More businesses and services announce Covid comeback

* Courtyard Books is back after the lockdown.

More local businesses, services and events are planning their re-emergence from the Covid-19 lockdown.

Sian Glynne-jones of Courtyard Books posted on her Facebook page: “We are back open!!

“We have our screen in place, but only one customer in at a time please. Our opening hours for the moment are Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am until 2pm.

“Alternatively, you can reach us on Courtyardbooksllangollen@gmail.com

"If you are still isolating and would prefer not to come in to the shop, then please ring us and we will deliver if you are not too far away.

“We are able to order books if they are not in stock, but these are taking a little longer at the moment.”

Finley's Newsagents, Sandwich Bar and General Store posted: “We are missing all our wonderful customers!

“We are currently assessing the situation regarding reopening the shop again.

“We feel when the travel ban to Wales has been lifted and more people are allowed in town this will be more beneficial for us as a business as well as the support from our amazing locals and regulars.

“We will keep you informed and up to date over the next week or so.” 

Llangollen Fringe Festival said on Face book: “Llangollen Fringe 2020 online programme is here! 

“Although we may not be able to bring you our usual programme of high quality, live entertainment, just yet - we are thrilled to announce our online programme for July 2020!

“All of the online events are free to access and, unless stated otherwise can be viewed and joined in with by visiting llangollenfringe.co.uk on the date and time listed.

“TA DA!!! https://www.llangollenfringe.co.uk/…/what-s-on/online-events

And Denbighshire Leisure, which runs Llangollen Leisure Centre, posted: “As you may have seen in the news, the gradual relaxation of lockdown restrictions by Welsh Government means we are moving slowly towards being able to welcome back our customers.  

"This can’t come soon enough for everyone at Denbighshire Leisure, and we are sure you feel the same.  

“Once we are able to reopen, we will be doing everything we can to ensure your visits will be as safe as possible, without comprising on quality or enjoyment.

 

“In line with government advice however, we will need to make some temporary changes to both to the services we offer, and to your experience as a customer. 

“For example, we will be introducing more outdoor fitness classes and will be adjusting our timetables to allow for regular, intense cleaning sessions.  

"Social distancing measures will be in place in all of our sites and there will be clear routes around our buildings to help with this.  Full details of the “new normal” will be provided to you prior to reopening, and you can be confident staff will be fully trained on our new procedures.

“Refurbishments of Denbigh Leisure Centre Car Park and Llangollen Leisure Centre all weather pitch are both expected to begin in August.” 

Cat Meade, co-ordinator of Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group, sounded a warning note on Facebook yesterday.

She posted:

"COVID is still a risk, it has NOT vanished....2hrs drive from Llan, when the borders open on Monday people will be travelling here from much further a field.

"We have 100 masks left, please inbox if you would like one.

"Keep the Hand washing up, kids and Adults alike, take sanitiser everywhere you go.

"Shop owners in Llan please adhere to social distancing, mark out and sign post "2m rule" and dont forget to protect you and your staff, screens at tills, face guards, hand sanitiser.. card payments..

"We all want to open up and start up Llan but we need to protect one another in the process, or we will ALL be back to the beginning and some businesses may not survive another lockdown, businesses want to welcome locals and tourists, of course we do, our Town should be preping for our Annual event, where we welcome the world 🌎 instead we are trying to open with a lot of restrictions after 3 months at zero income!

"Prepare, keep you and your staff safe, protect locals and hopefully together we can create our Town's new "normal" but safety first."

Man's body found at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, says report

According to a story in North Wales Live, police have confirmed that the body of a man has been found at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Officers from North Wales Police were called to the landmark near Llangollen at around 10am today and discovered the man's body.

For the sfull story, see: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/body-found-pontcysyllte-aqueduct-amid-18508525?fbclid=IwAR2TelvBaKq54Mpqg-oFJYLn8w2rHN0bYa3bHR785lPjW3AHNkJiVeXoi-g

Large police presence at the aqueduct, says newspaper

A LARGE police presence is currently visible around the area of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct amid "concern for safety" of a person, according to the Oswestry Advetizer. 

Over a dozen police cars and a police helicopter have been seen in the area, as well as an ambulance.

* For the full story, see: https://www.bordercountiesadvertizer.co.uk/news/18548505.police-presence-pontcysyllte-aqueduct/?fbclid=IwAR3gNI30xl1hjoFs1FYaZE0fNshIN6pRI0QpICYUg9z2TXWvOWEs_7ckvT8

Operatic in the honours at amateur stage Oscars

* Helen Belton and Bill Hughes in Fiddler on the Roof.

* Celyn Orton-Jones (centre) in Fiddler on the Roof.

* Aled Morris (wearing red shirt) in Grease.

* The full Young 'Uns cast of Grease. 

* Pictures by Barrie Potter and Michael Jones

Llangollen Operatic Society was in the honours at the latest amateur stage “Oscars”.

In the 2019 NODA - National Operatic and Dramatic Association – Awards, this year held completely online due to the Covid-19 situation, the society was nominated for Best Show (Wales and Ireland District 1a) for its production of Fiddler on the Roof.

Although it didn’t win that particular category, actor Bill Hughes, who played the lead role of Tevye in the show, landed Best Performer in the same district while Helen Belton, as his wife Golde, was nominated for Best Supporting Performer and Celyn Orton-Jones, as his daughter Chava, was nominated as Best Youth Performer.  

The show, which was performed at Llangollen last spring, was directed by Alison Ravenscroft and Chrissie Ashworth with Leigh Mason as musical director and Helen Belton as a performer as well as the producer.

Helen said: “It was a beautiful show to rehearse and perform. Many cast members have said that it has been their favourite show yet.

“It is a show of such warmth and displaying such community that one cannot fail to feel that warmth amongst cast members.

“Though we didn’t win best show, we know we produced a very special piece of work which audiences loved.”

Director Alison Ravenscroft said: “Bill Hughes richly deserved his award for his wonderful performance and I congratulate Helen and Celyn for their nominations which are a massive achievement.

“Although I'm obviously very disappointed not to win the Best Show award it doesn't take away from the fantastic effort of the cast, crew and production team. It was a great show and I was very proud to bring the village of Anatevka to Llangollen.”

In the same NODA awards Llangollen Operatic’s junior section, The Young ‘Uns, was also in the honours.

For the Wales and Ireland District 1a, gong for Best Youth Production 2019 went to its production of Grease at the town hall.

Best Supporting Actor (under 21) for the same district went to Aled Morris for his portrayal of Roger, one of the T-birds.

Producer Pam Williams said: “I’m extremely proud to be part of an amazing production team which has again produced an outstanding show for the Llangollen community and surrounding areas.

“The group is now in its 40th year, which is testament to all the support we get from the volunteers who build our sets, create our costumes and keep our society alive.”

Keep cemeteries clear of dog mess, says county

Denbighshire County Council is reminding pet owners to pick up after their dogs while in public places.

There have been reports of dog fouling in cemeteries in Denbighshire and the council is reminding dog owners they should not walk their pets in cemeteries which are covered by public spaces protection orders (PSPOs) meaning fines of up to £100 could be issued.

District Enforcement provides environmental enforcement on behalf of the Council and as well as issuing fines, the firm focuses on educating the public and raising awareness of the issues around dog fouling and littering.

Targeted patrols have been reintroduced at dog fouling hotspots in Denbighshire as lockdown restrictions are being eased.

Councillor Mark Young, Cabinet Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “The vast majority of dog owners in the county respect the rules around dog walking. However, for those who do not, the message is clear, you should not be walking your pets in cemeteries.  We have been working with District Enforcement to ensure areas where there are reports of dog fouling are being patrolled.

“Those caught walking their dogs in areas covered by PSPOs or not picking up after their pets will be fined.”

* You can report dog fouling by calling 01824 706000.

Llan businesses plan their post-Covid comebacks

* One Giant Leap at Tan Y Graig Farm.

A number of Llangollen businesses this week took to Facebook to let the public know how they have made - or are planning - a comeback from coronavirus lockdown. 

Martin Sands of One Giant Leap (OGL) downhill mountain bike club based at Tan Y Graig Farm posted: "I'm having loads of people asking when we are opening again. My answer is under guidance from British Cycling and the Welsh Government. Both sets of advice are subject to a continued decline in Covid 19 infection rates. This means that things may change at any time.

"The planned reopening date is 6th July for push/ride up or family groups only in one vehicle. No news on uplifts yet. Social distancing is essential and numbers will be restricted to facilitate this.

"Under the BC guidance I will need a record of every rider visiting us and contact numbers. Groups of more than six are not permitted although multiple groups are possible. All riders must be 2020 OGL club members with the 2020 yellow membership band and will need to book in before arrival.

"Please note that this is a farm with six bike tracks, not a bike park. I am privately funded and I do all the digging myself. I will not tolerate anyone who is not prepared to pay £20 per year membership fee. I have tackled so many people in recent weeks who claim they can ride my tracks whenever they want and don't need permission. They were suitably educated.

"Parking will be at the building I have restored in the photos. There is drinking water there and toilets. Hand sanitiser will be provided.There is also a free e-bike charging point."

* The Bridge End is planning its re-opening.

The message from the Bridge End pub restaurant was: "We can’t quite believe it has been 3 months since we last saw you come through our doors. From our weekends filled with pulling pints to busy hours in the kitchen making our Sunday Roasts, we have missed you all and can’t wait to be serving you once more!

"We are sorry we have been quiet but as soon as we receive the latest updates from the Welsh Government you will all be the first to hear our plans to reopen as soon as possible! 

"Our main priority is to be able to provide a safe environment for us to enjoy your company once more. We promise we will provide details of how you can book a table with us or stay in one of our rooms the second we know more.

"Thank you all so much for your phone calls and emails of support and eagerness to return to us – we are so excited to hopefully be able to open our doors to you again!

"From visitors far and wide to our much-loved regulars – we miss you and can’t wait to see you all soon!"

* Dayboats from Llangollen Wharf will be making a return soon.

Llangollen Wharf posted: "We are pleased to say that our Dayboats are available to hire from the 6th July in accordance with current guidance.

"Also the 45 minute Horsedrawn Boat Trips will also be running from the 6th July. There will be reduced capacity due to social distancing requirements so we recommend ringing the Wharf on 01978 860702 to book your seats. There maybe limited a availability on the day.

"We are looking forward to welcoming you back as we begin the long journey back to normality."

Rusty Gold Emporium was able to say that it had already made its post-Covid comeback when it posted: "Whoop. We are back. ..The Chapel Emporium is opening tomorrow at 10am. 

"Lots of new stock to see with a number of new stall holders in place. Lots of room to move inside the Chapel and we’ve put all the bits in place to make you feel safe. It would be great to see our customers again. We’ve missed you... grab a bargain. Have a mooch. Have fun. Cheers Paul and the team."

And Llangollen Pharmacy, which has been open throughout lockdown, posted details of a new service when it said: "As of today Llangollen Pharmacy is trialling a new SMS text message service which enables us to inform you by text message when your prescription is ready for collection. If you would like to enrol onto this service please pop in or call us on 01978 860657."

£1m fund available to give easier access to local government

A one million pound fund will be available this financial year to make it easier for people to access local government services online.

Aimed at helping local authorities to improve public services through digital technology, the Local Government Digital Transformation Fund was established in 2018 but has been repurposed during the coronavirus pandemic to ensure bids that respond to the current situation are given priority.

The fund provides grants to help local authorities collaborate to solve problems collectively, to support work that benefits all local authorities and to start developing common standards and services across Wales.

Announcing the fund was open to applications, Housing and Local Government Minister Julie James said: “Digital innovation isn’t new, it’s been happening for years in Wales but Coronavirus has meant that progress has sped up considerably over the last few months. We have all started doing a lot more online - from the weekly food shop to keeping in touch with friends and family.

“It has also changed the way people expect to interact with businesses and public services. It is therefore essential local government is able to respond to this demand and work together to ensure we provide the best possible service to the public.”

Welsh Government's latest Covid-19 update

Yesterday's coronvirus updates from the Welsh Givernment are: 

• Health Minister Vaughan Gething has issued guidance to the meat and food processing sector in Wales to help prevent outbreaks of coronavirus. The guidance will also help manage outbreaks where they do occur.
• 
  
• It was developed in partnership with key agencies and unions and follows two outbreaks in North Wales and an incident in South Wales.
• More information: https://gov.wales/written-statement-guidance-meat-processing-and-food-production-plants and https://gov.wales/new-coronavirus-guidance-meat-and-food-plants-published
• Latest statement by Public Health Wales: https://covid19-phwstatement.nhs.wales/

• First Minister Mark Drakeford has today announced a start-up grant to support new businesses dealing with the impact of coronavirus.
• 
  
• The fund will be worth £5m initially with flexibility for the future. It will support start-up firms, which fall outside the UK Government’s Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) as they only began trading in 2019.
• Applications for this grant will open on 29 June, at the same time as phase two of the Economic Resilience Fund opens to applications.
• https://gov.wales/welsh-government-announce-grant-support-start-businesses
• Watch the First Minister’s press conference: https://twitter.com/WelshGovernment/status/1276476840413036544
• A £1m fund will be available this financial year to make it easier for people to access local government services online.
• 
  
• Aimed at helping local authorities to improve public services through digital technology, the Local Government Digital Transformation Fund was established in 2018 but has been repurposed during the coronavirus pandemic to ensure bids that respond to the current situation are given priority
• https://gov.wales/fund-help-local-authorities-deliver-better-digital-services
• The Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism has published a written statement about the creative industries https://gov.wales/written-statement-creative-industries

• The Office for National Statistics has published an article about its analysis of coronavirus deaths in England and Wales by occupation.
• 
  
• Among women, four specific occupations had raised rates of death involving COVID-19, including sales and retail assistants (15.7 deaths per 100,000 women, or 64 deaths).
• Because of the higher number of deaths among men, 17 specific occupations were found to have raised rates of death involving COVID-19, some of which included taxi drivers and chauffeurs (65.3 deaths per 100,000; 134 deaths); bus and coach drivers (44.2 deaths per 100,000; 53 deaths); chefs (56.8 deaths per 100,000; 49 deaths); and sales and retail assistants (34.2 deaths per 100,000; 43 deaths).
• The article is available at: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/causesofdeath/bulletins/coronaviruscovid19relateddeathsbyoccupationenglandandwales/deathsregisteredbetween9marchand25may2020

• Public Health Wales has today confirmed 65 new cases of coronavirus in Wales, bringing the total number to 15,531, although the actual number will be higher.

o   Sadly, there were two further deaths of people with confirmed coronavirus reported by Public Health Wales today, the total number of deaths reported by Public Health Wales remains at 1,497 – this is the same as Thursday following further verification of the data. 

Where to find the latest information

• Public Health Wales provides a daily update about the number of cases of coronavirus in Wales. It is available at: https://phw.nhs.wales/news/public-health-wales-statement-on-novel-coronavirus-outbreak/
• Information about coronavirus is available on the Welsh Government’s website at https://gov.wales/coronavirus and https://llyw.cymru/coronafeirws
• Queries about support for businesses, including about eligibility for the Economic Resilience Fund? Visit the Business Wales website https://businesswales.gov.wales/coronavirus-advice/
• If you can help the effort to produce PPE in Wales please visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/news-and-blogs/news/provision-critical-equipment-and-personal-protection-equipment-ppe
• Want to know when and where to wear a face mask? https://gov.wales/face-coverings-frequently-asked-questions
• Want to make your own face covering? https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2020-06/how-to-make-a-3-layer-face-covering.pdf
• The Welsh Government holds a daily media briefing about coronavirus. These are on-the-record, on-camera and routinely supported by a BSL translator. They will be held at 12.30pm every week day. They are live-streamed on our @WelshGovernment Twitter channel and are broadcast live on BBC One Wales and S4C.
• First Minister Mark Drakeford held today’s press conference – you can watch again at: https://twitter.com/WelshGovernment/status/1276476840413036544

Llew Jones steps up its 64 bus service

Coach company Llew Jones has announced that as from next Monday 29th June it will be slightly increasing its 64 service provision, which operates between Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog and Llangollen.

This increased provision will incorporate the school journeys to Ysgol Dinas Bran.

Facemasks are advisory on public transport in Wales, says the company.

Below is the updated timetable:

Local poet's work to be featured on radio tonight

Many people in Llangollen will remember Peter Meilleur (nom de plume Child Roland) a French Canadian poet who lived in Llangollen for many years prior to his death in January 2019. 

A selection of his works and an interview with his widow Sue will be played on BBC Radio Wales tonight Friday 26th June at 6.30 and repeated Monday 29th June at 5.30. 

MS slams Welsh Government over "delays" in re-opening economy

North Wales Senedd Member Mark Isherwood (pictured) has claimed that the "fragile" economy has been damaged by the Welsh Government's delays in re-opening it after the coronovirus lockdown. 

He made the comments when closing yesterday’s Welsh Conservative COVID-19 Economy debate in the Welsh Parliament.

The opposition party said the pandemic had been both a public health and an economic emergency and called on the Welsh Government to establish a recovery fund to provide targeted economic support for communities most adversely affected by the pandemic.

Speaking via Zoom from his home Mr Isherwood said: “The Welsh Government’s delay in re-opening the economy has been damaging to the fragile Welsh economy.

“Take passenger transport. Through the Confederation of Passenger Transport,  the industry presented a proposal to the Welsh Government on 15th May which would enable operators to ramp up bus services, with full costings. They have still not received a considered official response.

“Wales is now the only country in the United Kingdom that has not agreed funding for transport operators to begin to ramp up services to cover costs for additional services.

“Take our vital bed and breakfast sector. In England and Scotland, grants are available to B&B operators who did not qualify for any other COVID-19 grant support schemes. In Wales, legitimate businesses have been denied access to equivalent grants.

“Take our crucial Housing Market.  The Welsh Government has failed to open the housing market in Wales alongside the rest of the UK. Within Wales, viewings can only take place in vacant properties and house moves are only allowed where a sale has been agreed but not yet completed.

“Within England, people are allowed to sensibly view properties that are occupied, provided that initial viewings are done online, and that physical viewings only take place with serious buyers and are done by appointment only."

Mr Isherwood added: “Take Holiday let businesses. The Welsh Government has announced that self-catering businesses could reopen on 13 July as long as they adhere to the government guidelines and the Economy Minister, Ken Skates, told North Wales media that comprehensive guidance has been put in place for the tourism and hospitality sector to ensure that the sector can be restarted in a safe way.

“However, self-catering businesses are telling me they have just spoken to their council and that it doesn't have the guidance.

“Take our Town Centres. The Centre for Towns found that Wales is the worst performing area of the UK with regards to its economic well-being, and that specific communities, including ex-industrial towns in parts of Wales, will need an effective support mechanism at a local level to support businesses plan their recovery strategies.”

Reminder for businesses to apply for rate relief scheme

Businesses are being reminded to apply for business rate relief before the scheme closes at the end of June.

Denbighshire County Council is urging businesses to apply for the Welsh Government’s Business Rates Relief fund before June 30 when applications close.

So far the council has paid out £27,550,000 in grants to 2,338 businesses but a further 500 Denbighshire organisations, including small charities within the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, may be eligible for the £10,000 grant.

The council is currently contacting all eligible businesses to inform them of the support which will help traders through the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for the Economy, said: “These grants are providing essential support for Denbighshire businesses and with the Welsh Government closing applications on June 30, it is essential businesses act now.

“Some businesses have been telling us they did not think they were entitled to a grant. However, businesses who have received a business rates bill with nothing to pay and are entitled to small business rate relief are, in most cases, still eligible for a grant. The majority of businesses yet to apply are in this category and our advice is for them to visit our website and see if they fit the criteria.”

* Details of the scheme and application forms can be found at http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/business-rates

County's public toilets to open next week

Denbighshire County Council has confirmed that public toilets will open next week (Monday 29 June), as part of on-going efforts to support town centres across the county.

This week,  non-essential shops in Wales have been given the green light to start operating.  Last week the Council announced that a Task Group had been set up specifically to assist town centres as they respond to the easing of the lockdown restrictions.  Staff will be working in the main towns to provide help and advice to residents and businesses; they will identify where posters and signage are needed and will look at what support is needed for businesses to comply with the current social distancing and hygiene regulations. 

Public toilets are seen as important facilities within town centres and conveniences and our facilities will open on Monday, June 29.  The toilets are located at:  Market Street, Llangollen; Events Arena, Rhyl and Rhyl Town Hall; Factory Ward, Denbigh; Market Street, Ruthin; Green Lane, Corwen and unstaffed facilities in Prestatyn (near the Nova, Nant Hall Road, Barkby Beach and the bus and railway stations); Rhuddlan; Dyserth; St Asaph; Cae Ddol, Ruthin and Coronation Gardens in Rhyl.  Normal charges will apply.  

Councillor Julian Thompson-Hill, Cabinet Lead Member for Finance and Assets, said: “Great efforts are being made by council services, town councils, business associations and other partners (including North Wales Police) to assist town centres to get back up on their feet following the easing of restrictions.

“There are a number of issues that the Council can address directly to assist in this work – and opening public toilets is an important part of the plans. They are important public facilities for residents and visitors to our town centre. We will be doing this in a phased approach over the coming few weeks, to ensure that plans for operating the facilities are put in place and that safety of the public and staff is made a priority.

Councillor Mark Young, Cabinet Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “We fully recognise that businesses in our town centres have suffered during the covid-19 outbreak and the Council wants to support businesses in any way it can, to help them get back on their feet during these very difficult times. 

“We will be talking and listening to businesses and residents and see what other kind of help is needed in terms of advice and support, as well as more practical measures such as posters and signage”. 

Posted on Thursday 25th June 2020

 

How town got government cash to help in lockdown aftermath

* Castle Street before the lockdown.

One of the area’s county councillors has given an insight into how Llangollen was included in the list of Denbighshire towns to benefit from a £1 million funding boost from the Welsh Government.

But Graham Timms could give no specific details of the amount of money involved or how it will be spent locally.

Llanblogger revealed last week that Llangollen was to get a share of the cash earmarked by the government for Denbighshire communities in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.

The county is to get £981,000 through the Local Sustainable Transport Covid Response Fund to provide improved access to town centres and schools for pedestrians and cyclists and to facilitate social distancing in public spaces and on public transport.

This is seen as especially important as people return to town centres as non-essential shops re-open.

The lockdown period has seen increases in the numbers of people walking and cycling and many of the measures proposed will further encourage people to choose these modes of transport by providing measures such as wider pavements.

Funding has been secured for projects in Llangollen, Rhyl, Ruthin and Denbigh, as well as outside schools throughout the county.

Projects include the reallocation of road space for pedestrians and cyclists by introducing one-way systems and making spaces outside schools safer for social distancing and reducing the number of car journeys outside schools.

Cllr Timms, speaking as chair of the Llangollen 2020 group, said: “We are delighted that Llangollen is one of the towns in Denbighshire that will receive funding to help residents and visitors maintain social distancing in the town.

“As soon as the Llangollen 2020 group heard the announcement by the Welsh Government of possible funding we contacted the Denbighshire road safety team to discuss what could be done to improve matters in Llangollen’s narrow streets.

“We discussed a range of suggestions with officers. The Denbighshire team then put together a final grant submission for the whole of the county. 

“It's great that Llangollen is specifically mentioned in the Welsh Government announcement, alongside Rhyl, Denbigh and Ruthin. This means that we will definitely get much needed safety improvements in the town. 

“We also asked the Denbighshire team to look at making improvements to help pupils to walk or cycle to our schools more safely after discussing the issue with Llangollen Friends of the Earth.

“Although the final details have not yet been settled, we are hoping that something can also be done to make walking and cycling to school safer for our children and young people as they begin to return to their lessons. 

“There will be detailed discussions with local councillors and other organisations in the town to ensure that the particularly difficult set of challenges that Llangollen's narrow streets pose can be met.” 

MP welcomes scheme for better broadband in rural areas

Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes has welcomed the announcement that more than 50,000 rural Welsh homes and businesses could be eligible to have their broadband upgraded thanks to a new collaboration between the UK and Welsh governments.

He said that residents and businesses will now have access to more funding for better broadband as the Welsh Government “tops up” the UK Government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.

The scheme helps people to cover the upfront costs of installing new gigabit-capable internet connections.

Vouchers worth up to £7,000 for SMEs and £3,000 for rural residential premises subsidise the cost of building out next-generation broadband infrastructure - such as fibre-optic cables - to rural villages and towns, so they don’t miss out on much faster speeds. They also incentivise other broadband companies to build in these areas.

The constituency of Clwyd South covers part of Denbighshire and part of Wrexham. A review found that 4,509 properties in Denbighshire and 2,700 in Wrexham do not currently have access to superfast broadband.

Matt Warman, UK Government Minister for Digital Infrastructure, said: “Our £1.8 billion superfast broadband programme transformed Wales’ digital landscape, allowing many people to work remotely during lockdown.

“We are now focusing on future-proofing internet networks with gigabit speeds and, working with the Welsh Government, I am pleased to offer even more vital funding to bring this next-generation connectivity to rural businesses and homes suffering with slow speeds.

“I encourage all those who qualify to apply to feel the benefits of much faster internet connections.”

Simon Baynes said: “This announcement is good news for Wales and Clwyd South. Better broadband strengthens our rural economy and gives a big boost to those people working and running a business from home at the moment due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“The extension of this scheme will ensure Clwyd South residents, particularly in areas like the Ceiriog Valley, have access to reliable broadband speeds – a big step forwards in our plans to build a broadband network that is fit for the future in the area.”

Talks being held on closure of Mail Solutions factory this autumn

llanblogger exclusive

* The Mail Solutions factory at Cilmedw.

Company bosses are consulting about their plans to close the Mail Solutions envelope factory in Llangollen.

The factory at Cilmedw was purpose built for Dobson & Crowther but when they went into administration in 2015 it was taken over by Telford-based Mail Solutions UK Ltd.

Mail Solutions group managing director Alan Griffiths told llanblogger that “challenging” conditions in the envelope market made worse by the coronavirus situation had led the company to propose the factory’s closure by the end of September.  

Mr Griffiths said: “We’ve been in consultations about this for a little while now and it’s become common knowledge.

“The envelope market has been in decline for many, many years and it’s a very challenging market.

“Royal Mail volumes are down by 35 per cent and the situation has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We are looking at downsizing and consolidating production in one unit at Telford.”

Explaining that they were aiming for the factory to close at the end of September, Mr Griffiths added: “We are going through the consultation process. 

"This is a work in progress and it depends on the consultation how many redundancies there are. We have a total of 35 employees bu there will be an opportunity for a proportion of these to transfer to Telford.

“This is unfortunate but no-one can say that we haven’t given it a go and we have invested in the site.”   

Senedd Member for Clwyd South Ken Skates said: "Closure of the business at this site would be bitterly disappointing, so I would urge the company to work with Denbighshire County Council and the Welsh Government in exploring all alternatives."

And Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes commented: “I am very sorry to hear about the trading problems being experienced by the Llangollen's Mail Solutions factory and I hope that that every effort will be made by the company to help and look after the 35 members of staff who work there during the consultations which are currently being conducted into the possible closure of the factory.”

Dobson & Crowther went into administration in early June of 2015 with 55 of its 79-strong workforce being made redundant.

The following month Mail Solutions stepped in to purchase its assets and re-started envelope production in the September.

Although Mail Solutions was formed in 2000, some of its business roots can traced back to the 20th century and a stationery company called Kenrick & Jefferson Ltd.

From just a small operation the company has continued to grow and become one of the most successful manufacturers of envelopes and print in the UK. 

In November 2017 Mail Solutions completed the transition to an employee-owned company. Purchased by the employee-ownership trust (EOT), all current employees are the beneficial owners of the business.