New Dot Cinema plays last film shown at The Dorothy

* Sammy Going South gets its test screening at Llangollen Town Hall.

Below: Period programmes from the Dorothy Cinema. Photos: J Sandiford

LLANGOLLEN’S new community cinema, New Dot, has held a technical test at the Town Hall in preparation for their launch night on Wednesday July 15.

The film they used to test their equipment was a copy of the very last film shown at the original Dorothy Cinema back in 1963.

Alexander Mackendrick's Sammy Going South is a British adventure film from 1963 about a 10-year-old boy travelling by himself across Africa.

According to an original cinema programme held by Llangollen Museum, it was shown on Saturday October 26, 1963, costing 2/6 for adults and 1/6 for pensioners.

Cinema programmer Simon Proffitt explains: “We needed to show something in order to test our projector and fine tune the sound system for the opening night.
“We thought this would create a neat link to our namesake, the Dorothy, so we tracked down a copy.

“We also trialled bits from the actual film we’ll be showing on the night, Oscar-winning romantic comedy The Artist. It looks stunning on the big screen.”

Although the rest of the cinema's 2015 programme is yet to be confirmed, it's unlikely that Sammy Going South will be screened in full to an audience. 

Simon added: “It’s not a bad film, but there are so many other excellent movies out there that people might not have come across before, and sadly we can't show them all.

“There will be some old classics in amongst the newer and less well-known titles, though, and we’re really looking forward to bringing a hand-picked and varied selection to Llangollen.”

The first public cinema event is at 7.30pm on Wednesday  July 15 at Llangollen Town Hall.
Tickets are available from Baileys Delicatessen, Gales Wine and Gift Shop,  or from
www.llangollenfringe.org, priced at £8 (£5 concessions).











* For more information go to: http://www.llangollenfringe.co.uk/index.php/en/festival-2015/94-wednesday-15th-july-new-dot-cinema

Health board's chief executive suspended

The BBC is reporting today that the chief executive of a Besti Cadwaladr University Health Board, which was yesterday placed into special measures by the Welsh Government, has been suspended with immediate effect.

 

Betsi Cadwaladr chairman Peter Higson said the suspension of Prof Trevor Purt was a "neutral act" while arrangements for special measures were sorted out.

For the full story see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-33061869

Meanwhile, Llangollen campaigner Martin Crumpton, who opposed the health board's decision to close the town's Cottage Hospital, said in a statement: "Suspending the Chief Executive Officer, Trevor Purt, was inevitable and a necessarily step in allowing special measures to be taken, and far-reaching as it goes well-beyond Glan Clwyd, Bangor and Wrexham Maelor.

"It will clearly hearten campaigners at Withybush who were also made promises to reopen their own doctor-led maternity services.

 

"Professor Higson was in an invidious position, caught between his obligation to so-called collective responsibility and his own judgement of what is right, just and in the best interests of the hundreds of thousands to whose care he’d been entrusted.

 

"The very least I can do is reaffirm support from myself and other campaigners I work closely with for his programme of desperately-needed reforms."

 

Plas Newyd's summer programme details

* Plas Newydd where a programme events is planned for summer.

 

Plas Newydd has given details of its programme of events over the next month or so:

Sun 14th to Fri 19th June - Waterloo Week:   

Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, come and visit Plas Newydd as visited by one of the house’s regular visitors – The Duke of Wellington.

Sunday 21st June - Mid-Summers Eve Concert:

Celebrate  the magic and wonder of Mid-Summer’s Eve in the beautiful grounds of Plas Newydd with entertainment from the renowned and popular  Porthmyn choir  (Tickets £5) 6 – 8.30pm

Wednesday 24th June - Painting Day:
  
Talk and tour of the house first then an opportunity to sketch and paint the picturesque gardens and amazing Jacobean carvings within the house. (Normal admission prices apply).

Sunday 28th June – Llangollen Silver Band 4.30pm onwards:

Bring a rug and picnic, games for the kids, whilst being entertained to popular classics by the Llangollen Silver Band (Tickets £5).

Friday July 31st –   The Muskateers:

It’s one for all and all for one as popular theatre group Off the Ground return to the grounds of Plas Newydd for another evening spectacular with The Muskateers.

Health board goes into special measures

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which covers Llangollen, is being placed in special measures, the Welsh Government has announced.

And Llangollen county councillor Stuart Davies has called on Health Minister Mark Drakeford and Wales’s First Minister Carwyn Jones to consider their positions.

Following concerns about the leadership, governance and progress in the Health Board, Mr Drakeford asked the Chief Executive of NHS Wales, Dr Andrew Goodall, to bring forward a meeting between the Welsh Government, the Wales Audit Office and Health Inspectorate Wales - as part of the NHS Wales escalation framework - to review and consider the health board’s current status.

Since the introduction of the framework in March 2014, the Health Board has already been raised to Targeted Intervention, the highest of any of the NHS organisations in Wales.

The tripartite meeting, held earlier today (Monday), concluded that the Health Board should be placed in special measures, the highest level of escalation under the framework.

The Minister has accepted their advice. The Chair of the Health Board has been informed of the Minister’s decision.

Mark Drakeford said: “As a result of the meeting that took place earlier today between the Welsh Government and regulators, I can confirm that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is being placed in special measures.

“This significant decision is made in line with the escalation framework. It reflects serious and outstanding concerns about the leadership, governance and progress in the Health Board over some time. A thorough and balanced assessment has taken place on areas of concern that will form the basis of actions to be taken as a result of special measures.

“Whilst the special measures apply to the Health Board, I want to reassure patients and communities served by the Health Board and staff working for it that day-to-day services and activities will continue as normal.” 

Llangollen councillor Stuart Davies said: “The Health Minister has failed to get a grip of these issues and should consider his position.

“Presiding over all of this unholy mess – don’t forget that two health authorities in South Wales are badly overspent - is the First Minister, Carwyn Jones. He should be considering his position, too.

“Next year is Welsh Assembly election time and the NHS in Wales is in meltdown.”

Referring to his recent appearance as a questioner of BBC’s Question Time when it came to Wrexham a few months ago, Cllr Davies added: “I was right when asked the question by David Dimbleby,  is the NHS better in England than Wales? The answer was correct. Yes.”

Further actions and interventions as part of the special measures will now be considered by the Welsh Government, with advice and support from regulators.

The Health Minister is due to make an oral statement to the Assembly tomorrow (Tuesday 9th June 2015).

A spokesman for Denbighshire County Council said: "We have become increasingly concerned about recent developments at the Health Board on behalf of our residents. We want to reassure the public that following the latest developments,  the Council, as a responsible local authority, will work constructively with the Minister for Health and Social Services to play our part in supporting the turn around and improvement of health services in North Wales. We await the Minister's next statement this week when we will find out the finer details of the steps the Welsh Government will be taking."

MP raises questions over bank closures

Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones has put down questions in Parliament calling on Business Secretary Sajid Javid to meet with senior management of Nat West following the bank's shock announcement last week that it intends to close branches in Llangollen, Corwen and nine other areas of North Wales. 

 

Ms Jones (pictured) has also asked the Government to issue a statement on how it plans to support high street banking in communities in the region.

 

The exact wording of Susan Elan Jones MP's written parliamentary question is:

"Further to plans announced this week by Nat West Bank that they will close branches in Llangollen, Corwen and 9 other communities in North Wales, will the Secretary of State (a) meet with senior management at the Bank to urge them to re-consider their decision and (b) issue a statement on how his Department proposes to support high street banks in communities in North Wales."   

Speaking after issuing her question, Ms MP said: "High street banking is at crisis point across North Wales.

 

"It is a disgrace that Nat West want to close the last branch bank in the growing town of Corwen and that they are also planning to turn their backs on businesses and individuals in the international tourist town of Llangollen.

 

"If David Cameron really wants to lead a One Nation government, then Cabinet Ministers must remember that rural communities are part of our nation too and they need to accordingly by putting pressure on the big banks and actively supporting high street banking in North Wales." 

Strengthened links between council and business

Efforts to strengthen links between Denbighshire County Council and businesses accessing its planning and public protection functions is being piloted in the county – the first project of its kind in Wales.

The Council has a regulatory function to protect the health and well-being of the public through food hygiene, health and safety, Trading Standards, licensing, planning and building control activities.

As part of its Economic and Community Ambition Programme, the Council is now working with the Government’s Better Regulation Delivery Office, with the intention of making sure that businesses receive a co-ordinated response from the Council on regulatory matters through one contact, rather than having to deal with numerous departments.

This initiative is being supported by the Federation of Small Business and the West Cheshire and North Wales Chambers of Commerce.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Public Protection, said: "We want to improve services to our business customers and we’ve already spoken to a number of them about their perceptions. Whilst they understand the need for the various services, there is a clear need for a more seamless service, for closer joint working and for providing assistance and support through advice and guidance.

"We also want to put more emphasis on working with businesses from day one to get things right from a regulation perspective and avoid enforcement action later.

Derek Payet, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills | Better Regulation Delivery Office, said: "The Government’s priority is business growth and it’s great to see local businesses and Denbighshire County Council’s regulatory services working in partnership to achieve this.  It’s good to have an open approach to improvements that will meet the needs of businesses in the area and I’m pleased to be supporting the project through the Better Business for All programme."

Leader of Denbighshire, Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, said: "Improving links with businesses and making the Council more accessible forms part of our Economic and Community Ambition Strategy. The success of the local economy is of utmost importance and we must play our part in assisting businesses to comply with the law and contribute to their future success.

"We look forward to working closely with businesses over the coming months to make this ambition become a reality."

Federation of Small Businesses North Wales Chair Gwyn Evans said: "Every business faces some form of regulation, but if that regulation is done in a clear and proportionate way it makes life easier both for businesses and regulators themselves.

"The FSB has called for more to be done across Wales to improve the quality of regulation and last year we published a major report – Better Regulation for Wales – on this issue.

Colin Brew, Executive Director of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce said: "West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce are pleased to be supporting this positive initiative and would encourage businesses of all sizes to engage and participate and have their voices heard."

Weather stays fine for Plas Newydd Garden Fete

* Plas Newydd field was full of fun activities during the Garden Fete.

Scores of people came flocking to the annual Garden Fete held at Plas Newydd yesterday (Saturday).

The event was organised by members of Llangollen Rotary Club, Inner Wheel Club and the newly-formed Dee Valley Rotary Club.

Llangollen Silver Band played selections, while youngsters were entertained by Punch and Judy, face painting  and a treasure hunt.              

People also had the chance to try their skills at various games and competitions.

There were numerous stalls, including home-made cakes and a plant stall.

A tea tent provided a range of refreshments.

Announcements were made by town crier Chem Cheminais.

Public urged to have a say on doctors' building

* The current health centre on Regent Street.

 

Llangollen people are being urged to tell the Welsh Government how they believe the town’s current health centre could be saved as a community asset.

The building in Regent Street will be left empty when the GPs practice moves to fresh headquarters in the new £5 million primary care resource centre now nearing completion in Mill Street.

A number of people have voiced their concern that the Regent Street building should continue to be used for the benefit of the community.

But Mike Edwards, a board member of Llangollen Cittaslow group, recently discovered by making Freedom of Information request to its owners, the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, that after being offered for possible redevelopment as affordable housing – with no takers – the building is to be put up for sale on the open market.

Mr Edwards has since discovered that the Welsh Government is currently running a consultation exercise called Protecting Community Assets in which it is seeking people’s views on how this should be done.

He said: "As a Cittaslow board member, I'd urge people to complete the online survey to provide the Welsh Government with the community's view on these proposals which already apply in England."

 

The consultation exercise began last month and is due to end on September 11 this year.

* Comments can be submitted online at: http://gov.wales/consultations/people-and-communities/protecting-community-assets-consultation/?status=open&lang=en 
or by post to: Protecting Community Assets Consultation, Welsh Government, Communities Division, Rhydycar, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UZ.

The government says that it intends to publish a summary of the responses.

County responds to library and TIC closure rumours

DENBIGHSHIRE County Council has denied rumours about the future of Llangollen library and Tourist Information Centre (TIC).

In the past few weeks there have been speculation in the town that, that in the face of on-going financial cuts, the council was thinking of axing both facilities, which are housed in the same building on Castle Street.

However, this has been denied by the county council.

In a statement issued to llanblogger, a spokesperson said: “Denbighshire, like all other councils in Wales and the UK, is facing significant financial cuts in the coming years due to the economic climate. This is on top of millions of pounds of cuts already made.

“We have carried out a rigorous budget setting process for the current year during which members committed to maintaining all six of our libraries as it is agreed that these are really important community facilities and so we are looking to develop them further by increasing the One Stop Shop and Self Service facilities in them, so there are no plans to close any or sell them off at this time.

“We recognise the importance of TICs and, again, there are no current plans to close them from Denbighshire, although members did agree for the council to cease running gallery space at Llangollen, Denbigh and Rhyl as this was considered a costly service in the face of such sizeable cuts.
“The gallery at Llangollen is due to finish by late October.”

Giant coloured gorillas heading for Llan

* The troop of gorillas making their way to Llangollen.

A troop of giant multi-coloured gorillas will stand guard over this year’s Llangollen International Music festival.

The 10 sheet metal gorillas, standing 6ft tall and weighing nearly 16 stone, will go on show for the first time when the iconic festival of singing and dancing gets underway on Tuesday, July 7.

The spectacular primates, each clutching a huge bunch of bananas, have been created at the British Ironwork Centre near Oswestry.

After Llangollen, the gorillas will be taken on  a tour of festivals across the UK.
Their creator is Clive Knowles, 53, chairman of the British Ironwork Centre, who are supporting this year's Eisteddfod.

Last year a single giant gorilla sculpture made from 20,000 caused a sensation on the Llangollen Eisteddfod field and Clive is expecting an even bigger reaction this time.

He said: “The original spoon gorilla was designed and created as a result of a challenge I was set by Uri Geller. We were making some Victorian lampposts for his driveway and he was visiting the site when he challenged me to use spoons to make a giant gorilla.

“Well, we managed it, and used 20,000 metal spoons in the process. Uri Geller came to Oswestry to unveil the sculpture along with Prince Michael of Kent.

“They were both amazed and Uri Geller couldn’t believe what we’d achieved. To be fair, there’s nothing quite like it anywhere else in the world. That sculpture was such a massive hit and was on TV reports around the world from Argentina to Zimbabwe and the US to China.

“It’s now on a tour of hospitals and hospices all around the UK. So I decided to make a whole troop of gorillas, but out of colourful metals, and adopt the gorilla as our signature sculpture.

“All the new gorillas are made from sheet metal discs which are individually hand-beaten. I designed them; my history is in art, design and metal work. Each one takes six weeks to complete, we have four metal workers on the task, and we started making the troop in June of last year.”

He added: “After Llangollen they will also go on a tour of the UK and are set for the Great Gorilla Run in London in September. That’s an event that raises funds for gorilla conservation in the wild.

“But, other than here at the British Iron Works Centre, their first public appearance will be at Llangollen. I’m proud to be associated with the International Music Eisteddfod, it’s such a unique and wonderful event.

“The atmosphere is just fabulous and the fact the ethos is all about peace and harmony is just wonderful. Children are incredibly drawn to the gorillas and that’s why I wanted to make the troop colourful and fun.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the reaction when Eisteddfod visitors see the gorilla troop. They really are striking.”

Other big draws during Eisteddfod week include Oscar-winning music legend Burt Bacharach, the immensely popular Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, heart-throb tenor Alfie Boe and TV choirmaster Gareth Malone.

 

There will also be the world premiere of a new work to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Welsh colony in Patagonia in a concert that will also star former royal harpist Catrin Finch.

 

Other big draws during Eisteddfod week include Oscar-winning music legend Burt Bacharach, the immensely popular Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, heart-throb tenor Alfie Boe and TV choirmaster Gareth Malone.

 

There will also be the world premiere of a new work to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Welsh colony in Patagonia in a concert that will also star former royal harpist Catrin Finch.

 

The Eisteddfod's musical director said: "We have a really exciting programme this year that is going to once again transform the beautiful town of Llangollen into a multi-coloured melting pot of music and dance.

"And this year visitors will be given an even more spectacular welcome thanks to the troop of giant multi-coloured gorillas. They are going to give us even more wow factor."
According to Clive Knowles, his next project is also massive.

He said: “With the backing of the Home Office we are currently working with all 43 British police forces and supplying them with boxes so the public can dispose of blades and weapons as part on an amnesty.

“We then intend to build a 24ft high angel out of the weapons as a monument against aggression and violence.

“It’s our intention Chief Constables, Police and Crime Commissioners, former offenders and prisoners, victim support workers and so forth will come to Oswestry and each weld a knife, or other weapon, into place as part of the sculpture.”

He added: “We want the sculpture to be made of 100,000 blades and knives that will, as a result of amnesties, have been removed from UK streets. We have started on the angel but its design is being kept secret and we hope to have it unveiled by a senior member of the Royal Family.

“It will be going on show on the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square once it’s complete which will be wonderful. It’s all about getting every UK police force to embrace the idea and work with us so we have the materials to work with.

“We hope to have the angel finished by the end of the year or early in the New Year. In the mean time I know our troop of giant gorillas is going to be a massive hit at Llangollen. I can’t wait to see the reaction.”     

* To book tickets for Llangollen International Musical Festival and for more details about what's on go to the website at www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk  

 

Plas Newydd garden fete this Saturday

The annual Garden Fete will be held at Plas Newydd this Saturday June 6, from 2pm.

Members of Llangollen Rotary Club, Inner Wheel Club and the newly-formed Dee Valley Rotary Club will be there to welcome you.

Llangollen town band will be there to serenade you, Punch and Judy will entertain and you can try your skills at various games and competitions.

There will be numerous stalls, including home-made cakes and a plant stall.

The tea tent will provide teas, coffees, soft drinks, sandwiches and cakes.

Apart from the Punch and Judy Show, the children can enjoy plenty of fun games, face painting  and a treasure hunt.              

NatWest is to close Llan branch in September

NATWEST Bank has announced this afternoon (Wednesday) that it is to close its branch in Castle Street, Llangollen in September.

A statement from the bank says: "We have taken the difficult decision to close the NatWest Llangollen branch on the 21^st September 2015.

"We are working hard to ensure there are a number of alternative ways for people in the area to continue to bank with us.

"We have reached an agreement with the local Post Office, which is 0.1 miles away from the branch so that our customers can check their balance, deposit and withdraw funds, and business customers can get coinage. 

 

"We will keep the ATM in the local community, and there are also 4 other free to use ATMs within 1 mile of the branch.

 

"We are introducing a mobile branch service to the community and we will be engaging with our customers and the local community to understand the best day and time for the mobile branch to visit. 

 

"The number of transactions taking place at NatWest Llangollen branch has dropped by 38% since 2011 and only 35 customers use the branch on a regular weekly basis.  Sixteen of these customers already use other branches in the area. 

 

"We are committed to following the UK Government protocol on branch closures, and we have made the decision following careful consideration of a wide range of factors including branch usage and the alternative ways our customers can bank with us locally. 

 

"Our customers are increasingly using alternative ways to bank with them such as online and mobile banking.  As a result, branch transactions have declined by around 36% since 2010 whilst online and mobile transactions have grown by more than 300%. Only 9% of their total transactions are now undertaken in branches in comparison to 25% in 2010. 

 

"We are writing to all of our customers who use the branch, as well as displaying posters in branch to let them know of the closure. Between now and the closure date, we will engage with all of our customers, local businesses and the wider local community to make sure they are aware of the alternative ways of accessing their banking with us in the local area, and to answer any questions they might have."

 

The announcement has caused anger amongst local politicians.

 

Clwyd South Assembly Member Ken Skates, who has his office in Llangollen, said: “I am bitterly disappointed by this decision and will be seeking an urgent meeting with NatWest.

“I am a NatWest customer myself and this will mean people will have to go to Wrexham for a face-to-face service, which remains particularly important to many. It’s not even in the same county and it’s simply too far to travel for some.

 

“Loyal customers haven’t even been consulted about this and many will find out that their branch is closing through the local press, so NatWest shouldn’t be surprised if people show the company the same disregard and opt to take their money elsewhere.”

 

He added: “If these closures are pushed through, I will demand assurances that the mobile unit mentioned by NatWest will visit Llangollen several times a week and that all customers will be fully informed about when it will be available.” 

 

Local county councillor Stuart Davies said: "I am deeply disappointed to hear this news.

 

"All banks should remember that with the right to make a profit comes responsibility to communities such as Llangollen.

 

"This closure will cause particular difficulties for the large number of businesses in the town plus local clubs and societies who have cash and cheques to bank.

 

"These will now have to be taken to other branches, leading to major inconvenience and security problems."

 

As yet there has been no confirmation of the move by NatWest. 

Online forum seeks views on Sainsbury's site

* The site where the supermarket building is emerging.

A COMMUNITY group in Llangollen has set up an online forum to gather residents’ views on what should happen to the supermarket being built in the town now that Sainsbury’s are no longer planning to use it themselves.

A few weeks ago the superstore chain made the bombshell announcement that, due to tough trading conditions, it would no longer be going ahead with opening a new store on the former site of the Dobson & Crowther printworks on Berwyn Road.

The news has led to widespread speculation about what should now be done with the 34,000 square foot building, the metal structure of which is currently being laid.

And this has prompted the Llangollen Cittaslow group to set up an online forum to which local people can contribute their ideas and suggestions for the building’s future.   

Town councillor Phil Thane, who is leading the initiative, said: “Last month Sainsbury’s announced that they no longer planned to open a store in Llangollen.

“However, J Ross, the developers, are still building it and Sainsbury’s have a contract to take it once it's finished so they need an alternative use.

“A senior figure in Sainsbury’s property section has been quoted as saying that they are actively marketing the site to interested parties and would be interested to hear any ideas for the site, so we are complying with this.”

Cllr Thane added: “Whatever you think about Sainsbury’s and supermarkets in general, no-one wants an empty eyesore in town, so the Cittaslow Llangollen group decided to create a public forum where everyone can make suggestions.

“They have set it up and Sainsbury’s have promised to follow it.

“Now it's up to the people of Llangollen to make their feelings known.

“The forum is at: www.cittaslow.llangollentowncouncil.co.uk or at: www.forum.llangollen.cymru

“Click on Cittaslow Forum. You can join any of the discussions, or click on New Topic and start your own.

“If you haven't used the Cittaslow site before, you need to register.”

 

Government issues statement on Llan roadworks

* The roadworks on the A5 where temporary repairs have now begun. 

The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent, which operates on behalf of the Welsh Government, has issued a statement to residents about current roadworks in Llangollen.

This deals with temporary lights on the A5, around Tyn y Wern, and on Berwyn Road.

 

The statement says: “The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent, working on behalf of the Welsh Government, manage this section of trunk road, and due to the detection of movement and distress in the carriageway it was closed to two way traffic on the 12th December 2014.

 

“This closure ensures the safety of highway users and allowed investigations to be undertaken to identify the reasons for the movement and to provide information for the design of temporary repair works. 

“It is appreciated that the lane closure has caused some inconvenience and delay to residents, businesses and users of the A5 and the adjacent roads. To mitigate this, the traffic signals are being operated manually at peak times to minimise queuing, and additional signage has been installed to limit obstructions to entrances and deter traffic from seeking diversions on unsuitable roads, such as Maesmawr Road and Birch Hill.

“The works to temporarily strengthen the retaining walls will commence on the 1st June 2015 and will continue for 6 to 8 weeks. During this period pedestrians will be prohibited from using the footway within the roadworks, however pedestrian access to Birch Hill and Maesmawr Road will not be restricted. It is anticipated that the A5 at this location will be fully opened to two way traffic in time for the International Eisteddfod on 6th July.”

On the temporary lights in connection with the supermarket development on the A5 Berwyn Road the statement says: “This new store development is underway and will include carriageway closures to two way traffic to allow for safe execution of the works to construct a new access to the store and essential statutory undertakers diversions.

“Temporary traffic signals will be in place from 1st June to 3rd July 2015, operated manually at peak times and removed at weekends where possible. Traffic signals will also be required between 13th and 17th July 2015 to complete final re-surfacing of the new junction/access to the site.

“The developer is doing all he can to minimise disruption to traffic whilst these works are underway, including re-programming the works to avoid any restriction to traffic during the International Eisteddfod week, 6th to 12th July  2015.

“Your continued patience and cooperation on this matter is much appreciated. Additional information can be found on the Welsh Government Traffic Wales website: http://www.traffic-wales.com”

Llangollen county councillor Stuart Davies commented: “The agent originally applied for a temporary lane closure last August.

“This road has now been closed for the best part of six months and I’d like to know why making even temporary repairs has taken so long.

“I’d also like to know why, if they knew this job was going to last so long, they haven’t kept local people better informed about what’s going on.

“We’ve been treated like mushroom men with the way we’ve been kept in the dark and getting information has been like drawing teeth every step of the way.”   

 

Police launch summer drink drive campaign

With summer just around the corner police across Wales are warning motorists that officers will be on heightened alert to spot anyone driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

Led by North Wales Police, the month-long All Wales Summer Anti Drink and Drug Drive Campaign throughout June, will see all four Welsh police forces increase the pressure and focus on those drivers who drink and drive or drive under the influence of drugs.

Sergeant Alun Davies from North Wales Police’ Roads Policing Unit said: “We all enjoy the prospect of longer evenings and the possibilities they present for socialising in homes, gardens, local pubs, festivals and other events.

“But there is a price to be paid for thinking that, if you drink or take drugs and get behind the wheel, you will still be safe. More people may be tempted to have a few drinks and may drive without thinking of the consequences.

“Think before you go out, watch what you drink and plan how you will get home.

“This summer will be the first campaign with the new drug testing kits to help detect cannabis and cocaine as well as standard kits for alcohol testing, so we are better equipped than ever to detect and penalise those who take this very dangerous risk. Using intelligence received from the public we’ll be ready for action to keep the road network safe, whether it be at night or the morning after.”

New legislation came into force in March 2015 which sets legal limits for how much of a substance – both illegal drugs and prescription medications motorists can have in their system whilst driving. A new device now allows officers to test at the roadside using a swab from inside the driver’s mouth, to see if a motorist has taken cannabis or cocaine.

Officers made their first arrest the day after the new legislation came into being – a 19-year-old man from Anglesey was arrested following a damage-only road traffic collision in Holyhead. He was subsequently charged and appeared before the town’s Magistrates where he was disqualified from driving for 18 months and received fines totalling £305.

Between March 4^th and May 28th North Wales Police’ Roads Policing Unit have carried out 61 drug swipe tests using the new kits with 18 of those testing positive.

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

Sergeant Davies added: “We are committed to assisting in reducing the risk of becoming a casualty on the road through the use of targeted operations around high risk groups of people and locations while enforcing the ‘Fatal 5’ offences.”

“If you drink and drive or drive under the influence of drugs you will potentially not only ruin your life, but the lives of others innocently associated with you and your actions. There is absolutely no excuse for driving impaired and the consequences can be devastating.

“You not only risk killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else, but you will end up in court and could face a fine, lose your licence or receive a jail sentence. You will have a criminal record and you could lose your job.”

Susan Storch, Chair of Road Safety Wales, added:  “Through education, training and publicity initiatives throughout Wales, partners in Road Safety Wales strive to remind road users of the risks and consequences of the ‘Fatal 5’. Unfortunately, despite education and warnings, too many drivers are prepared to risk driving whilst impaired by drink or drugs.

“Road Safety Wales is committed to reducing the number of road casualties caused by irresponsible behaviour and will continue to support our Police colleagues during this campaign and throughout the year. Drivers who choose to flout the law should realise that there is a strong chance that they will be detected and prosecuted and that the penalties will be severe.”

Also supporting this year’s campaign is the Welsh Ambulance Service.

Rhyl Paramedic Dermot O’Leary, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s road safety champion said: “Road traffic collisions are sudden tragic events which can send shockwaves through families, friends and communities. Unfortunately too many drivers are still prepared to risk driving under the influence of drink or drugs. Making the public aware of the risks associated with drink and drug driving will hopefully lead to fewer incidents in which we literally have to pick up the pieces.”

Stuart Millington, Senior Fire Safety Manager, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters attend many road traffic collisions every year and witness some of the horrific consequences of simple mistakes made every day by people behind the wheel. We are pleased to be supporting the launch of this Drink and Drug Drive campaign to try and educate the public about the dangers associated with drinking and then driving.”

* Anyone with information regarding individuals who are believed to drive whilst over the legal limit or under the influence of drugs, can contact North Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Car overturns on Horseshoe Pass

The Leader is reporting on its website that a car overturned on the Horseshoe Pass just before noon today (Monday).

For the full story, see: http://leaderlive.co.uk/news/148650/lane-blocked-after-car-overturned-on-horseshoe-pass.aspx

Councillor's personal recollections of trusty Dakota

 

* The World War Two era Dakota which overflew Llangollen recently. 

 

Llanblogger’s recent story about a World War Two Dakota transport plane overflying Llangollen has prompted personal recollections of the trusty aircraft from local county councillor Stuart Davies.

Last week we reported that a C-47 Dakota, in D-Day identification markings, had flown twice through the Dee Valley last Thursday afternoon, causing a great deal of interest each time.

Later, llanblogger learned from the public relations team at the Battle of Britain memorial Flight (BBMF), based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, that the plane – identification number ZA947 – had been making its way to and from a families day at RAF Valley on Anglesey when it was spotted.

Cllr Davies (pictured below) has now been in touch to tell us of his own warm memories of the type of aircraft.

He said: “I noted with interest the story about the Dakota aircraft flying over Llangollen.

“When I first went to work in Angola in 1977 I flew there in what was then the latest modern aircraft, a DC10.

“When I arrived I was shown to the plane that would take me north to Soyo, a small village on the banks of the River Zaire. It was a Second World War Dakota that was being used by the oil companies there for internal transport.

“It was a rugged workhorse that could land on a dirt strip or a tarmac one.

“Built during the war, the design brief was that it could take off, with a load, on one engine.”

Cllr Davies added: “I found out later it had served with the Belgian air force.

“This design was to my liking because one day, when the `Dak’ I was on lost one of its engines due to a malfunction, it carried on without any problems.

“Its ruggedness and simplicity was also evident on another occasion when I was in charge of getting a drill rig crew-change home.

“The starter motor wouldn’t start the port engine, however with the help of a piece of rope and my trusty co-workers, we got it going.

“The rope was wrapped around the propeller and a chain gang of the workers pulling on it soon had it going.

“Health and safety eat your heart out!”

The Douglas C-47 Dakota is acknowledged as one of the most successful aircraft designs in history.

It became one of the world's most famous military transport aircraft and saw widespread use by the Allies during World War Two and subsequently by air forces and civilian operators worldwide.

The BBMF website shows that the C-47 Dakota seen in the skies above Llangollen last week was manufactured in the USA by Douglas in March 1942 and initially issued to the United States Army Air Force.

In September that year the aircraft was transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and served in Canada during World War Two.

It was subsequently deployed to Europe with the RCAF until declared surplus to requirements by the Canadians in 1971.

The Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) at Farnborough then purchased the aircraft and has used it for a variety of tasks and trials, including dropping sonar buoys through holes cut in the fuselage and for launching remotely piloted vehicles.

Cleared for dropping paratroops, she often displayed in this role and occasionally appeared in the static park at air shows.

In 1992 the Defence Research Agency, the successor to the RAE, declared ZA947 surplus to requirements.

The aircraft was adopted by Strike Command and issued to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight in 1993.

As there are now no other multi-engine tail wheel aircraft in RAF service outside the BBMF, the Dakota is an important training asset used for initial training of aircrew for the BBMF multi-engine aircraft and for renewing the currency of the flight’s Lancaster pilots each year.

The Dakota is a sought-after display aircraft in her own right and, as such, appears regularly on the air show circuit either on her own or as part of a BBMF formation.

She continues to be capable of para-dropping and is used in that role for special commemorative events.

ZA947 is now painted to represent Dakota FZ692 of N^o 233 Squadron, around the D-Day period in 1944.

That aircraft, which was named ‘Kwicherbichen’ by her crews, was involved in para-dropping operations on the eve of D-Day and subsequently in re-supply and casualty evacuation missions into and out of forward airfields in the combat areas.

The female nurses who escorted the casualties on these flights became known as ‘The Flying Nightingales’.

By the end of 1944, 1,092 stretcher cases and 467 sitting wounded had been evacuated to England by the 233 Squadron Dakotas.

* Fore more details about the aircraft see: http://www.raf.mod.uk/bbmf/theaircraft/dakotahistory.cfm

Silver Band to stage annual picnic in the park

* The youth and training bands performing at last year's event.

Tickets are now on sale for Llangollen Silver Band's popular annual Picnic in the Garden at Plas Newydd.

The event, which will be held on Sunday, June 28, from 4.30pm-6.30pm, will feature performances from all three sections of the band  - senior, intermediate and training - and special guests.

Tickets can be bought from Honey Pots, the Town Clerk's office and Plas Newydd, priced at £5 with under-sevens free.

Audience members are welcome to bring along their own picnic, something to drink, a chair and an umbrella.

Kids' games and a cake stall will also be available during the afternoon.

 

Warning goes out over cold callers

Local members of Neighbourhood Watch have been sent the following message:

"Following reports of cold callers in the area, we would like to remind you of some safety advice to help you when confronted with an unexpected visit.

Although there are callers who a genuine, it is not easy to establish who is genuine and who might be a rogue trader or bogus caller.

Bogus Callers are conmen (or women) who use a variety of stories to gain access to your home in order to steal. They may pretend to be someone from your local council, gas, water or Electricity Company and give you a good excuse to enter your home.

Rogue Traders are people who pretend to be builders needing to do ‘urgent’ repairs to your property or sales people offering bargain products. They often try to confuse or pressurise you to pay in advance for materials or carry out poor work at highly inflated prices.

The aim of this information is to help you deal more confidently with people who call at your door and provide you with information to enable you to obtain hel p and advice if you need it.

REMEMBER genuine callers will not mind waiting. It’s your home. You don’t have to let anyone in!

• If in doubt, keep them out. It sounds simple, but if you don’t let someone in - they will go away. Don’t let them pressure you into opening the door.
• Be prepared. Be in control. Think about what to say to doorstep cold callers in advance and keep a list of key contact numbers near your phone so you can check out legitimate callers. Ask all other unwanted callers to go away.
• If you think someone is a rogue trader call us on 101. To report a distraction burglar or rogue trader who has taken your money and is still in the area - call 999. 

Please look out for your community and report any suspicious persons or vehicles to us on 101."

World War two plane flies over Llan

* The RAF Dakota which overflew Llangollen yesterday.

A number of local people yesterday (Thursday) reported seeing an RAF Dakota - the famous World War Two transport aircraft - overflying Llangollen on two occasions in the afternoon.

llanblogger asked the press office for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, for more details about the plane painted with D-Day recognition white stripes on both wings.

This morning they have replied: "The Dakota was heading to RAF Valley to do a display for Valleys families’ day.

“Families’ days are when the station opens up to the families of service personnel so they can look around and see what their spouses/parents actually do.

“They also have various stalls and entertainments and it’s very much a social event as a thank you to them for putting up with the more unsociable aspects of the job.”