Louisa raises £2,000 + by completing charity challenge

* Louisa Jones, far right of picture, celebrates completing her Far East challenge with fellow riders. Intrepid Llangollen Operatic Society member Louisa Jones has just completed her mammoth 280-mile charity cycling expedition through the Far East, raising over £2,000 for three charities Back in 2012 Louisa Jones, 38, took part in a gruelling 260-mile cycling expedition through India in aid of three women’s cancer causes, raising over £3,000 along the way. Over the past couple of weeks she's been back into the saddle for the same three charities - Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. This time she joined a group of 70 women to cycle 450km (280 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Here's Louisa's final report on her trip ... On Tuesday afternoon we completed the final stage of our amazing journey by bicycle across two beautiful south East Asian countries. After a short early morning transfer from the hotel to our bikes, we set out on a 25 mile route along a highway, which took us to the outskirts of the city of Siem Riep and to the finishing line at the UNESCO world heritage site of Angkor Wat. Some of us noted how 25 miles seemed by now like a leisurely walk in the park compared with some of the distances and conditions we had encountered during our challenge. Never thought I would be saying that! It was another extremely hot and windy day and by now the effects of the heat and the physical exertion were starting to tell on a number of ladies, with heat rash and stomach bugs doing the rounds. The frustration of those who were suffering or had to spend time in the support bus was always very sad to see as everyone puts so much into this challenge and wants to complete every stage, no matter how tough. After a snack stop along the way, we regrouped around 1 mile from Angkor Wat to decorate our bikes (and ourselves) with balloons and ribbons prior to crossing the finishing line. We then set off slowly as a group along the final stretch causing quite a spectacle along the way, not to mention a disruption to the traffic! Crossing the finish line amidst much cheering and whooping was a brilliant feeling and a very emotional one too and I don't think there was a single dry eye. So many of the ladies had overcome huge personal challenges and illness to even get to Vietnam and Cambodia in the first place, so to actually complete this epic journey was a massive accomplishment. The remainder of our time here has been spent celebrating and perusing the vibrant, bustling markets of Sian Riep before we fly home. A number of us also resisted the urge to have a much needed lie in and got up at 4am yesterday to witness the sun rising above the ancient temple at Angkor Wat, which was a truly magical moment well worth surrendering sleep for. Heartfelt thanks to all who have followed my challenge and for the donations and words of encouragement I have received along the way. Personally, I have raised well in excess of £2000, every penny of which will go straight to the excellent charities supported by this mission. As a group, we raised a staggering £360,000 and overall, the four groups that undertook this particular event have raised £1.3 million, which is incredible. The past week and a half has been a truly phenomenal and unforgettable experience and I'm really happy that I took the plunge and decided to do it. I can't recommend this type of challenge highly enough to anyone who wants to set themselves a personal goal whilst raising money for good causes and visiting new places and I believe firmly it is within all of us to complete something like this.

Traders back county scheme to cut red tape

* Henllan Bakery's Tom Moore.  

Traders are supporting a scheme to reduce red tape for Denbighshire businesses – the first of its kind in Wales.

Denbighshire County Council’s Better Business for All (BBfA) project brings together businesses and the Council’s planning and public protection department to improve how regulation is delivered to save businesses time and money.

Covering environmental health, trading standards, licensing and planning, BBfA provides businesses with a simple, single point of access to free advice on business regulations. 

BBfA also helps businesses access grant funding and signposts them to other support.

Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, leader of Denbighshire, said: “Better Business for All is all about removing the regulatory barriers to growth - and raising the economic competitiveness of Denbighshire.

“Regulatory services play an important role in supporting businesses. This support can provide businesses with an economic advantage, confidence to grow and thrive and reassurance they are meeting statutory requirements.

“We support hundreds of businesses every year and by improving the service, we can cut down on the amount of visits from regulators and the amount of time they spend on regulation.

“We believe this is an effective way of supporting businesses, and, along with a number of projects under our Economic and Community Ambition Strategy, is helping Denbighshire firms by developing the economy.”

Under the scheme, Council officers have received training to improve their awareness of pressures faced by businesses. 

Tom Moore of Henllan Bakery, based on Denbigh’s Colomendy Industrial Estate, said Denbighshire’s help was invaluable during the building of an extension to its site.

He said: “Denbighshire County Council has been really, really helpful. If I need to speak to them, there is always someone on the other end of the phone. 

“It is a good, speedy and professional service. When we speak to someone they come to see us straight away. They have been absolutely brilliant. 

“It is beneficial for our business, it helps us grow a lot quicker because they are always on hand. The Council is just a phone call away.”

Colin Brew, of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, said:  “Better Business for All is an innovative model which assists in removing those regulatory barriers that affect businesses’ ability to grow. 

“Local businesses within Denbighshire will very much welcome this innovative approach which will not only provide a competitive standard of product that businesses can trust but also highlight and help remove the inefficient use of resources within the county.”

Mike Learmond, of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “The FSB was pleased to support the Better Business for All scheme in Denbighshire - the first of its kind in Wales. 

“Regulation remains a key concern for our members and it is encouraging we were consulted from the beginning and were able to feed in our members’ concerns to the scheme. 

“We do need regulation, but it is about how that regulation is enforced. Businesses are feeding back that Denbighshire is looking towards a quicker and easier approach to help businesses save time and money. We are pleased Denbighshire County Council has taken the initiative on this.”

* To find out more visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/business

Bugsy Malone cast blasts into Eagles Meadow

* Llangollen Operatic Society Young 'Uns perform a song from Bugsy Malone at Eagles Meadow shopping centre.

A shopping centre has been invaded by New York gangsters, Chicago hoods and mob molls - but there was nothing to worry about.

They were members of the cast of Llangollen Operatic Society’s Young 'Uns who surprised and delighted shoppers at the Eagles Meadow shopping centre with a flashmob performance of songs from their brand new Bugsy Malone show which opens tomorrow (Thursday) night at Llan Town Hall.

The show’s director, Chrissie Ashworth, says the show, which runs until Saturday, is great family entertainment.

Chrissie, from Corwen, who has been with the Operatic Society for more than 30 years and has been director of the Young 'Uns for the past three, said: “It really is a fantastic show which involves a cast of 38 members.

“The young performers are wonderful to work with and are such an amazing group. They are aged from six to 18 and put their heart and souls into each show. Bugsy Malone is a real family show and guaranteed fun for people of all ages.”

“We are delighted the management of Eagles Meadow Shopping Centre allowed us to put on a public performance so shoppers can get a taste of the show.

“It’s been an amazing experience for our young people and they have thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s been another chance to perform before a public audience and gain more invaluable experience.”

The show’s producer, Pamela Williams, of Llangollen, who has been working with the Young Uns for the past three years after a ‘lifetime’ with the society’s adult group, added: “It’s amazing to see how keen and enthusiastic the young performers are. They just want to get up on stage and perform.

“It’s been fantastic bringing a snapshot of our Bugsy Malone show to Eagles Meadow shopping centre. The management have been so kind and even supplied us with a PA system. We couldn’t have asked for more.”

Shea Ferron, 14, a pupil at St Joseph's School, in Wrexham, plays Dandy Dan in the show and says he really enjoys being a member of Llangollen Operatic Society’s Young 'Uns.

He said: “I love it. This is my third show. I’ve played Boggins in Half a Sixpence and the Ugly Duckling in Honk. We meet twice a week and I enjoy everything about it.

“I love musical theatre and, naturally, my ambition is to eventually make it onto the West End stage. Bugsy Malone is such a great show. It’s a lot of fun, has a great storyline and it’s very fast moving.”

Celyn Orton-Jones, 13, pupil Ysgol Dinas Bran in Llangollen, joined the Llangollen Operatic Society’s Young Uns aged six and Bugsy Malone, in which she plays Blousey, will be her seventh show.

She said: “This is my first main role. I have had minor speaking parts in shows like Annie, Honk, Beauty and the Beast and Half a Sixpence but this is a step up.

“I really enjoy the fact the show just involves young people. I’d love to eventually get onto the West End stage but I suppose I’m not the only one!"

She added: “It’s great fun performing at Eagles Meadow. People out shopping don’t expect to be entertained and it’s fun seeing the surprise on their faces.”

Aled Morris, 13, of Dolywern, who is also a Ysgol Dinas Bran pupil, plays the role of Fat Sam and says Bugsy Malone is the first show he has been involved with.

He said: “I only joined in September last year. I like drama and wanted to do something more than school plays. Being a member of the Young Uns has been brilliant and I really enjoy it.

“Of course I’d love to be an actor or performer eventually. It’s been great coming down to Eagles Meadow and performing a few of the songs from the show. It’s been a good experience.”

Maia Molloy, 13, of Llangollen who also attends Ysgol Dinas Bran, plays the role of Tallulah in the show and says she really enjoys being a member of the Young 'Uns.

She said: “I was in the chorus for the Beauty and the Beast and Honk but this is my first lead role. I love being with friends and working on the show. I also really enjoy performing and the costumes are great.

“I don’t think I want to be a professional actor or performer. I prefer writing and my ambition is to become a writer or journalist. However, playing roles and shows like Bugsy Malone is a great hobby!”

Eagles Meadow manager, Kevin Critchley said: “Normally we don’t like to see unsavoury characters at Eagles Meadow but thought we’d make an exception for Dandy Dan and Fat Sam!

“We pride ourselves on the fact Eagles Meadow is at the heart of the communities we serve and we want to support and help groups such as Llangollen Operatic Society if we possibly can.”

He added: “It’s wonderful to see young people working together to put on a really professional show and I’m really pleased they had such a good time performing for our shoppers and visitors here at Eagles Meadow.”

* Bugsy Malone will be performed at Llangollen Town Hall at 7:30pm from Thursday, February 16, to Saturday, February 18, with a Saturday matinee performance at 2:30pm. Tickets are £10 with concessions £8. To book or for more ticket information please visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenoperaticsociety

County's disappointment over bank meeting snub

Denbighshire County Council has expressed its frustration and  disappointment at a decision by Nat West bank not to send a representative along to meeting to discuss the closure of the majority of the bank’s branches across the county.

The council’s  Communities Scrutiny Committee had invited Nat West Bank officials to discuss the decision to close all branches in the county except Rhyl, and how it proposed to deliver accessible quality services to residents in future, particularly the elderly, vulnerable, those who are not digitally active or have poor broadband access. 

The invite follows concerns raised that the closures will have a detrimental impact on communities and people’s ability to access financial services.

Councillor Julian Thompson-Hill, Cabinet Lead Member for Finance, said: “The response to the invitation was disappointing to say the least and we are frustrated with the bank’s response.

“Closing virtually all of their branches in Denbighshire will affect many communities, with customers having to travel quite far in some cases to access their bank face to face.  

"We also fear that the decision will have a negative impact on how the council can deliver on its priorities around developing the local economy and  protecting vulnerable people and supporting them to live independently."

Councillor Huw Hilditch Roberts, Chair of Communities Scrutiny Committee, said: “The Committee acknowledges that bank representatives have already engaged with a number of local stakeholders. However, Committee members are extremely disappointed that Nat West have turned down the invitation to attend scrutiny – which would have been a meeting open to the public to attend – to explain their decisions and future proposals in a public forum. 

“The door remains open for Nat West to discuss its approach to the bank closures."

Louisa's latest update from her Far East challenge

I

* Louisa meets some local children on her ride. 

Intrepid Llangollen Operatic Society member Louisa Jones is nearing the end of her mammoth 280-mile charity cycling expedition through the Far East.

Back in 2012 Louisa Jones, 38, took part in a gruelling 260-mile cycling expedition through India in aid of three women’s cancer causes, raising over £3,000 along the way.

Now she’s climbed back into the saddle for the same three charities - Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.

This time she’s joined a group of 70 women to cycle 450km (280 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Angkor Wat in Cambodia by February 17.

Louisa, who has already raised around £2,000 in sponsorship for the trip, is  sending regular progress reports on the expedition to llanblogger.

Here is her latest update ...

On Saturday we had a much needed day off cycling and instead made a five-hour journey by ferry up the Mekong river from Chau Doc, crossing the border into Cambodia.

We got a fascinating insight into river life along the way, passing countless riverside dwellings, fishing boats and heavily laden cargo ships carrying a huge variety of fresh produce and natural resources.

Our destination port was Phnom Penh and after disembarking, we paid a visit to the National museum, where we received an interesting overview of Cambodian beliefs and life through the ages. The evening was spent exploring the city by tuk tuk, a favourite mode of transport here.

On Sunday the cycling recommenced with a 34-mile route through some stunning countryside and rural communities where people live humbly but seemingly happily in wooden houses on stilts, which they share with their animals.

We stopped at a number of working  monasteries for water breaks and lunch, where we found some very ornate temples and spoke to Buddhist monks and trainees, gaining a glimpse into their frugal way of life, a complete contrast to the opulence of the buildings in which they worked and worshipped.

There was so much to see and so many wonderful photo opportunities along the way that it's a wonder we got to the hotel in Kampong Cham before nightfall but we did and spent the remainder of the evening exploring the temple and bustling town. 

Today (Monday) was our biggest test and we set out at 6am to take on a gruelling route along highways that fell just short of 70 miles.

To put this in perspective, it was the equivalent of cycling from Chirk to Birmingham but in 35 degree heat with strong head and cross winds at times.

It took a huge physical and mental effort for a lot of us, especially in the heat of the afternoon and with aches and pains kicking in. However we did it and arrived in Kompong Thom just before 5pm.

Tomorrow is the final day of our amazing journey and will no doubt be an emotional one for all.

Health board launches battle against sepsis

* Pictured with Tracy Savijn, RRAILS (Rapid Response to Acute Illness) service improvement & development manager for BCUHB, are Karen Roberts, Claire Bishop and Ben Goldsmith from the stroke team.

A new initiative to halt sepsis, a life-threatening infection, is being rolled out across every hospital ward in North Wales.

New ‘one-use’ medical boxes, which hold everything needed to quickly deliver crucial treatment for the condition, are being introduced to wards across the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) area. 

All wards at Ysbyty Gwynedd currently hold the sepsis boxes, which are designed like an advent calendar and allow staff fast access to vital medical equipment, with step-by-step instructions.

They will now be made available to staff at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan and Wrexham Maelor Hospital. The boxes contain all of the resources needed to deliver the six critical steps for swift sepsis treatment and include an oxygen mask, fluid balance chart and specimen bottles, drips and fluids.

Sepsis is a life-threatening complication of an infection, which develops when chemicals produced by the immune system to fight an infection instead cause inflammation throughout the body. 

Without early treatment, sepsis can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and even death.
The condition can be triggered by an infection in any part of the body but the most common sites leading to sepsis are the lungs, urinary tract, abdomen and pelvis.

The condition affects approximately 150,000 people every year in the UK, and results in an estimated 44,000 deaths – more than the number caused by bowel, breast and prostate cancer combined. 

Gill Harris, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, said: “We’re working extremely hard to ensure our workforce has the best training, resources and equipment possible to deliver the highest quality care to our patients. 

“This simple box is a life-saving addition to our wards and will ensure our nursing staff and clinicians are given the very best opportunity to reduce the threat of sepsis as quickly as possible.

“Sepsis is a real time critical condition where every second counts. Having everything in one place will save time and hopefully lives.”

BCUHB is also asking the public to help support the campaign by following guidance on infection prevention including cleaning hands at the bedside when visiting patients. 

Tracy Savijn, Rapid Response to Acute Illness service improvement & development manager for BCUHB, said: “Treatment for sepsis is time sensitive. The quicker we treat, the increased chances of success.

“We’re working hard to raise awareness around the issue, and these packs will help staff identify when a patient’s condition is deteriorating and deliver the right treatment to the right patient at the right time. 

“Sepsis is a debilitating condition which can be life changing for patients, which is why we’re working extremely hard to equip staff with the best resources possible to tackle it.”  

BCUHB has also developed a new chart to record a patient’s physiological observations. The information sheet contains flowcharts to prompt staff to screen a patient for sepsis and guides health workers on who and how to call for help. 

Additional procedure packs containing resources for urinary catheters will also soon be introduced throughout BCUHB.  

“All of these tools together will give the ward staff the confidence to commence treatment for sepsis whilst waiting for help from clinicians to arrive,” added Tracy.

The all-in-one kits are the latest initiative at BCUHB to tackle infections, and follows the Health Board’s Asepsis - Act Now campaign, launched just before Christmas in a further bid to prevent infections.

As part of the campaign, similar packs for inserting cannulas and taking blood samples were also introduced to wards in October last year.  

Tracey Cooper, Assistant Director of Nursing for Infection Prevention, said: “The packs bring together the equipment needed to make it easier for staff to deliver high standards of care.

“By having it all in one place, we minimise the risk of infection and help save staff time.

“We’re continuing to work hard to find ways of helping our staff combat infection. 

As part of the Asepsis - Act Now campaign, all clinical staff will complete additional training on the use and management of invasive devices, such as drips and catheters. Additional resources for trainers and assessors have also been made available throughout the Health Board. 

Louisa's second update from cycling marathon

* One of the colourful scenes Louisa has cycled past.

AN INTREPID Llangollen Operatic Society member is on her mammoth 280-mile charity cycling expedition through the Far East.

Back in 2012 Louisa Jones, 38, took part in a gruelling 260-mile cycling expedition through India in aid of three women’s cancer causes, raising over £3,000 along the way.

Now she’s climbed back into the saddle for the same three charities - Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.

This time she’s joined a group of 70 women to cycle 450km (280 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Angkor Wat in Cambodia by February 17.

Louisa, who has already raised around £2,000 in sponsorship for the trip, will be sending in regular progress reports on the expedition to llanblogger.

Here is her latest update, covering days two and three of her trip

"Yesterday was one of the longest cycling days in our itinerary and took us over 60 miles along scenic routes through paddy fields and rural communities before heading into the city of Tra Vinh, where we stayed overnight.

The heat and high humidity on top of the distance made for a pretty challenging day all round and a couple of ladies required assistance from our team doctors along the way.

One of the highlights of the day was crossing a major suspension bridge on the outskirts of Tra Vinh. We then cycled on into the rush hour traffic, which resulted in a few hair raising  experiences in the chaotic traffic and some close shaves with the ubiquitous scooter!

Today was out third day of cycling and final day in Vietnam. After a short bus transfer early this morning,  we set out on a 44 mile ride which took us on roads lined with rustic wooden dwellings, running alongside a tributary of the Mekong river. It was another extremely hot day, which made the hills we encountered in the afternoon seem even longer and steeper.

Sights along the way included ornate temples and breathtaking scenery, complete with a backdrop of rugged mountains. 

Yet again, people waved and called out to us as we peddled by and teachers allowed entire classes of immaculately presented school children to stand at the roadside and greet us with high fives and "hellos".

Our efforts were finally rewarded when we reached the bustling town of Chau Dok and were shuttled up a hill to our accommodation, which had the most stunning views across the province and was a prime vantage point for sunset.

Tomorrow we have a day off cycling and will take a 6 hour boat ride up the river and into Cambodia, arriving at Phnom Penh, where our journey will recommence on Sunday. I'm looking forward to it but will certainly miss this stunning, peaceful country."

Two injured in A539 collision

The BBC is reporting that two men were injured in a collision on the A539 near Trevor early yesterday (Thursday) evening.

* For the full report, see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-38926684

County issues bird flu reminder

Denbighshire Council’s Planning and Public Protection service is reminding local poultry farmers and captive bird owners to keep their birds indoors or take immediate appropriate steps to keep them separate from wild birds.

The Welsh Government has extended the enhanced biosecurity requirements in order to protect poultry and captive birds from a strain of avian flu circulating in the UK. The protection zone covers the whole of Wales and has now been extended until 28^th February 2017.

Further measures have been introduced in respect of restrictions on auctions and sales.

Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N8) have been confirmed in poultry and wild birds in several areas of the UK including south Wales and this order is a precautionary measure to help prevent potential infection from wild birds.  

Similar orders have also been put in place in Scotland and England.

The Welsh Government is continuing to monitor the situation closely and has increased its surveillance activity, while keepers are being urged to reinforce biosecurity measures on their premises.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, said: “There have been several cases in the UK and this is an important precautionary measure to prevent further outbreaks. The prevention zone has been declared to reduce the risk of infection from wild birds and to allow time for poultry and captive bird keepers to put appropriate biosecurity measures in place.

“Poultry keepers are advised to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns. Even when birds are kept indoors, a small risk of infection remains so biosecurity should not be compromised. Clothing and equipment should be disinfected, the movement of poultry should be reduced and contact between poultry and wild birds should be minimised.”

* Poultry keepers can keep up to date with the requirements or get further information from http://gov.wales/topics/environmentcountryside/ahw/disease/avianflu/?lang=en

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu

The Animal Plant & Health Agency (APHA) can be contacted by telephone on 0300 303 8268.

Louisa's first update from her charity challenge

* Louisa Jones, left, sets off on her charity cycling marathon.

AN INTREPID Llangollen Operatic Society member has pedalled away on the first leg of  her mammoth 280-mile charity cycling expedition through the Far East. Back in 2012 Louisa Jones, 38, took part in a gruelling 260-mile cycling expedition through India in aid of three women’s cancer causes, raising over £3,000 along the way. Now she’s climbed back into the saddle for the same three charities - Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. This time she’s joined a group of 70 women to cycle 450km (280 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Angkor Wat in Cambodia by February 17. Louisa, who has already raised around £2,000 in sponsorship for the trip, will be sending in regular progress reports on the expedition to llanblogger. And here is the first received yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon …

“We arrived at Ben Tre, the starting point for our challenge, mid-afternoon on Tuesday after around 24 hours in transit.

“Our group of 102 ladies from all over the UK, plus a number from Italy, Spain and even as far afield as Mexico, had convened at  Heathrow early Monday morning to fly first to Singapore and then on to Ho Chi Minh City, before transferring to Ben Tre by coach.

“The city of Ben Tre, located on Vietnam's Mekong Delta, is the main town in the province of the same name. On arrival we were fitted for our bikes and then had free time to explore the colourful market nearby to our hotel.

“I've been to some interesting markets on my travels around the world but this really was something very special with a huge and exotic array of wares for sales.

“After a refreshing and much needed night’s sleep, we embarked on our first day of cycling. To acclimatise and allow us to get used to our bikes, we cycled only a modest 31 miles from Ben Tre to Tra Vinh, crossing the Mekong and a tributary by ferry on the way.

“Due to the heat and high humidity, we have to start off very early each day to take advantage of the slightly cooler morning temperature. We therefore set off at around 7.30 this morning, cycling first through the outskirts of the city and then on into a swampy, jungle like area where you can find water coconut groves among the fairly dense vegetation.

“We then cycled on into rural communities, where people live in modest, rustic dwellings and set up shops by the roadside selling everything from fruit, vegetables and coconuts to live chickens and local delicacies.

“Given Vietnam's turbulent history, these communities strike you as extremely peaceful, which could be attributable to the strong Buddhist culture, and although a large group of lycra clad cyclists is clearly a source of much curiosity, there was never any feeling of hostility or intimidation and locals waved and shouted as we passed by.

“The roads were much better than I expected so far. The main method of transport used here is the scooter (tax on cars is 200%) and people use them quite literally to carry everything!

“Driving through Ho Chi Minh alone we witnessed someone with a family of four on his bike and later, a washing machine and even a tree!

“What struck me through was how little road rage or aggression there was, with scooter drivers doing their utmost to avoid you and warn you of their presence with a friendly toot - thoroughly refreshing! 

“Tomorrow is a more challenging day with a route of 67 miles taking us from Tra Vinh to Can Tho alongside paddy fields and stunning scenery. It will tough no doubt but hopefully also very rewarding.”

* To sponsor Louisa, go to her fundraising page at:  https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Louisa-Jones9

MP welcomes pre-payment meters campaign success

* Susan Elan Jones MP (left)campaigning last year with Labour MP Dawn Butler for fairer tariffs for prepayment meter consumers.

Local MP Susan Elan Jones has welcomed the fact that four million prepayment meter customers should see a saving of around £80 a year.

Over the last year, the Clwyd South Labour MP has been involved in a national campaign calling for tougher action to reduce costs of purchasing gas or electricity from coin or token-operated prepayment energy meters.

The bill reduction change will happen thanks to a price cap announced by energy regulator Ofgem. Ofgem’s temporary price cap, which comes into effect in April, was one of the measures recommended by the Competition and Market Authority after its two-year investigation of the energy market. The levels of the cap will be updated every six months and is expected to stay 2020.

Susan Elan Jones MP said: “The Ofgem announcement is good news, but more still needs to be done.

“At the last general election, the Labour Party called for tough measures to tackle energy bill tariffs and keep prices down. The Labour Party may not have been popular enough to win an election, but the policy itself was popular and it’s vital we continue campaigning for it.

"Also, whatever our personal views on Brexit, we need to consider what a weaker pound means in terms of likely energy cost rises. The Government needs to do more to help families facing rising gas and electricity bills.” 

Rogue mattress seller warning from county

Denbighshire Trading Standards and North Wales Police are warning residents not to get caught out by rogue mattress-sellers.

This follows reports that flyers which offer luxurious orthopedic and memory foam mattresses for unbelievably low prices have been delivered to houses in the Rhuddlan area.

Trading Standards officers warn that the mattresses may be of inferior quality, may not confirm to British safety standards for flammability and the price paid may be over-inflated.

They say there is little prospect of seeking any redress if customers are dissatisfied with any purchase as it is unlikely that proper contact details of the seller will be provided.

Anyone see anything suspicious or have approaches made to them, should report the matter to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on: 0345 404 0506 / 0345 404 0505 (for Welsh speakers) or contact the police on 101.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead member for Public Realm, said: "These fly-by-night sellers don't care about the risks these mattresses pose, they just want to make a quick buck and leave you with phoney details so they can't be traced.

"These mattresses may be described as memory foam but are carefully wrapped so you have no idea what you are buying.

"They generally fail fire safety tests and are often worn-out, dirty and unhygienic items destined for the tip.

"Anyone offered a cheap mattress on their doorstep should not buy one."

Traders urged to join #LoveLiveLocal campaign

Traders are being encouraged to share the love this Valentine’s Day.

As part of the #LoveLiveLocal shop local campaign, Denbighshire County Council is encouraging local businesses to share pictures of romantic gifts and St Valentine’s Day displays on social media using the hashtag.

#LoveLiveLocal allows shoppers to show support for Denbighshire businesses by using the hashtag on Twitter and Facebook to promote good experiences they’ve had and promote products and services locally they have ‘loved’.

Businesses are also encouraged to post pictures to highlight the wide-range of products available on the county’s high streets.

The Council will help promote local businesses by sharing posts on its social media accounts.

#LoveLiveLocal is part of Denbighshire’s work on developing the economy and supporting local businesses under its Economic and Community Ambition Programme.

Denbighshire Leisure upgrade continues

Denbighshire Leisure is continuing to upgrade its facilities across the county in 2017, including those in Llangollen.

Already Denbighshire facilities are placed amongst the best in Wales and Denbighshire leisure ‘buck the national trend’ by continuing to operate Leisure provisions and attractions successfully and commercially.

Significant investment in 2017 will include:

·         The reopening of Denbigh Leisure Centre swimming pool following refurbishment of the wetside changing rooms and a complete overhaul of the pool hall. The hall has been completely retiled and a new translucent stretch ceiling fitted with LED uplights.

·         Plans for the new waterpark on Rhyl Promenade, which, if approved by Council at the end of January, will be built and operated by Denbighshire Leisure.

·         In spring, the All Weather Pitch at Corwen will have a new 3rd Generation pitch installed, this will be the first 3G pitch in the county and a huge opportunity for the Centre. At the same time, resurfacing/relining the car park will take place and replacement of all CV equipment in the Fitness Suite with brand new Technogym equipment, linking to the Cloud.

·         Following customer feedback, this summer will also see investment in the wetside changing rooms at both Ruthin and Rhyl, both of which are in need of refreshment.

·         Summer will see a new 3G pitch being installed at St Asaph as part of the new school project.

·         Llangollen will also be benefitting from a refreshed fitness suite during the year.

Councillor Huw Jones, Cabinet Lead Member with responsibility for leisure, said: “I am delighted that Denbighshire Leisure continues to go from strength to strength and that our reputation for delivering high quality facilities to our communities endures.

“As always, we have focused on the areas that will bring clear benefits to our existing customers and also help to attract new customers to our centres.”

Police campaign sees 60 drug drive arrests

More drug drivers than ever before have been caught by North Wales Police during the recent Christmas Anti Drink and Drug Drive Campaign.

The campaign, which ran from December 1^st 2016 until January 1^st 2017, saw 60 drug drive arrests being made. During the same period North Wales Police administered 9,448 breath tests of which 95 were positive, failed or refused.

Officers used intelligence-led tactics and local knowledge of hotspots to detect people who were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol over the festive period.

Inspector David Cust from the Roads Policing Unit said: “Although the festivities are now over, we are reminding motorists of the message that drink or drug driving is unacceptable all year round.

“We will continue in our efforts to change driver behaviour in order to make our roads safer.

"Throughout the year North Wales Police will remain alert to the threat of people who are driving under the influence of intoxicants and will continue to catch those who take this risk and endanger innocent road users.”

The 2016 campaign was a concerted effort by not only the Roads Policing Unit, but also colleagues from the Armed Alliance, Local Policing Services and the newly-established Special Constabulary Road Safety Unit.

The Unit, which is based at Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay, compromises of a Special Sergeant and five Special Constables. They recently secured their first drug-drive conviction after a 25-year-old man from Ellesmere Port was disqualified from driving for 12 months and ordered to pay a fine, costs and victim surcharge totalling £525.

In March 2015 new legislation was introduced in England and Wales which set legal limits for how much of a substance; both illegal drugs and prescription medication, motorists can have in their system whilst driving. Officers use a drugs swipe test at the roadside to see if a motorist has taken cannabis or cocaine.

Any drivers who fail the test are arrested and taken to police custody where a sample of their blood is taken. The blood is then sent away to be examined to see if any illegal levels of a drug are found. If the driver refuses to give consent, they face being prosecuted for the offence of failing to provide a sample of blood for analysis.

Throughout 2016 North Wales Police made 881 drink drive and 400 drug drive arrests across the region.

Inspector Cust added: “The initial campaign may be over, but our work continues. Our message remains the same - don't risk it.

“Drink and drug driving ruins lives all year round. People will choose to do so anytime so we need support from the public 365 days a year to help us take these people off the roads of North Wales.”

* If at any time of the year you suspect someone is driving whilst unfit to do so is asked to contact North Wales Police on 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Ambulance service launches defibrillator campaign

* Sports stars Shane Williams and Lee Trundle join

Welsh Ambulance Service mascot Jack at the launch of the Defibuary campaign.

TWO sporting heroes have backed a Welsh Ambulance Service campaign to encourage people to locate their nearest lifesaving defibrillator.

Both Wales’ all-time leading try scorer Shane Williams and Swansea City legend Lee Trundle are supporting the Trust’s annual Defibuary campaign, which runs throughout this month.

It is aimed at raising awareness of what a defibrillator is, where to find the nearest in a life-threatening emergency and how to raise funds to purchase one for your community. 

In Wales there are approximately 8,000 sudden cardiac arrests outside hospital each year and every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by 10 per cent.

As part of the campaign the Trust is encouraging members of the public to take a selfie with a defibrillator or a photo of one and send it via Twitter with details of its location and postcode to @WelshAmbPIH using the hashtag #Defibuary.

Williams, who notched up 58 tries in 87 games for Wales, and Trundle who netted 83 goals over two spells with the Swans, became the first to take part at the launch of the campaign at Swansea’s Quadrant Shopping Centre and are encouraging others to join them.

Williams, who played as a winger for the both the Ospreys and Neath and now works as a TV pundit, said that knowing where to find a defibrillator could make all the difference to someone suffering from a cardiac arrest.

He said: “It is a pleasure to be supporting the Welsh Ambulance Service with their Defibuary campaign.

“I never fully understood how important it is knowing where your nearest defibrillator is. It literally saves lives.”

Meanwhile Trundle, who burst onto the scene with Rhyl and Wrexham AFC and is still scoring for fun for Llanelli Town, called on as many people as possible to get tweeting their defibrillator selfies.

The Swansea City ambassador said: “It's great to be involved in the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Defibuary campaign.

“You could save a life by knowing where your nearest defibrillator is. There's prizes up for grabs too so get tweeting your selfies with defibrillators in Wales.”

Those who take part will have the chance to win a number of fantastic prizes including two defibrillators for your school or community, donated by the Welsh Ambulance Service and the Cariad charity.

For sports fans you can also get your hands on five complimentary tour tickets for the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, courtesy of Wales Rugby Union, and two FIFA World Cup qualifier tickets for Wales versus Austria on September 2^nd 2017, donated by the Football Association of Wales.

Other prizes up for grabs include family entry to Bluestone Water Park, a meal for two at Wetherspoons, a selfie stick, Costa Coffee syrups and a gift from Thorntons.

Dr Brendan Lloyd, Medical Director for the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “When someone goes into cardiac arrest, early defibrillation is a crucial part of the chain of survival.

“In fact there are a number of people in Wales who are alive today thanks to the quick-thinking actions of bystanders in using a nearby defibrillator.

“That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to familiarise themselves with where they can find the closest piece of lifesaving equipment available to them. Hopefully you will never need to use it, but it really could make all the difference.”

To locate your nearest defibrillator you can use NHS Direct Wales’ local service finder online at http://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/localservices/

You can also watch the Trust’s guide to using a defibrillator on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lDjBHIL6mU

Plan for extra police gets go-ahead

Seventeen extra police officers and an additional six staff will be recruited in North Wales after a police boss won backing for his budget plans.

The proposal by North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones (pictured) to increase the cost of policing by 76p a month – less than the cost of a loaf of bread - was supported unanimously by the North Wales Police and Crime Panel.

The increase of 3.79 per cent in the police precept is among the lowest in Wales and was backed by the public in an online survey.

The survey showed that 63 per cent of almost 1,000 council taxpayers questioned were in favour of an increase of five per cent or more.

The average householder in a Band D property will pay just £9.09 extra a year, a total of £249.21 for the annual police precept, up from £240.12, and it comes in the wake of a cut of more than £1 million in the Government’s policing grant for North Wales.

Next year the central government grant, which makes up half the force’s budget, will amount to £71.7 million, a 1.4 per cent cut.

The panel refused to consider the proposal last week and deferred the meeting until today.

Arfon Jones was "disappointed and frustrated" last week's meeting was deferred 90 minutes before it was due to start.

He said: “I am pleased we have finally been able to resolve this issue because the interests of the people of North Wales must always come first.

"We live in challenging times and that is true of policing as well as other areas of society.

"The figure of a 3.79 per cent increase is based on a sound business case which has been worked through in great detail and in consultation with the Chief Constable.

“I have also consulted with the public by holding an online survey which almost 1,000 council taxpayers took part in and which saw an overwhelming majority in favour of an increase of at least five per cent.

“The increase is considerably less than that and is based on achieving a balance between running an efficient and effective police force with a recognition that many people in North Wales find it difficult to meet even a small increase.

“The level of the precept is crucial to the effectiveness of the force in keeping North Wales a safe place to live, work and visit and setting it is one of my principal responsibilities.

"As a result of the decision today, North Wales Police will be able to recruit another 17 police officers and six more members of staff.

“Policing budgets have been under pressure for a number of years and this will certainly continue to be the case with a further £7 million in cuts to the budget due by 2020.

“There will be continued uncertainty for police funding for 2018/19 and beyond so it was vitally important to get today's decision right.

The Commissioner and the Chief Constable have agreed cuts of £2.86 million in the North Wales Police budget for 2017-2018 with over £1.25 million of those cuts reinvested in frontline services which will also be boosted by an extra £1 million in front line posts from the precept increase.

Mr Jones added: “Policing is under great pressure from new demands being placed upon it – who would have thought that the majority of crime in North Wales is now being committed online rather than on the street?

“My reserves are in a stable and healthy position and so I am only looking to increase council tax in order to fund the coming year’s expenditure and to deal with the effect of further reductions in government grant if and when this should occur.”

Gill and Glyn Thomas honoured by Llan Civic Society

* Betty Lowe presents the Civic Award to Rhodri

and Penri Thomas, sons of Gill and Glyn. 

At the January AGM of Llangollen Civic Society there were five nominations for the Civic Award for 2016.

But there was unanimous vote that the award should be made posthumously to Gill and Glyn Thomas, who had both died in the past few months, and had both made a valued contribution to the town over many years. 

The presentation was made by Betty Lowe, the society’s life president, during the meeting which was held at Llangollen Museum. 

Gill and Glyn had been secretary and treasurer of Hanes for some years, and after their loss the committee had recommended that the society be dissolved. 

At the AGM the members overwhelming agreed to this course of action. 

Members of the society will be welcomed as Friends of the Museum, which holds talks on the last Wednesday of each month.

It has been suggested that the Friends expand their activities to include visits to places of interest, as Hanes used to do. 

The Museum plans to develop a historical herb garden in memory of Gill, since this was a passion of hers. 

It will be based on a monastic herb garden such as at Valle Crucis, with sections for herbs with different applications. 

This would form the basis for demonstrations of the historical use of herbs.