet surveillance.

“North Wales Police is ahead of the game and setting an advanced standard that many other forces are now looking up to. Policing priorities are fluid and constantly shift and change.

“We have addressed the threat of cyber crime in our Police Crime Plan. The simple fact is that whereas cyber crime is a relatively new phenomenon the police, and particularly North Wales Police, are on top of it and adapting strategies to deal with it.

“The public need to know that their police are technically enabled and are able to use all means at their disposal to combat crime in all its forms."

Deputy North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Julian Sandham added: “The Cyber Crime Team, who have all received enhanced training, have assisted with a number of high profile investigations as well as forging links with businesses and the National Crime Agency to ensure key messages to identify and reduce opportunities of falling foul of this ever increasing problem.

“I’m delighted North Wales Police is leading the way when it comes to tackling this ever increasing issue. The Cyber Crime Team is able to provide advice and guidance on both a technical and tactical level as well as having the enhanced capability to deal with complex cyber crime investigations.”

Detective Sergeant Pete Jarvis of the North Wales Cyber Crime Team promised they would pursue cyber criminals both across North Wales and internationally.

He said: “We will be working proactively to target criminal vulnerabilities and seek to prevent criminal opportunities whenever we can. We will also support partners in industry and law enforcement to better protect themselves against the threat of cyber crime.

“And by providing a highly visible investigative response to incidents of cyber crime we will assist other police forces and wider law enforcement agencies to prevent cyber-enabled crime and pursue those who utilise the internet for criminal means.”

There was, he said, a great deal people could do to keep themselves safe.

He added: ““Research indicates that up to 80% of cyber related offences could be avoided if simple computer and network hygiene guidance is followed.

“We would recommend using up-to-date anti-virus software, install all computer security updates as soon as they are released, use complex passwords for all accounts and never use the same password for multiple accounts.

“And never click on links in e-mails which suggest you have won a competition you did not enter and never clink on links in e-mails that you do not recognise as these might install malicious software on your computer or take you to bogus websites.”

If you think you may have been the victim of cyber crime, require further information or have any information about suspected offenders contact the police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can report suspected online crime to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk

For further information about staying safe online visit www.getsafeonline.org/protecting-yourself/

AM welcomes health plans deferment

North Wales’ Liberal Democrat Assembly Member, Aled Roberts, has welcomed the decision to defer the plan to downgrade maternity services at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and remove breast cancer surgery from the Wrexham Maelor and Gwynedd hospitals.

 

He is now demanding that the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board undertake a proper consultation on the provision of services at all three sites.

 

“Common sense has prevailed over the botched decisions on maternity and breast cancer surgery,” commented Mr Roberts.

 

"They were taken under the urgency procedure but, as the Community Health Council pointed out to the Health Minister, problems within the maternity services had been in evidence months before.

 

“Senior officials within the Health Board have raised the idea of concentrating different health services on one site so that the three hospitals in North Wales operate as one. But there has been no proper discussion of this proposal. Such a radical rethink of our health services needs to be the subject of widespread consultation.

 

“My own view is that the concept of one hospital on three sites will not work in North Wales given the geography and long distances that make travelling across our region very difficult.

 

"Many patients would be left isolated from their families unless specialist medical teams become more mobile or there is major investment in public transport.”

Landmarks aim to beef up catering operations

* Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Canal & River Trust has invited expressions of interest for the provision of a mobile catering service for Trevor Basin and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Trevor Basin and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct are parts of an 11-mile World Heritage site along the Llangollen Canal.

The stunning Telford-designed Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is world famous.

The site has a small visitor centre with many attractions nearby for those who come.

There are boat trips across the aqueduct, boats for day or longer hire, opportunities to explore the tunnels and towpaths or to visit the nearby National Trust properties or country parks.

As a World Heritage site, visitor numbers have increased from 2009 to 2014, and now are in excess of 200,000 each year.

Canal & River Trust says it has ambitious plans for Trevor Basin and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, focusing strongly on the visitor experience.

It is seeking a skilled and experienced catering service provider to open a mobile catering operation at Trevor Basin.

A contract period of 6 to 18 months will be offered to start with, with the possibility of working with Canal & River Trust for a longer term as they develop the site.

The trust says the successful contractor must provide a high quality daily catering service for the Trevor Basin and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

It adds: "To be considered, contractors will need to demonstrate clearly that they have the necessary acumen, technical skills and experience of managing every aspect of a successful catering operation."

Organisations wishing to express an interest should contact Mr Radford Chancellor FCSI (Catering Consultant) on 0844 500 8350 or email radford@radfordchancellor.co.uk to request an application questionnaire.

Closing date for expressions of interest and return of the completed application questionnaire is 1pm on April 13 2015.

Appeal over boy missing from Wrexham

North Wales Police are appealing for help in tracing a 15 year old boy missing from the Wrexham area. 

Larry Berry (pictured below) has not been seen since Friday February 6. 

All enquiries to locate him have proved fruitless.

He is described as having short brown straight hair, slim build and approximately 5’6”tall.

T/Sergeant Gavin Gilmore who is managing the search said: “I am appealing for anyone who has sighted Larry, or knows of his whereabouts, to contact the police.  

"His family have had no contact with him for some 3 weeks or so and we are concerned for his welfare.  Larry has family in the Ellesmere Port, Rochdale and Wrexham areas and part of our enquiries are focused in this area.

“I’d also appeal to Larry himself to contact police to let them know that he is safe and well.”



* Anyone with any information should contact North Wales police on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and quote S032118.

St John's facelift explained at open events

* St John's Church in Abbey Road.

A NUMBER of Llangollen people have been invited to one of three open events at which they can learn more about the £50,000 project to facelift the town’s St John’s Church.

Those connected with clubs or societies in the area and residents of Abbey Road, where St John’s is located, can go along to the church on either Thursday April 9 at 7pm, Wednesday April 15 at 7pm or Saturday April 18 at 1pm to be briefed by the vicar, the Rev Andrew Sully.  

He said: “We are holding the sessions because the major funder for this £50,000 project, WREN , a non-profit-making business  that helps benefit the lives of people who live close to landfill sites by awarding grants for community  projects, needs evidence that other town groups would benefit from the proposed improvements and potentially use our facilities themselves once the changes  are made.

“These facilities are basically a disabled toilet and improved kitchen area.

“At the moment St John’s offers a flexible, carpeted space for meetings but without a toilet and refreshment-making facilities we’re rather hamstrung. 

“We have therefore found the building a difficult venue to ‘market’ to potential user groups and its use by non-church groups has been limited.

“Yet it does have real potential and we know from the  number of people who approach us for meeting-space in St Collen’s Community Hall that these improvements will make St John’s a place that might be in use a couple of times in the week as well as on a Sunday.”

In his invitation to the open events, Mr Sully says: “You might not have the time to come to one of these open events. If this is the case but you’d like to support us nonetheless, could I ask you to write me an email or note of recommendation to our funders saying simply how your group might benefit from our venue and facilities if they were improved, or else saying more generally that you support our proposals and think they are a good idea and that we are moving in the right direction.”

Wine and nibbles will also be served at each open event.

* Mr Sully can be contacted at: The Vicarage Abbey Road Llangollen  LL20 8SN, by phone on 01978  860231 and 07779 418036, or by email at:

andamary@sullystallard.fsnet.co.uk

 

 

Isherwood backs extended airport rail link

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood is supporting proposals to extend rails services between North Wales and Manchester International Airport.

 

Arriva Trains Wales (ATW) has made an application to Network Rail to extend nine weekday and 11 Saturday North Wales – Manchester Piccadilly services to Manchester International Airport (MIA) but this has been declined.

 

ATW intend to now make the case to Office of Rail Regulation, who will ultimately make the decision.

.

Mr Isherwood, who has long been calling for improved transport links in the region, has written to ATW to confirm his support for these additional services and their negotiations with the Office of Rail Regulation.

 

He said: “At the moment there are very few direct services from North Wales to Manchester Airport so these ATW proposed services are a major enhancement.

 

“As the North Wales Economic Ambition Board (NWEAB) have stated in their response to the proposals ‘Current rail services from North Wales to MIA are inadequate and not an effective alternative to road transport,  yet the large majority of the population and concentration of business is within easy access  of the railway. There is a significant opportunity for modal shift from road to rail if  more frequent services to MIA were available and this is consistent with the environmental agenda.’

 

"Having extended services from Manchester Airport to North Wales would not only be a huge benefit to the people of North Wales, but it could also help attract more visitors to this part of the world, boosting the local economy."

Details of Holy Week at St Collen's given

St Collen’s Church has given details of its special events during Holy Week 2015:

Palm Sunday:

9.30am – Communion at Trevor Chapelry

11.00am –meet at St John’s, Abbey Road at 10.45 for procession with donkey through Llangollen to the Parish Church

6pm – Taizé Prayer around the Cross in the Upper Room

Wednesday:

10.30am – St Collen’s  Church- Holy Communion followed by film at 11.30am in the Upper Room:  The Passion-part One

6.00pm – Llantysilio Church - At the House of Simon the Leper –Service of Anointing,  followed by BOOK CLUB in the Upper Room at 7.30pm

Maundy Thursday:

5.00pm – St John’s Church - Solemn Eucharist and Stripping of the Altar followed by PASSOVER SUPPER in the Community Hall at 6pm

Good Friday: 

9.30am – Trevor Chapelry

12noon –St Collen’s – The Passion – Part 2

2-3pm: Last Hour of the Cross in St Collen’s Church

Holy Saturday:  

7 pm –St Collen’s - The Easter Ceremonies – service of light and reaffirmation of baptismal vows

Easter Day Holy Communions:

St Collen’s: 8am, 11 am and 6pm

Llantysilio and Trevor Chapelry 9.30am

St John’s, Abbey Road: 6pm.

Renowned American choir heads for Llangollen

 

* The Azusa Pacific University Chamber Singers.

 

An internationally renowned American choir are looking forward to having a true taste of Welsh hospitality.

 

The Azusa Pacific University Chamber Singers from California are heading to Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in July and will be staying with local families rather than booking hotel and guest house accommodation.

 

The 37-strong choir are among the world's choral elite and their track record includes winning the International Competition for Choirs in Austria in 2013 as well as singing at a host of iconic venues including Sydney Opera House and the Vatican.

 

In the early days of the Eisteddfod’s near-70 year history with very limited local commercial accommodation this was commonplace but in recent years it has become increasingly rare.

But the talented Californians were determined they wanted the full traditional Eisteddfod experience and have asked if the choristers can stay with local families.

 

Michelle Jensen, the Azusa Pacific University Chamber Singers’ conductor, said: “We thought it would be fabulous if we could find families willing to host our students during their stay in Llangollen.

 

“We felt it would give students an additional opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture and experience life in North Wales.

 

“I realise it might be difficult to find 37 host families for our six graduate and 31 undergraduate students who will be in Llangollen but we would be delighted to hear from anyone willing to host any of our students or help with meals.”

 

And there was good news this week for the choir as Alwenna Hughes, from Wrexham, the Eisteddfod’s accommodation organiser, confirmed that she would be able to find them places in the Wrexham area and conveniently near each other.

 

She said: “We don’t put as many up in homestay as we once did. At one time about two and a half thousand would stay with families but we still have plenty of loyal providers and it’s nice to keep the tradition going.

 

“They will be sure of a warm welcome and I’m sure that both they and the families they stay with will enjoy the special experience of the Eisteddfod week.”

 

Michelle added: “After our success at the International Competition for Choirs, we were invited to several exciting competition and performance opportunities for our next tour.

 

“I decided that in order to make the best decision for the ensemble, I needed to do extensive research which included travelling to Ireland and Wales, specifically to experience the Llangollen International Eisteddfod first hand.

 

 “And as the competition developed the combination of international cooperation and the high level of artistic excellence was compelling. By the time we left North Wales, we knew that participating in the Llangollen Eisteddfod was our goal for our 2015 tour.

 

“We have been accepted to compete in six categories: Mixed Choir, Youth Choir, and Open Division, which are all Choir of the World categories, as well as Adult Folk, Cultural Showcase and a small group of 12 from the ensemble will compete in the Vocal Ensemble category.

 

“We are so looking forward to competing at Llangollen and savouring that special Welsh hospitality.”

 

The choir have previously toured Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Italy and have performed at iconic venues including Sydney Opera House and the Vatican.

 

Gethin Davies, Chairman of the Eisteddfod, said: “I met Michelle when she came over last year to ‘test the water’. At the beginning of the week she had an open mind about Llangollen and other possible festivals but by Saturday she was totally convinced that this was the place to come.

 

“We’re always delighted to have high quality choirs taking part in our choral events and so the Azusa Pacific University singers would always be welcome.

 

“It is lovely though that they want to go back to the traditions of the Eisteddfod from its early, post-war days and stay with local families, just as choirs like the Modena Choir with the young Luciano Pavarotti, the Obernkirchen Choir and so many others did over the years.

 

“I’m sure they will find that the welcome here is as warm as ever and that they will thoroughly enjoy their time in Llangollen.”

 

The Aszuza singers won’t be the only Americans performing at this year’s event with this year’s Monday night concert curtain-raiser featuring legendary singer-songwriter Burt Bacharach.

 

Other stars this year include the UK’s top tenor, Alfie Boe, who will sing songs from the Musicals at the Thursday evening concert, one of the highlights of another packed week which will begin on Tuesday with Children’s Day and the Parade of Nations, led by Eisteddfod President Terry Waite before the evening Heart of Llangollen concert featuring a galaxy of international talent.

 

Wednesday’s programme will include a new competition for the International Young Musician of the Year as well as the Children’s Choir of the World while Thursday’s competitions will see another first, the International Voice of Musical Theatre Trophy.

 

Friday’s Open Category for choirs will showcase styles like gospel, barbershop, jazz, pop and glee styles and will also see the International Voice of the Future decided with the prize including the chance to sing at one of the evening concerts the following year.

 

The Blue Riband event, the Choir of the World for the Pavarotti Trophy, is decided on Saturday night as well as the Open Dance competition and Sunday sees the Eisteddfod let its hair down for Llanfest before the climactic final concert by reggae stars UB40.

 

* To book tickets and for more details on the 2015 festival go to the website at www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

Operatic's Nun Run planned for this Sunday

Llangollen Operatic Society's charity "Nun Run" is this coming Sunday, starting at 10.30am from Llangollen Sports Club.

Organiser Lousa Jones said: "We have had a hugely positive response to this event from the local community so far and I am confident we are on track to raise a good sum to split between Leonard Cheshire Disability and the Society, which will be greatly appreciated on both sides.

"There are about 25 society members and friends taking part, the majority of whom will be in costume.

"So anyone out for a walk on Sunday morning might well catch a glimpse of the Pope on the Panorama, a Deacon on Dinbren Road or even a few Sisters on Sun Bank.

"Needless to say, we are all praying hard for clement weather."

* If anyone would still like to support the event by making a donation, they can email  louisa.jones@live.com or get in touch with any member of the society.

Councillor blasts government over A5 lane closure

* The long-running lane closure on the A5.

THE Welsh Government should “get its act together” and let people know what is happening with roadworks in the area, says Llangollen county councillor Stuart Davies.

His plea comes after it was revealed that the neither the government nor the North Wales Trunk Road Agency (NMWTRA) have kept residents of the town informed about the long-running lane closure on the A5 approach the town in connection with a drop in the roadway.

Cllr Davies recently called for more information on the closure, which is controlled by traffic lights, and action on vehicles “rat running” along nearby Birch Hill to avoid the lights.  

He has now received a reply from Mike Hitchings, strategic highways manager for Denbishire County Council, which says: “The lane has been closed by Conwy Structures on behalf of NMWTRA/Welsh Government on safety grounds.

“The road has been substandard for some time and recent routine monitoring has identified a drop of approximately 100 mms over the last 10 years.

“This has triggered the closure which is needed to reduce the loading on the highway and the retaining wall.

“Several different monitoring arrangements are now in place to understand the failing which is thought to be carriageway rather than the 200-year-old Thomas Telford built dry stone wall.

“The road will remain under traffic management until repairs can be undertaken and this is very likely to be several months if not longer.

“I have raised the issue of the signs indicating long delays that are missing from the Llangollen side with NMWTRA and that will be rectified.

“NMWTRA and Welsh Government have not communicated with local residents. They have recognised that this is long overdue and a letter has been drafted and will be sent in the next few days.

“A meeting of officers from Welsh Government, NMWTRA, and Denbighshire is being arranged during the next few days to review the traffic management.

“I have asked the NMWTRA asset manager to ensure that they include a review of the Birch Hill, Maesmawr Road area.

Cllr Davies said: “Apart from the closure on the A5, I am also concerned that Welsh Water are closing lanes on the A539 to Wrexham to do mains water repairs.

“This will mean that visitors to Llangollen and North Wales will encounter delays and this will have a negative effect on the tourism trade.

“The Welsh Government needs to get its act together and let people know what is going on and who to contact in case of problems in a timely manner.

"DCC officers and councillors are getting stick from members of the public when this issue is not down to us."

Hospital housing plan approved

* Llangollen's former Cottage Hospital is to be bulldozed to make way for new homes.

* SEE REPLY FROM CLLR STUART DAVIES AT FOOT OF STORY

DESPITE a strong plea for it to be retained to provide extra NHS beds for the area, county councillors have voted in favour of bulldozing Llangollen’s empty Cottage Hospital and using the site for new homes.
 

Martin Crumpton, who led the campaign to keep the Victorian hospital open two years ago for the building to be mothballed for possible future use by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, was made through an officer to the Denbighshire planning committee at its meeting earlier today (Wednesday).
 

But members voted 19-5 to approve a plan to see it redeveloped by a housing association with six social housing units plus associated access and parking provision.
 

Also involved in the scheme is the development of an ancillary car park opposite the hospital and the erection of a further six social housing units with associated access and parking provision.

Mr Crumpton said later: “My speech to the committee was read out for me by the monitoring officer as a special arrangement owing to me being given less than 48-hours notice to attend the meeting.

“My concerns were basically brushed aside as a matter between me and Betsi Cadwaladr.

“I deeply regret this myopic view as Llangollen creeps towards becoming a dormitory town.

“Certainly, the case for additional dwellings was feeble and no account was made of additional resources which will be expected by a growing population.

“Councillor Rhys Hughes at least touched on it but the case officer, in calling it a matter of judgment, confirmed the department’s judgment that it was outside the scope of the committee.

“I hope the Llangollen Museum does its utmost to record a significant part of Llangollen’s make-up and history which was lost today without so much as a murmur.”

Councillor Stuart Davies replies:

"I see the Berwyn Resident is showing a lack of comprehension of the planning process and blaming DCC for something beyond its control.

As a member of the Planning Committee I have to make decisions based solely on planning grounds.

I was instrumental in forcing a meeting with the then CEO of the Betsi, her senior officers and various concerned DCC members and officers. The case for keeping the hospital open was forcibly put. A full and frank conversation took place. The Betsi ignored my wishes and the process of closure started. The rest is history.

The Betsi then had an empty building on its hands. What they do with it is not in DCCs control.

Mr Crumpton says: “My concerns were basically brushed aside as a matter between me and Betsi Cadwaladr."

In actuality they were not planning concerns and so have no weight at planning committee.

He says: “Certainly, the case for additional dwellings was feeble"

I beg to differ, and judging by the calls I get, so would the young people wanting a house in Llangollen to bring up their familiesI.

I will continue to fight for more affordable housing for the youngsters here in Llangollen. That's what I promised when I was elected and what I am doing!"

Fringe offers new early bird ticket

Llangollen Fringe is offering early bird tickets for this year's event for £60. 

The 2015 Fringe runs from July 16-26, and organisers say that for £60 you can get into all the evening concerts.

However, that add that the offer only runs until the end of March.

A spokesman said: "As the Fringe continues to grow, so does our spending on great acts.

"We can’t let you in on the details yet, but quality comes at a price and this year’s programme looks set to be much more expensive than ever before.

"The fun begins on Thursday July 16 with stand-up comedy and continues for 11 nights until the final concert at Valle Crucis Abbey on July 26."

The spokesman explained that the Festival Ticket allows its owner into over £140 worth of Fringe events including:

• Every evening concert (July 16-25)
• Final Closing Event at Valle Crucis Abbey (July 26)
• Return journey to Carrog on the Rock and Roll Train (July 19) - a specially chartered steam train on Llangollen’s Steam Railway.
• A full day of great acoustic music at Fringe Acoustica (July 18)

The spokesman added: "Although we are not announcing the line-up until nearer the time we can guarantee that if you enjoyed last year, you’ll love what we have in store this time.

"Have faith and buy your ticket now for a guaranteed saving. Regulars will know that the programme always has wide ranging appeal and almost everyone’s taste will be satisfied somewhere in the programme."

Get your ticket now at www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

Couple of Llan couple "on run" reports BBC

BBC online news is reporting today (Tuesday) that the killer of a Llangollen couple has gone on the run.

For the full story see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-31911403

County reduces free swimming provision

Denbighshire County Council has expressed its concern and disappointment at news that the Welsh Government is to reduce the council’s free swim funding by £20,000 – with only six weeks notice.

The Welsh Government provides funding on an annual basis to all local authorities to provide free swimming for under 16s and those aged over 60.

The amount is reviewed on an annual basis and local authorities are informed of the outcome.

In recent years, Denbighshire has been able to provide more than the minimum required by Welsh Government, but as a result of the reduction in funding  announced in February, now warns that the programme will need to reduce.

The changes mean that the council will not actually cut any swimming lessons for children.  It will be maintaining the programme but says it will need to charge for the majority of lessons in the holidays.

The council is also maintaining free access for over 60s in public sessions, but people will need to pay for swimming lessons.

The council has written to the Welsh Government to express its concerns.

Councillor Huw Jones, Cabinet Lead Member for Tourism, Youth and Leisure, said: “The council  is making it absolutely clear that it has no option but to remove all free swimming sessions, considered over and above sessions that we are required to provide under the terms of the agreement with Welsh Government, given the reduction in funding.

"We recognise some authorities in Wales have had much greater reductions through the formula, but nevertheless, it is almost impossible for a council to forward plan and make allowances for funding when decisions are made so late in the day, with little consultation.

"The council will do all it can, to protect as many sessions as possible within the context of the remaining grant allocation.

"At a time when Welsh councils are under pressure to protect important front line services, this is yet another big blow, and one which we are left with, to communicate to the public. Welsh Government continue to plough funding into health, but cutting free swimming will inevitably have a longer term impact on the health and well-being of our residents.   

“Every authority in Wales has been affected by the funding cuts but our main concern is over the lack of communication and notice from Welsh Government in introducing this fundamental change to the funding formula.

“Councils plan their budgets well in advance and we feel that it is unfair to introduce a cut so late in the financial year, as we now need to adapt our free swim offer, in light of the funding allocation, unfortunately there will be a reduction in the number of sessions."

Rufus Wainwright brings unique talent to eisteddfod

 

 

* Rufus Wainwright.

 

Singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright who collaborated with Robbie Williams on his latest album is bringing his unique talent to North Wales.

 

Wainwright has written an opera in French, partied with George W Bush’s daughter and appeared alongside Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley in Absolutely Fabulous and now he’s set to appear at this summer’s Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

 

The son of folk music giants Loudoun Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle will headline the Friday night concert at this year’s 69^th Eisteddfod which opens on Tuesday, July 7, and runs until Sunday, July 12.

 

The American-Canadian is promising the audience an eclectic mix of genres from pop to opera on his North Wales debut and he says he’s very excited about the prospect as Welsh audiences are, in his opinion, uniquely ‘different’.

 

Rufus, speaking from his Toronto home, says he’s performed in Cardiff and enjoyed a driving tour of Wales but the opportunity to appear on the same Llangollen stage that has been graced by legends such as Pavarotti and Carreras was something he wanted to grab with both hands.

 

He said: “There is something about Wales, the audience is just different. They seem to have an instinct for music and appreciate a performance in a different way. English, Scottish, even Irish, audiences are different despite being geographically so close.

 

“A Welsh audience can be quite rowdy and vocal and then just melt when they hear a particular poem or piece of music. There is something immediate about the experience.

 

“So I’m really looking forward to appearing at Llangollen especially having learnt something of the history of the festival. Looking at the long lists of performers who have appeared in the past is like a who’s who of music – so many big and influential names. I really am looking forward to it.”

 

Eilir Owen Griffiths, Musical Director of the Eisteddfod, said: “We are thrilled to have Rufus Wainwright as part of the line-up for this year’s event and headlining the concert on the Friday night.

 

“His talents span such a wide range of musical genres but what stands out is the quality of what he does and that’s what we are dedicated to bringing to Llangollen.”

 

The stellar line-up this year also includes Oscar-winning songwriter Burt Bacharach who'll open the festival on Monday, July 6, and classical heart-throb Alfie Boe who'll be performing songs from musical theatre and movies on the Thursday night, July 9.

 

The closing Sunday night festival on July 12 will star music legend Ali Campbell, the voice of UB40 who sold 70 million records, who'll be reunited on the Eisteddfod stage with two other founding members of UB40 - percussionist, trumpet player and vocalist Astro and keyboard player Mickey.

 

Born in New York, in 1973, the son of folk singers, the late Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright III, Rufus had his first piano lesson aged six and by the age of eight he was regularly appearing on stage with the McGarrigle Sisters and Family alongside his mother, sister Martha, and aunt Ann.

 

He has now released seven studio albums and three live albums including Rufus does Judy, a tribute to gay icon Judy Garland and recorded at New York’s Carnegie Hall in 2006, which was nominated for a Grammy award.

 

Wainwright has collaborated with many of the world’s top artists including Elton John, Joni Mitchell, The Pet Shop Boys, Burt Bacharach and his most recent collaboration, on the title track of Robbie Williams’ latest album, Swings Both Ways, which he co-wrote and sung as a duet.

 

He even appeared on BBC TV comedy Absolutely Fabulous in a cameo role in 2002 thought his memories of it now are vague, admitting: “I was pretty off my rocker at that point.

 

“They got in touch with me. Like any properly brought up and well-intentioned gay man at that time I was completely obsessed with that show and would have killed my mother in order to be on it.”

 

As a member of folk music royalty he has also partied with the like of President George W Bush’s daughter Barbara and Marianne Faithful and battled addiction to crystal meth but is now happily settled with a husband and a daughter he fathered with Leonard Cohen’s daughter, Lorca.

 

But as well as being a celebrated popular music performer Wainwright is one of the few artists able to cross over to the classical world with equal success.

 

His acclaimed first opera, Prima Donna, premiered at the 2009 Manchester International Festival and has since been performed in London, Toronto and New York.

 

In 2010 Wainwright was commissioned by the San Francisco Symphony to compose and interpret five Shakespeare Sonnets, a five song cycle to orchestra and voice that have since been performed around the world.

 

And the Canadian Opera Company has commissioned what will be his second opera about Roman Emperor Hadrian which is scheduled to premiere in Toronto in the autumn of 2018.

 

Wainwright added: "I gather Llangollen is going to be a bit special and I’m really looking forward to it. I understand tenor Noah Stewart delighted the audience by singing in Welsh the last two years.

 

“Now that’s a challenge, but at least I have a little bit of time. We will have to see what I can do. I might have to get my good friend the Welsh actress Siân Phillips to help me out!”

 

The Eisteddfod will also feature Children’s Day and the Parade of Nations on the Tuesday, led by Eisteddfod President Terry Waite before the evening Heart of Llangollen concert featuring a galaxy of international talent.

 

Highlights of Wednesday will include the debut of the International Young Musician of the Year and the Children’s Choir of the World while Thursday’s competitions will see another first, the International Voice of Musical Theatre Trophy.

 

Friday’s Open Category for choirs will showcase styles like gospel, barbershop, jazz, pop and glee styles and will also see the International Voice of the Future decided with the prize including the chance to sing at one of the evening concerts the future.

 

The Blue Riband event, the Choir of the World for the Pavarotti Trophy, is decided on Saturday night as well as the Lucile Armstrong Dance Final and Sunday sees the Eisteddfod let its hair down for Llanfest before the climactic final concert with Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey.

 

To book tickets and for more details on the 2015 festival go to the website at www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

llanblogger says ...

Councillor has more questions about A5 roadworks

* The roadworks on the A5 which are causing more problems,

according to Cllr Stuart Davies.

Llangollen county councillor Stuart Davies is again asking questions about the long-running roadworks on the A5 heading into town.

He says he is concerned that the works are causing issues for residents.

"Speeding cars and inappropriate vehicles are using Maes Mawr Road and Birch Hill to avoid the hold up caused by the single laning of the A5," he explained.

"I have been pressing those responsible for the works, the Wales Trunk Road Agency who work for the Welsh Government, to let us know what exactly is going on and a time scale for completion.

"I am also calling for them to help address the issues caused by their single laning on Maes Mawr Road and Birch Hill."

Carl Fogarty to guest at Motorcycle Festival

World Superbike king and I'm a Celebrity winner Carl ‘Foggy’ Fogarty MBE, the most successful World Superbike (WSB) racer of all time, will be guest of honour at the Llangollen International Motorcycle Festival - LlanBikeFest 15 on Saturday, August 1.

The 49-year-old winner of four WSB titles and eight world crowns will open the two day family-friendly event, spend the day meeting fans and provide plenty of opportunities for autographs and photos.

In addition to his unprecedented 59 victories from 219 race starts, he won the fourteenth series of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2014.

Carl said: “I’m looking forward to being back in Wales in August for LlanBikeFest. I was at the Llangollen show a few years ago and received a great reception - but now I hear the show is bigger and better, so it promises to be a fantastic weekend for anyone who loves their bikes.”

The site has previously hosted successful bike shows – the last in 2011 – but LlanBikeFest 15 is being organised by a new team of local motorcycle enthusiasts, led by Harry Edwards.

Harry said: “The opportunity to meet Carl will be the icing on the cake for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of every aspect of motorcycling.”

The Llangollen International Motorcycle Festival at the town’s Pavilion is set amid some of Britain’s best biking roads - at the foot of the Horseshoe Pass and its famously bike-friendly Ponderosa Café.

On-site attractions will include displays, stunts, demonstrations, trade and club stands, plus beer, bands and evening entertainment. There will also be ride-outs from the site to explore some of the area’s most beautiful roads and scenery.

Follow the event on Twitter at @llanbikefest and Facebook at Llangollen International Motorcycle Festival. Follow Carl Fogarty on Twitter at @carlfogarty and Facebook at www.facebook.com/CarlFogartyOfficial.

* Book tickets and stands online at www.llanbikefest.co.uk or contact the festival office at 07960 693398 or office@llanbikefest.co.uk.

AM calls for end of uncertainty over disabled funding

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood has called on the Welsh Government to end the "uncertainty" for the thousands of disabled people and their carers who are anxiously waiting to hear whether funding will be available to enable them to continue to live independently.  

The Independent Living Fund (ILF) delivers financial support to disabled people so they can choose to live in their communities rather than in residential care.

 

Speaking in the Assembly Chamber this week, Mr Isherwood (pictured) said there is real concern among disabled groups that the Welsh Government are not proposing to ring fence ILF.

 

Calling for a Welsh Government Statement on the matter, Mr Isherwood said: “I call for an update on Welsh Government’s intentions for the Independent Living Fund (ILF). The Minister will be aware that, after the responsibility and funding was transferred from the UK Treasury to the Welsh Government for this, supporting disabled people to live independently, disabled groups expressed concern that the Welsh Government was not proposing to ring-fence the fund.

 

“Well, we’re now into March, with less than four months to the final closure of the existing funding on 30 June, and we’re still awaiting a decision following the consultation that ended before Christmas, I understand, which leaves very little time for new arrangements to be put in place. Therefore, there are many anxious existing ILF recipients and carers, fearful about their future ability to continue living independently.

 

“Concerns have been exacerbated by rumours, which may be no more than that, that Welsh Government will delay a decision for 12 months, which, if the case, it’s hard to imagine anything other than the funds being transferred to local authorities against the opposition of recipients, carers, the Wales Alliance for Citizen Directed Support, Disability Wales and other third sector organisations.

 

“I understand that some local authorities, certainly in North Wales, are writing to people regarding their final care plan from the ILF, telling them that, for funding after June, they should contact the local authority social services department, and giving a named person to contact, who’s already left.”

 

Mr Isherwood claims the Minister for Government Business, Jane Hutt AM, failed to address the points he raised and instead laid blame with the UK Government.

  

Mr Isherwood added: “This had been raised with me as Co-Chair of the Cross Party Group on Disability as a matter of serious concern to disabled people and their carers. I’m disgusted that this Minister chose to score cheap political points rather than address this.

 

“As the Scottish Government stated, current funding for this support to disabled people has been transferred from the UK Treasury to them, but this Labour Welsh Government won’t admit that the same applies in Wales. This was transferred to the devolved administrations so they can decide how  ILF users in their nations will be supported. Scotland has appointed a full time ILF Business Manager and embedded a project assistant within ‘Inclusion Scotland’, Disability Wales’ sister body.

 

“It is simply not acceptable that disabled people in Wales are being left in the dark as the closure of the existing scheme fast approaches.”