Community cinema unveils new programme

* New Dot volunteers Jen Rush, Jen Llangollen and Samuel J Nicholls.

New Dot Cinema volunteers were giving out popcorn and programmes at the Llangollen Summer Fete over the weekend.

The weather was near-perfect at the event which is held annually in the grounds of Plas Newydd.

New Dot's new season covers July - December 2018 and features six specially selected titles from British and international cinema.

* New Dot's latest programme.

"To celebrate our new programme, we're giving away two free tickets to any film this year," explained chair of New Dot, Jen Rush.

"To be in with a chance of winning, people just need to sign up to our mailing list which is on our website and Facebook page. The draw will be held on 18th June."

The first film on offer is a 'powerful and haunting' documentary by Chinese conceptual artist, Ai Weiwei, called Human Flow.

It focuses on the world's 65 million displaced people and is showing in Llangollen Town Hall
on Friday 13th July.

The rest of the season's titles are Lady Bird, Mountain, A Fantastic Woman, Edie and a soon-to-be-revealed Christmas classic which will be shown as a matinee for the first time, as well as
an evening screening.

New Dot nights tend to be on the second Friday of the month, apart from October and November which are on the third Friday due to other events at the Town Hall.

Tickets will be available at a discount if booked online. They are also sold at the Llangollen Oggie Shop (formerly Baileys Fine Foods) and on the door.

County puts out cold caller alert

There has been a significant increase in calls to Denbighshire County Council regarding people knocking on doors offering free replacement boilers, heating systems or loft insulation.

Denbighshire County Council says it is not working in association with any organisation to knock on doors offering free boilers.

"These organisations are not working on behalf of the council, we do not condone or associate with any organisations that are cold calling," said a spokesperson.

The spokesperson added: "It is possible that you may be able to receive funding towards heating system improvement and/or insulation as Denbighshire County Council have published our Local Authority Flexible Eligibility statement of intent.

"If you have a house that is F or G rated on the Energy Performance Certificate or is E rated and you meet one of the additional criteria then you may be eligible for funding if the house is privately owned or rented (not social).

"The official route is to call North Wales Energy Advice Centre: 0800 954 0658."

Councillor Tony Thomas, Cabinet Lead Member for Housing, Regulation and the Environment,  said: “The council does not condone cold calling but we do have a policy in place that can assist residents to access ECO funding that can improve the energy efficiency of their house. They can do so by calling North Wales Energy Advice Centre”.

"Anyone concerned about anybody in the neighbourhood knocking on the door offering to carry out home maintenance work, should make a note of vehicle make, model, colour and registration number and any descriptions of the individuals, and contact either the police on 101 or Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Customer Service on 08454 04 05 06 or for the Welsh Language Service 08454 04 05 05."

Anyone feeling threatened or intimidated by any doorstep seller you should shut the door and call the police emergency number 999.

County says there's "no case" for council shake-up

Denbighshire County Council says it doesn't believe that a "credible case" exists for local government reorganisation in Wales.

The matter was raised at a full council meeting at County Hall (pictured) yesterday (Monday). 

The official response agreed by councillors says: "Denbighshire County Council does not believe that a credible case for change has been made in the Green Paper Consultation Document.

“Denbighshire’s consistently high standard of service delivery demonstrates that it is delivering to residents and other service users.

"The council is also actively engaged in existing and developing regional and sub-regional collaborations.

"Some collaborations, for example, the school effectiveness and improvement service for North Wales (GwE), are providing excellent services across the region.

"Local authority joint committees are not a suitable vehicle for some other regional collaborations and this would remain true after a local government reorganisation.

"Legislative provisions to enable existing or future local authorities and their partners to successfully collaborate are needed."

The response adds: "The transition process would inevitably become a central focus for all local authorities in the lead up to the mergers. This would undermine their ability to deliver services to their residents and other service users over a number of years even if the transition period and mergers were fully funded and allowed an appropriate timescale in which to take place.

"The council disagrees with the Green Paper’s timescales relating to having new merged authorities from April 2022; the work involved over so short a timescale would be too disruptive to services and could not be adequately supported alongside a programme of managing budget reductions.

“The effects of austerity are well-noted and although a combined Denbighshire and Conwy could potentially achieve some savings in management, support services and elected member costs, there would likely be a weakening of links between local communities, their elected representatives and decision making.

"It must be noted that the public are not expressing any desire for local government reorganisation. Most local authority spend is targeted at services such as education and social care which are unlikely to produce significant cost savings as a result of having larger merged authorities. M

"Many other services from waste collection and recycling to leisure facilities will not see obvious opportunities for savings that cannot be delivered by the existing local authorities either by themselves or through collaborative efforts.

“The experience of the last local government reorganisation indicates that the new merged authorities would face serious challenges especially during their first few years, but potentially for an even longer period. The reduced service provision over this extended period is not in the interests of our service users or local democracy and accountability.

“It is noted that no question was asked, or view expressly sought, as to the case for change. It is therefore to be assumed that Government has decided to pursue a policy of merger and is seeking views solely as to the process by which this is to be achieved. The response to the consultation questions is framed on this basis."

* The Welsh Government’s attempt at reforming local authorities is a waste of time and money, say Plaid Cymru councillors in Denbighshire.

Their group leader, Cllr Arwel Roberts, said: “The Labour Government is trying to force county councils to merge against the will of the people and local democratic opinion.

“Four years ago, when mergers were being considered, Denbighshire Council and Conwy Council spent precious time and money to come up with a plan that brought both authorities together.

"However, the same Labour Government rejected that offer and abandoned its merger plans. Now it’s got the cheek to ask councils to do the same thing all over again, only this time it’s threatening to force a merger on councils if we don’t agree. It’s a waste of the council’s limited resources and frankly insulting."

Plaid Cymru also warned community and town councils to be ready for a Welsh Government diktat forcing the merger of those smaller councils, which would result in communities losing their identities.

Cllr Roberts said: “The Welsh Government has made things extremely difficult for town and community councils with new rules around employing clerks and payments to councillors. Some of our smaller councils are at their wits’ end and are struggling to keep up with the new requirements.

"They’re telling us that they’re concerned that the Welsh Government has an agenda to force their mergers, which would result in many communities losing their identity and democratic voice. The Welsh Government needs to come clean about its plans for our town and community councils.”

County puts out the call for carers

Denbighshire County Council is on the look out for enthusiastic and caring people who would like to become carers.

The Shared Lives Scheme provides extra support in the daily lives of people in need – they may have a complex disability, mental health problems, physical disabilities, or sensory impairment which affects their lives.

The carers could be individuals, couples or families who live within the county and have a spare room in their home.  The scheme has dedicated staff who provide practical support, advice and guidance to Shared Lives carers. Appropriate training will be provided and carers will be paid a fee.

An Open Day has been arranged to promote the Shared Lives Scheme and will take place at Rhyl Town Hall on Tuesday, 19^th June between 11am and 3pm.

Existing carers will be on hand to share their experiences, as well as a wide range of information and advice.

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Cabinet  Lead Member for Well-being and Independence,  said: ”This is a great opportunity to raise the profile of this worthwhile scheme.  Shared Lives aims to play a crucial link in supporting those in our community who need help the most. Experience of working in the care sector would be useful but isn’t a requirement – enthusiasm is just as important.

“It’s worth either coming along to the event or picking up a phone to find out more”.

* Anyone interested in becoming a Shared Lives Carer or those who would like to find out more should either come along to the open day event or contact Denbighshire’s Single Point of Access and ask to speak to the Shared Lives Scheme Co-ordinator. 

You can write to them or see them at: Single Point of Access , Denbighshire Social Services, Russell House, Churton Road, Rhyl, LL18 3DP; telephone: 0300 456 1000.  Email: spoa@denbighshire.gov.uk

Plas Newydd fete is hit with the crowds

Scores came flocking to the annual garden fete staged jointly by Llangollen Rotary Club and Llangollen Inner Wheel at Plas Newydd earlier this afternoon (Saturday).

Organisers aimed to include attractions for all the family, and these ranged from a fierce-looking medieval battle re-enactment  by the Cwmwd Ial  group to a bouncy castle for the youngsters.

There was also a traditional Punch and Judy man, a children's magician and a range of stalls including  football, darts, coconuts and hook-a-duck games.

Llangollen Silver band played a number of selections during the afternoon. 

 

Tracy from Glitter Box was on hand for the face painting and the refreshment tent was
open all afternoon serving tea, coffee cakes and sandwiches.

This event  has been held  continuously for over  50  years and this year a record number of charities and organizations from the town applied for stalls. 

All proceeds from the event will be going to  good causes. 

* Llangollen Silver Band perform.

* The bouncy castle proved to be a popular attraction.

* Also for the youngsters was a jungle slide.

* Llangollen Prostate Cancer Support Group was one of the organisations represented.

* Face painting was available during the afternoon.

* Kids try their skills on the hook-a-duck stall. 

* Members of the  Cwmwd Ial  group join battle.

* Down and out.

* The fight goes on to thrill spectators.

* The toy stall was well visited.

* Fete-goers try their luck on the bottle stall.

* A magician delights the crowds.

Music and dance planned for Llandegla

LLANDEGLA ALL STYLES PRESENTS

MIDSUMMER

MADNESS 

A DAY OF MUSIC AND DANCE

at THE MEMORIAL HALL LLANDEGLA

Saturday 16^th June 2018 featuring

TOM DICK AND HARRY BAND

WELCOMME FINNAN &

CHRIMES

JAMES McGREGOR

HALF SIX CEILIDH BAND

Saturday

2.00pm Concert – Memorial Hall - £7.50/ac U16 free

7.30pm Ceilidh – Memorial Hall - £7.50/ac U16 free

2.00pm til late Singers and Musicians session

The Pavilion – Free

On site catering Shop/Off Licence 20 mtrs

Pub – 600 Mtrs – or bring your own

Camping 800 mtrs – Tel. 01978 790627

Ticket enquiries evans.llandegla@gmail.com

TEL: 01978 790671

Sun set to shine on tomorrow's Garden Fete

* Cwmwd Ial  re-enactors will battle it out at the garden fete tomorrow afternoon.

The warm sunny weather is due to continue  through the weekend which is  great news for organisers of tomorrow's Plas Newydd Garden Fete. 

Admission is free for the big annual event which starts at 2pm and there is something for all the family, they say.

You can listen to Silver Band and watch the exploits of the Cwmwd Ial  re-enactors  who will take you back to medieval times with their authentic costumes and battle scenes.
    
The children can enjoy a magic show and Punch and Judy and also have a go on the bouncy castle. Tracy from Glitter Box will be on hand for the face painting.  

There are many competitions including football darts coconuts and hook-a-duck for the little ones.

All the usual selling stalls will be there including Inner Wheel’s famous  home-made cakes as well as plants and  bric-a-brac and many more.

The refreshment tent will be open all afternoon serving tea, coffee cakes and sandwiches.
  
This year a record number of charities and organizations from the town have applied for stalls so there will be plenty of variety. 

This event  has been held  continuously for over  50  years  so go along  and support  a  great  community  effort  with all the proceeds going to  good causes. 

Nominations sought for sports awards

Nominations are now invited for this year’s Denbighshire Sports Awards, which recognise individuals, teams, schools and clubs for their dedication to local community grass roots sport in the county.

To date, 70 individuals or groups have been honoured. 

There are also elite level athletes representing Wales and Team GB in their chosen sport from the local area, which will continue to be rewarded.

All of the award finalists will be forwarded to the Sport Wales and BBC Wales sport personality awards held nationally in Cardiff, where Denbighshire will be looking to add to the success of eight finalists and six national winners over the last six years.

Nominees must reside in Denbighshire, or be affiliated to a Denbighshire club relevant to their nomination and achieved their success in the last 12 months up to the application closing date which is Fri 20^th July 2018.

This year’s categories include sports performer, junior sports performer, coach of the year, team of the year, volunteer of the year, disability sport award, young inspiration award, lifetime achievement award and the ‘Sport in School’ award.

Nominations can be made on-line via the Denbighshire County Council website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/sports awards

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Cabinet Lead Member for Well-being and Independence, said:  “The Denbighshire community sport awards has helped recognise and share some amazing stories over the last few years.

“This proves to us that the quality of sport in Denbighshire is very high and that there are plenty of opportunities for people to return to playing sport or to try a new sport as a beginner.

“As a service through our partnership with Alliance Leisure we have continued to invest in our leisure facilities, offering residents a high quality service, and an environment for them to thrive."

Denbighshire Leisure services are also looking for suitable organisations that would like to link to their brand to the community sport awards as a category sponsor and a ‘sponsorship package’ can be sent for more information.

* For more information on the awards please visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/sportsawards or contact Sian Bennett, Health and Wellbeing Manager sian.bennett@denbighshire.gov.uk 01824 712710.

Railway's TV appearance hailed as a big success

* The fully restored carriage featured in the Channel 4 programme.

Last night's TV programme highlighting work by staff at Llangollen Railway on a vintage carriage has been hailed as wonderful promotion for the town and the Dee Valley.

Channel 4’s Great Railway Restorations presented by train enthusiast Peter Snow threw the spotlight on the heritage railway's long-running restoration of the teak-bodied carriage built in 1912 by the Great Northern Railway but left in a dilapidated state  after being withdrawn from service 40 years ago.

Peter Snow and his crew filmed extensively as facelift work went ahead at the railway's Pentrefelin Carriage and Wagon Works under the direction of chairman Peter Lund. 

In the course of the programme a number of challenges have to be overcome to transform a near-wreck into a coach which now features an open saloon and three second-class compartments in the livery of the former London North Eastern Railway. 

Since it was aired the programme has won widespread praise.

Jim Jones, MD of the influential North Wales Tourism, tweeted: “What a brilliant showcase for craftsmanship and profile of our rail infrastructure in North Wales.

"The programme gave  wonderful promotion to Llangollen and the Dee Valley as an area of outstanding natural beauty. It showed off our stunning scenery and what a fabulous place we are to visit."

In the Radio Times Peter Snow (pictured) says: "Llangollen Railway is one of the best railways  in the world."

A spokesperson for Llangollen Railway said: "We are delighted with the production and recognition it gave to the railway as a major tourist attraction in North East Wales with more to come in Part 4.

"I am sure North Wales Tourism can use this to further promote this vibrant attractive area.

"We are glowing with pride at being part of such a fantastic group of people and being in such a beautiful area of outstanding natural beauty and sitting within a world heritage site."

The coach will be on show from late next week for people to view.

AM blasts government for "failing" North Wales patients

Assembly Member Mark Isherwood has lambasted the Welsh Government for "failing" patients in North Wales.

The North Wales AM was responding to a statement by the Health Secretary on Betsi Cadwaladr University Local Health Board.

Mr Isherwood (pictured) expressed concern that despite being in special measures for three years, and therefore under direct Welsh Government control, the board is still failing to meet waiting time targets and patients are not receiving the support they need.

Speaking in the chamber he said: “When will your Government accept that the consequence of stripping out those community beds has put extra pressure on hospitals, our district general hospitals, on our GP practices, and has actually led not to enhanced care in the community but to enhanced suffering in the community for too many when they can't get the support they previously called for?

“I'll conclude by asking what action you propose to take to ensure that the health board works better with third sector providers, who are delivering a wide range of services, but despite engagement, some of which I facilitated with some of those bodies, years later we're still waiting for new arrangements to go into place to ensure that proper commissioned services, which don't replicate or duplicate but enhance the experience for patients, are finally put in place."

Mr Isherwood added: “For Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to remain in special measures and under direct Welsh Government control after 3 years raises serious questions about the type of leadership and support provided by the Welsh Government to the health board. Both the patients and the hard working staff deserved better."

Youngsters can dig fete's gardening competition

An exciting feature of  this year’s Garden Fete at Plas Newydd  next Saturday June 9 will be  a Garden in a Box competition for pupils from  Ysgol Bryn Collen and Ysgol  y Gwernant.   

Stan's superstore has agreed to sponsor the competition.

All the pupils from both schools have been invited to take part and the winners will be  chosen from  seven finalists  from each school.

Judging will take place at 2.45pm and Steve and Linda from Stan’s will be on hand to help with deliberation. 

The boxes will be displayed in the President’s tea tent .

Fete organisers say they are very grateful to the staff and parents at both schools for their  cooperation and  are pleased that, along with the management at Stan’s, they are able to encourage local youngsters to take an interest in gardening and the environment.   

The fete, starting at 2pm with free admission,  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.

War memorial now in place at Centenary Square

The town's war memorial has been installed by contractors in its new place at Centenary Square.

This follows some light cleaning, to remove staining, and a re-gilding of the lettering for which the Town Council has received donations of financial support from individuals, organisations and businesses in the area.

Latest art exhibition at Plas Newydd

New art exhibition in Caban at Plas Newydd for June:

Fringe presents Craig Charles club night

* Craig Charles appears at Llangollen Town Hall on Friday July 27.

One of UK’s most beloved Funk and Soul DJ’s, the legendary actor, host and broadcaster Craig Charles, brings his Funk and Soul club night to Llangollen Town Hall on Friday 27th July. 

From Robot Wars to Red Dwarf, Craig has now grounded himself as a Funk and Soul icon after 10 years of broadcasting on BBC 6 Music with their primetime Saturday night show.

He and his trunk of funk DJs every weekend throughout the UK delivering a night of soul-hitting funk, ‘can you dig it’ attitude and dance-floor jivin’. 

Craig Charles has captivated crowds throughout the UK – he has played at numerous festivals such as Love Box, Park Life, Festival no 6, Wychwood Festival, Common People, Mostly Jazz funk and soul festival to name but a few.

His set will be from 7.30pm - 10pm with a live band playing after.

He is joined on a stellar bill (the festivals biggest to date) by ELIZA CARTHY & THE WAYWARD BAND, LEE SCRATCH PERRY and MARK RADCLIFFE (appearing on separate nights), LINTON KWESI JOHNSON. Plus stand up comedy and the return of BAND FOR A DAY, the music themed STEAM TRAIN and AQUEDUCT BOAT trips, and many other fringe events.

The Fringe Finale at the spectacular Valle Crucis Abbey will this year feature the ethereal sound of GOLDEN FABLE and THE NEW SINFONIA ORCHESTRA.

* Tickets for Craig Charles are £15 each and are on sale now.

Tickets for the whole Festival are also available; priced at just £80 the festival ticket allows access to all of the main events across the ten days so is great value for money. All ticket types are available from www.llangollenfringe.co.uk or by calling the Fringe box office:  0800 1455 779.

MP calls for ban on animal fur imports

Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones has called for a ban on the importation of animal fur.

Speaking in a debate in Parliament she reminded other MPs that it was almost 20 years since fur farming had been made illegal in this country and that new tougher legislation was vital to tackle the importation of fur from other countries.

Speaking after the debate, Ms Jones said: "When it became illegal to 'farm' animals for fur in England and Wales in 2000, I don't think anyone would have thought that the fur of two million animals would be imported here every year from other countries.

"Many of these animals are kept in terrible conditions. The animals are usually artificially fattened and spend their whole lives in tiny cages before being killed by gas or electrocution. That isn't right and I really welcome the fact that stores like Gucci and House of Frazer are now refusing to stock fur products.

"However, with public petitions having been signed by half a million people and national opinion polls showing that 69% of the British population support a complete ban, I think it's high time that the Government took action. Fur imports are cruel and unnecessary and we need the Government to show the political will to ban them."   

Figures from charity Humane Society International (HSI), which spearheaded the campaign, claim that more than £74 million worth of animal fur was imported into the UK in 2017.

The UN Comtrade database, which lists international import and export figures, shows around £20m worth of tanned or dressed fur skins - including items such as heads, tails or paws - were imported.

Meanwhile a letter from 50 vets and animal experts states that denying wild animals the chance to roam freely, keeping them in close proximity to one another, is unnatural and leads to psychological stresses - with instances of cannibalism, untreated wounds, foot deformities and eye infections being "well-documented".

Llangollen Railway steams into TV starring role

_{* Peter Snow presents the programme from Llangollen Railway to be screened this Wednesday.}

_{LLANGOLLEN Railway is to star in a new Channel 4 TV series.}

_{The world famous heritage line will feature in this Wednesday evening’s edition of the programme Great Railway Restorations presented by television personality Peter Snow.}

_{He visited Llangollen to highlight the restoration of a vintage railway carriage at the railway's Pentrefelin Carriage and Wagon Works.}

_{The teak-bodied carriage, built in 1912 by the Great Northern Railway, was used on East Coast Mainline express services for over 40 years before being relegated to departmental duties by British Rail in 1977.}

_{The programme follows the restoration project through all the stages of a major refurbishment by members of the Llangollen Railway workforce led by chairman Peter Lund.}

_{In the course of the programme, a number of challenges have to be overcome to turn a near wreck into a coach which now features an open saloon and three second-class compartments in the livery of the former London North Eastern Railway.}

_{Llangollen Railway’s business manager Liz McGuinness said: "The programme will make fascinating viewing for rail fans as the spotlight is placed on the Llangollen Railway and part one will be screened on Wednesday at 8pm.”}

_{Railway chairman Peter Lund said: “The announcement by Channel 4 of the broadcast of Great Railway Restorations is the culmination of the enormous efforts devoted to this project by the employees and volunteers of the Carriage & Wagon Department of Llangollen Railway.}

_{“The six months allotted to the completion of this project meant that there were many late nights involved to get the job finished. It is such a shame that current safety regulations deprive the public of an opportunity to ride in this historic carriage.”}

In the series life-long train enthusiast Peter Snow will celebrate the great history of Britain and its railways, through the restoration of four of the most iconic railway carriages ever built.

Each carriage highlighted comes from a different era of train travel, and each will be restored to its former glory with complete historical accuracy.

Peter is joined by Henry Cole, who will explore the passenger experience of the era with historical items from the past to fully appreciate the provenance of each railway carriage.

Each of the episodes will see a carriage restored by a team of world-class railway restoration specialists. Starting in each case with a derelict and neglected shell, the programmes will follow the journey to bring these historical treasures back to life, in an intricate make-over of four forgotten pieces of our national heritage. The carriages cover 100 years of railway history starting in 1860, and include a Royal Saloon used by Queen Victoria.

At the end of each episode, the full glory of the carriage make-over will be revealed. The carriage will then be put back on the rails, pulled by a locomotive from the era. In the final episode, all four carriages will be brought together creating an entirely bespoke ‘train through time’ pulled by a steam locomotive – driven by Peter Snow himself, fulfilling a boyhood dream to drive a steam engine.

Llanfest stage line-up unveiled

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has revealed the full outside stage line-up for this year’s Llanfest (Sunday 8th July, 2pm).

Multi-platinum English indie pop-legends Kaiser Chiefs will be headlining on the main stage, supported by pop rock band Hoosiers and nineties icons Toploader.

The Cavern Club Liverpool will host its first ever pop up stage at Llanfest, with performances by their world-class resident musicians, including:

Jack Found - said to have developed a unique style that combines bright energy and a remarkable voice, he is set to release his debut album. His debut single, Sundown, received extensive radio play and was featured on Good Morning Television. 

Billy Bibby and The Wry Smiles – a four-piece alternative rock ensemble from North Wales and Chester.

Camens - a four piece indie/alternative rock band from Staffordshire recently been spotted by BBC6 Music.

Destination – Formed in 2014, Destination is a 70s/80s classic rock cover band from Wrexham, playing favourites from various legendry artists including Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Bonjovi, Queen and Gary Moore.
 
Lucy Mayhew – currently recording her debut EP, Lucy from West Kirby offers audiences a fresh neo folk rock sound, drawing on inspiration from the likes of Eva Cassidy and Laura Marling.

Ben Roberts – the folk/rock singer based in London started writing music as a teenager, taking influence from his love of classic soul, rock and R&B.

Luke Gallagher – Wrexham-based singer/songwriter returns to play at this year’s Llanfest with his nostalgic blend of Mod/60s/90s tunes.

Eisteddfod chairman Dr Rhys Davies said: “This year we’re yet again introducing new audiences to contemporary genres of music, perfectly combining the festival’s culture and heritage with ground-breaking modern talent to create the ultimate finale. We look forward to continuing to showcase a wider musical offering to expand upon our current audience.
 
“It brings us so much pride to be able to bring this calibre of local talent together with world-class music legends to mark the end of a phenomenal week of extraordinary events."
 
* More information is available on the Llanfest website. Tickets for the festival, running July 3-8,  are available at http://international-eisteddfod.co.uk/events/sunday-llanfest/.Llanfest. Tickets are priced at: £55 standing/ £70 seated.

Ex councillor speaks on A5 road safety

Former Denbighshire County Councillor Stuart Davies says he is disappointed to see yet again more serious accidents on the A5 in Llangollen with the Air Ambulance being called out again within the last few days to attend a serious RTA. 

In a letter to llanblogger he says: 'As a County Councillor I asked the Welsh Trunk road Agency and the local AM Ken Skates, numerous times, to extend the speed limit which would help to calm the traffic leading to this accident hotspot.

'Today I am seriously disappointed that the local AM, who as Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport has the power to deal with Trunk Road issues, has failed to act and we are now seeing the serious consequences.

'I am calling on him to get his officers on the job now before more people get injured!

'One of the local residents Mr John Lloyd who lives adjacent to this hotspot actually made national headlines by erecting a bird box that looked like a speed camera in am attempt to stop people speeding there.

'There was an attempt to force him to dismantle it.'

llanblogger takes short break

llanblogger is taking a short break and will be back early next week.

County issues "keep dogs on leads" reminder

Walkers wanting to get out into the open countryside in Denbighshire are being reminded to keep their dogs on leads.

Denbighshire Countryside Service and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty have joined forces to launch a campaign called Take the Lead, encouraging people to keep their animals on lead in the county’s open countryside.

The Take the Lead campaign is now in its second year and was launched at Easter. The campaign is targeting local residents and visitors to the countryside and wants to build on the success of last year’s initiative.

The campaign includes the production of videos that will be shared on social media, as well as features in the local media and online. 

Councillor Tony Thomas, Cabinet Lead Member for Housing, Regulation and the Environment, said: “The decent weather we have been experiencing is making more people think about getting out into the open countryside to enjoy the views.

“That is great, but we are asking walkers, if they take their dogs, to keep their animals on the lead in the open countryside. This is part of an effort to try and reduce the number of livestock being injured and wildlife being disturbed by dogs.

“Last year’s campaign was very successful and the majority of people do act responsible. We want that to continue and we thank people for their efforts and understanding.

“However this is a kind of message that needs to be repeated time and time again to gain its maximum impact, so we will be sharing our campaign messages with locals and visitors and encourage the small minority who flout the law to take action.

“We have seen some incidents where sheep have been injured or killed as a result of attacks from dogs off their leads. This is what we need to avoid and by working together with dog owners, we can really make a difference”.

“They really must be mindful that they are crossing valuable grazing land where there are sheep roaming. The effects of attacks on animals can be devastating, to the animal and to the landowner.

The campaign will continue throughout the summer and wardens will be out and about monitoring sites.

Nature Quest at Newydd

Nature Quest at Plas Newydd, Llangollen, 

26 May to 3 June

10.30am to 3.00pm

Nature Trail quiz within the grounds of Plas Newydd.

Complete the trail to win a badge.

£3.00 per person

Serious road accident in Llangollen this afternoon

The Daily Post is reporting on a serious road collision in Llangollen this afternoon (Tuesday).
For the full story, see: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/elderly-man-flown-hospital-serious-14721268

Llan's magnificent seven complete charity marathon

* The girls celebrate at the end of their marathon ride. 

Seven intrepid friends from Llangollen braved a fearsome electric storm to complete a gruelling 65-mile charity bike ride.

Elen Roberts, Samantha Jones, Louisa Jones, Stephanie Williams, Tessa Orton Jones, Alix Rawlinson and Tracey Jones took part in last weekend’s Ride the Night event in aid of three women’s charities - Ovarian Cancer Action, Jo’s Cervical Cancer and Breast Cancer Care.

Team member Tracey explained: “Just over 12 months ago we decided to do something challenging, inspired by our friend Louisa Jones’ previous charity rides in India and Cambodia.

“Action for Charity organises several cycling challenges both internationally and across the UK to raise money for these three fabulous cancer charities.

“So at 9pm on Saturday evening we set off from Windsor Race Course to complete the 104km cycle into central London and back.

“All started well on a lovely early summer evening, however at just 15 miles in the weather took a turn for the worse.

“We were treated to the most electrifying thunder storm display followed by an epic torrential downpour for several miles. Roads flooded and cars struggled to cope with this onslaught but we battled on bravely with virtually nil visibility.”

Tracey added: “The rain eventually subsided in the early hours leaving us all tired, wet and very cold but all seven finished the course within six to seven hours despite the odds.

“The overall event raised in excess of £1.5 million. The girls are exhausted but very proud of what they achieved.

“We would all like to thank everyone who has donated to this fantastic charity event and its causes but we also wish to express our gratitude to partners, husbands and family members for their amazing support.”

* The thunder storm they cycled through.

* The finisher's medal they each received.