Skates to meet NatWest chief over closures

Clwyd South AM Ken Skates will meet a High Street bank boss later this month in an attempt to save two under-threat branches.

Labour Assembly Member Mr Skates has secured a meeting with NatWest’s regional director for Wales Mark Douglas after the company announced it would shut branches in Llangollen and Corwen later this year, leaving the latter without a single bank.

Mr Skates said: “As I have already said, I am desperately disappointed by this decision and it’s yet another example of a huge company putting profits before people. Let’s not forget it’s these very people who helped bail out the Royal Bank of Scotland, which owns NatWest.

“If NatWest will not budge on its plans to shut these two important branches in Clwyd South, then I will be demanding assurances over jobs and at that the mobile unit the company has promised will visit Llangollen and Corwen will do so regularly.

 

“I will aim to get the best deal possible for my constituents under the circumstances.”

Mr Skates, who is based in Llangollen, added: “This move has come as a real blow to many customers who aren’t comfortable with online banking and who can’t easily get to Wrexham in order to get the face-to-face service they have rightly come to expect.

 “It’s also a major inconvenience for many of the small and independent businesses in both of these key towns who frequently use their local branches to bank takings, so the very least NatWest can do is provide regular access to over-the-counter services for the loyal customers they have effectively turned their backs on.”

Mr Skates will meet Mr Douglas in Cardiff on June 24.

It's all for one at Plas Newydd

A Theatre company are busy sharpening their rapiers, practising lunges and flirting outrageously in preparation for this summer's touring production of The Musketeers, which comes to Llagollen's Plas Newydd on Friday July 31.

Off the Ground Theatre says will be overwhelming amounts of swash and buckle as the, now slightly older, heroes with a little help from Athos’ son and D’Artagnan’s daughter, charm women  - and some men -, quaff wine and fight off Spanish and Dutch spies- all in the name of France.  

This new story, written especially for the company by Daniel Cambridge, brings the Musketeers back together after they first met 20 years earlier.

And this time, the whole future of Europe is at stake as mysterious powers aim to topple the most powerful people throughout the continent. 

With full-blooded and fanciful fighting, live music and a 15-strong cast this promises to be a real summer spectacle.

Off the Ground Theatre started working on the Wirral 19 years ago and have produced over a hundred shows, featuring young talent from across Merseyside and the Northwest. 

This will be the company’s twentieth summer tour. 

The Musketeers is being directed by Chris Tomlinson and OTG’s artistic director, Dan Meigh.

Chris, who recently directed Until They Kick Us Out and assisted on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, both at The Everyman, said: “The OTG summer tour is always so much fun. 

"There is always such an exciting mix of tour troopers who have done it before and new faces who have no idea what to expect. 

"But by the time we open the first show we’re a proper company, partly due to the hard work we have to put in – there’s going to be a lot of sword play and fancy footwork we’re going to have to learn this year – and partly because we all want to put on a great show. 

"The big cast, the story and the great routines should mark this out as a bit special.”

One of the main aims of Off the Ground Theatre is to encourage talent from its native North West of England and this year’s cast recent graduates from OTG and YEP as well as university graduates gaining their first professional experience.

Booking Details:
By Phone: 0151-625-2929 | Mon from 2pm, Tue to Sat from 1pm
In Person: all venues on the night of performance
Online: www.offtheground.co.uk | Easy and secure online booking
Tickets £11, £8  (concessions), £5 (U21s)

Lime rendering at Llangollen garden

Results of Welsh national survey revealed

People across Wales remain highly satisfied with the NHS, education and with their daily lives according to the latest results from the National Survey for Wales.

 

North Wales South East Wales South West Wales The study shows that 91% of people in Wales were satisfied with the care they received from their GPs and 92% with the care they received at their last appointment at a NHS hospital.

The National Survey for Wales, which began in 2012, is based on face-to-face interviews with more than 14,000 people across Wales each year.

It collects robust, detailed information on the views and experiences of people in Wales on a wide range of subjects.

Other key results from the National Survey 2014-15 include:

• 96% of hospital patients felt treated with dignity and respect;
• 90% were satisfied with the overall service they received from the emergency ambulance service, and 79% with the time they had to wait for the ambulance to arrive;
• 81% of parents helped their children with reading and writing at least several times a week;
• 60% of people had no difficulties keeping up with their bills and financial commitments – a higher proportion than in 2012-13 and 2013-14 with 48% and 50% respectively;
• 79% think people in their local area treat each other with respect;
• 35% would like to start their own business;
• 78% of households had access to the internet – an increase from 75% in 2013-14 and 73% in 2012-13; and
• 66% walk or cycle to get around.

The survey for 2014-15 reveals people’s views on the NHS and education, where zero is ‘extremely bad’ and ten is ‘extremely good’.

The overall rating for the NHS was 6.3 and for education 6.6.  The survey found that 83% of people are satisfied with their daily lives.

Welcoming the results, Finance and Government Business Minister Jane Hutt said:  “The National Survey is a great opportunity for people to give their views on public services and the issues facing their communities.

"It paints an accurate and in-depth picture of how people across the country are experiencing the public services that are so important to us all.  It is particularly heartening to see such high levels of satisfaction with the NHS and education.

“The survey is an important resource for us and will support the delivery of public services.   Hearing the views of people across the country will help us make Wales an even better place to live, work and enjoy.”

Llangollen Eisteddfod is a beacon of hope

* Royal composer Paul Maelor.

Royal composer Paul Mealor has hailed the Llangollen International Musical Festival as a beacon of hope and peace in an increasingly troubled world.

Professor Mealor, who was born in St Asaph, says the festival brings people from all over the world together through the international language of music.

He shot to international fame after writing Ubi Caritas et Amor for the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011 and also composed Wherever You Are, which became the 2011 Christmas number one for the Military Wives under the baton of Gareth Malone.

Prof Mealor will be attending the Llangollen Eisteddfod as an adjudicator for the second time this year and for the first time as a vice president of the iconic event which starts on Tuesday, July 7.

He said: “The Eisteddfod is a phenomenal and wonderful event. The whole world comes to this beautiful little North Wales town to share music and culture. Racism, hatred and conflict lose and music wins every time.

“People might have differences, whether political or cultural, but they all speak just one language when it comes to music. And it isn’t just about classical music but all sorts of genres whether it’s folk, jazz, reggae or rock. It doesn’t matter.

“This year, for example, the legend that is Burt Bacharach is performing. How is it possible that a festival in a little North Wales town can attract world stars of that magnitude?

“That’s what the International Eisteddfod is all about, it’s just wonderful. Top quality musicians and performers such as Alfie Boe, Catrin Finch, Gareth Malone and a host of other top stars will be bringing wonderful music to the stage.”

Since 2003 he has been professor of composition at the University of Aberdeen.

He said: “It’s always busy, whether working with my students or composing new music, but one of the highlights of the year is always Llangollen. It shows the best of who we are. There is always such amazing new talent on show.

“The brilliant English physiatrist, Anthony Stoor was right when he said medicine will make you live longer but the arts will make you want to live longer. Imagine a life without music what a terrible world that would be.

“I’m really looking forward to adjudicating at this year’s festival, the standard is always exceptionally high. I competed there myself as a young boy but sadly failed spectacularly.”

Prof Mealor, whose first album for Decca, A Tender Light – a collection of sacred choral anthems – spent six weeks at No 1 in the classical charts, has stressed the importance of ensuring festivals such as Llangollen Eisteddfod receive adequate funding.

He said: “People need to realise how important the International Eisteddfod is and show people the benefits it brings not just to the immediate area but Wales and the rest of the UK as a whole.

“Funding in this day and age is always difficult but the festival stands for so much and it’s vital it continues to go from strength to strength.

“I would encourage anyone who has never been to the festival to go along, even for just a few hours, and soak up what is just an amazing and unique atmosphere.

“Where else would you find people from all over the world brought together in a spirit of peace and tolerance and through a love of one common language – the language of music.”

The Eisteddfod's musical director, Eilir Owen Griffiths, said: "I am thrilled that Paul is returning as an adjudicator this year.

"Paul is a big fan of the Eisteddfod and what it stands for as a melting pot of colour and culture dedicated to the notion of harmony in every sense of the word.

"As we approach the 70th anniversary of this unique festival next year, the magic of the Eisteddfod endures and its message of peace is as relevant today as it was in 1946 in the aftermath of the Second World War."

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

AM calls for improvements at health board

Following the publication of a report into Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board by former head of the Welsh NHS Ann Lloyd, North Wales Assembly Member Aled Roberts AM has called for a radical improvements to be made.

 

Welsh Lib Dem Mr Roberts said: “It’s incredibly depressing to read yet another damning report into this failing health board.

 

“This report paints a picture of a health board that has completely lost control.

 

“It is not surprising that staff sickness remains so high when we read of a prevalent bullying culture.  It’s time that those involved had a long hard look at themselves and consider their positions. All members of staff should be held to account and that should start from the top.

 

“Whether it is postponing procedures, waiting lists growing ever higher, and of course major problems about the quality and safety of mental health units, it’s clear that patients in North Wales have been let down badly. 

 

“People in North Wales are fed up of hearing these bad news stories and having to put up with poor treatment.  The Welsh Liberal Democrats aspire for an NHS where everyone is treated with respect, dignity and in a timely fashion. That’s not asking for much and is the very least that people deserve.”

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.”