Latest coronavirus update from Welsh Government

Latest coronavirus update from the Welsh Government - dated yesterday - is: 

• Businesses across Wales can now find out if they can apply for funding from the third phase of the Economic Resilience Fund (ERF).

• Economy Minister Ken Skates announced the new phase of the fund last week which will see an additional £140 million being made available to businesses.
• The eligibility checker will enable businesses to see if they can access the £80 million tranche of the fund which will support firms with projects that can help them transition to the economy of tomorrow. It will require co-investment from companies and a clear plan about how they will adjust to the post-covid economy.
• More information: https://gov.wales/economic-resilience-fund-find-out-if-your-business-eligible-support-third-phase
• Eligibility checker: https://fundchecker.businesswales.gov.wales/erfphase3?_ga=2.21145278.420969385.1601908497-1590441122.1572622477

• Health Minister Vaughan Gething is urging everyone in Wales to help protect vital NHS services over the winter months by using the right service for their needs.

• Welsh health boards are reporting around 20% to 30% of people who present at emergency departments could be better treated elsewhere or in a different way.
• As part of the Protect the NHS campaign people are being asked to use the online symptom checker on the NHS 111 Wales website or call 111 for advice on where to go to get the right treatment.
• More information at: https://gov.wales/now-more-ever-we-need-people-think-carefully-about-where-seek-advice-avoid-extra-pressure-nhs

• Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services Julie Morgan has published an update about the Welsh Government’s care homes action plan and an independent rapid review undertaken by Professor John Bolton https://gov.wales/written-statement-care-homes-action-plan-update

• Rapid review: https://gov.wales/rapid-review-care-homes-relation-covid-19

 

Coronavirus in numbers

• The latest figures published by Public Health Wales today show there have been 752 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the total to 27,624 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wales since the start of the pandemic.

• Sadly, there were three more deaths reported by Public Health Wales today. The total number of deaths reported by Public Health Wales is 1,643.
• These figures are updated daily at: https://public.tableau.com/profile/public.health.wales.health.protection#!/vizhome/RapidCOVID-19virology-Public/Headlinesummary 

Where to find the latest information

• Information about local restrictions in Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly borough, Cardiff, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Llanelli, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen and Vale of Glamorgan and Wrexham areas: https://gov.wales/local-lockdown  

• Public Health Wales provides a daily update about the number of cases of coronavirus in Wales. It is available at: https://covid19-phwstatement.nhs.wales/
• Information about coronavirus is available on the Welsh Government’s website at https://gov.wales/coronavirus and https://llyw.cymru/coronafeirws
• Information about support for businesses is available at 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
• The Welsh Government holds a regular media briefing about coronavirus. These are on-the-record, on-camera and supported by a BSL translator.

• From Monday October 5, these will be held at 12.15pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and live-streamed on our @WelshGovernment Twitter channel.
• Dr Frank Atherton, Wales’ chief medical officer held today’s press conference. You can watch again at: https://twitter.com/WelshGovernment/status/1313799645387055104

Major changes take place on Llangollen Railway board

Major changes have taken place on the board of Llangollen Railway, which is currently closed for the second time due to government coronavirus restrictions.

A press release issued by Llangollen Railway Trust Ltd in the name of director Bob Gordon says: "The Llangollen Railway regrets to announce the resignation of the chairman Liz McGuinness from the board of LRT (Llangollen Railway Trust) and LR (Llangollen Railway) plc.

"Her fellow elected directors Hugh Shipton and Quentin McGuinness and two co-opted members, Robin Matthews and Rhys Williams, have also resigned.

"The sole remaining elected director is Bob Gordon who is presently endeavouring to co-opt new directors for both boards to be in place within the next few days pending the forthcoming AGM.

"The resignations arise from major differences of opinion with the Board’s heritage policy as being applied to the Corwen project.

"Bob Gordon immediately set about reassuring the Corwen project team regarding support for completing the new station as planned with work to start on the building of the platform, waiting room and toilets.

"He said, 'The need is to get the station finished and ready to receive passengers during 2021 with appropriate shelter to hand on the platform. This aim is dependent on this winter’s weather and, of course, any continuing impact of Covid 19 on the volunteer workforce.'

"Supporting these comments, the Railway’s President, Bill Shakespeare MBE, said, 'I am full of admiration for the way in which the Corwen Project team have tackled the creation of the new station and feel they should be allowed to continue the completion of the project with the building of the waiting room.

"We need to overcome this current difficulty and continue the progress towards an opening through to Corwen as soon as resources allow.

"I have always thought that Llangollen Railway is a broad church and can accommodate all shades of opinion.”

Llangollen Railway spokesman George Jones said: "Co-opted members have now formed a new board which has had its first meeting. 

"The board members have experience and long-term commitment to Llangollen Railway."

Abbey Dingle Care Home to hold coffee morning for Macmillan

* Abbey Dingle residents Wynn Hughes and Esther Whittall with some of the raffle prizes.

Abbey Dingle Care Home in Llangollen is holding a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support tomorrow (Friday) at 3pm.

Due to Covid restrictions they cannot invite anyone from outside the home to join them but you can take part by making a donation and staff will purchase a raffle ticket on your behalf.

Home owner Carol Mascarenhas said: "We have a lovely Christmas pamper hamper with prosecco, two Christmas wine glasses, pomegranate and fig toiletries, a Christmas box of Toffifee, a stag cushion and a red fleece throw, all in a decorated Christmas box.

"Families have donated prizes and we say a big thank you for this. We are very sorry they are unable to join us. Thank you for your support.

"All our residents are looking forward to having a lovely afternoon and supporting such a good cause. There will be home made cakes , a bric a brac stall and the raffle. Teas and coffees of course.

Stick to local restrictions says county council

Denbighshire County Council is reminding residents to continue to follow local restrictions and to follow stringent hygiene and social distancing measures in the efforts to reduce the number of covid cases.

Last Thursday, local restrictions were introduced in Denbighshire, Conwy, Flintshire and Wrexham.  

The restrictions will mean that residents will not be able to travel out of the county in which they live without a reasonable excuse, such as travel for work or education. 

People will only be able to meet people they do not live with outdoors for the time being. They will not be able to form, or be in, extended households  - sometimes called a “bubble”.

The council says residents should also remember about adhering to social distancing measures of two metres, ensuring they wear face marks to visit shops and to travel on public transport and follow stringent hygiene measures.

It is also reminding young people to continue to social distance. Last month the council launched a campaign to ask young people to #keepyourdistance and that campaign has been supported by organisations across North Wales.

Councillor Mark Young, Cabinet Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “We really need to carry on with our efforts to try and reduce the spread of coronavirus from escalating in our county. We firmly believe that the restrictions are completely necessary in the fight to halt the increase in the number of cases in our county.

“We fully recognise and understand that this will prove difficult for some residents and that they are making a sacrifice again, but compliance is essential and we really need to do this to try and protect our most vulnerable in our communities.

“We are working closely with our partners to try and keep the public health messages in the public eye and using local media, social media and websites to get the messages across.  It’s only Denbighshire residents that can make the sacrifices to protect Denbighshire communities." 

Residents are also asked to remember to stick to existing guidance, which includes:

• Staying at home if you have Coronavirus symptoms and request a test immediately.
• Working from home wherever you can.
• Avoiding car-sharing.
• Those over 11 must wear a face-mask in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
• Covering your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough.
• Keeping your hands clean.
• Hospitality businesses in Wales have to close by 10pm, with table service only, and off-licences and supermarkets having to stop selling alcohol from 10pm.

* Further information is available at: www.gov.wales

Traffic plan is "waste of money" claims opponents' spokesperson

Castle Street traders continue to be angry that plans to ban all "pop-and-shop" parking and deliveries unloading are to go ahead later this month.

That's the claim of former Chamber of  Tourism and Trade chairman David Davies acting as a spokesperson for those opposed the moves.

The plans approved by Denbighshire County Council (DCC) are part of a package of changes designed to allow for more active travel  - walking and cycling - and Covid-19 social distancing of two metres between people.

They will be applied using temporary traffic orders within weeks.

Mr Davies said: "The plans were put out to public consultation for only two weeks in July and attracted just 91 respondents.   

"According to DCC, this included 25 businesses in Castle Street who objected to the plan and 66 other responses from local residents and visitors of whom 59 were in favour of the plans.

"Census figures suggest around 4,000 people are in the Llangollen, Llantysilio and Berwyn area who could be described as local, out of which 91 responded to the survey - that's  2.3%. Of those 91 some 65% (59 persons) voted in favour.

"Continuing the maths -  those in favour of the plans were 65% of 2.3% which is only 1.5% of the total local population.     

"Thus 98.5% did not respond or objected, yet DCC still plans to go ahead with their scheme. How such a decision can therefore be promoted as a 'huge thumbs up' to the plan remains an unanswered question."

He added: "It seems unbelievable that DCC is misusing and wasting taxpayers' money closing Castle Street to pop-and-shoppers when they and government are trying to encourage buy local shopping.

"Traders are concerned that the plans, 'by coincidence,' are the same as one of the main objectives of the 2020 Group to permanently ban all parking in Castle Street.

"With a number of questions to DCC still outstanding and their refusal to respond, an objection has been lodged with DCC for the scrutiny panel to review the decision.

"This must take full account of the traders; objections, trading conditions, current footfall and the true level of response from the local population.   

"I am also calling on DCC to publish details of the planned footpath, cycle-way and road widths to meet social distancing and road traffic requirements."

Officers out policing latest lockdown measures

During the first weekend since local restrictions were imposed in the counties of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, patrols by North Wales Police continued.

Licensed premises were visited and officers undertook targeted vehicle stops across the four counties to ensure those who were travelling had legitimate reasons to do so.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Harrison from North Wales Police said: “We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the vast majority of residents in Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham for listening to Government advice by staying within their counties.

“Most are fully supportive of the restrictions and understand the importance of why they have been imposed.

“However, disappointingly we had cause to speak to some individuals who had ignored the restrictions and who had travelled into parts of north Wales that is under local lockdown. 

"This included officers having to disperse an off road event involving 4x4 vehicles in Llwyneinion Woods in Rhos, Wrexham on Sunday. The landowner has been reported for Covid 19 offences.

“People should not think of ways of circumventing the law, this is about making sure loved ones don’t die because of a few selfish actions, and the police should not be needed to reinforce common sense.

“The restrictions are necessary to fight Covid-19 and we all have a personal responsibility to comply to protect ourselves and our loved ones from this deadly virus.

“Throughout the pandemic we’ve been working with our local authority partners to ensure that measures are in place to help communities and prevent the spread of COVID - 19. This will continue as we respond to the current situation.

“Teams continue to be out and about and will continue to engage with people, establish their individual circumstances and will continue to explain the risks and warn of the consequences of failing to comply with the guidance.

“The demand on North Wales Police has returned to pre-Covid level. As a result, it is essential that people comply with the restrictions to reduce the number of breaches which officers have to respond to. 

"We need people to recognise that wilfully flouting the guidance places unnecessary strain on already stretched resources, and ultimately endangers those people who may need the Emergency Services in their hour of need. 

“We all have a shared responsibility to protect the NHS, please use your common sense and help us together to save lives.”

* Further information regarding the restrictions are available via the Welsh Government’s website.

New name board is a sign of the good times for Corwen station project

Llangollen Railway's Corwen station project has received a new name board (pictured) on the eastern end of the platform.

The substantial piece of joinery was lifted into position by volunteers after it was delivered to the site.

Sponsored by rilway enthusiasts' group the Foxcote Manor Society the double-sided name board was constructed by Llangollen Railway member Graham Hoyland[

As a traditional form of station running-on board, it will announce to train passengers their arrival at Corwen and can now be seen as a prominent fixture on the platform, adding to the heritage features already in place.

It can be readily appreciated by walkers across Corwen Common and its erection was a big boost for the project volunteers.

Running-in boards are no longer a feature of stations on the national rail network having been superseded these days by on-train announcements. 

A similar board was unveiled in the Corwen town car park back in December 2011 as a statement of the railway’s intention to return to the adjacent embankment.

It has taken rather longer than originally envisaged, but that board remains in-situ as a local feature announcing to road users where they have arrived.

Traffic changes in town centre to start this month, says council

* Social distancing work on the town centre will goa head in 

mid-October, according to the county council.

The county council says it will implement its plans to allow better social distancing in Llangollen town centre by the middle of this month.

The Active Travel schemes approved for this town and other in Denbighshire were given the go-head by county councillors at the end of August.

But there had been speculation about a hold-up as work has not yet started in Llangollen.

However, in answer to a question from llanblogger about this, a spokesperson for Denbighshire County Council said: “The proposed scheme is scheduled to go ahead as planned with works commencing on site in mid-October.”

Locally, the work will mean: 

* The creation of more space for social distancing by widening the pavements along Castle Street and on Abbey Road at the junction with Castle Street by the removal of parking and the use of ‘lane defenders’ to create safe areas for pedestrians and cyclists.

*  Creating a ‘one-way’ street on the first section of Market Street as it leaves Market Street. The one-way section would only allow traffic to enter Market Street from Castle Street. Vehicles wishing to enter Castle Street from Market Street will follow the route via East Street and Parade Street.   

*  The closure of the link road between Hall Street and Berwyn Street (A5)

*     Reversing the direction of flow of vehicles on Church Street

*   Support cafes, pubs and restaurants to introduce outside seating

The council has said that the changes will be made by a temporary traffic order for up to 18 months and that their effect  be closely monitored as they are introduced.

Detailing the plan in August, Lllangollen county councillor Graham Timms said: "The results of the formal consultation showed huge support for the introduction of these measures. 

"It has been clear to residents over the last few weeks that social distancing in the town has been almost impossible to achieve. 

"The narrow pavements and the huge increase in the number of visitors since the lockdown ended has created a very difficult situation. Many residents have avoided the town centre because they do not feel safe on crowded streets in the middle of the day.

“Both Cllr Melvyn Mile (the other local county councillor) and I were strongly in favour of the introduction of these measures. We believe that they are essential to enable residents and visitors to feel safe in the town centre.

“Denbighshire’s formal consultation through the County Conversation website gave a huge ‘thumbs-up’ for the proposals with nearly 83% of those that responded ‘strongly agreeing’ and a further 12% ‘somewhat agreeing’ with the proposals. Only 5% of the replies were negative."

He added: “The reversal of the one-way traffic flow on Church Street should result in a significant change in the number of vehicles using this route as a 'short cut', particularly at the times just before and just after the school day. This will lead to a much safer route to school for children and their parents who walk and cycle to and from school along this very narrow road.

“The closure of the road between Berwyn Street and Hall Street that passes between Stan’s garage and the M’eating Place will help to make this area safer for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

“Some businesses expressed their concerns over the loss of ‘pop and shop’ parking and the lack of loading bays by signing a ‘template’ letter which was sent to the council separately. I believe that it is important to address these important concerns.

"The ‘loading bay’ issue has been addressed by providing a bay on the Market Street and Castle Street junction. On the provision of short stay parking, Mel Mile and I have been pressing the council to give free parking in all car parks for 30 minutes to allow ‘pop and shop’ visits for those on the outskirts of the town. 

"The county responded with two hours free parking in East Street Car Park. Other towns in Denbighshire will also get a similar concessions. 

"We don’t think that this meets the needs of Llangollen and so we will continue to press the case for a ‘free half-hour’ in all our car parks to encourage local shopping in the town centre.

“It is vitally important that local residents and businesses pull together to create a town centre that is vibrant and safe for everyone in these very difficult times."

But there was opposition to the plan from the former chair of Llangollen Chamber of Trade and Tourism, David Davies, who claimed banning parking in Castle Street is a waste of money and will have a “negative, deadening effect” on the town centre.

He said: “Castle Street businesses are angered to see that the county council is proceed with the traffic order banning all parking and deliveries in the street on the pretence of Covid-19 social distancing and active travel reasons.

“Twenty-eight businesses - 80% of all operating businesses in the street - individually signed letters of objection to DCC."  

Sportage is fast but at the cost of fuel economy

* Above and below: the Kia Sportage. 

Kia Sportage road test

For months I have been praising the economy of small petrol engines. Well, I hit a brick wall with the Kia Sportage.

Kia has been developing new engines to meet the latest emission demands and, like many other manufacturers, has built a small engine with a lot of power but in this case not much in the way of economy.

To be fair this is the more powerful 174bhp version of the 1.6 litre which, with the help of a twin scroll turbocharger, shoots Sportage to sixty in well under nine seconds yet it only averaged 30mpg. 

To add a little context to the debate the big Skoda Superb featured a few weeks ago averaged way over 50mpg with a 1.5 litre engine and is less than half a second behind the Kia in a sprint.

Okay, a saloon is going to be better on fuel than an SUV but by that much? Even if you drop down to the turbo-free 1.6 the official average is only 35mpg.

Interestingly a motoring writer friend who switched from diesel to the turbo 1.6 said he would never trade the loss of economy for the sparkling performance of his new Sportage and I know what he means because this is one quick motor with plenty of punch at low revs, able to pull away in top at just over 1000rpm. Impressive.

That said I came down to earth with an even bigger bump when I towed my caravan to Devon and averaged 19.4mpg. Not a problem if you have deep pockets may be but having to top up after just 200 miles is still a pain. Imagine a drive to the south of France.

The 1.6 litre diesel is a better option for economy but its towing capacity is limited unlike the all wheel drive petrol turbo which can pull just about any size van with its 1900kg limit while the towball can take a useful 100kg.

Economy aside I found Sportage pretty much the ideal tow car. As an SUV it sits high so there are no worries about jockey wheels smashing against speed humps which can happen with low riding saloons or hatchbacks, and with the back seats down there is ample room for everything you do not want to store in the weight restricted caravan, it easily swallowed two adult bikes and a lot more.

It towed my four berth caravan with ease and the trailer stability assist which counters snaking in high winds is reassuring. It also reduces sway when overtaking long artics on the motorway, a far more regular occurrence.

I would certainly go for the seven speed auto over the six speed manual which is a notchy change and too easy to stall because of its sharp clutch and throttle, all very embarrassing for someone who has had enough experience of balancing clutch and accelerator on countless cars!

Sportage took off with the third generation in 2010 and has been like a wild fire ever since outselling some big rivals and topping Kia's sales charts until last year when it lost out to the growing Ceed family.

The seven year warranty is a big draw but there is a lot more to Sportage. Build quality is as good as any in its class and scores well on spec right from entry level. Level 3, tested here, is really well off with panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, leather seats, power adjusted for driver and passenger, and heated not just in the front but the two outer back seats as well.

The 8in touchscreen controls navigation, radio, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity and other lesser functions and, unusually, there are four decks of switches. The quick keys on the top row are a great benefit while the heating and other aids are clearly marked and easy to reach.

I found a few relatively insignificant additions particularly useful like the extending front sunvisors, two 12-volt sockets and USB port in the front and more for back seat passengers while front wiper de-icer will be welcome on frosty mornings.

Sportage gained a few centimetres in length in its last upgrade so there is no shortage of legroom particularly in the back. And while we are at the back of the car the designers would do well to include sidewall levers should the back seats need to be dropped while loading the boot.

Need to know

Sportage 3 AWD

£28,555 (starts £21,010)

1.6 T-GDI 174bhp

0-62mph 9.2secs; 126mph

32.1mpg combined

201g/km. 1st road tax £1,305 then £150pa

Insurance group 20

Boot 491-1480 litres

Confirmed Covid-19 case is associated with Ysgol Bryn Collen

Denbighshire County Council has confirmed this evening that 14 pupils from nursery and reception classes and two members of staff  from Ysgol Bryn Collen in Llangollen will be required to self-isolate until October 14 following a confirmed Covid-19 case associated with the school.  

Across other side of the county, 22 Year 6 pupils and two members of staff at Christ the Word Catholic School, Rhyl, will be required to self-isolate until October 16 following a confirmed Covid-19 case associated with that school.

The council says that both schools remain open and that it is working closely with the schools affected, Public Health Wales as well as NHS Wales Test, Trace and Protect to ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect pupils, staff and the wider community.

Letters have been sent to parents and guardians today (Sunday) informing them of the position.

Parents/guardians have been advised to remain alert for the main symptoms of coronavirus:

* A new or continuous cough

* A high temperature

* A loss of or change to sense of smell or taste

Those advised to self-isolated should book a coronavirus test if they develop any of these symptoms, even if they are mild. A test can be booked by phoning 119 or online: https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test

Advice requires those self-isolating to stay at home, not to go outdoors to exercise, to visit shops, family or friends, or to other public spaces. Please do not invite people to your house.

Further formation on Test, Trace, Protect can be found here https://gov.wales/test-trace-protect-coronavirus

New app helps locate waste-beating businesses

Shoppers in Llangollen, Ruthin and Mold are being encouraged to say goodbye to pointless packaging as award-winning campaign Refill expands.

The Refill campaign has already saved 100 million pieces of plastic from our oceans to become the world’s first dedicated app to help people find locations to reuse and refill.

The app is now available to help people in Llangollen, Ruthin and Mold to live with less plastic by making it easier to eat, drink and shop packaging-free.

Morrisons, LUSH, Costa and some local businesses are amongst the brands signed up to the campaign.

Since October 1 people in the three areas are able to use the free app to find out where to refill their coffee cup, water bottle or lunchbox, shop for groceries and top up their cleaning products and toiletries packaging-free.

The app will also highlight where discounts might be available to reward customers for reducing their single-use packaging. 

This means that businesses in Wales who offer reuse or packaging-free options can use the app as a free marketing platform to drive footfall and increase sales.

In Wales, thanks to Welsh Government funding. there are already more than 1,600 Refill Stations offering drinking water. 

The Welsh Government has a long-standing aim for a zerowaste Wales by 2050, and is consulting on restricting the sale of some single-use plasticsfrom 2021. 

It is hoped that the Refill app could make a big contribution to driving the necessary behaviour change to deliver this, making re-use and refilling the new social norm.

* Consumers looking for businesses who offer refills, reduce packaging and support zero waste initiatives, should download the app at https://refill.org.uk/get-the-refill-app/.

New faces join revived Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group

* The Facebook logo of the coronavirus help group.

As a new local lockdown begins the highly successful Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group has swung back into action.

The group was set up by Cat Meade, from Wingetts estate agents in Castle Street, just days after the Covid-19 crisis began back in March.

With a help of a large network of volunteers it ran a host of vital community services  ranging from the sourcing and supply of PPE for the those in the front line to the regular delivery of prescription meds and daily newspapers to vulnerable people shielding across town.

Cat even found time to run a series of popular raffles for the benefit of local businesses and good causes in the area.

Cat is still involved but now there are two new co-ordinators with the group, town councillors Austin “Chem” Cheminais, who is also Llangollen’s town crier, and his colleague John Palmer.

Cat said on Facebook of the changes: “As we are now in local lockdown for two weeks just a quick update to advise plans are in place to assist. Councillors Austin Cheminais and John Palmer are on board assisting our community going forward.

“I am unable to pick up the main control role due to work and personal life, however I will be on here for updates and always in the background.

“Hopefully, this will be two weeks, however let’s follow the guidelines and keep our town safe.

“Please support local businesses during this time #shoplocal #helpout #eatlocal.

“Dee Valley Produce are continuing to offer local delivery to your door. The Three Eagles, Riverbanc and Fouzis Cafe all have plans in place to keep you safe, they need us locals now more than ever.

“Most shops, cafes, pubs, hairdressers, barbers continue to operate. Just follow the #social distance #facemask #handwash and keep safe.

“Unfortunately, major businesses in town have had to stop services. We all need to follow the guidelines to ensure all businesses in our Town can survive the long haul.”

Cllr Cheminas said: “As we move into another, hopefully temporary, lockdown and in preparation for what could be some difficult months ahead the Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group plans to resume its work and set up a new network of support in Llangollen for those who need help, are isolated, or are vulnerable during these difficult times.

“We hope to provide regular contact and support with shopping.

“If you need support or know of anyone who you think we could help please contact: Austin Cheminais (Chem) on 07813 761766 chemshouts@gmail.com and John Palmer on 07515  051696 palmerjc28@gmail.com 

"If you need help collecting prescriptions contact Sheena Grindley on 07592 018533."

Police boss sends warning to those flouting lockdown rules

 

* North Wales PCC Arfon Jones.

A police boss has warned of a clampdown on house parties and pub revellers who flout social distancing rules after four North Wales counties went into local lockdown.

The region’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Arfon Jones said it was vitally important that everybody complied with the new restrictions imposed by the Welsh Government in order to curb and suppress the rising rate of Covid-19 infections in Denbighshire, Wrexham, Flintshire, and Conwy.

Mr Jones warned that “irresponsible” people caught breaking the rules and spreading the virus would be liable to be fined.

The coronavirus regulations include provisions for a fixed penalty notice to be issued for most types of breaches of the regulations, carrying a fine of £60.

This is increased to £120 for a second offence and continues to double for repeated offences, up to a maximum of £1,920. If prosecuted, however, a court can impose any fine (it is not limited).

Mr Jones also hit out at the “crazy anomaly” after the Prime Minister ruled out preventing people currently in lockdown in England from travelling to Wales while restrictions are in place.

The request from Meirionnydd Dwyfor MP Liz Saville Roberts for Boris Johnson to act followed concerns about residents in areas with high levels of Covid-19 transmission travelling to parts of Wales with much lower rates, potentially spreading the virus.

Queues of walkers were pictured on Snowdonia, while there were also reports of traffic jams at tourist destinations in the country.

Mr Jones, a former police inspector, agreed with the Welsh Government’s logic in imposing the new sanctions in the four counties in North Wales.

He said: “We feel for those businesses that are affected but I think if we want to control this virus, our hands are very much tied in what we must do.

“Like most people I was horrified to see pictures of people flouting social distancing rules whether they’re holding illegal raves, house parties or in pubs and clubs.

"I've seen clips of people coming out of pubs at 10pm in the cities and having a street party. It's completely irresponsible.

“The people in Caerphilly and Newport have shown the way. They went into local lockdown two to three weeks ago, and the numbers are coming down.

“It shows that what the Welsh Government are trying to do actually works, as long as local people abide by the rules.

“I hope that our residents in these four North Wales counties will comply with the local lockdown, and the sooner we get the numbers back down and get back to some state of normality, the better.

“At the start in March, traditional crime went down, but demand for enforcing coronavirus regulations filled that gap.

“Now we're back to normal with traditional crime, plus we've still got to enforce coronavirus regulations.

“I would like to commend most people for behaving responsibly at this difficult time but those who choose not to an expect to be held to account.

“Our focus initially will be to educate, engage and encourage people to comply with the rules but if that doesn’t work North Wales Police will enforce the rules.

“There are clearly capacity issues and we can only do what our resources permit us to do. We'll do our best with what we've got and continue working in partnership with other agencies in North Wales in terms of enforcement.

“The county councils take the lead in terms of the regulations around the night time economy and in fairness some have really stepped up to the plate.

“Both the councils and the police can issue fixed penalty ticket and the role of the police is to support council enforcement officers in relation to the night-time economy.

“The important thing from my point of view is to target irresponsible behaviour that is shown to spread the virus.”

Old Vicarage residents use lockdown to tell their stories

* Back: Owner Bethan Mascarenhas, Town Crier Austin 'Chem' Cheminais and storyteller Fiona Collins. Front: Joan Fell, 96, Jill Lidgit, 85, Ena Strange, 99, and Yola Roberts, 87.

* Ena Strange, 99 ,enjoying reading a copy of the book.

* Pat Preston, 89, with her invitation to the launch party.

* Bill Gosson, 90, with the book and the book illustration.

A Llangollen care home has created a lasting legacy from the coronavirus lockdown by drawing together the life stories of its residents in a new book.

The Old Vicarage hired professional storyteller Fiona Collins as a care worker and activities assistant at the onset of the pandemic to help keep residents’ spirits up when they were missing their families.

During the early months of lockdown, Fiona encouraged the residents to share their life-stories with each other in the garden and unearthed a treasure trove of post-war adventures – some of which raised eyebrows! 

Now those experiences – which include a resident learning to drive at the age of nine in a hearse from her grandfather’s funeral business and another resident hitchhiking her way around Europe after the war – will become a part of history in a new book called Lockdown Legends.

The book, which has been professionally illustrated by renowned local artist and illustrator Peter Stevenson and includes a foreword from Heléna Herklots CBE, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, has been unveiled to the world with a little help from Llangollen Town Crier Austin Cheminais. 

It includes the stories of 17 residents – two of whom have sadly passed away since the book has been published – all of which were shared during lockdown with additional detail provided by family members.

The home now hopes to be able to attract some celebrity endorsement to give the book the attention it deserves and is inviting reviews from the world of stage and screen.

“We’ve harassed royalty already and I’ve written to Prince Charles, who is the Patron of Age Cymru, and Prince William,” said Bethan Mascarenhas, who owns the home alongside her brother Richard.

“We’d love for some authors to review it, may be Michael Morpurgo or even a legend of the likes of Sir David Attenborough!”

One of those to contribute was Ena Strange, 99, who grew up in Liverpool and said the experience of telling life stories had really helped during lockdown.

“We were fortunate, you might say, to be here as we still had people to talk to with the other residents and staff. For someone living alone it must’ve been terrible. I felt lucky,” she said.

“It was just everybody talking and sharing what had happened in the past. I didn’t think I had an exciting life, I thought I had a dull life.

“I worked in a gown shop when I was younger. I actually wanted to work in an office but my mother said I’d never sit still and she wouldn’t let me. I wanted to join a tennis club and my father wouldn’t let me. But when the war came I was called up and went into the National Fire Service and was stationed on Salford Docks. That was an education! Eventually, I got promoted to assistant group officer and became deputy when the group officer was off.  I really enjoyed it.”

Fellow resident and retired teacher Jill Lidgett, 87, originally from London, said: “It’s been lovely, talking about things that we wouldn’t normally have raised. It was great to hear everybody’s secrets! It’s a lovely home and everyone’s so friendly. Some of the stories were surprising.”

Former Trevor town councillor and retired special needs teacher Iola Roberts, 87, surprised her fellow residents with her tales of childhood. 

“I was born and bred in Llangollen. My grandfather had a business as an undertaker and I learned to drive when I was nine – a hearse! It was brilliant,” said the grandmother-of-six.

“It’s very important to remember our backgrounds and remember what we have achieved and not be ashamed about where we have come from. I’ve always talked a lot and have told a lot of stories. I suppose it has been my job as a teacher. I think it’s very important for people to listen to others.”

Mario Kreft MBE, the Chair of social care champions Care Forum Wales, could not agree more. 

“Lockdown was a deeply worrying time for care homes, particularly for residents and their families, and I am so grateful to The Old Vicarage for transforming the experience in such a positive and poignant way. The experience of opening up and sharing life stories has brought much comfort and joy to these residents.

“These stories are now part of history and will continue to inspire generations for many years to come. It reminds us all how important it is to listen and learn from the past.”

For Bethan, who also manages the home, the story-telling was a way of encouraging the residents to keep socialising and engaging despite being unable to have family visits.

“Our idea was to keep everybody socially involved because our biggest worry was that people would become isolated and as soon as somebody becomes isolated they become disengaged and we see less mobility and depression setting in,” she said.

“It was all about keeping a hive of activity in the home. Fiona would sit with them and they would just talk about their life stories. We found the stories were living around the home for a while and it was the subject of gossip!

“One of our ladies used to go hitchhiking around Europe after the war when she was just 17. Another lady was this incredible consultant who worked for Coca Cola. We’ve been shocked and amazed with the stories they’ve told.

“Fiona and I discussed it and I thought it needed to be put into a book to share with their families and it all spiralled from there. It just made sense. Lockdown was an extraordinary time to live through and it’s something to remind us of this time in an incredibly positive way.

“It’s also people’s legacies. Two people have passed away since the book was created. It’s so touching to be able to sit and read and remember these individuals. It’s a lovely resource for the families.”

The book has been printed by Inky Little Fingers Ltd and already the home has had family members, GPs and other supporters requesting copies.

Storyteller Fiona, from Carrog, said the book was a lasting symbol for the residents’ fortitude during the pandemic. 

“We tried to capture a sense of everybody’s voice on the page,” she said.

“It really brought it home to me that you should never make assumptions about people, particularly if you meet people later on in their lives. All the amazing things they have done with their lives you wouldn’t know if you didn’t take the chance to get to know them and talk to them. It has been a real honour to hear their stories and find out about their adventures.

“It wasn’t so easy back then but despite that they have all really flourished and I’m really proud of them all.”

Feedback on the project has been so positive that the home is now considering other opportunities to share the remarkable tales with other audiences.

“We would like to go into primary schools when it’s safe to do so to run our own story-telling sessions with local children and pass on that knowledge,” explained Bethan.

“We bought a tepee which we use as a decontamination area for staff at the moment and in the future we will use that as a story-telling venue.”

Help honour those unsung charity volunteers

The Welsh Charity Awards recognise and celebrate the fantastic contribution charities, community groups, not-for-profits and volunteers make to Wales. 

Organised by WCVA, a national membership body for voluntary organisations, the awards took place for the first time in 2019 and were kindly sponsored by Class Networks.
 
WCVA has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s awards with the safety of all involved in mind.
 
The #NotTheWelshCharityAwards campaign will take place throughout October and will share personal stories of how voluntary organisations or volunteers have made a big impact over the last year.
 
If you have a personal story to share about a charity or volunteer that has made a big difference to people's lives, give them a well-deserved shout out by getting involved in the campaign.
 
WCVA wants to hear about the community groups, social enterprises, not-for-profit groups
of all kinds (and volunteers!) that you would nominate for the #NotTheWelshCharityAwards. 

The organisation says it may not be able to give out trophies or invite them up on stage, but can certainly recognise and give a big heartfelt thanks to would-be-winners and nominees.
 
You can get involved by submitting a short video nomination, or sharing your story on social media. Find out more about how to take part here.
 
The stories will be shared using the hashtag #NotTheWelshCharityAwards throughout October, but you can submit your nomination today.