Minister responds to "perfect storm" of local roadworks claim

* Gridlock on Regent Street caused by roadworks on September 17.

A town councillor has received a response from a Welsh Government minister to his complaints that Llangollen has been trapped in the "perfect storm" of roadworks.

Last month Stuart Davies called for national roads bosses to "get their act together" to manage major congestion in the town.

On September 17 roadworks around the retaining wall of the A5 on Queen Street, which are due to last 33 weeks, caused gridlock along Regent Street as heavy Friday afternoon traffic queued in both directions to negotiate the temporary lights set up just after the Birch Hill junction.

Cllr Davies also warned of problems caused by the night-time diversion of traffic through Llangollen from the A483/A5 for maintenance on the viaducts and the disruption by work on the town's own 2020 re-shaping project. 

He said in a statement to llanblogger at the time: "The perfect storm is happening here and now, something I warned about weeks ago."

His recent letter to Welsh Government bosses about this has now prompted a response from Deputy Minister for Climate Change, Lee Waters MS.    

Mr Waters says: "Whilst I appreciate your concerns, I can assure you that the recent Temporary Traffic Regulation Order that has been put in place does not mean that the A483 will be permanently closed for the duration of 18 months.

"The Order enables temporary closures to take place as required during the 18 month period, to undertake planned routine cyclic maintenance on the A483 and can also be used reactively in the event of an incident such as following a safety barrier collision or potholes, to allow a repair to take place.

"The most recent temporary closure on the A483 between Ruabon and Halton occurred overnight between 6 and 10 September to allow an investigation of the structural security of the viaducts in the Dee and Ceiriog Valleys. 

"Our agent will not be undertaking any further planned closures of the A483 Junction 1 to Halton Roundabout following the overnight essential structural repairs until the retaining wall repairs to the East of Llangollen and Llangollen 2020 schemes are completed. 

"Details of all planned closures are made available on the Traffic Wales website and I can assure you that our Trunk Road Agent liaises with the local authority when full closures are being planned, to agree the appropriate diversion route for all vehicle types and to plan around any other works that may also be scheduled along the diversion route. 

"With regards to ongoing and planned works in Llangollen it is unfortunate that two schemes will be running concurrently during the remainder of 2021 and early 2022. 

"Due to funding constraints and safety issues, it is necessary that these schemes are completed within the current financial year and North and Mid Wales Road Traffic Agent (NMWTRA) are working in collaboration with Denbighshire County Council to minimise disruption in the area as much as possible. 

"Regular coordination meetings are scheduled between the contractors and traffic management subcontractors for the Llangollen 2020 High Street Improvement and A5 Llangollen Retaining Wall Strengthening schemes. 

"Every effort is being made to phase traffic management on both schemes to minimise disruption to the travelling public."

Mr Waters adds: "NWMTRA is currently considering mitigation measures to ease traffic flows on the A5 in the event of an emergency closure of the A483 necessitating the use of the A5 as an emergency diversion route in addition to currently being operated as a diversionary route following a landslip at Newbridge.

"NMWTRA has instructed the contractor for the retaining wall strengthening scheme to apply temporary removal of the traffic management during such events. The contractor has also been instructed to shorten the length of traffic management whenever possible. 

"With regards to repairs to the B5605 at Newbridge, my officials recently met with Wrexham Council officers to discuss support. We have now received and are currently assessing an application for funding this financial year for ground investigation and detailed design works. These works will inform a future application by the council for funding for construction of the remedial works required. 

"We consider the road space issue is being managed as effectively as possible given the close proximity of the two schemes and the timescale for their completion. 

"However, I recognise the frustrations of the residents of Llangollen and thank them for their patience and understanding to enable NMWTRA to undertake these essential works that will safeguard the travelling public."

Cllr Davies said: "We need our elected Denbighshire County Council representatives to be more pro-active in highlighting concerns such as this and ensuring that our lives are disrupted as little as possible during the works."

Listen carefully, 'Allo 'Allo is back on again

Members of Llangollen Twenty Club have picked up rehearsals for their forthcoming production of the comedy 'All 'Allo which were cut short by the pandemic.

Their presentation of the iconic 1980s farce by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft was originally planned to have  been staged in March 2020 but had to be reluctantly put on hold due to Covid restrictions.

Now the show's director Chrissie Ashworth says: "I really think the wait will be worth it as the cast and crew are as keen as ever to get on with it.

"We've have had time to rethink some scenes, and I'm sure people will be keen to enjoy an evening of pure comedy." 

Set in 1940s occupied France during the Second World War, it has characters larger than life, featuring the hapless cafe owner Rene, who has a roving eye, his long-suffering wife Edith, waitresses Mimi and Yvette, who like nothing better than an illicit clinch with Rene, and the formidable resistance worker Michelle (Listen very carefully, I will tell you only once).

There's also  the  unfortunate policeman Crabtree with his mispronunciation of words plus a host of unforgettable characters who are either German, French or Italian. 

This play has a longer run than usual, as seating capacity will be reduced to make it a safer place. 

All seats are unreserved and there are some cafe-style tables and chairs for those who arrive early. 

Bookings can be made through Ticket Source, from Courtyard Bookshop, Jennis of Market Street Llangollen, and the Oggie Shop next to the town hall. For telephone enquiries call 01978 869394.    

'Allo 'Allo runs at Llangollen Town Hall from Tuesday-Saturday November 9-13, at 7.30pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30 pm.

* The show comes in a milestone year for the Twenty Club as October 21 sees its 75th anniversary.

Manic performance from this red hot baby Toyota

Toyota GR Yaris drive by Steve Rogers

It looks like a baby Toyota Yaris and has a Yaris badge on the tailgate but this pint sized scorcher has little in common with its big brother.

This is the GR Yaris, Toyota's WRC rally car minus a roll cage and tiptronic gearbox, but decked out in everything needed for comfortable everyday motoring.... and the performance is manic.

If I didn't have to write about this car I would be lost for words, it is the hooligan of all hooligans and without doubt the most exciting car I have driven in 40 years as a motoring writer.

So how can I get so excited about a Yaris? There are a few things to clear up. The GR shares only six components with the normal Yaris, the rest is pure rally car. And the great Finnish rally ace Tommi Makinen helped develop the car which has a bespoke platform, bodyshell and engine.

The build team's target was for the best possible downforce, aerodynamic performance and stability and they have smashed it. The bodyshell is a mix of aluminium and carbon fibre so the car is super light at 1260kg. The carbon polymer roof is so strong an adult can jump on it and has a severe slope to accommodate the wing for the rally car.

The engine is a turbo charged 1.6 litre with 257bhp and is the world's smallest, lightest and most powerful three-cylinder. To complete the performance story GR is four wheel drive.

There we have it then but what is it like to drive and be driven in. Ask my wife and she will say it is far too uncomfortable. Well it is a rally car dear so the suspension is bound to be stiff but she did concede it was 'very very fast'.

That said my view is that GR's staggering performance is pushed into second place by the sensational grip. There are plenty of cars that can beat the GR to 60mph but I doubt there are many that can hold the road as well.

The best analogy driving GR is that it's like being behind the wheel of a race car in a computer game. Mere mortals would have to be incredibly reckless to lose control of the GR because it will go round bends faster than we have the nerve to take them. Whatever your limit, and I am talking about good fast drivers, add 30 per cent for a GR in professional hands.

Coming back to reality the cabin of GR is standard Yaris apart from special rally seats, a raised gearstick for faster changes, and drilled aluminium pedals. It has a full suite of safety features and all the usual bells and whistles found on a top of the range model.

Because the FIA, the governing body for world motorsport, decreed that a homologation of the GR rally car had to be road worthy and fit for competition Toyota built 25,000 of which 2,200 came to the UK. The bad news is that they have all been sold and the lords and masters in Japan have not decided whether any more will be built.

One thing is for sure, the GR is going to be an expensive commodity on the second hand market.

I have driven some super fast cars in the last four decades but nothing compares with the GR Yaris.

Remember this car because it will go down as the hottest hot hatch of all time.

Fast facts

GR Yaris GR-Four

£30,020

1.6 turbo, 257bhp, 6sp manual

0-62mph 5.5secs; 143mph

34.3mpg combined

186g/km; 1st VED £870

Insurance group 35

Minister's pledge on Covid jabs for 12-15 year olds

As 12 to 15-year-olds across Wales start to receive their Covid-19 vaccinations, the Health Minister today (4 October) confirmed they will all be offered a vaccine by the end of October half-term. 

All 12 to 15-year-olds will be invited by letter to have the vaccine and the majority being administered at mass vaccination centres. In some areas, vaccination will be carried out at schools. 

Some of the most vulnerable 12 to 15-year-olds in Wales have already started receiving the vaccine and all health boards will have started rolling out the programme in their areas this week. 

Health Minister Eluned Morgan said: “Vaccines remain our strongest defence from the virus, helping prevent harm and stopping the spread of Covid-19. Some studies have shown show one in seven children who have been infected with the virus are thought to have also developed long-Covid. 

“We have provided resources and information to help this age group make an informed choice about vaccination. I encourage parents, guardians, children and young people to discuss the vaccination together.” 

Dr Gill Richardson, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Vaccines, added: “We have seen the benefits that come from having as many people as possible vaccinated. 

“After careful consideration of the evidence, the four UK chief medical officers recommended the vaccination of healthy 12 to 15-year-olds after consultation with experts, such as the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. 

“They concluded that the health benefits, combined with the additional benefits of reducing educational disruption and effects on mental health meant that vaccination should be offered. 

“Children and their families will be receiving links to information with their invitation letters so they can make an informed decision about whether or not to have the vaccine.”

Work starts on 2020 project to re-shape town centre

* An array of road signs have gone up along Castle Street.

* The contractors' work team is briefed on the job in hand. 

* A sign on Abbey Road warns of long delays ahead.

* Workmen ready to set up traffic lights are set up on Castle Street.  

Work started this morning (Monday) on the 2020 scheme to re-shape Llangollen town centre.

Contractors appointed by Denbighshire County Council arrived in Castle Street at around 8am and were briefed by bosses on how the major exercise should be carried out.

Road closure signs were erected and temporary traffic lights put in place.

The scheme is being undertaken by the council in partnership with Welsh Government and Transport for Wales.

It involves making a number improvements along Castle Street, has been developed following extensive consultation with the local community, local county councillors and Llangollen Town Council.

Work includes:

1. Widened footways on both sides of Castle Street;
2. New footway construction using natural stone paving materials;
3. A raised junction table at the junction of Parade Street/Bridge Street/Castle Street;
4. A raised junction table at the junction of Market Street/Oak Street/Castle Street;
5. A new uncontrolled pedestrian crossing on Abbey Road near its junction to Castle Street;
6. A raised table at the existing controlled pedestrian crossing on Mill Street near its junction with Castle Street;
7. New traffic signals on the Castle Street/A5 junction;
8. Junction improvements at the Hill Street/A5 junction;
9. The resurfacing of Abbey Road / Mill Street junction & Castle Street;
10. A permanent one-way restriction on Market Street between its junctions with Castle Street and East Street;
11. New street lighting;
12. The permanent introduction of the temporary one-way restriction on Church Street (i.e. east to west vehicular flow). 

Works are expected to take up to six months to complete and a variety of different traffic management options, including temporary traffic signals and a limited number of road closures, will be used to minimise disruption, says the county council.

Cllr Brian Jones, the council’s Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “I’m delighted we are now able to start the work and bring these improvements to Llangollen.

“This work provides more space for pedestrians and improved pedestrian crossing facilities making it easier for pedestrians to walk around the town centre, while upgraded traffic signals will improve the flow of vehicles.”

A Parry Construction Co Ltd has been appointed as principal contractor for the work.

The council says it will work closely with local businesses and residents throughout the project to ensure any disruption is minimised and any concerns or issues are identified and addressed as soon as possible.

The Llangollen 2020 Castle Street scheme will take place at the same time as Welsh Government’s on-going retaining wall stabilisation works located on the A5, towards Llangollen Golf Club, and the council says its officers are working closely with the Trunk Road Agency and Welsh Government to coordinate traffic management operations so disruption is minimised.

Two taken to hospital following yesterday's A5 crash

North Wales Live has given an update about the crash which shut the A5 near Glyndyfrdwy in both directions for five hours yesterday evening.

* For the full story, see: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/what-know-far-crash-shut-21741290

Police drone helped to fight Llan mountain fire

* North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin with Chief Inspector Jon Aspinall and one of the drones.

A new police drone team has been hailed as “highflying heroes” after saving three lives and playing a key role in putting out a major gorse fire.

The praise came from tech savvy North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin who is keen to expand the unit.

Mr Dunbobbin was briefed on their successes by Chief Inspector Jon Aspinall who leads the dedicated team which includes a sergeant and four constables and was established in April this year.

He also showed Mr Dunbobbin dramatic footage of how the team played a vital part in tackling a huge fire on Llantysilio mountain near Llangollen in early June, alongside 11 crews from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

A drone was used to identify hotspots on the mountain so that a helicopter from Natural Resources Wales could drop water on them.

Days later the team located a missing pensioner, Roy Giblin, 82, from Abergele, in a patch of long grass near the town’s train station. His grateful family said that without the assistance of the drone “he didn’t stand a chance”.

Rescuers had "little doubt"  the drone  unit saved the life of another  elderly man, Robert Davies, 86, from Morfa Bychan, in Gwynedd, who had gone missing in July.

After a major multi-agency search, he was located by the police drone, hidden from view in tall shrubbery on a hillside above the village and flown to safety by helicopter.

The third life-saving incident came when a man fell down a steep drop at a quarry in Denbigh and landed on a ledge.

Chief Inspector Aspinall said: “He had a severe head injury and I would say that was a situation where our drone flight saved his life because he might not otherwise have been found.

“In addition to finding missing people, the drones are used for a range of different police work including catching criminals fleeing from vehicles or houses, or people who have been involved in domestic abuse and fled the scene. There’s countless examples of the good work that they’re doing.

“They  are incredibly versatile and essentially they have revolutionised policing. It’s enabling us to do things we were not able to do before.

“The fact that the Police and Crime Commissioner is keen on technology in general and drones in particular is music to our ears.”

The drones were deployed more than 350 times in the first three months after going operational.

The squadron includes two wet weather drones that can operate when it’s raining heavily and in winds of up to 35 miles an hours.

As well as having a thermal imaging capacity, the high powered video cameras have a 200x zoom enabling the pilot to tell the time on someone’s wrist watch from high in the sky.

The drones also have a geo-location facility so if the pilot presses a button, it can give officers on the ground the exact longitude and latitude.

If the battery is running low, the drone will automatically return itself to where it took off.

As well as being responsible for how North Wales is policed Mr Dunbobbin is  playing a key role in using technology, including drones, to fight crime across the UK.

The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners have elected him as their deputy lead for police technology and digital and deputy lead for economic and cybercrime, including fraud.

Fellow commissioners decided he was the perfect person for the job because of his background working in the technology industry.

Mr Dunbobbin said: “The drones are incredibly effective and versatile, and I’ve had conversations with the Chief Constable about how the drone team can move forward and what can be done there. 

“I made a pledge in my manifesto that we would make best use of the technology that’s available to us and this is what’s happening here.

“The introduction of drones has made a significant difference and at least three lives have been saved already. That’s just priceless.”

Senedd Member praises Dinas Bran's green credentials

* Pictures show Ken Skates MS during his visit to the school.

A Llangollen school’s drive to reduce its carbon footprint has been welcomed by the local Member of the Senedd. 

Clwyd South MS Ken Skates visited Ysgol Dinas Bran during its Great Big Green Week and was impressed by the eco-friendly measures being taken. 

“Dinas Bran has Eco-Schools Platinum status, and sustainability has been at the forefront of students' work over a number of years,” said Mr Skates. 

“Wales is becoming a cleaner, greener country thanks to a range of steps being taken at national level, and it’s really encouraging to see young people in Clwyd South embracing change and showing so much enthusiasm for the environment and sustainability.” 

The green project at Ysgol Dinas Bran and Llangollen Leisure Centre has seen solar panels installed on the school roof which will generate electricity onsite. 

Combined with other measures including heating control upgrades and LED lighting is expected to reduce the school’s carbon emissions by 73 tonnes a year. 

Mr Skates added: “I really enjoyed visiting the school again – this is such a fantastic initiative. Wales is at the forefront of environmental change in the UK and was the first to declare a Climate Emergency in 2019, and I’m thrilled that our drive as a nation has really caught the imagination of our young people.”

In recent years the Welsh Government has banned fracking, introduced strict regulations to reduce farming pollution and cut greenhouse gases and become the third best country in the world for recycling. 

Mr Skates said: “We want to be number one and the Welsh Government wants us to become a zero-waste, carbon net-zero nation by 2050 at the latest. Projects like this and the passion being shown by the students are certainly a huge step in the right direction.”

The Welsh Government has also said more single-use plastics will be banned during the current Senedd term, with firms also incentivised to reduce their waste. 

Eisteddfod announces new executive producer

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has announced the appointment of Camilla King (pictured) as executive producer. 

She joins the eisteddfod from her previous role as head of programming at Cheltenham Music Festival. 

An experienced classical music programmer, project and events manager with a 20-year long career in the arts and charity sectors, she studied music at King’s College London before working as an artist manager for Ingpen & Williams.

This was followed by a period in the casting department at English National Opera, running a choral education scheme for The Gabrieli Consort & Players, and a brief foray into fundraising with Freedom from Torture, an offshoot of Amnesty.  

She is also a writer and broadcaster, and her interview House of Music, with Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason and children, was streamed live from Cheltenham Literature Festival 2020 and later broadcast on Sky Arts and streaming platform Marquee TV. 

Ms King is a trustee of The Carice Singers, who are emerging as one of the most distinctive vocal ensembles in the UK. 

Ms King said: "It is an honour to be joining the team at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod at this time of challenges and change, but also great potential. 

"As we prepare for LIME's 75th anniversary in 2022, our founding principles of promoting peace through the universal languages of music and dance have rarely felt more important or relevant."

Dr Rhys Davies, chair of Llangollen International Eisteddfod, said: "I’m so delighted that Camilla King will be our new executive producer. 

"Camilla has a proven track record in delivering high-quality programmes and she impressed us with her vision. Her experience and achievements are the perfect fit for leading LIME.”

Skates leads new Senedd mental health group

* Ken Skates MS leads the first meeting of the new group.

Member of the Senedd Ken Skates will lead a new cross-party Welsh Parliament group set up to help improve the nation’s mental health. 

The Clwyd South MS will work with leading charity Mind Cymru and was formally elected as chair of the Cross-Party Group on Mental Health at its inaugural meeting this week. 

Mr Skates said: “Mental health is a subject close to my heart, and I’m pleased that the Welsh Government has dedicated more and more funding to it in recent years. I was particularly proud to see the First Minister appoint a Minister for Mental Health in May. 

“The last year or so has been an incredibly tough period for so many people, with real strain put on our mental health, so there has never been a more important time to ensure we keep this issue high on the agenda and keep coming up with ideas.” 

Cross-Party Groups can be set up by any Members of the Welsh Parliament in respect of any subject area relevant to the Senedd. A group must include representatives from at least three political party groups within the Senedd. 

Mr Skates told the first meeting of the group on Wednesday that it has an important role to play in shaping debate and offering strong representation to the Welsh Government. 

Invitations were sent to all Members of the Senedd and other stakeholders such as Samaritans and Time to Change Wales. More than 30 people and organisations attended. 

Mr Skates added: “I thought it was a really productive first meeting, with some very meaningful discussion and feedback. I look forward to working with Members from across the political spectrum to discuss and drive ideas to improve Wales' mental health.”

Gales staff praised for their kind support during family's tragedy

* The Mayor hands over the letter of thanks to Gales staff. 

A grieving family has sent a glowing letter of support to the staff of Gales of Llangollen for the way they supported them when a lady took seriously ill while dining there one evening last month.

Robert Hyde and his father  George, from Andover in southern England, were holidaying in the town in August when tragedy struck.

Sandra, who was George’s wife and Robert’s mother, was with them at one of the tables in the wine bar when she underwent the medical emergency and Gales management and staff rushed to help.

Despite one member of the team, Kelly Philips, performing CPR and defibrillation on the her before she was taken to hospital Sandra tragically died at the Wrexham Maelor the  following afternoon.

Now Robert has sent a letter of deepest thanks for their “kindness and Christian charity” to wine bar owner Pip Gale, his mother Gillie and their staff which was officially presented to them by Llangollen town mayor Austin Cheminais yesterday evening.

The black-framed message, originally sent to Cllr Cheminais and the town council to be passed on to the restaurant, speaks not only of what was done for Sandra on the fateful evening but also gives fulsome praise for how the two men were looked after by the Gales team in the few days immediately after the trauma.

* The letter of deepest thanks from the Hydes.

Read out in the wine bar last night by the mayor It says: “Your unbelievable kindness and Christian charity during those traumatic days has humbled us.

“Everyone we have told about your support has been filled with both emotion and disbelief at the kindness you showed.

“The simplest acts of kindness can mean the world to some people but the support, kindness and sheer unselfishness shown by you and your team goes beyond any words we can write.

“It is important that the wider community understands exactly how you supported George and I, from the smallest gesture of a much-needed drink to the unbelievable acts of kindness regarding car parking and the accommodation charges.”

The letter adds: “We all know and understand the difficulties the recent Covid pandemic has had on the hospitality industry. This more than ever makes your support and gestures during those traumatic days in August even more humbling and worthy of recognition and praise from the community.

“Your kindness has reinforced our faith in human nature and firmly placed your beautiful town in our hearts.

“Please pass on our deepest heartfelt thanks to all your staff who supported us on that eventful day. Their support and kindness are beyond any words I can write.

“God bless you all and thank you for everything you did for us on the worst day of our lives. Without your help we would have been lost and may never have recovered.”

Pip Gale said after receiving the letter: “I am just very proud of all my staff for what they were able to do for this family.”     

Campaigner's latest message on his waste centre fight

Earlier this year Phil Jones organised a 900-signature petition calling for an agreement between Denbighshire and Wrexham councils which would mean local people would be able to use the Plas Madoc household recycling site rather than having to drive over to Ruthin use the to tip there. 

But after this suggestion was rejected by Denbighshire he has decided to take things to a higher level by reporting the council to the Local Government Ombudsman.

Here he gives his latest update on the campaign: 

"Dee Valley Recycling: What will the Ombudsman think of our council’s actions? 

"You may recall from my last update that Denbighshire County Council has decided that their recycling service in the Dee Valley is ‘well received’. 

"I want to shine a light on the reality of recycling in the Dee Valley to highlight the difference between the propaganda pushed by the Welsh Government and our experience of the service our council provides.

"We all want to maximise our recycling but this can only be achieved if the Local Government Ombudsman upholds our complaint that our council has failed to restore a proper service after closing our recycling site and that it is now treating us unfairly when compared with the service it provides to its ratepayers outside the Dee Valley.

"Take a look at what the Welsh Government tells us.

“'Since Wales has had its own government in 1999, we have become a global leader in recycling. We’re now first in the UK, second in Europe and third in the world for household waste recycling. Put simply, recycling is what we do!'

"So why can’t we get access to a recycling centre you may ask?

"I will be submitting a formal complaint to the Ombudsman; we should never have had to take it this far. We are now just a few dozen petitioners short of 1,000 names. So, if you know anyone in the Dee Valley who hasn’t yet signed the petition, please get them to do so.

"The Welsh Government can ‘talk the talk’

“'Make recycling what everyone in Wales does whether they live, work or visit! Recycling is necessary to tackle the climate emergency by calling on the Welsh public to Recycle.'

"Will they ever let us ‘walk the walk’"?

Town councillor gives update on council business

llanblogger has been sent the following statement, in the name of Cllr John Palmer, relating to Llangollen Town Council:

"Llangollen Town Council Update.

"I have been advised that a number of misleading comments are circulating on social media with reference to the Town Council’s recent actions resulting from the absence of the Town Clerk. I am therefore taking this opportunity to clarify the action the Town Council has taken. 

"The Town Clerk is currently on sick leave that began in late August. In his absence the Town Mayor, who is also Chair of the Council, in consultation with the Deputy Mayor sought the advice of the Council Monitoring Officer in Denbighshire who as part of his responsibilities, monitors and advises the county’s Town and Community Councils. Based on his advice the decision was made to postpone the round of September council meetings. 

"During September the Facilities Manager has done a sterling job keeping an eye on council business and keeping things ticking over. As the Clerk’s absence continues this temporary arrangement has been reviewed by Councillors. Council meetings can’t continue to be postponed. 

"There are a number of large projects about to start that potentially require input from the Council – these include the refurbishment of Castle Street and urgent repairs to the Town Hall roof.  There are also a number of important annual events that need to be co-ordinated. 

"After consulting with One Voice Wales, who provide support and advice to Councils in Wales, and Denbighshire’s Monitoring Officer, the Mayor convened an emergency Council Meeting to consider the recommended options. Following discussion Councillors decided to nominate an acting Proper Officer, a short term measure to support Council business, pending the Town Clerk’s return to work. 

"I was nominated to take on the role on a voluntary unpaid basis. With the support of fellow Councillors and the Facilities Manager we will endeavour to ensure that Town Council business will run smoothly until the Town Clerk returns to work. 

"Throughout the Mayor has been in constant communication with the Monitoring Officer to ensure that the Town Council is following the correct procedures and complying with the laws and rules appertaining to Town and Community Councils. 

"I am sure that you will join me in wishing our Town Clerk, Gareth Thomas, a speedy recovery. 

"If you need to contact the Council Office urgently please email me cllrpalmer@llangollentowncouncil.gov.uk

"Councillor John Palmer, Acting Proper Officer Llangollen Town Council."

County council pledges continued support for schools

* Ysgol Dinas Bran in Llangollen is among the schools being supported.

Denbighshire County Council says it continues to monitor and support schools as Covid-19 cases rise.

Case rates are monitored closely across the county and in individual school settings and where cases are identified, close contacts are encouraged to seek a PCR test to identify potential transmission.

Secondary school pupils and staff not displaying symptoms are encouraged to take twice weekly LFD tests to help identify and isolate asymptomatic cases.

All those contacted by Test, Trace, Protect (TTP) are asked to work with the teams and follow the guidance given.

Years 10 and 11 at St Brigid’s School, Denbigh, have switched to online learning for two weeks from Monday, September 27, due to a number of cases at the school.

The school took the decision following a Risk Assessment and it was based on a Health and Safety assessment.

Cllr Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Education, Children's Services and Public Engagement, said: “The revised arrangements for isolation following a positive case has successfully reduced the number of pupils missing out on face to face education. 

“However, the current increase in case rates nationwide is impacting staffing levels and the ability for our schools to maintain face to face provision. 

“This means decisions may need to be made to close classes or year groups due to the numbers of teachers in isolation.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and will take action to help keep schools safe when required.

“On behalf of the council, I would like to thank our school staff and parents for supporting pupils and ensuring they remain safe.

“I would also like to thank parents and carers for their understanding at this time.”

The council says parents are encouraged to be vigilant for any symptoms and if you are in any doubt, order a PCR test for your child at https://gov.wales/get-tested-coronavirus-covid-19 or by calling 119.

Rhug wins four food world Oscars

* The award-winning ribeye steaks.

Rhug Estate has won four Great Taste Awards for its organic chicken breasts, organic Welsh lamb mini shoulder joint, organic Aberdeen Angus rib-eye steak and for Rhug meatballs in black bean sauce.

The awards, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the acknowledged benchmark for fine food and drink. It has been described as the ‘Oscars’ of the food world. 

The unmistakable black and gold Great Taste logo is the sign you can trust when buying local food and drink It is a stamp of excellence that is recognised by retailers and consumers alike. 

Established in 1994, Great Taste is the world’s largest, longest standing and most respected food accreditation scheme for artisan and speciality food producers. 14,113 different products were entered in 2021 from 108 countries. 

Each product is fastidiously blind tasted by selected chefs, buyers, fine food retailers, restaurateurs, food critics and writers over 60 judging days. Those accredited receive either one, two or three stars for their products. Rhug achieved one star for all four of its award-winning products. 

The judges described Rhug’s organic Aberdeen Angus rib-eye steak as: “An attractive looking steak with good caramelisation on the outside. Good, well-proportioned marbling. Very tender and juicy. A really good piece of steak.” 

“This is a fine little joint, delicate and sweet,” was how the judges described Rhug’s organic Welsh lamb mini shoulder joint. They also said, “Beautifully rolled and moist on cutting. Tender and juicy.”

When it came to Rhug’s organic chicken breast the judges said: “This is a good size, a plump breast, moist, tender, not at all dry. It has quite a good depth of flavour – not always found in chicken breast – and a melt in the mouth chewability. It is a tribute to the good welfare and farming practices to produce organic chicken of this quality and a breast (often so bland) with some taste.”

The judges described Rhug meatballs in black bean sauce as, “Generously and evenly sized meatballs in a glossy, rich-looking sauce. The meatballs are succulent and flavoursome. Very moreish.”

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “I am pleased we have once again achieved Great Taste Awards. These awards are recognition of all the hard work and dedication of the entire team both on the farm and in our cutting plant. 

"We pride ourselves on producing the best quality organic meat for our customers, whether they be in our Farm Shop, online or wholesale. The team is always striving to do better and that is how it should be.” 

MG plug-in hybrid volts to the head of the pack

* MG HS PHEV plug-in hybrid.

* Toyota Yaris Cross.

* Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback.

MG hits the high life by Steve Rogers

A powerful Porsche, beautiful BMW, luxurious Lexus and many more favourites lined up to be driven but my drive of the day was the fledgling MG.

This was the annual event staged by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and traders, when motoring journos get a chance to compare like for like from a variety of manufacturers. And the winner is.... the MG HS plug-in hybrid.

It was not the most glamorous and at £30,000 not the most expensive by a long way but showed how far the iconic British marque has come since its resurrection by the state owned Chinese company SAIC. It is currently the fastest growing brand in the UK with more models to choose from.

HS PHEV is the company's flagship model and is up against SUV heavyweights like Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga and Kia Sportage. A brief drive showed the car has promise and efforts have been made to improve the standard of trim.

Power comes from a turbocharged 1.5 litre petrol beefed up by an electric motor giving a healthy 258bhp driven through a 10-speed automatic and an electric range of 32 miles. Emissions are low enough for £10 road tax while economy could be as much as 155mpg.

The big news from Audi is the launch of the all electric Q4 e-tron Sportback just the car to be in with the fuel pumps running dry.

It also shows how far the German premium brand has advanced down the electric road with a potential range of 323 miles. It also stands out in the crowd, not normally Audi's strongest suit, with a dipping coupe style roof line giving it a real sporting look.

As to be expected the cabin is exquisitely presented with a new twist on the design of the centre console, and check out the square steering wheel, first I have seen since the Austin Allegro of the seventies.

The electric motor has a power output of 200bhp which is good for a sprint to sixty in eight seconds and with ride selection options the driver can choose comfort or sport. No Quattro version, just rear wheel drive. Price: £45,775.

There have been huge changes in pick-up land with big players like Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi L200 and Volkswagen Amorak dropping out creating opportunities for less well known brands Isuzu and SSangYong who have beefed up their models.

Isuzu's new D Max will be featured here in a few weeks and a brief drive showed it has come on leaps and bounds and a credible threat to the Ford Ranger, the new market leader.

SSangYong has given a serious facelift to the Musso which has a strong diesel engine and a three and a half tonne towing capacity.

One to watch is the new Toyota Yaris Cross. The compact SUV has been a long time coming and will have a fight on its hands with several established crossovers out there but Toyota has plenty of experience to call on.

Basically it is a high riding, pumped up Yaris following some of the design lines of the rakish CH-R. The mechanicals are identical to its sibling with the economical 1.5 litre three-cylinder hybrid, CVT automatic gearbox and average fuel consumption in the mid 50s. Emissions are low at 112g/km with the first year VED costing £170. The top of the range Premier Edition is  £28,185.

Speeding through 50mph on polluted roads could bring a fine

From 4 October motorists exceeding the 50mph speed limits on some of the most polluted roads in Wales could receive a letter or fine through their doors, the Welsh Government has warned.

The decision to introduce environmental speed limits to improve air quality levels in five locations across Wales in 2018 was the first of its kind in the UK.

Local roads affected are the A483 Junction 5 to Junction 6 in Wrexham and the A494 Wales/England border to St David’s Interchange in Deeside.

The government says the schemes have already been successful in significantly lowering the levels of nitrogen dioxide in affected areas by up to 47%, helping to protect people from serious illness as well as playing a part in tackling the climate emergency.

Air pollution is considered to be one of the largest environmental health risks of our generation, according to the World Health Organisation, increasing our risks of heart and lung disease and contributing towards the worsening of pre-existing health conditions such as asthma.

Deputy Minister for Climate Change, Lee Waters, who has a responsibility for Transport said: “We've made significant progress in bringing emissions levels down in recent years, but we now have to go further and faster.

“We know that slower speed limits are not a popular choice, but we need to do things differently and be bold if we are to stand a chance of tackling climate change.

“It’s clear that the speed restrictions we’ve introduced on our most polluted roads are working - the results speak for themselves – but compliance with these limits is essential if we are to achieve the reductions we need to make in the shortest possible time.

“We need to act now to make Wales a safe place to live with clean air for everyone.”

GoSafe Partnership Manager, Teresa Ciano, added: “Driving at the posted speed limit has benefits for safety, but it can also improve our lives in other ways.  

"By supporting the Welsh Government's ambition to improve air quality for Wales, we know our roads will be safer too.  By implementing a first of its kind advisory letter programme, we will be able to inform people of the importance of complying with the speed limit at these locations, whilst still prosecuting the most dangerous drivers.”