Challenge raises thousands for Cancer Research

* Organisers and participants of the 2^nd Llangollen Round Challenge in aid

of Cancer Research UK. Photo: Barrie Potter. 

ORGANISERS are hoping to have raised over £25,000 from the recent 2^nd Llangollen Round Challenge in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Over the last weekend in May a total of 342 participants set out from Dinas Bran Leisure Centre – 216 of them aiming to complete 35 miles in one day and the rest aiming to finish 17 miles over two days.  

Weather conditions on the Saturday were perfect for the event - sunny but not too hot - and ideal for scenic views and photography.  

Star of the one-day competitors was local man Steve Stockdale who ran the route in an impressive seven hours, 52 minutes.  

The two-day walkers completed their walk at the Ponderosa at a more leisurely pace.

On the Sunday, after a night of rain, wind and power cuts, the intrepid walkers set out again and only two of them did not finish. 

At the leisure centre organisers also had use of Ysgol Dinas Bran’s restaurant where light snacks were laid on for walkers and supporters.  

All the walkers who returned were awarded medals and certificates.

Sandra Woodhall, chairman of Llangollen Committee of Cancer Research UK, said: “We would like to thank the school and leisure centre for providing the facilities for the event.  

“We would also like to thank all those who helped on the day, those manning the restaurant, marshalls on car park duty, road crossings, those on checkpoints and the sweepers. 

“Finally we thank all in the centre for making sure the whole operation ran smoothly. 

“It was a long, busy but satisfying weekend and we hope to raise a large sum from sponsorship for Cancer Research UK.”

She added: “We have no idea of the final amount raised but are hoping it will be well over £25,000. 

“Sponsor money is still coming in and we will probably not have the final figure for a couple of months.”

Llangollen couple’s killer back behind bars in Spain

The Shropshire Star is reporting that one of the brutal killers of a Llangollen couple has been arrested in Spain after four months on the run from prison.

For the full story, see: http://www.shropshirestar.com/news/2015/06/20/llangollen-couples-killer-back-behind-bars-in-spain/

Eddie Redmayne's choirmaster is Eisteddfod adjudicator

A MUSICAL maestro who led the school choir in which Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne was a star performer will be one of the adjudicators at this year’s Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

Ralph Allwood MBE was in charge of the world famous choir at Eton College when the young British actor, who earlier this year landed the Academy Award plus a BAFTA, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award for his stunning portrayal of Professor Stephen Hawking, was its lead singer in the early 2000s.

With a string of other prestigious musical accomplishments to his credit over more than 30 years, in July Ralph (pictured right) will once again bring his vast experience to bear in judging the cream of choral competitors from across the globe at the Llangollen Eisteddfod where he has been one of the guest adjudicators for over a decade.

For 26 years until 2011Ralph, 65, was Director of Music at Eton, the top people’s public school in Berkshire, and recalls that he was in charge of the college choir at the time - from 2000 to 2005 - when actor Eddie Redmayne was a key member.

He said: “Eddie was Keeper of the Choir at that time, which meant that he was the chief boy who was singing in it.

“I remember him as the nicest possible young man who was also a very good singer. He was a very useful tenor.

“I know that, apart from music, he was also very keen on acting and I was absolutely delighted to see that he won so many honours for playing Stephen Hawking in the film The Theory of Everything.”

After leaving Eton and going on to obtain his History of Art degree from Trinity College, Cambridge, Redmayne, a friend of Prince William at Eton, embarked on a successful career in theatre and film.

He brought the powerful tenor voice honed under Ralph Allwood’s guidance at Eton to bear in one of his most memorable big screen roles to date, as Marius Pontmercy in the 2012 blockbuster, Les Miserables, alongside Russell Crowe, Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway.

Also during his time at Eton, Ralph recalls being tutor to another student who went on to musical greatness, Edward Gardner, who eventually became conductor of the English National Opera.

“Edward was possibly one of he best known of the 13 boys to whom I was tutor who would go on to become conductors,” he said.

Another famous name of the musical world Ralph – now a freelance choral director - has worked with is Britain’s favourite choirmaster Gareth Malone, who he will meet up with again when Gareth  showcases his new choir at this summer’s Llangollen Eisteddfod.

The pair last teamed up when Ralph was a judge on the BBC2’s The Choir two years ago.

Ralph says of him: “He’s a really nice fellow and it was just wonderful to work with him on the series.”

At this year’s Llangollen Eisteddfod Gareth, who also masterminded the creation of the Military Wives choir, is looking forward to playing a part in the climactic Choir of the World event when choirs will compete for the prestigious Pavarotti Trophy.

Eilir Owen Griffiths, Musical Director of the Eisteddfod, said: “The guiding principle of the Eisteddfod is that it should involve people of the highest quality and Ralph is very much part of that tradition.

“He has tremendous experience at the highest levels in music and it is that quality and integrity that he brings to his role as an adjudicator and which helps make Llangollen what it is.”

During his own glittering career Ralph, who was made an MBE in the 2012 New Year’s Honours List, has become well known throughout the musical world for founding and directing the Eton Choral Courses which over the past 35 years have seen around 7,000 16-20 year olds receive week-long, residential courses providing intensive but fun training in singing and choral music.

He co-founded the Rodolfus Choir, made up of the best singers from the courses and which has produced over 20 CDs, and is founder and conductor of Inner Voices, a choir made up of singers from state schools in London.

Ralph is also Director of Music at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich with its Choral Scholars from Trinity Laban, and a conductor of the National Youth Choir of Wales.

He has conducted choirs for 40 live broadcasts for BBC Radio 3 and has written much music heard worldwide on radio and television.

Ralph is a Fellow Commoner and Assistant Director of Music at Queens’ College, Cambridge, and an Honorary Fellow of University College, Durham.

Another of his many roles is Choral Advisor to Novello, Wellington College and Trinity College, Oxford.

He teaches at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, Westminster Under School and at his old school, Tiffin.

Apart from his annual contribution at Llangollen Eisteddfod, Ralph, who has a Doctorate of Music from Aberdeen University, also adjudicates at the Cork International Choral Competition.

He said he is looking forward very much to adjudicating once again at Llangollen and added: “I’ve done it for the past 12 years or so and it’s always really lovely because it’s a unique and highly enjoyable festival.”

Among the highlights at this year's Eisteddfod will be the Thursday night concert when heart-throb tenor Alfie Boe will be joined on stage by Britain’s Got Talent star Jonathan Antoine.
 

Other big draws include Oscar-winning music legend Burt Bacharach, the immensely popular Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright and Ali Campbell, the voice of UB40.

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

Jades celebrates 35 years in business

Jades Hair & Beauty is currently celebrating 35 years of being in business in Llangollen. 

The name Jades stands for Jean and Dave Evans, after the founder of the business and her husband.

Jean had a small salon in Fron when she first moved to Wales and after a few years she had the opportunity to buy a salon in Oak Street, Llangollen.

 

She opened her business in 1980 and her daughter Louise joined in 1982 followed by her other daughter Sue in 1986, under the name of Jades Hair Fashions.

In 1998 Louise and Sue bought the family-run salon allowing Jean to retire from hairdressing.

In 2000 Jades underwent major alterations by adding a second floor, and setting up a beauty department offering beauty treatments, manicures and facials under the new name of Jades Hair & Beauty.

A spokeswoman for the business said: “It has been a great pleasure taking care of our customers over the years.

“The growth we’ve experienced is because of people who faithfully support our business.

“We appreciate them and we’ll do our best to continue to give them the kind of service they deserve.

“We would like to take the opportunity to invite you into the salon during the last week of June and join us with a celebratory glass of fizz and cupcakes.

“Also to celebrate our 35 years we will be giving every client in the month of June a raffle ticket so they can be in with a chance of winning one of our 35 prizes.

“First prize is a hair and beauty make-over, and the additional prizes will either be hair services, beauty treatments, products and make-up.”

MP slams Government response over bank closures

Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones has slammed the Government's response on Llangollen and Corwen bank closures, and has called for much tougher action.

Ms Jones (pictured right) made her comments after she received a formal response to a question in Parliament where she had urged a Cabinet Minister to meet with senior management of Nat West Bank to get them to re-consider their decision to close branches in Llangollen, Corwen and other communities in North Wales.

In its written response HM Treasury said: "Decisions on the opening and closing of individual bank branches are taken by the management of each bank on a commercial basis without intervention from Government.

"Banks and building societies need to balance customer interests, market competition, and other commercial factors when considering their strategy.

"The Government is committed to increasing competition to deliver innovation and good financial products and services for all bank customers, and part of the Government’s long term economic plan is to ensure that banks serve all sections of society. 

"The Government welcomed the industry-wide Access to Banking protocol announced in March 2015. From the first of May this year, a bank must carry out a number of steps if it is closing a branch.

"The steps include establishing the impact of a branch closure before it takes place; finding suitable alternative provision; and putting satisfactory alternative measures in place before a branch is closed."

Susan Elan Jones MP said: "Government Ministers ignored my direct question about meeting with NatWest Bank to try and prevent the closure of banks in Llangollen, Corwen and other communities in North Wales.

"It's also concerning that the Government has moved away from its declared aim of only a few years ago to try and save the last bank in every community. Now there only seems to be a very vague 'Access to Banking protocol'.

"It's ridiculous to suggest that an irregular 'bank on wheels' services that offers partial banking services for an hour a week or so can  meet the needs of individual and business customers.

"There really needs to be a major re-think of banking services in rural areas, because of the distances involved. It's not the same as if a branch closes in a suburb of Manchester, London or Cardiff. Nat West's decision to close branches in Corwen and Llangollen will have a massive impact on both towns."

Choir's concert at Plas Newydd

The Porthmyn Vale Choir (pictured) will perform a mid-summer eve concert in the grounds of Plas Newydd tomorrow (Sunday) from 6-8pm.

The programme will include solo pieces from tenors within the choir, which comes from Rhewl near Ruthin.

People can bring a chair or a rug (and maybe a bottle) to enjoy the  wonder of mid-summer's eve in the setting of the beautiful Plas Newydd grounds.

* Tickets £5 on the day from Plas Newydd shop.
 

Skates vows to do all he can to find buyer for D&C

Clwyd South Assembly Member Ken Skates has vowed to do everything he can to help find a buyer for an under-threat company in his constituency. 

Welsh Labour AM Mr Skates is in talks with the administrators at Dobson & Crowther in Llangollen, which made 55 of its 79-strong workforce redundant on Wednesday.

He said the company was forced to restructure in 2014 after the loss of its biggest customer, and was later let down when its main supplier went bust.

Mr Skates said he had a ‘positive’ conversation with financial services firm Baker Tilly Ltd on Thursday and visited the site today (Friday) to talk to staff.

He said: “I’ve spoken with the administrators and the workforce and assured them I will help in any way I can to find a buyer and a new employer for people in Llangollen.

“Dobson & Crowther has a brand new, state-of-the-art factory on a prime site, so it’s a very attractive proposition. There seems to be an encouraging level of interest already.”

Mr Skates has also secured an assurance that details of the 55 employees laid off this week be passed to any buyer.

He added: “This week’s developments are a real blow to Llangollen and the wider area, but the most important people here are the employees and their families. I will work with the town and county councils, the Chamber of Trade – whoever I need to – to try to secure the best outcome possible under the circumstances.

“This has been a terrible time for staff, who have shown incredible loyalty to the company over many years. Recent events demonstrate clearly why we must continue to work relentlessly to create and safeguard jobs in the Dee Valley.”

Railway hosts heritage railcar gala this weekend

Llangollen Railway will be hosting a Heritage Railcar Gala tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday, June 20 and  21.

An intensive service will operate along the 10-mile preserved line, using the trains which revolutionised the railways more than half a century ago.

Visitors will  be able to see the line as the driver sees it from the comfort of one of our heritage scenic observation diesel trains.

Making a guest appearance over the weekend will be a 1958 vintage Class 122 'Bubble Car' from Derbyshire, which will be in Wales for only a few days. 

 

It will operate both on its own and in multiple with members of the home fleet, including the Wickham and 127 sets, enabling a five-car rake of green vehicles to be put together.

The event, which is often seen as one of the highlight of the UK's heritage railway calendar, will feature a half-hourly service as far as Carrog,with alternate trains continuing onwards to Corwen on the line’s recently-opened 2.5 mile extension.

 

All intermediate stations will be open and will offer opportunities for exchanging trains.

Supporting the visitor will be four of the line’s resident fleet of units, the Birmingham RCW Class 104, the Derby works Class 108, the Wickham Class 109 and a hybrid of a Class 127 power car and a Class 108 trailer.

 

There will also be a steam diagram which will be covered by the GW push-pull ‘autotrain’ powered by Pannier Tank 6430, which is imminently due to re-enter service after its ten-year overhaul.

Another feature is a photographic evening on the night immediately before the event featuring the Class 122 and an evening train on the Saturday where fish and chips or a barbecue will be available.

* Full details are available at: http://llangollenrailcars.co.uk/Gala2015.php and http://www.llangollen-railway.co.uk/event/heritage-railcar-gala-2/ 

 

Home Secretary asked to sort out Eisteddfod visa problems

 

* International affair: The opening parade of last year's Eisteddfod.

 

 

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is writing to Home Secretary Theresa May to ask her to intervene personally to sort out a visa problem caused by a mistake made by one of her officials.

 

Some performers from Africa and Asia have been refused visas and will not be able to compete at the Eisteddfod in three weeks' time unless Mrs May is able to sort the mess out.

The problem has arisen because the festival has mistakenly been left off a list of so-called "permit-free" festivals so visa applications take more time to process.

 

Eisteddfod Chair Gethin Davies said: "We have over the years had some problems with visas.

 

"We had understood that this year we were going to be placed on the permit free list, which is a list of existing 44 festivals, and we thought we were on that list as well, in which case the issue of visas s far more straight forward.

 

"Due to an administrative oversight at the Home Office which they have held their hands up to, we’re not on that list and consequently each visa application has to be carefully scrutinised by the relevant authorities in the various countries, and some of them are being refused, and it causes us great anxiety.

 

“In the first place we need a cast iron guarantee that the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod will be on the permit free list from now on, plus we want practical help in the short term to assist those people who are still waiting for their visas and to possibly overturn decisions that have been made to refuse other competitors.

 

"I shall be writing a personal letter to the Home Secretary asking her if she can intervene directly in this, and use her considerable influence to see if this unfortunate state of affairs can be addressed as a matter of urgency.

 

"The Eisteddfod is on in three weeks’ time, and time is very short, so we are hoping that we can get that help from the highest level, which will enable these wonderful people who want nothing more than to come and share their culture with us in Llangollen so that they will be able to be with us.”

 

The Home Office have apologised for their error in a letter to Eisteddfod officials.

 

The letter said: "Unfortunately, due to an administrative oversight on our part when changes to the Immigration Rules were laid in February the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod was omitted from the list of permit free festivals included in the new simplified visitor rules.

 

"I apologise for any inconvenience this will cause however I want to assure you that there are alternative routes that can be used in the meantime."

The iconic event was started in Llangollen in 1947 in the aftermath of the Second World War in an attempt to bring peace and harmony to the world through music and dance.

According to the Eisteddfod, several people from China, Algeria, Tanzania and Ivory Coast had already had their visa applications turned down.

Around 100 dancers and musicians are waiting to hear if they will be granted visas in time to compete at this year's event from 7 July.

Among them are two groups from India, five different groups from Morocco, 14 dancers from Ghana and five from Nepal.

Competitors from other parts of the world outside Africa and Asia are unaffected.

The case has also been taken up by Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones.

 

She said: "The Eisteddfod is hugely important to our area. The Home Office has admitted it has made a mistake and it's now vital they put things right."

 

Redundancies at Dobson & Crowther, report says

The BBC is reporting on its news website this afternoon (Wednesday) that 55 redundancies have been declared at Llangollen's Dobson & Crowther printworks which went into administration yesterday.

For the full story, see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-33167417

Meanwhile, earlier today in the House of Commons, Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones urged Secretary of State for Wales Stephen Crabb and the Welsh Government to work together to get the best possible outcome for staff at Dobson & Crowther.

Ms Jones' question came after it was announced that the Llangollen printing company had gone into administration.

Speaking afterwards, she said: "This is terrible news for many local families in Llangollen and the nearby areas.

"It is vital that UK Government, Welsh Government, local councils and all the relevant organisations all work together to ensure there is a serious programme of financial and careers support to help the people who have been so badly affected."

Llangollen residents urge action on climate change

* Friends of the Earth members take to Dinas Bran calling

for the Government to help protect what they love.

Members of Llangollen Friends of the Earth are today (Wednesday) taking part in a national campaign asking MPs to take action on climate change.

They are calling for action to help protect the "things we love in our lives" - from children right down to a cup of tea. 

FoE says drought, crop failure, and mass migration are al effects of climate change, which will greatly affect our all aspects of our everyday lives.

Llangollen resident Kay Polley said: “Climate change will affect so many of the things we care about, from our families to our food to our wildlife and our futures. We are asking our MP to press the UK
government to take action for the climate.”

She added: "Locally, people are concerned about how climate change will affect people around the world, but also how it will affect us here in Wales.

"With the climate talks in Paris, 2015 presents us with an opportunity to make progress on climate change.

"The UK has a big role to play in bringing countries together at the negotiations. Our position at the forefront of the fight against global poverty can help build a better, fairer global deal on climate change."

* For more information visit http://www.llangollenfoe.org.uk/

Dobson & Crowther goes into administration

Dobson & Crowther Ltd in Llangollen has gone into administration.

Christopher Ratten and Lindsey Cooper of Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP have today been appointed administrators for the company, which operates as a manufacturer of bespoke litho printed envelopes and is the UK’s leading supplier of seed envelopes to the horticultural sector.

Baker Tilly Partner Christopher Ratten, who is one of the Joint Administrators, said: ‘Dobson & Crowther has experienced a challenging 18 months. In early 2014 it restructured its operations following the loss of its largest customer and in late 2014 it successfully relocated to a purpose built site on the outskirts of the town.

“Whilst operationally the company was well placed to trade positively into 2015, it suffered a significant setback following the administration of Paperlynx, its largest supplier. As a consequence of Paperlynx’s failure there was considerable disruption to the company’s supply chain resulting in lost sales and consequential cash flow pressures.

"In the lead up to the administration the possibility of further investment or a sale has been investigated. Due to the company’s financial and trading situation it has not been possible to secure such a transaction in the relatively short timescale concerned.

“The administrators are now considering the possibility of continuing the business for a short period in order to fulfil outstanding orders and establish if there are any other parties that would be interested in acquiring the business. Any parties with such an interest should make contact with Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP as soon as possible on 0161 830 4000. Whilst this is being considered it has been necessary to send a high proportion of the 79 employees home.”

Police boss seeks assurances on speed cameras

 

 

 

* Julian Sandham.

 

A police boss in North Wales is seeking assurances speed cameras will not be used as a money-making cash cow.

 

Julian Sandham, the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, says it should be made clear the purpose of the Go Safe scheme is to reduce casualties and save lives.

 

Mr Sandham and his boss, Commissioner Winston Roddick, have written expressing their views to the chief lead officer for the Welsh Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, Carl Langley, the Deputy Chief Constable of Dyfed Powys Police.

 

A study is now being conducted in North Wales to see if the Go Safe scheme could be made more effective.

 

Mr Sandham said: "I am aware of public concern that the speed cameras are being used as revenue raising machines.

 

"I think it’s important that the Go Safe business plan stresses that the priority is the reduction of casualties. There is clearly an enabling infrastructure that underpins all that, but the priority of minimising casualties on the roads in Wales and specifically for us North Wales is important.

 

“Having read the 2015-16 business plan document, there are certain areas where you could conclude that the income generation side of things is prominent. In my opinion it should be made clear that the context is minimising of casualties.

 

"I think we could get more of the general public on side if that message was loud and clear because I think the majority of reasonable people would agree we need to tackle problems where they exist and make our roads safer.

 

"We are undertaking a piece of scrutiny work with regard to this issue and when it is complete we will be talking to the force about our findings.

 

"I would stress, however, there is a great deal of good practice happening already in North Wales.

 

"The system of tasking in North Wales is quite clearly a strong one, and the central ticket office in North Wales seems to be an efficient operation.

 

“Likewise, we have been assured by the Force that deployments are not exclusively aligned to sites which have a history of collisions. Some deployments take place to prevent and reduce the likelihood of collisions, where following analysis and professional judgement, they are considered necessary.

 

“I’m certainly not advocating that we should get rid of speed cameras because used intelligently they have an important role to play.

 

"What I’m advocating is that we should be using Go Safe to its best effect which is reducing casualties on our roads.

 

"We have communicated with Carl Langley to remind him of the proposals we made at the last meeting of the All-Wales Policing Group."

Alcohol campaign a success say police

A recent police and local authority campaign enforcing alcohol legislation across North Wales has been hailed a success in most areas with few premises or individuals falling foul of the law.

The Think Safe Drink Safe campaign at the end of May focused on preventing crime and disorder, enforcing alcohol related legislation and reassuring the public about the work being done to encourage sellers and consumers to take appropriate responsibility.

The operation involved breathalysing motorists, spot checks on taxis, test purchasing at pubs and off licenced premises, school classes on the subject of alcohol and anti-social behaviour and extra patrols to deal with potential disorder.

The feedback reveals that of 245 motorists stopped across Anglesey and Gwynedd five failed the breathalyser test. Although 21 of the 73 off licensed premises in the two counties failed underage test purchases, none of the 28 pubs in the area tested failed.

Meanwhile in Conwy two large events were held during the operation; the Llandudno Air Show bringing in an estimated 40,000 extra visitors to the area and the Mixed Martial Arts Event in Colwyn Bay. Both events passed without incident.

In Denbighshire two pubs failed a test purchase. In Flintshire more than 20 pubs were visited and there were no instances of alcohol related disorder. In Wrexham County three pubs were found to be serving under age customers and three people were detained for possessing cannabis.

Chief Supt Jeremy Vaughan said; “Misuse of alcohol can cause great harm to communities and is a drain on the emergency services as well as health and council resources.

“Nationally nearly 50 per cent of all violent crime is alcohol related, nearly half of all domestic abuse incidents are linked to alcohol and excessive drinking severely increases your likelihood of committing a crime or becoming a victim of crime.

“The results of this operation are encouraging, although it is disappointing to see a number of off licenced premises failing the underage purchasing test.

“Thankfully there were no serious incidents of disorder, but our message to the industry and the public remains the same – Think safe, drink safe. Those who don’t will be dealt with robustly.”

Joss Thomas, Licensing Team Leader, Wrexham Council said; “Compliance with licence conditions was high with only minor issues needing to be addressed. All Wrexham town centre door supervisors were also found to be fully licensed and displaying their identity in accordance with legislation.”

Leisure Centre's big day later this month

Llangollen Leisure Centre has asked us to showcase its forthcoming Sports Day.

It's a community event between 4.30 and 8pm on Friday June 26.  

It includes free use of the Fitness Suite, free fitness classes, football coaching by Wales and Liverpool FC player Harry Wilson, who is an ex-Dinas Bran pupil, and lots more.

Plas Newydd hosts Waterloo anniversary display

* The Waterloo display on the dining table at Plas Newydd.

PLAS Newydd, Llangollen’s own stately home, is currently staging a special display to mark the 200^th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

The famous house has a connection to the battle as its most famous inhabitants, the Ladies of Llangollen, at least twice hosted visits there by the victor, the Duke of Wellington.

Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby were friends of his maternal grandmother, Lady Anne Dungannon, and it was while visiting her home at Brynkinalt, near Chirk, that he called in to see the ladies at Plas Newydd.

Arthur Wellesley, as he was originally known, made his first visit there at the age of 19 in 1788 and it is believed he came a second time in the year preceding his most famous battle, which was fought in Belgium on June 18, 1815 and changed the course of European history.

In the very dining room where he breakfasted with the ladies, the house’s resident heritage assistant Jane Horovitch has arranged a display of Waterloo and Wellington mementos, including pictures of himself and other figures connected with the battle along with copies of various documents of interest.

* Heritage assistant Jane Horovitch puts out
the flags for visitors. 

Centrepiece is a large contemporary map of the battlefield.

Jane said: “I have set things up on the dining room table to reflect the fact that during the Duchess of Richmond’s ball in Brussels the night before his army marched off to Waterloo, the duke famously called for a map to be set out on the dining room table which he then studied with his generals.”

Also featured is a copy of a letter penned by the Iron Duke in 1829, when he was Prime Minister, to Sarah Ponsonby telling her that the King had been pleased to grant her a pension of £200 a year following the death of Lady Eleanor who had enjoyed the same royal privilege.

There is also a picture of a well weathered gravestone at St Sulien’s Church in Corwen bearing the name of Jacko Parry, a claimed Waterloo survivor who died at the age of 73 in 1857.

Jane, who has been part of the team at Plas Newydd for the past 23 years, said: “We wanted to do something to mark the 200^th anniversary of Waterloo because of the connections the Duke of Wellington had to the house.

“He was certainly a good friend of the ladies.

“They recorded after his first visit when he was 19 that he was `handsome, fashionable, tall and elegant’.

“We believe he came to Plas Newydd again not long before Waterloo, in either 1814 or 1815.”

The display, which will be open to visitors until the end of next week, will be flagged up outside the house by the British Union Jack flying alongside the tricolour of France whose army under Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated at Waterloo.

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.”