Search for eisteddfod star attracts record entries

* Voice of the Future 2017 winner Sian Dicker is presented with the Pendine Trophy by Mario Kreft.

A global search to find a new international singing star has attracted a record number of entries.

The prestigious Pendine International Voice of the Future competition will be one of the highlights of the week-long Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod which gets underway on Tuesday, July 3.

The aim of the annual competition which started in 2013 is to advance the careers of the world’s most gifted young singers.

Each year the beautiful town of Llangollen in the Dee Valley, North Wales, welcomes talented International Voice of the Future entrants for the first two days of the festival, as competitors battle for the coveted Pendine Trophy through the preliminary rounds and the grand final on Wednesday, July 4.

For the second year running arts-loving care organisation Pendine Park, a long-standing supporter of the festival, are contributing £5,000 to the prize fund via the Pendine Arts and Community Trust which was established to support cultural and community initiatives.

The rest of the £10,000 prize pot is being donated by the Sir Bryn Terfel Foundation and Llangollen Eisteddfod.

The aim of the competition is to showcase and nurture young talent by raising their profile and giving their budding careers a financial boost.

Winners are also given the opportunity to perform in future Eisteddfod concerts with established international stars. 

Previous winners include Meinir Wyn Roberts, who was a special guest at last year’s 70^th anniversary opening concert, Elsa Roux Chamoux and Eirlys Myfanwy Davies, who performed with Sir Bryn Terfel and the world-renowned Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja at the festival in 2016.

The Pendine International Voice of the Future competition is open to singers over 19 and under the age of 28, with entries closing in early March annually.

The competition, now in its fifth year, has attracted a record number of 43 entries as its popularity continues to grow.

Pendine Park proprietor Mario Kreft MBE said: “We established the Pendine Arts and Community Trust to enhance our ongoing support to more than 20 arts organisations and a host of good causes in the community.

“We’re therefore proud to be working with the Sir Bryn Terfel Foundation to support such an exceptional competition which provides a catalyst for talented young individuals to reach new heights by launching their singing careers on a global stage.

“Music and the arts provide the golden thread that runs through everything we do at Pendine Park to enrich the lives of our residents and staff alike, so we’re delighted to be helping out by creating opportunities for gifted young singers by providing an international platform for their talent.”

Music Director at the International Eisteddfod, Vicky Yannoula, commented: “In my debut year as Music Director, I’m relishing the chance to discover the brightest young talent in association with Pendine Park and of course Sir Bryn Terfel’s Foundation.

“I’m looking forward to sharing the stage - as I join forces with the distinguished pianist, Peter Jablonski - to perform alongside our remarkable finalists in our Classical Collection evening concert on Wednesday 4th July. 

“From its introduction in 2013, the calibre of competition and prestige has continued to grow. We cannot wait to experience the extraordinary level of excellence this year’s participants are sure to offer.” 

Chief Constable leaves force for health board

North Wales’ most senior police officer, Chief Constable Mark Polin, has today announced that he is to retire in July.

Chief Constable Polin (pictured) has been a police officer for more than three decades, including nearly nine years as Chief Constable of North Wales Police.

He will leave his post in effect from late July to take up the role of Chairman of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board at the start of September.

He said: “I feel very fortunate to have led North Wales Police for close on nine years and I can honestly say I have enjoyed every day. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such professional, committed and skilled members of staff.

"Their resilience and understanding has been truly tremendous given the challenges we have tackled, not least in terms of pretty much continual change in the face of austerity and new demands and rising public expectations.

“We have been very successful together and in conjunction with our partners. Our performance has remained strong and indeed improved in key areas; we have never been found wanting in terms of critical and major incidents; we have invested in IT, estate and other infrastructure; continued to recruit high quality people and we have managed our finances and assets well – to name but a few things.”

Mr Polin started his career with the City of London Police where he worked up to the rank of Chief Inspector. In 1998 he transferred to Gwent Police as the Superintendent in charge of various central operational functions, including the Force Control Room and the firearms, public order and traffic units.

In December 1999, he was appointed as Chief Superintendent and Divisional Commander of Caerphilly Division, and in 2002 assumed responsibility for the Professional and Ethical Standards Department.

Before moving to North Wales as Chief Constable Mark was Deputy Chief Constable of Gloucestershire Constabulary.

In 2010 Mark received the Queen's Police Medal (QPM Award).

Mark said: “I have been assisted by a strong but appropriate relationship with the Police & Crime Commissioner and his office, who have supported the Force well. My life has also been made somewhat easier by a cohesive and high performing management team.

"I say to all our new recruits that families and friends play a crucial role in supporting us to do our jobs to the best of our ability and I know I could not have performed the role I have without my wife Karen and our two children Amy and James to whom I am indebted. I will miss hugely all the officers, staff and volunteers I have had the honour of leading for the last nine years.”

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones said: “I would like to thanks Chief Constable Mark Polin for his excellent leadership at a time when the Force has had to absorb substantial financial cutbacks whilst adapting to deal with new and emerging crimes.

“Mark has been a credit to North Wales Police and is held in the highest regard not just by his colleagues, but across the range of partners that the Force works with and the communities that it serves.

“He has made a significant impact on the area and through his leadership the force is now in a much better position to meet the challenging demands of modern policing which in turn ensures that North Wales remains a safe place to live, work and visit.

“I sincerely thank him and to wish him well for the future.

“We have now started the process of appointing a new Chief Constable. They are big shoes to fill but I am confident we will choose a worthy successor to carry on his good work.”

Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard will be the Acting Chief Constable until a new Chief is appointed.

He will be supported by Assistant Chief Constable Richard Debicki who will become the Acting Deputy Chief Constable and Chief Superintendent Neill Anderson who will become the Acting Assistant Chief Constable.

Appeal follows A494 accident

Update in relation to the road traffic collision on the A494 at Bala

Police have confirmed that the motorcyclist involved in the road traffic collision on the A494 at Bala yesterday (Monday) afternoon has died.

The family of the 57-year-old man, from the Wrexham area, have been informed, but no further details are said to be available at present.

The collision, involving the motorcycle and a car, happened at 3.09pm.

Sgt Nicola Grimes-Williams said: “We are keen to hear form anyone who may have seen the motorcyclist riding along the road prior to the collision this afternoon and we are appealing to any drivers who may have dashcam footage to come forward.”

* Anyone with any information is urged to call the Roads Policing Unit on 101 quoting reference W059333. Alternatively contact the Control Room via the new live web chat on http://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/chat-support.aspx.

Police appeal following fatal collision

Police are renewing their appeal for information following a fatal road traffic collision in Wrexham yesterday (Friday May 4^th).

At 4:10pm police were notified of a two-vehicle collision on the junction of the A525 and the A483 involving a motorcycle and a silver coloured Fiat 500.

Emergency services attended the scene however the motorcyclist was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Sergeant Meurig Jones said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of those involved in the collision during this difficult time.

“The motorcycle was travelling from Coedpoeth towards Wrexham – and we’d appeal to any motorists who may have witnessed the collision or may have seen the motorcycle before the incident to get in contact with us. We’d be especially eager to hear from anyone who saw the motorcycle approaching the lights on the junction of the A525 and the A483.

Anybody with information is asked to contact officers at the Roads Policing Unit on 101 or via the live web chat by quoting reference number W057541.

Glyndŵr to help boost your health and happiness

* From left: Petros Andreadis, Senior Lecturer, Public Health and Wellbeing; Justine Mason, Programme Leader for the Mental Health and Wellbeing programme, and Catherine Hewins, Senior Lecturer – Health.

 

A series of masterclasses looking at how communities can work together to improve health, happiness and wellbeing are to be held at Wrexham Glyndŵr University.

The free masterclasses, being held across May and June, examine ways that the general public – and specific professionals – can make an impact in their community.

On May 23, the Art and Science of Public Health Masterclass - https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/ShortCourses/PublicHealthMasterclass/ - will look at how our lifestyles and systems can affect our health and wellbeing – and ways we can reduce disease and illness and increase wellbeing.

On June 22, the Beyond Barbells and Beefcake Masterclass - https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/ShortCourses/BeyondBarbellsandBeefcake/ - examines ways that fitness professionals can link their work to the wider picture when it comes to public health and wellbeing.

And on June 25, the Tints, Tips and Talking Masterclass - https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/ShortCourses/TintsTipsandTalking/ - will consider the impact that those working in the beauty industry can make. Designed for any kind of beauty industry professional, the class looks at how beauty professionals can recognise issues such as loneliness – and ways that they can signpost their clients to services.

Programme Leader for the Mental Health and Wellbeing programme, Justine Mason, explained that one of the drivers behind the masterclasses was to set out the ways that different groups can play in keeping a community healthy.

She said: “One of the areas where we have been doing a lot of work – and which is growing in importance – is social prescribing. This is essentially where a person’s needs are looked at and a range of activities are suggested for them to take part in – such as volunteering, cookery or gardening. These are designed to help boost their wellbeing.

“When social prescribing first started, it was very much GP led – you would see your GP, and they would refer you on from there. What we are finding, however, is that other members of the community can have that knowledge too.

“Take hairdressers – people will tell their hairdresser how lonely they are, indeed the hairdresser may be the only person they talk to that day. These masterclasses can help people to identify situations like that where they can improve the health and wellbeing of their community, what they can do – and how a hairdresser could tackle social isolation without even leaving the salon.

“The same is true for fitness professionals too – and for other members of the public. These masterclasses are designed to show how our communities can get involved in public health – and the difference that makes.”

* To find out more about the BSc (Hons) Public Health and Wellbeing course, please click here: https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/Undergraduatecourses/HealthandWellbeing/ and to find out about the BSc(Hons) Mental Health and Wellbeing course, please click here: https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/Undergraduatecourses/MentalHealthandWellbeing/

Hospice's latest Ride Out is this Sunday

Scores of bikers are expected to take part in Nightingale House Hospice's annual Ride Out from Llangollen Pavilion this Sunday.

After the success of the last two years, the hospice says it is pleased to invite all bikers to join the event.

Riders will be navigating the Welsh country roads with a stop for lunch and enjoying the magnificent scenery along the way.

 

Registration includes entry, lunch, pin badge and a raffle ticket.

The lunch stop is held at Llyn Brenig before the ride finishes at the Ponderosa on the Horseshoe Pass.

 

The Ride Out will start at 10am (register from 8.30am), to register, contact the fundraising team on 01978 314292.

Details of the route can be found here: goo.gl/maps/vGappfzhPGN2 although this is subject to change depending on weather and roadworks.

Price: £10 (includes entry and lunch).

Intrepid John completes Chester Half Marathon

* John Palmer celebrates his Chester Half Marathon success.

Last Sunday Llangollen septuagenarian John Palmer completed his first half marathon in Chester in 1hour 59 minutes.

John was raising money for Alzheimer’s Research, his wife Lyn having been diagnosed with dementia a little over five years ago.

In September last year John and his son Nic were no longer able to care for her at home and she is now looked after by the lovely staff at Llangollen Fechan.

John and Lyn met at Chester Teacher Training College, now Chester University, over 50 years ago and after a very happy life together John wanted to help find a cure for this awful disease.

He has raised over £1,600 and says: "I have been overwhelmed by the support and good wishes from both friends and complete strangers and appreciate all they have done for us.”

Lee "Scratch" Perry spearheads Fringe line-up

Lee "Scratch" Perry, the legendary reggae producer, provocateur and dub pioneer, will headline the 21st edition of the Llangollen Fringe Festival on Saturday 25th July.

Grammy award-winning Perry (pictured) has been highly influential in the development of reggae and dub music world wide.

Working under many names - as well as in many capacities including disc jockey, producer, record businessman, songwriter, singer - he has been a guiding force in the development of reggae.

In addition to his own trailblazing music, Perry has produced hits for the Wailers, Junior Byles, Max Romeo, the Heptones, Gregory Isaacs, Junior Murvin, and the Clash.

Known for his bizarre behaviour and stream-of-consciousness interviews, he often dons costumes and headdresses made of found objects such as feathers, toys, playing cards, and coins.

Perry is joined on the festival's bill - its biggest to date - by Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band, BBC 6 Music Radio's Craig Charles and Mark Radcliffe (appearing on separate nights) and Linton Kwesi Johnson.

There will also be stand-up comedy and the return of Band For a Day, the music-themed Steam Train and Aqueduct Boat trips trips, and many other events.

The festival rounds off with its iconic closing concert in the stunning surrounds of Valle Crucis Abbey, which this year will feature the ethereal sound of Golden Fable and the New Sinfornia Orchestra.

* Full listings tickets for the whole festival are on sale now priced at £80. This allows access to all of the main events across the 10 days. Tickets are available from www.llangollenfringe.co.uk, or by calling the Fringe box office on 0800 1455 779.

Another abnormal load passes through

A second abnormal load convoy has driven through Llangollen this morning (Tuesday).

Once again police outriders cleared the way as two heavy vehicles, each carrying large cylindrical loads, drove along Regent Street (A5) in the direction of Corwen.

Your chance to shape health and social services

Do you want to play a key role in making decisions about health and social services in North Wales?

The North Wales Regional Partnership Board is looking for people who use health or social services or who may care for someone who has needed services to join the board.

The board is on the lookout for one individual representative and one carer representative to join the board as soon as possible and two further representatives in November 2018 when the term of the current members expires.

The North Wales Regional Partnership Board has been established by the new Social Services and Well-being Act (2014) and aims to improve the health and wellbeing of all people in North Wales.

Bethan Jones Edwards, Head of Regional Collaboration for the North Wales Regional Partnership Board, said: “Partners are working together to improve the health and well-being of residents across the North Wales region and this is a great opportunity to get involved in the work of the Regional Partnership Board. 

“The individuals should have a passion for improving people’s lives and will want to have plenty of drive, energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference to the way services are run across North Wales.  Those who have real life experience of the health and well-being services would be ideal candidates and can bring their experience to the board.”

* If you are interested in finding out more, contact Bethan Jones Edwards via e-mail: Bethan.m.jonesedwards@denbighshire.gov.uk, or by phone:  01824712037.

Expressions of interest to be submitted to: Bethan.m.jonesedwards@denbighshire.gov.uk by 25th May 2018 or in writing to Head of Regional Collaboration, County Hall, Wynnstay Road, Ruthin, LL15 9AZ.

Abnormal load passes through town

* Police motorcyclists control traffic around the Castle Street lights.

Traffic along Regent Street (A5) was temporarily held up by the passage of an abnormal load around 11.30am today (Monday).

Just ahead of two heavy wagons loaded with large concrete sections police motorcyclists arrived to control traffic around the Castle Street junction.

After passing through the lights the convoy, headed by a police Range Rover, headed onwards towards Corwen.  

* The abnormal load convoy passes along Regent Street.

* One of the two trucks in the convoy. 

* The load heads onwards in the direction of Corwen.

Black Park concert benefits Dystonia charity

* Choral Variations on song at the concert.

* Gresford Handbell Ringers chime in with the concert.

A mixed choir which includes a number of members from Llangollen sang at a well-received charity concert at Black Park Chapel near Chirk on Friday evening.  

Staged in aid of the North Wales Support Group of the Dystonia Society UK, the event featured Choral Variations, led by Owen Roberts, who appeared along with Gresford Handbell Ringers, Ifton Colliery Youth Band, The Iftonites, soloist Eleanor Burnham and pianist Joyce Frith.

A large audience was highly impressed by the youth band which showed its capability despite only being formed a year ago.

Choral Variations delighted with two sets either side of the interval featuring a diverse selection of favourites, both in English and Welsh.

The handbell ringers, under the direction of Jill Roberts, specialises in music ranging from classical through to jazz and modern pop and their novel selection from the musical Les Miserables went down particularly well with the audience.

Two powerful sets were also provided by Eleanor Burnham, who is a prize-winning eisteddfod performer and regular member of Black Park Singers.   

Joyce Firth, the regular accompanist of the Black Park Singers, performed a light and breezy number which was also well appreciated.

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder and Moira Gleed, who is leader of the local support group and also a member of Choral Variations, gave an insight into the condition whose sufferers benefitted from the evening.   

Poetry and folk night cancelled

Organisers say the Spring Is Sprung poetry and folk night planned for this Friday May 4 at St John's Church has been cancelled due to a number of factors including poor ticket sales.

In a statement they say: "Since it was a charity event to raise money for cancer support and research it was felt that the event would not be viable.

"It is hoped to hold a similar function later in the year but with a number of important changes.

"The organisers would like to thank all those groups who lent their support including the Rotary Club, the Inner Wheel Club, the Prostate Support Group and local cancer fundraisers."     

Review of affordale homes announced

Housing and Regeneration Minister Rebecca Evans has announced an independent review of affordable housing supply in Wales.

The review will examine whether more can be done to increase the supply of affordable housing in Wales, maximising the resources available, and will be chaired by Lynn Pamment, Cardiff Senior Partner and Government & Public Services Lead at PwC.

The review will:

• examine the scope for increasing match funding to build more affordable homes, to maximise the number of homes created by the Welsh Government’s contribution to social housing
• review the arrangements governing partnership working between local authorities and housing associations
• consider the implications of moving to deliver zero carbon homes by 2020, including the role of off-site manufacture and modern methods of construction
• review the standards governing affordable housing and advise on whether they require updating
• make recommendations regarding a sustainable rent policy that will both allow long term affordability for tenants and allow viability of existing and new housing developments.

The review will be expected to issue a report and make recommendations to the Minister by the end of April 2019.

Rebecca Evans said: “We have made a clear commitment to deliver 20,000 affordable homes during this term of Government.

“I want this review to ensure we are getting the best value for money in our investments and policy, including how we plan for a zero carbon future and the way in which the sector operates.

"We know that many more people in Wales want to access affordable housing. The sector in Wales have called on us to look at our policy, and we want to work closely with all stakeholders involved in housing supply to ensure we are building as many homes as possible."

Stuart Ropke, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru said: “Housing associations in Wales have ambitions to build a minimum of 75,000 affordable homes in Wales over the next twenty years – doubling the current delivery rate."

"Through the review we can establish the most effective policy environment to meet our affordable home delivery ambition and build a solid foundation for current and future generations. If we get this review right, it will be a big step towards solving the housing crisis.”

Entries flood in for Llangollen Round Challenge

* First checkpoint on a previous event.

It's just five weeks to go to the third Llangollen Round Challenge on June 2 and 3.

And organisers reckon that as entries approach the 400 mark they have no doubt it this will be the biggest event yet.  

Amongst the entrants are a family of eight from Warwick, a group of 15 from Barclays in Liverpool, along with many individuals from all over the country.  

But organisers' spokeswoman Judy Smith said: "Nevertheless, we do still have plenty more places available at the moment, so if you are considering it – act soon."

She added: "Plans for the weekend are well under way, and it takes some effort getting our heads around the requirements of over 400 walkers. How many loaves? 500 apples?  Who will bake a couple of hundred cakes?  And most importantly, how much water do we need?  

"The last one, of course, depends on the weather.  Then there are the impromptu breakfasts, and the restaurant itself, where supporters as well as walkers can get a sandwich or two.  

"It all adds up to an enormous amount of provisions, and we are very grateful for the support of Spar, Aldi, Tesco and Trent Water in this respect.

"We’re also grateful to all the volunteer helpers – around 90 of them in total, manning the Leisure Centre, checkpoints, road crossings, car parks, restaurant, and a lot more.  

"Many of them will be leaving their beds before dawn each day. It’s a great co-operative effort, but the cause makes it worthwhile.  

"This year we are really hoping to raise £50,000 for Cancer Research UK and I’m crossing my fingers as I’m writing it. We shall see ..."

The Round has a well-waymarked 33-mile circular route visiting every summit around the Vale of Llangollen. 

The Challenge uses exactly this route, but since it starts and ends at Dinas Brân School in the town, an extra stretch has been added at beginning and end, making the total distance to be covered 35 miles. 

Participants have the option of doing this in one day, the Saturday, or two, with those choosing two days being bussed back to Llangollen from the mid-point on Saturday and returned to the same place on Sunday morning.

* For more details, go to http://www.thellangollenround.info

Art exhibition set to open at the Pavilion

Llangollen Artists have their latest exhibition at the Pavilion from May 1 -June 17.

It features work by Simon Collinge, Mike Flory, Sue Hall, Carys Roberts, John Smout and, for the first time, Edward Bell and Dory who now has his studio in the former health centre on Regent Street.

 

Work progresses on Centenary Square

* Contractors at work on Centenary Square.

Work has started on the new Centenary Square scheme centred on the War Memorial and the area of land known as Royal Gardens.

Contractors are G H James Ltd, a North Wales Civil engineering and construction company established in 1985, who have worked on similar projects in Mold, Holywell, Flint and Buckley.

Cittaslow Llangollen, which is involved in the project, says on its Facebook page: "Whilst the plans have had to change very slightly, the end result will provide a high-quality multi use space in the heart of the town centre.

"The works will run for 10 weeks with a scheduled completion date of 25th June 2018."

The site, at the corner of Bridge Street and Castle Street, was acquired by the Town Council is 2010 and the preferred scheme for its development was identified by the public in 2016. 

* An artist's impression of how the finished square will look.

Choral concert in town next month

The choir Choral Variations are teaming up with Penley Madras Community Choir for a concert at the English Methodist Church in Princess Street, Llangollen on the evening of Friday May 11.

Choral Variations will be conducted by Owen M.Roberts and Alison Jarvis will conduct the Penley choir.

The concert starts at 7.30pm and admission is £5, payable at the door, or in advance from choir members. Light refreshments will be available.

* For more details, go to: choralvariations.com

Triumph for county schools soccer teams

* Denbighshire Schools’ Football Association’s Under12s.

* Denbighshire Schools’ Football Association’s Under13s.

Denbighshire Schools’ Football Association’s Under12s and Under13s teams secured top spot to quality for the Welsh Schools’ Football Association semi-finals.

The teams were unbeaten in their respective northern section leagues and qualified for the Welsh Schools’ Football Association semi-finals to be held at the Cardiff International Sports Campus in Cardiff on Thursday, April 21.

The Under12 team were unbeaten in their league scoring 32 goals and only conceding three tells the story of what a talented bunch our year 7 boys are.

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Lead Member for Education, Children and Young People said:  “The Under12s quad include six that are signed by professional academies and 12 are signed by Welsh academies and of the Under13s, two are signed by a professional academy and one is currently on trial with a pro academy and all the other boys currently signed by Welsh academies.

“This goes to show the high standard of football played by our Denbighshire pupils.”

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Lead Member for Well-being and Independence said: “They have done exceptionally well in their qualifying campaigns and I’d like to wish both teams well in Cardiff on Thursday.”

The Under12s will face either Swansea SFA or Bridgend SFA in the semi-finals with the Under13s facing Cardiff SFA and Vale SFA in their semi-finals.  

New date for Rotary and Inner Wheel Fete

* Cwmwd Ial re-enactors at last year's fete.

The date of the annual Rotary and Inner Wheel Garden Fete held at Plas Newydd has been
changed this year.

The new date is Saturday June 9 rather than the traditional first Saturday in June. This is to avoid a clash with the Llangollen Round Challenge on Saturday June 2 as many of the volunteers are involved in both events.

The fete will have all the usual attractions, stalls, refreshments and activities for the children.

The main arena attraction will once again be the Cwmwd Iâl re-enactors but fete organisers say this
year’s performance will be even bigger and more spectacular than last year.

Cwmwd Iâl re-enact living history and combat displays at events nationwide. They portray the people living in Wales between the 9th and 12th centuries.

Fete organisers are delighted that both Ysgol Bryn Collen and Ysgol Y Gwernant will be involved and the Brownies and Rainbows will also have their own competitions.

More details of the event will be available later.

AM attacks school uniform grant cut

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood grilled the First Minister this week over his Government’s decision to cut a £700,000 grant which helps thousands of poorer families buy school uniforms in Wales.

Speaking in the Assembly Chamber, Mr Isherwood (pictured) blasted the plans and urged the First Minister to protect the funding.

Following fierce criticism of the proposal, Carwyn Jones has said the Welsh Government is “looking to introduce an improved grant that suits families' needs better”, but Mr Isherwood said parents need assurances that they will still receive the funding.

Speaking in the Assembly Chamber, he said: “After this announcement was made, the Welsh Government said that the cost of uniforms had reduced. The Bevan Foundation called this a mealy-mouthed justification for a cut that will save a small sum.

“A headteacher in Bangor said uniform is a way of avoiding social stigma because pupils all look the same. He blasted what he called the ‘bonfire of the grants’ affecting some of the most vulnerable school children.

“A Conservative Bridgend Councillor described the move as heartless and said it would hit the poorest families the hardest. You were just asked clearly whether you would protect the funding, so can I ask you, yes or no, even if you won't answer whether you'll protect the funding, will all year 7 pupils in receipt of free school meals still be eligible for a school uniform grant?”

The First Minister replied: “What we're looking to do is to do that and beyond. Our commitment to the most disadvantaged pupils is there for all to see. We've increased it to £93.7 million through the PDG (Pupil Development Grant) spend. We are looking at not just school uniform items, but possibly the cost of school trips, stationery, extra curricular activities, school photographs, cost of equipment or resources”.

Mr Isherwood added: “This is more uncertainty than ‘u-turn’ by a Welsh Government caught on the hop and a First Minister seeking to retrieve believability from blunder. In referring instead to his Government’s Pupil Development Grant, which is supposed to tackle the impact of disadvantage on educational outcomes, he omitted to mention the statement by education watchdog Estyn that using the Pupil Development Grant to support disadvantaged pupils was ‘rarely a central aspect’ of schools’ plans."

Llanfest teams up with the Cavern Club

* Dancers from the festival (Sai Mayur) perform with The Cavern Club at the Yellow Submarine statute outside Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has announced that the world’s most famous music club, The Cavern, will host its first ever pop-up stage at this year’s festival.

The Liverpool-based music venue will be joining bands including the Kaiser Chiefs at the festival’s finale party, Llanfest, on Sunday 8^th July, as the date also marks the 50^th anniversary of the Beatles’ animated film Yellow Submarine.

This collaboration on the Lindop Toyota  Globe Stage will see The Cavern Club entertain audiences with performances by their world class resident musicians.

The legendary club has been the beating heart of Liverpool’s iconic music scene for over seven decades and will celebrate The Beatles pop history at the festival - hosting a myriad of music performances by world class singers from Liverpool.

The International Eisteddfod has been promoting peace and goodwill through music and performance for over 70 years.

It even helped launch Luciano Pavarotti’s career and attracts over 4,000 performers and as many as 50,000 visitors across the week.

Chairman of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, Dr Rhys Davies, said: “The International Eisteddfod was created to heal the wounds of war and bring communities from across the globe together through music and dance, in the spirit of international friendship and peace.

“The Beatles’ values and international renown will help spread this message even further. We are so proud to be working with The Cavern Club who will be helping bring even more contemporary music genres to the festival, while still remaining true to the festival’s traditional values.”

Director at The Cavern Club, Bill Heckle, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, both by hosting The Cavern’s pop-up stage at this year’s festival and commemorating the Yellow Submarine’s 50^th anniversary, which has influenced music and popular culture for half a century.

“It is an incredibly exciting time for us, Liverpool and the music industry and to commemorate one of Liverpool’s biggest phenomenon at one of the largest international music festivals is amazing, we can’t wait for Llanfest!”

To celebrate their collaboration, international dancers from the festival (Sai Mayur) performed with The Cavern Club at the landmark Yellow submarine statute, outside Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Launched in 2011, Llanfest was introduced as the finale party of the International Eisteddfod, to reach out to new audiences and attract festival goers from across the country.

The announcement of The Cavern Club and Kaiser Chiefs 2018 appearance follows the huge success of Welsh band Manic Street Preachers, who raised the roof of the Royal International Pavilion at the festival finale last year.

Operatic's stunning My Fair Lady is right up your street

* The memorable Ascot scene from the Operatic's My Fair Lady.

If you’re a lover of big stage musicals then the latest offering from Llangollen Operatic Society is going to be right on the street where you live.

The society last performed that Lerner and Loewe evergreen 30 years ago and a handful of cast members who were in it back in the Eighties have returned to add their experience to the current production which opened last night in the Town Hall and runs for the next four evenings plus a matinee on Saturday.

The show tells the well-known tale of Eliza Doolittle, an awkward Covent Garden flower girl who is transformed into the fair lady of the title by prickly phoneticist Professor Henry Higgs in Edwardian London.

But while Eliza is fashioned into an elegant and poised beauty by the Prof the often painful transformation has the unexpected side-effect of bringing out the human side of the curmudgeonly bachelor academic. 

Taking the key role of Eliza is stunning new am-dram star Esme Sallnow who was simply made for it. She looks the part, can act up a storm and has the kind of voice the composers must have imagined for their female lead.

Higgins is played by Llan Operatic stalwart Chris Sims who brings to the enormous and challenging part just the right amount of crustiness contrasted with humour.

Another actor precisely of the kind Lerner and Loewe must have had in mind when they were working up the loveably cheeky character of Alfie Doolittle, the dustman dad of Eliza, is Bill Hughes. With the ability to become indefatigably Cockney right down to his gorblimey trousers, he has one of the best and most powerful voices you’re ever likely to hear on an amateur stage anywhere.    

The excellent John Clifford, with whom Llangollen audiences are familiar from a diverse range of roles, shines again as Colonel Pickering, Higgins’s bumbling yet kind-hearted sidekick, and another Operatic favourite, Alison Ravenscroft, plays the Professor’s housekeeper, Mrs Pearce, with all her usual polish.

Graham Kelly gives a good interpretation of Freddie Eynsford-Hill, the mooning toff who makes a play for Eliza’s heart. 

With My Fair Lady it’s the unforgettable songs which have haunted audiences down the decades since this conversion of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion was first staged back in the 1950s.

And the way the Llan cast of almost 40, augmented with some budding talent from its Young 'Uns junior section, presents them with gusto and feeling does each one perfect justice.

From the touching I Could Have Danced All Night from Eliza to the crafty With a Little Bit of Luck from Alfie Doolittle and from the hopeful On the Street Where You Live from Freddie to the rousing Get Me to the Church of Time by the whole ensemble everyone's a winner.

As well as the musical numbers lots of time has clearly been lavished on the choreography and plenty of work has also gone into the period-correct costumes and eye-catching stage settings, none more so than the famous black and white Ascot scene which is stunning to both see and hear.

The show is a real spectacular and a credit to director Leigh Mason, artistic director Joanne Lloyd and producer Helen Belton who brought the whole thing together is remarkable style.

My Fair Lady is on at 7.30pm each evening of the run with the Saturday matinee starting at 2pm.

* Tickets, at £12 and £10 concessions, are available from Bailey’s, Gwyn the Butcher and Jades in Llangollen town centre as well as by phoning Stella Bond on 01978 860441 or by going online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenoperaticsociety (fee applies).

Curtain goes up on My Fair Lady

* Key cast members of My Fair Lady.

A cast of almost 40 from Llangollen Operatic Society are presenting the classic musical My Fair Lady at Llangollen Town Hall from tonight (Tuesday) until Saturday.

And, according to producer Helen Belton, they can’t wait to tackle the Lerner and Loewe masterpiece based on George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion.

She said: “The story concerns Eliza Doolittle, a cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins, a phoneticist, so that she can pass as a lady.

“The original Broadway and London shows memorably starred Rex Harrison and Julie Andrews but we’ve also got some exceptional performers waiting in the wings.  

“Eliza is played by talented Llangollen Operatic newcomer Esme Sallnow while two of our most experienced members, Christopher Sims and John Clifford, take the parts of Higgins and Colonel Pickering respectively. Alison Ravenscroft, who has also appeared in many of our past productions, is Higgins’ housekeeper, Mrs Pearce.”

Helen added: “The society last performed My Fair Lady around 30 years ago and a few of the people who were in it then are also in the new production.

“Back in the 80s the show proved a massive success for us and we’re aiming for a similar audience response this time.”

Musical director for the show is Leigh Mason and artistic director is Joanne Lloyd.

My Fair Lady is on at 7.30pm each evening of the run and there’s also a 2pm matinee on Saturday.

* Tickets, at £12 and £10 concessions, are available from Bailey’s, Gwyn the Butcher and Jades in Llangollen town centre as well as by phoning Stella Bond on 01978 860441 or by going online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenoperaticsociety (fee applies).

Are you entitled to Council Tax reduction?

As Council Tax bills drop through the letterboxes of homes across Wales, thousands of households could be missing out on reductions they are entitled to.

Mid Wales South East Wales North Wales Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford (pictured) has urged people to check whether they were aware of the discounts and reductions they could be entitled to.

You may be entitled to pay less council tax if:

• you believe you live on a low-income
• you live alone, or with people /children who do not pay council tax
• you are a student
• you are disabled
• you are mentally impaired
• your property is empty.

The Welsh Government is working with local authorities and third sector organisations including Citizens Advice and Age Cymru, to make people more aware of the range of support available to help them pay their Council Tax bills.

A new awareness raising campaign will be launched and a simple eligibility checker is available online. Reminders about the support available will also be sent to householders.

Professor Drakeford said: “We know that thousands of households across Wales are not receiving the support they could be entitled to with their Council Tax. There are many discounts, reductions and exemptions available and these are all listed on our new website. A few minutes of your time, could mean significant savings to your outgoings.”

Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Public Services Alun Davies said: “Making Council Tax fairer is an essential part of our plans to reform local government in Wales.

“We’ve worked hard to ensure vulnerable households in Wales continue to receive Council Tax support as part of our national Council Tax Reduction Scheme. However, many households aren’t aware they could be eligible for the scheme or entitled to other discounts or exemptions.

"I would encourage everyone to check the website to see whether they could be paying less council tax.”

* A full list of eligibility criteria is available on the Welsh Government website at gov.wales/counciltaxhelp

Open day at World Heritage Site

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Llangollen Canal World Heritage Site will be celebrating World Heritage Day on Saturday April 21 with fantastic family events near its Trevor Basin Visitor Centre.

The Canal & River Trust charity in Wales, which cares for the canal World Heritage Site near Llangollen, has organised a range of exciting activities for both adults and children, including free guided walks, canoe taster sessions, wood carving, stalls and an opportunity to build a bird box.

Between 11am and 3pm, visitors will be able to drop in and enjoy any of the activities, as well as discover more about volunteering or becoming a friend of the Canal & River Trust. Entry to Trevor Basin Visitor Centre is free of charge.

Lynda Slater, Trevor Basin Visitor Centre manager with the Canal & River Trust, said: “The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and 11-mile Llangollen Canal are part of a very exclusive club of outstanding buildings or monuments across the globe which have been designated World Heritage Site status.

“Along with iconic places such as the Taj Mahal and the Pyramids, we will be celebrating what makes us special. As we start the new summer season, we would love lots of people to come and visit us, and discover more about North Wales’s stunning Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which is Britain’s highest, longest aqueduct, a grade one-listed and scheduled ancient monument.”

The Trevor Basin Visitor Centre is open every day, 10am – 4pm, until the end of October. For more information about visiting the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Llangollen Canal World Heritage Site or volunteering and donating to the Canal & River Trust, please visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk or phone 0303 040 4040.

Veterans called up for Glyndŵr research

* Dr Nikki Lloyd-Jones is heading the research project at Glyndŵr University.

Armed Forces leavers across the region are being sought for a project which will take their picture and tell their story.

The project is the latest development in a research venture led by Wrexham Glyndŵr University Senior Lecturer in Nursing Dr Nikki Lloyd-Jones.

Dr Lloyd-Jones spent two years on the research and is now looking for Armed Forces leavers who would have their picture taken and talk about their experiences leaving the forces to help spread the word about its findings.

A series of recommendations have been made following the research, which are intended to improve the way communities in North Wales work with veterans and those leaving the Armed Forces.

Funded by the Forces in Mind Trust, the research looked at some of the difficulties and tensions veterans can experience when living a civilian life.

With 51,000 veterans in North Wales – or nine per cent of the over 16s population – it is hoped the research can be used by local councils, the NHS, third sector support organisations and others to help support veterans in their transition to civilian life.

Dr Lloyd-Jones said: “We spoke to 30 veterans across North Wales, beginning with an open question about their life since leaving the Armed Forces. I’d like to thank everyone who took part for their help.

“These conversations were meant to reveal something about the everyday decisions participants made, to let them tell us about their experiences of moving to civilian life in their own way – and to give us an insight into some of the challenges those leaving the military might face in conversations with civilians.”

The research picked up on certain themes which came up in conversations with people who were ex-Armed Forces.  Three aspects of military identity were identified from the conversations.

These were:  “it’s drilled into you” – the way that basic training instils a sense of following direction without question and a sense of order, authority and discipline; “mission command” – a way of analysing, planning and working towards an outcome where each participant plays a role – and “we have each other’s back” – a unique bond and sense of belonging which strengthened group dynamics.

Researchers then examined challenges which people faced as they moved from the military. These included moving forward into civilian life – gaining financial security; changing pace and getting used to the lack of structure and direction faced in civilian life; and putting down roots – something many military people, used to going away on tour, found hard to get used to.

Other challenges included the way military personnel had become accustomed to ‘living the moment’ – coping with combat situations with a heightened state of alertness, dark humour and other methods which can be difficult for those outside to understand.

Finally, participants also identified the experience of being a veteran itself as a challenge – with the implications the word has of an identity between military service and civilian life.

These challenges – and the way that ex-military personnel respond to them – were then used to guide the report’s recommendations.

Dr Lloyd-Jones added: “There is a lot of work being done with the veteran community in North Wales. Our study mapped out some of the challenges that veterans perceive with the change of lifestyle and context they face leaving the military and the decisions they have to make.

“Tackling these changes isn’t just a case of veterans adapting to civilian life, however, but also about how the civilian community as a whole can adapt to - and work with - veterans.

“That means that change doesn’t just need to come from organisations in direct contact with veterans, but also from policies which take those needs into account as part of a wider framework.”

Anyone who wants to find out more about the research, including those who took part – and anyone who wants to have their picture taken and tell their story can contact Dr Lloyd-Jones on n.lloydjones@glyndwr.ac.uk

* To find out more about the Forces in Mind Trust, click here: http://www.fim-trust.org
And to see more about how Wrexham Glyndŵr University works with service leavers who want to study at the institution, please visit: https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/ArmedForces/