Police advice to avoid vehicle theft

Don’t give car thieves an easy ride – remember to lock your vehicle and remove all valuable items.

 

These are two of the main top tips that police in Denbighshire and Conwy are re-iterating to motorists in a further bid to drive down car crime.

 

With schools out for the summer, scores of people are heading for the nearest beach or attraction but sadly these are very same places that thieves are likely to go. Furthermore, opportunist thieves will try car doors anywhere on the off chance that they have been left open and will target a car should they see anything valuable or of interest to them left inside.

 

“Car thieves know where to target, what to look for and don’t just restrict their crimes to the car park for the local beach – they also target cars parked at rural beauty spots or landmarks which don’t have the same volume of visitors,” said Sergeant Aled Eynon who is based in Denbigh. “It also goes without saying that any items left on show inside cars and vans are enough to tempt thieves. The saying ‘Leave it on show – expect it to go’ is certainly true when it comes to theft from vehicles.”

 

Never leave anything on display in your vehicle. If you can, remove all valuable items and belongings.

 

Sgt Eynon added: “We appeal to people to please make sure they lock their vehicles and whilst we have increased patrols, we also ask that both visitors and residents play their part in preventing this type of crime.”

 

Posters reminding motorists of the dangers of leaving goods on show inside vehicles have been produced and put on display at many car parks including those near beauty spots and attractions.

 

Sergeant Sian Williams is based in Colwyn Bay. Recently a number of cars have been targeted in the area and items including,  lap tops, sat navs and an electronic pad were all stolen from inside.

 

“Simple tips can prove to be the most effective and that’s certainly the case when it comes to preventing car crime,” said Sgt Williams.

 

“Please remember to lock your car – even if you leave it left parked on your driveway. Take all electronic items, purses, bags and even coats and sunglasses out of your cars and vans. There have been some cases where thieves will look into the cars at the windscreens to see if there are any sat nav cradles or any tell-tale signs of suction marks from where sat nav system has been stuck on to the windscreen.”

 

“Remove all belongings from your car,” added St Williams. “Furthermore, thieves like to steal from cars parked in places where they run the least risk of being seen. If you can, avoid parking in places that are concealed from public view or people passing by.”

 

Top tips for vehicle owners:

 

·         Never leave anything on display in your vehicle; a bag on the back seat is enough to tempt a thief

·         Remove all belongings – including bags, sunglasses etc.

·         Always remove portable sat nav systems including any support cradles and suction pads fitted to windscreens. Wipe the windscreen clean as thieves have also been known to look out for tell-tale signs of suction marks left on windscreens

·         When you leave your car, close all windows including your sunroof and ensure your car has been locked

·         Never leave credit cards or cheque books in the glove compartment and don’t leave the vehicle documents in the car.

 

For further information on keeping your vehicle secure, click here.

 

Anyone with information regarding theft from vehicles is urged to contact North Wales Police on 101. Alternatively, individuals can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Rising hospital waiting lists concern to Isherwood

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood is concerned that the number of people waiting over 36 weeks for their first hospital appointment in North Wales increased by 66% between the end of April and the end of June, double the 33% all-Wales increase.

 

The latest Official figure for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has jumped from 1,401 at the end of April to 2,327 at the end of June. The figure across Wales increased from 7,611 to 10,123.  

 

Mr Isherwood said: “ A Welsh Government target recommends no-one should wait longer than 36 weeks when referred to hospital by their GP so it is deeply concerning to see that the target has once again been missed and particularly worrying that the increase has been so vast in North Wales – the people of North Wales deserve better.”

 

The total number of people on an NHS waiting list in Wales is now 80 per cent higher than it was when Carwyn Jones became First Minister at the end of 2009. At that point, 227,000 patients were waiting for treatment. At the end of June that figure stood at 410,000.

 

The Health Minister recently announced a review into NHS funding – and later admitted this would amount to a summer ‘interrogation’ of the budget with the Finance Minister.

 

Welsh Conservative Assembly Members have consistently called for the health budget to be protected in line with inflation – as it is in England. The Welsh Conservatives represent the only party to stand for significant additional investment in the NHS – a policy that has stood since before the last Assembly election.

 

Mr Isherwood added: “These waits not only lay bare the true scale of the cash crisis in the Welsh NHS, but also reinforce the HIW and Wales Audit Office concerns about Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s governance arrangements and organisational structure. The Welsh Government has dealt Welsh patients an unfair deal. The Minister’s review into funding must come up with more cash to eliminate target busting waiting times and this Labour Welsh Government should stop dodging calls for an independent inquiry into the Welsh National Health Service comparable to that already conducted into NHS Trusts in England."

AM criticises health board's `spin doctor' appointment

Shadow Health Minister Darren Millar has criticised Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board for seeking to appoint a new communication professional on up to £56,504 per year.　

 

He is concerned that the troubled health board is intending to invest so much in a spin doctor in an attempt to boost public confidence in the services it provides, when the money could be better spent on improving services.

 

Mr Millar said: "There is much work to be done to restore confidence in the region’s health service and the successful applicant will face an uphill task.　

 

"Severe management failings have resulted in resignations and the service is bowing under the pressure of Labour’s record-breaking NHS budget cuts.

 

"While there is a clear pressing need to build bridges with communities in north Wales, this will take more than another NHS spin-doctor.　

 

"The only way forward for the health service across Wales is an independent Keogh-style inquiry into standards of care."

Ruthin offers special Wednesday events during August

Ruthin celebrates the arrival of August with three special Wednesday events on the 14th, 21st and 28th of the month. Retail businesses will be extending their opening hours until 8pm to give their customers a chance to spend a pleasant evening enjoying the variety of shops on offer in the town.  Ruthin Gaol, Nantclwyd y Dre and Ruthin Craft Centre will all be open until 8pm too so there'll be an opportunity to visit some of the town's cultural gems between shops.  Ruthin's cafes, restaurants and bars will be offering a friendly welcome to evening shoppers on each of the Wednesdays. Denbighshire County Council and local Ruthin businesses have worked closely together to bring about these coordinated events for the benefit the local economy.  Parking in the town is free after 5pm.

* llanblogger comments: Why not something similar in Llangollen?

£1.8m to help safeguard Corwen from flooding

Wales's Minister for Natural Resources and Food Alun Davies has approved £1.8m for Denbighshire County Council’s proposed flood alleviation scheme in Corwen.

The scheme will help protect 80 properties, and the A5 trunk road from the threat posed by  Nant Cawrddu and Nant Pigyn.

The Minister made the announcement on the same day that he travelled to St Asaph to meet residents who were badly affected by the flooding of November 2012.

Mr Davies said: “My visit to St Asaph is a stark reminder of the very real and increasing threat that flooding poses to communities across Wales , and of the long term issues that the type of  flooding that we saw last November can cause.

"The Welsh Government is committed to managing the risk of flooding for communities across the whole of Wales. That is why we are investing £180m into flood and coastal erosion management over the life of this Assembly; it is why we drawing down an additional £60m of European funding to supplement our own investment;  and it is why we are maintaining our investment in flood risk management despite a reduction in our overall budget.

"Over the last 10 years the Welsh Government has provided £14.5 m for flood alleviation schemes in Denbighshire. But last year’s events only serve to highlight the challenges we face and I very much welcome the ongoing work of Natural Resources to investigate long term solutions to reducing flood risk in St Asaph.

"As part of the Welsh Government’s  ongoing commitment to flood risk management I am today announcing £1.8m for a flood alleviation scheme that will help protect homes and businesses in Corwen, another Denbighshire community that has recent experience of  flooding, and  I will continue to support appropriate flood risk management schemes that offer increased protection to communities across Wales who are vulnerable to flood risk.”

Ombudsman highlights failings in health board's record keeping

The BBC website is reporting this morning (Thursday) that the Ombudsman has found failings in patient record keeping by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which covers Llangollen.

See the full report at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23606737#?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed

Faery magic comes to the pavilion this weekend

Llangollen Faery Festival flies into the town's Royal International Pavilion this weekend.

 

Organisers say it will be a fun packed two day event for youngsters and anyone who wants there to be a little more magic in this world.

 

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday, the festival will offer lots of fun things to see and do.

There are wing and wand making workshops, storytelling, talks and exhibitions for the grown ups and a Faery Market where craftspeople will be selling all sorts of magical fairy inspired gifts. 

 

From face painting to putting your wishes on The Wishing Line, there will be plenty of children's activities and - entry for under 12's is free.

 

There will be talks from people such as Mary Curtis, author of The Goldfish Who Jumped, and Dan Baines, creator of the cleverest fairy hoax since the Cottingley Fairies fooled Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.  

 

When Dan declared his fairy pictures a fake, 20,00 people emailed him claiming fairies are real and he was hiding the truth!  

 

Dan now makes props for film makers like Guillermo Del Torro and he will be telling his extraordinary story.

 

Fiona Maher, author of The Last Changeling, a fairy story for adults, will be reading from her book.

 

On Saturday evening there's a Grand Faery Ball where the grown ups can don their fairy finery and dance to three live acts -  Charlotte Oram, The Bear Beats Band and Drowsy Maggie.

  

Tickets are available at the gate and online via llangollenfaeryfesti.wix.com/llangollenfaeryfesti

Lib Dem AM slams `back to grammars' plan

Aled Roberts AM has blasted the Welsh Conservatives’ proposals to extend grammar schools as a “rose tinted Tory view of the past” and has accused the party of failing to operate in the “here and now”.

 

Mr Roberts, Welsh Liberal Democrat Shadow Minister for Education, said: “Once again the Welsh Tories are throwing around policy ideas without any idea how they would implement them.  They are refusing to operate in the here and now, instead reflecting on their rose-tinted Tory view of the past when many children were written off at 11.  Their current proposal would instead see children cast aside when they’re 14.

 

“A recent report showed that the odds of pupils entitled to free school meals securing a place at a grammar school were nearly five times lower than for other pupils.  Creating more grammar schools would merely extend the attainment gap that already exists between pupils from affluent and less affluent backgrounds.

 

“Wales needs to target efforts on raising teaching standards and further restructuring would simply distract these efforts.  It would be interesting to know how the Tories would afford this re-structure, bearing in mind that at the last election they wanted to slash the education budget by 20%.

 

“Not so long ago the Welsh Tories called for people to be charged to use the NHS if they injure themselves doing ‘irresponsible’ activities, such as ‘skiing or rock-climbing’;  a policy they appeared to drop in a matter of hours. 

 

"It’s all very well grabbing a quick headline, but to be taken seriously they really must start thinking their policies through.  There are real practical difficulties with this proposals, particularly in rural areas.  We believe, as a principle, that there is no difficulty in pupils of all abilities achieving their potential under the comprehensive system as long as the proper processes are in place to keep standards high.”

Railway volunteer pens children's books to help pay for Corwen extension

*My Railway in the Valley is on sale to help raise cash for

the Corwen extension.

Books written by a Llangollen Railway volunteer are raising money for the heritage line’s extension to Corwen.

Keith Scott has penned three books especially for youngsters and all inspired by the railway.

The first two, entitled My Railway in the Valley and More About My Railway in the Valley, are aimed at children between the ages of about three/four to seven and are short stories involving animals and children having adventures on the railway. They sell at £3 per copy.

My Railway in the Valley includes the story of Scrap the cat, who lives in a signal box, and a story about an old engine called Florence. Kim’s story is based on the dog of one of the railway volunteers which used to regularly visit the railway.

More About My Railway in the Valley features the big railway gala, a race between Lucky the horse and a little engine and a spectacular rescue of two boys from the river in a storm.     

The third story, out this year and entitled The Crumbling Wall, is a science fantasy thriller set on the railway where alternative worlds collide with near disastrous consequences. A station waiting room is the doorway between two realities.

Anyone over the age of about 10 should enjoy the book, which costs £5 per copy.

All three books are available in the station shop and sometimes on the trains themselves.

Enquiries about buying the books can be made by emailing: kas1310@mail.com

Next Buy Local Day this Friday

Keep Llangollen Special has its next Buy Local Day this Friday, August 9.

Local people are encouraged to support businesses in the town by buying their goods from them instead of going outside the area.  

Welsh Government earmarks cash for affordable homes

Housing Minister, Carl Sargeant has announced that the £20 million the Welsh Government has allocated to help mitigate the effect of the UK Government’s welfare benefit changes will be used to build 357 smaller affordable homes across Wales.

 

The funding will help Registered Social Landlords focus on building more one and two bedroom properties which will enable some tenants affected by the ‘Bedroom Tax’ to downsize.

 

The Minster said: "The Welsh Government is hugely concerned that many already hard pressed households are facing hardship due the changes in welfare benefit rules brought in by the UK Government. Local authorities report that over 35,000 households in Wales are affected by the Bedroom Tax.

"Since the rules relating to housing benefit and size of household changed on 1 April this year, we have seen increased demand for smaller, one and two bedroom properties.

"Despite the tough financial climate, the Welsh Government has invested £20 million in the Smaller Properties Programme and each local authority has been asked to identify schemes which could benefit from the funding.

"I am determined to do what I can to support tenants so that there is the least possible damage to our communities, but recognise that these new homes are only a fraction of what is needed to counter the impact of the UK Government’s benefit changes.“

Thomas brings crowds steaming into town

 

* Thomas the Tank Engine brought visitors flocking to Llangollen Railway.

 

A weekend of appearances by Thomas the Tank Engine brought visitors steaming into Llangollen Railway.

 

A spokesman for the heritage line said: "The event was well supported by families who attended from all areas within the railway's 50 mile radius catchment area and a few came from further afield.

 

"Visitors from abroad were also evident, mostly visiting family or friends from the locality.

 

"For some small children it will have been their first encounter with a steam train and, for others, any sort of train such is their limited experience of railways these days."

 

The spokesman added: "The good attendance was evidenced by the large queue at the station ramp prior to opening at 10am on both days, all helped by the good weather on Saturday in particular, and whilst Sunday started off fine the onset of rain in the afternoon ensured early departures for some after they had experienced all the event had to offer."

 

Thomas the Tank has had a busy year so far with appearances at other heritage railways in Britain.

 

 

*  Thomas with Daisy the railcar.

 

He has also been abroad, visiting Denmark for an event at the Danish Railway Museum in Odense, and made two visits to the Netherlands when  a return visit was made to the Dutch Railway Museum at Utrecht and later to a heritage line at Apledoorn.

 

Further visits to Europe are in prospect for the autumn.

 

The Railway's George Jones said: "These visits to European destinations show the international appeal of the Thomas the Tank Engine character."

AM questions disabled access at Chirk and Ruabon stations

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood has submitted a written question to Transport Minister Edwina Hart regarding the lack of disabled access at Chirk and Ruabon train stations following recent concerns raised by disabled rail users.

 

Mr Isherwood, who is  Co-Chair of the Assembly Cros s Party Group on Disability, has long been calling for improved disabled access at railway stations across Wales and was therefore pleased when in 2012 former Welsh Government Minister for Local Government and Communities, Carl Sargeant, responded to calls to address the poor disabled access at Chirk station.

 

Chirk, and the other four stations (Llandaf, Machynlleth, Radyr and Ystrad Mynach) were awarded funding from the UK Government and a letter from Mr Sargeant stated: ‘The Department For Transport will fund 50% of the costs of this programme at those stations and my officials are currently finalising funding details with each relevant regional transport consortia, which will fund the remaining 50% of costs over the lifetime of these projects."

 

However, Mr Isherwood is concerned that this promised work on Chirk station has still not been carried out and has therefore submitted a WAQ to Transport Minister Edwina Hart, asking what plans the Welsh Government has to improve disabled access at Chirk and Ruabon railway stations and when this will happen.

Mr Isherwood: “This work at Chirk was promised by the Welsh Government at the beginning of last year, but we are still waiting. I have been campaigning for improved access at these stations since 2006 and I am concerned that nothing has yet been done.

“Speaking in the Assembly in 2011 I highlighted that only 8% of stations in Wales are completely disabled friendly and referring to Chirk Station, stated that Disabled Athlete and former Wrexham Sports Personality of the year Gareth Stafford travels out from Chirk Station, but cannot return there as the platform is then on the other side of the track.

 

“More recently Ruth Drake, the mother of five-year-old-girl with cerebral palsy, has been told she will have to pay for costly taxis to Wrexham station because of the lack of disabled access at Ruabon and Chirk stations – this is totally unacceptable and the improvements at Chirk and Ruabon need to be carried out as a matter of urgency. Disabled rail users should have the same access to travel as every other rail user and I will continue pressing the Welsh Government until they do.”  

Fringe final figures up again

This  year’s Llangollen Fringe Festival saw another increase in audience figures, according to organisers.

The 16^th Fringe ended last Sunday evening with a soggy finale concert at a rain-soaked Valle Crucis Abbey.

But the thundery weather failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the 300 or so people who turned out to see it.

Festival spokesman Graham Timms said: “The Fringe closed on Sunday after 11 days of concerts and events throughout the town. 

“As usual a huge range of events were included in the programme. 

“Where else could you see former Poet Laureate Andrew Motion one night and then r 'n' b infused punk band The Blockheads another?

“Audiences were up again in general - most events being almost sold out - meaning that the Fringe survives into another year.“

He added: “We decided to go ahead with the Valle Crucis concert after an agonising decision made first thing on Sunday morning.

“Yet at 7.20pm we thought that we'd made a wrong call as a thunderstorm went directly overhead. 

“Although the rain bounced down for about 10 minutes, by the starting time, the rain stopped and the music began.

“The magical setting in the abbey was enhanced by the menacing clouds overhead.

“Around 300 people attended and were rewarded by a superb evening hosted by the appropriately named local performance poet Rain Dei.

“I’d like to say thanks to the local community for all the tremendous support and goodwill it gives to the festival.”

New amateur theatre group makes its debut

A brand new amateur theatre group is on the hunt for actors and musicians to take part in its inaugural production.

Llangollen Musical Theatre Group is holding a Meet and Greet event on Tuesday, August 6 at the Llangollen Pavilion.

The event, which starts at 7.30pm, will provide the opportunity budding performers to find out about the group's production of Return to the Forbidden Planet, which will be staged at the Pavilion in November.

Paul Brown, the group's chairman, said: "This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in getting involved in musical theatre to come and meet our production team. Whether they've been treading the boards for years or just starting out, everyone is welcome.

"Return to the Forbidden Planet is a fantastic show full of rock and roll classics including Great Balls of Fire, Good Vibrations, She's Not There, The Young Ones and The Monster Mash.

"It takes the plot of Shakespeare's The Tempest and sets it on a spaceship to a soundtrack of 60s and 70s hits.

"Considering Llangollen is such a small town, there are already several theatre groups, including the Twenty Club and the Operatic Society, but this will be the first time such a modern production has been staged.

"There's not many other shows for which you could audition to play a spaceship's captain, a renegade scientist or a talking robot. There's even one part for which the ability to roller-skate would be an advantage!"

The group are also looking for musicians to join the on-stage band for the production. They are particularly looking for those who want to join the spaceship's crew playing trumpet, trombone or alto saxophone.

More information can be found on the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/llangollenmusicaltheatregroup or by emailing llangollenmusicaltheatregroup@gmail.com.

Summer sportzone at town's leisure centre

Llangollen Leisure Centre is running a multi-sports camp, called sportszone, during the school summer holidays.

For boys and girls aged six to 13, it features swimming, hockey, netball, cricket, basketball, football, rugby, athletics and badminton.

Places are limited so booking is advised.

For more details visit the website www.denbighshireleisure.co.uk, or call the leisure centre on 01978 861830.

£6.5 million earmarked for palliative care in Wales

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed that £6.5million will be allocated to specialist palliative care services across Wales in 2013-14, of which £2.4million will go direct to hospices.

 

Hospices play an essential part in the Welsh Government’s aims to reduce inequalities in end of life care and to maintain the dignity of an individual in their last days of life; as set out in the Delivering End of Life Care Plan, published in April 2013.

 

The said: "How well we care for our dying reflects how we care as a society.

"We have set out plans to ensure end of life care is consistently good across Wales, whether a person wishes to die in hospital, at home or in a hospice.

"For many people facing the end of their life, and their loved ones, hospices provide vital medical and emotional support. They provide skilled nursing care tailored to the individual’s needs, free of charge.

"Our End of Life Care Delivery Plan recognises the importance of the hospice sector in providing a co-ordinated end of life care service, alongside the NHS and other partners. It is therefore important we fund hospices properly and I am pleased to confirm the allocation of 2.4m direct to hospices for this financial year."

Individual hospices will be receiving notification of funding this week.

Last link of Chain Bridge facelift funding put in place

* Final funding for the restoration of the Chain Bridge is now in place. 

THE last financial link of the ambitious project to bring Llangollen’s world famous Chain Bridge back to life has now been put into place.

 

Welsh conservation body Cadwyn Clwyd has just approved a £20,000 grant for the scheme, which means restoration work can now go ahead with the aim of having it re-opened to the public early next year.

 

Largest slice of the funding for the project, which undertaken jointly by Llangollen Town Council and Llantysilio Community Council, was approved in early July when the Heritage Lottery Fund approved a grant of £350,000.   

 

Following news yesterday (Wednesday) that the Cadwyn Clwyd application for the final tranche of cash to start facelift work had been give the thumbs up, Llangollen’s mayor, Cllr Bob Lube, said: “I am delighted with the award from Cadwyn Clwyd.

 

“This means that the project is now fully funded and both Llangollen Town Council and Llantysilio Community Council can now press ahead with the practical work of restoring the Chain Bridge.”

Gareth Thomas, Llangollen’s town clerk, said: “This final grant award means that phase two of the project can now start in earnest, and meetings are planned with the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadwyn Clwyd, Denbighshire County Council and Ramboll, the consulting engineers, to move the project forward.

“There is still a lot of work to do, but these are exciting times for the project.”

The bridge, which spans the fast-flowing River Dee just outside Llangollen, has been closed to the public for safety reasons since the 1980s.

The two councils bought the run-down structure from its previous owner, businesswoman Stephanie Booth who also ran the adjacent Chain Bridge Hotel, in 2007 and have since been working to secure the funding necessary to see it repaired and returned to its former glory as a major tourist attraction.

First injection of cash came a few years later when the HLF made a grant of £28,900 to pay for the preparation of a detailed report on how the bridge could be restored.

The project took another step forward this June when it landed a grant of £50,000 from WREN, a not-for-profit business which awards cash to community, environmental and heritage projects.

The plan is to fix the bridge and create disabled access via nearby Berwyn Station along with an exhibition and other community events.

The HLF grant bid included working with community groups such as local schools and history groups, including Llangollen Museum.

One of the aims is to see tourists travelling along Llangollen Canal via horse-drawn boats and then crossing the bridge to take a steam train ride back into Llangollen.

The original bridge was built around 1817 by Exuperius Pickering, a local entrepreneur dealing in coal, limestone, slate and iron bar, who is reputed to have called on engineer Thomas Telford to help with the design and construction.

The new bridge allowed Pickering to monopolise the local coal trade as it gave him access to the adjacent London to Holyhead road - the A5.

It also meant he avoided paying tolls to cross the main bridge over the river in Llangollen.

In 1876 the bridge was replaced by Sir Henry Robertson, a part owner of Wrexham's former Brymbo Ironworks.

In 1928, freak flooding washed away most of the bridge and it rebuilt in a style similar to Anglesey's Menai Suspension Bridge.

It was closed in the mid-1980s due to concerns over its safety.

Llan folk invited to National Play Day

* The big sand pit that was a huge success in 2012.

Wrexham town centre will once again be host to National Play Day on Wednesday, August 7, between 12 noon and 4 pm. 

People of all ages are invited to join in this free and fun event.

Amongst the attractions for this year's event are a giant sand pit that proved a big hit last year, a water slide and lots of water fights, making and inventing things from loose parts and junk, a big volleyball, a maze and an early years area.

Cllr Mike Williams, Lead Member for Children's Services and Education, said:
"This a fantastic national event that has become part of the town centre calendar and is a firm favourite with children, their parents, grandparents and carers. 

"There's plenty on offer to entertain our young people and I hope they all take very happy memories home with them."

This year's Play Day Campaign is "Playful Places" and calls on all adults, from those in national and local government to parents and other community residents, to work together in removing barriers to play in the wider public realm. 

They are asked to foster playful attitudes that support rather than restrict children's play. 

The campaign recognises that children can and will play in all sorts of public places when given enough free time, space and permission to do so.  Play isn't just important for children as everyone can benefit from being a bit more playful because play brings people together and can help people feel better.

Last year over 2500 people visited the town centre for Play Day and this year's organisers hope to make it even bigger and better. 

All you have to bring with you is a playful mood and some clothes you don't mind getting wet and messy. 
Visitors are also invited to bring along a picnic and stay all afternoon.

New law on Welsh democracy comes into force

A new law to improve the democratic processes and transparency of Local Government in Wales has been granted Royal Assent by Her Majesty the Queen.

 

The Local Government (Democracy) (Wales) Act 2013 will:

• improve the public’s access to information about town and community Councils, 
• reform the structure and functions of the Local Government Boundary Commission for Wales, 
• amend the responsibilities of the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales and the structure of local authority audit committees within the Local Government (Wales) Measure 2011, 
• require principal councils and fire and rescue authorities to consult the Independent Remuneration Panel before varying the salary of their chief executive, 
• facilitate the creation of joint standards committees by local authorities; and 
• enable councils to separate the ceremonial and civic functions from the role of presiding over meetings of the council if they so wish.

A Bill receives Royal Assent when Letters Patent under the Welsh Seal signed with Her Majesty’s own hand signifying Her Assent are notified to the Clerk of the Assembly. The Bill then becomes an Act of the Assembly.
The First Minister, as Keeper of the Welsh Seal, applied the Seal to the Letters Patent in a ceremony in Cardiff earlier today (Tuesday).
First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “Through our ambitious five year legislative programme, we are introducing ‘made in Wales’ solutions to the issues affecting us a nation.

“This Act represents a further step in our drive to ensure local democracy in Wales operates as efficiently and effectively as possible.”
 Minister for Local Government & Government Business, Lesley Griffiths said: “The Act will provide a platform for the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales, to carry out its important work more effectively by better aligning community and electoral reviews. 

“It also includes a number of measures which I believe will assist and strengthen democratic processes in relation to Local Government.

“These reforms form an essential part of ensuring our Councils are democratically elected, representative of their communities and organised in the most effective way."

Police investigate two thefts from Llan

Police in Llangollen are appealing for information following the theft of a bike from Chapel Street.

 

Sometime between 10.30pm yesterday, Sunday, July 28, and 6.45 am the morning of Monday, July 29, an offender or offenders took an Apollo highway bicycle from the back garden of a property on Chapel Street.

 

The bike is described as a hybrid, is black and grey in colour, has a 21inch frame and 18 speed. It is also described as having black coloured mudguards, a gel seat with adjustable handlebars and has the serial number 203815.

 

Nothing else was taken from the garden and police are appealing to anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the vicinity or has information to contact members of the Investigation Support Team on 101.

 

Alternatively, individuals can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously with information on 0800 555 111.

* Neighbourhood Watch have also sent out the following warning about another incident in Llangollen, which says:

"Please be aware that copper piping was taken from a building under renovation in Llangollen last night, 28th of July.

"If you are undergoing any work at your address please consider your security and keep valuable items out of sight.

"If you overlook a building under renovation or know of a building that is empty undergoing works please report any suspicious activity to the police.

"If you have any information regarding the theft please call 101 quoting incident number P122825.

"If you need to reply regarding this message, click on this email address: michelle.williams2@nthwales.pnn.police.uk

Town Council hears of workplace training scheme

* Some of the staff from Calon Lan who took part in the Essential Skills scheme.

Research by Welsh Government in 2010 revealed that 12% of the adult population of Wales don’t have the necessary reading and writing skills to fulfil their potential, and half of them have trouble with numbers. 

To tackle the problem, the government has come up with a scheme, supported by the European Social Fund, to offer all employers the opportunity to access fully funded training to raise these essential skills levels.

Known as Essential Skills in the Workplace, the scheme was outlined to members at the recent meeting of Llangollen Town Council.

Haf Wyn Hughes, workplace skills officer for North East Wales, who addressed councillors, explained that the definition of essential skills is the ability to read, write or speak in English or Welsh, and to use numbers, at a level necessary to function and progress in both work and society.

With the ever increasing use of technology in both the workplace and at home the ability to use this technology is also seen as an essential skill.

It is estimated that poor essential skills cost the UK economy £10 billion per year and the Welsh economy £300 -£500 million each year.

She told councillors that the training scheme enables employees to progress from entry level through to level 2 in Communication (literacy), Application of Number (numeracy) and Information  Communication Technology (IT).

It can also offer English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and qualifications for supporting learners with their Essential Skills training.

Case study

One of the local organisations to benefit from the essential skills training is Calon Lan Community Care, of Conwy, an independent health and social care and support service in clients’ own home.

The training was provided by Grŵp Llandrillo Menai

Staff taking part were required to complete log sheets recording all the tasks carried out as part of their role.

It was identified that some members of staff would benefit from further training to improve their writing skills in order to complete the log sheets effectively.  Training was specially arranged to fit in with the staff members busy schedule. Staff completed tasks relating to report writing, which they found to be very beneficial.  Eleven members of staff have completed the training, whilst six have recently started the programme. One of the carers, Ann Jones, commented that the training has been very helpful and that she feels that her English grammar skills have improved as a result of the course.

She has seen a difference in the way she fills in the log sheets at service users’ homes.

All of those who have taken part in the project have or will be starting to study for their NVQ in Social Care.
A Calon Lan spokesperson said: "The training has proved to be a great way to help boost confidence in the individuals who have taken part. It lets the individual feel valued by the company, as we have invested our time to develop their skills.

"Staff who feel they are invested in and developed by a company, stay loyal to the company, and this is great for staff retention/low staff turnover."

 * To find out more re about Essential Skills in the Workplace, contact Haf Hughes by phoning 01745 770278, or e-mail: haf.hughes@menterabusnes.co.uk

Fringe organisers confirm tonight's concert will go ahead

llanblogger has just received an update from the Fringe organisers to say tonight's finale concert at Valle Crucis Abbey WILL be going ahead.

They say:

There is ample car parking nearby (follow the signs). There will also be a hog roast and a bar outside. Don’t forget to bring something to sit on, suitable clothing (and possibly a brolly, just in case the weather isn't kind to us!).   Tel: 0800 1455 779 or visit: www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

Fringe has grand finale tonight

Fringe Finale Concert at Valle Crucis Abbey   Cyngerdd Glyn y Groes   Sunday, July 28, 7.30pm   £7 admission   Join us for a magical evening at Valle Crucis and enjoy the concert in the nave of the ruins of the abbey. The setting is truly stunning and the atmosphere will be electric.     Don’t miss a performance at the spectacular Abbey with Golden Fable. Golden Fable are Rebecca Palin and Tim McIver, she the possessor of the angelic voice that shines through, he the producer and writer of the songs. Both play a seemingly inexhaustible list of instruments. Recorded at their home in the foothills of the Welsh mountains, the debut album ‘StarMap’ is unashamedly linked to the natural world around it, inspired by the glowering mountains that overlook their cottage and the forests and fields that skirt it.     Plus a performance of ‘Shape Note Singing’ by Wrexham Community Choir. Sentimental Journey are also a welcome late addition to the programme. There is ample car parking nearby (follow the signs). There will also be a hog roast and a bar outside. This is an outdoor event and so don’t forget to bring something to sit on and suitable clothing. You are also welcome to bring your own refreshments along.   Choir Workshop / Gweithdy Côr Town Hall / Neuadd Y Dref 2pm - 4.30pm £10 With Wrexham Community Choir Workshop on the awe inspiring and super easy to join in sound of ‘Sacred Harp’ or ‘Shape Note Singing’. A community singing tradition, with its roots in the pioneer era of the U.S.A. currently taking the world by storm. Participants will also have the chance to sing with the choir in Valle Crucis Abbey in the final concert (see details above). Workshop includes free admission to the concert. Childrens Performance / Perfformiad y Plant Valle Crucis Abbey / Abaty Glyn-y-Groes 4pm Come and celebrate the work of local school children performed within the walls of the ancient monument. Through dramatic performance inspired by their visits to Valle Crucis Abbey and Rug Chapel. Normal admission charges apply Adults £3.50, Family £10.50, Concessions £2.65.   Tel: 0800 1455 779 or visit: www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

Caryl gets keys to National Trust property

* Caryl Hughes now has the keys of Llyndy Isaf.

Life changed completely for one young woman from near Llangollen at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show earlier this week.

Caryl Hughes, aged 23, a young farmer from Dyffryn Ceiriog, became the first winner of the National Trust Llyndy Isaf scholarship.

Winning the scholarship means Caryl will be given the keys to Llyndy Isaf - the iconic 614-acre upland farm in Snowdonia saved for the nation through the Snowdonia Appeal in 2012 – and take control of the farm for a year starting in September.

Caryl told us she was both on top of the world and nervous about the challenges ahead of her with this unique opportunity, which she believed would be life changing for her and her dog Mist – who will be moving with her to Llyndy Isaf.

Caryl said: 'This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that I intend to take full advantage of. It’s not every day you get the chance to farm a 614-acre farm, especially not at the age of 23 and especially if you are female.

"I’m a bit nervous of taking on Llyndy, it is a daunting challenge, especially because it hasn’t been farmed for a number of years, but I’m really excited about it and all the new experiences and opportunities I’m going to get in the next 12 months. I’m really looking forward to working with the National Trust and getting to know the whole team and all of their work – especially in agriculture.

"I don’t see it why we can’t do it as well as the ‘boys’, if not better. Women are renowned for being better at multi-tasking, but I’m confident I’ll rise to this challenge as well as anyone else. My priorities will be to re-establish a flock here with good grazing management to retain this natural environment around us. That’s Llyndy’s unique quality and challenge all in one.

"The views in Snowdonia are spectacular and I feel honoured to be allowed to live and work there - but also it’s not too dissimilar to home-so maybe that’s why it appeals to me.

"I hope to use the skills and ideas I gain in Snowdonia and adapt them to use at home in the Berwyn when the scholarship is over. I’m sure I will look back on the scholarship with pride, and the skills and experience I gain will live with me forever."

Appeal saves Llyndy for the nation

Llyndy Isaf farm drew international attention when it was saved for the nation in the National Trust's successful one million pound fund-raising appeal last year.

The campaign to acquire Llyndy Isaf was spearheaded by Welsh Hollywood actor Matthew Rhys in his role as Snowdonia Appeal Ambassador.

The Americans series star said: "When I visited Llyndy Isaf, I could see that such a beautiful and special part of Snowdonia demanded our support. I am delighted that Caryl now has the opportunity to learn a vocation and time-honoured way of life, where she can contribute to the survival, preservation and future of this incredibly important place."

This 'once in a lifetime' offer is the result of an innovative partnership between the National Trust and Wales YFC.

Applications were invited from all Wales YFC members. The scholarship was designed to encourage the successful candidate to develop key skills and broaden their knowledge of the industry. The winning scholar will have the opportunity and responsibility of managing all aspects of running the farm including form filling, stock management and practical work.

Caryl is 23 on 28 July, and lives on an upland farm with her parents and brother in Dyffryn Ceiriog.

She went to Aberystwyth University where she studied agriculture and animal science. As part of the course, Caryl went to live and work in New Zealand in her third year - on a milking farm for eight months and a sheep farm for 2 ½ months.

Caryl is interested in training and working sheepdogs (she has a sheepdog called Mist who’s eight-years-old, and who will be joining her at Llyndy).

Betsi board accepts critical report on its management

The BBC is reporting that the board of the Betsi Cadwaladr Univerity Health Board has fully accepted a highly critical report into its mismanagement.

See full report at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-23454408

How to reach the eisteddfodf maes

The maes at the Denbighshire and District National Eisteddfod, being held on the outskirts of Denbigh from August 2-10, is easy to reach and accessible from all directions, say organisers.  

Discussing the traffic management plan put in place with the local council and emergency services, chief organiser Hywel Wyn Edwards said: "I'm sure you've all started spotting the distinctive yellow signs on roads around north east Wales, guiding people to the eisteddfod.

"We urge all visitors travelling by car to the area to ensure they follow the signs as they are there to help to guide you to and from the Maes as safely and as easily as possible.

"It's our aim to run the traffic as smoothly as possible and without affecting local non-eisteddfod traffic, during the week, and once again this year, we are encouraging people to use public transport, the shuttle buses and of course to walk or cycle to the maes.  

"It is well located close to Denbigh, and we hope many people will take advantage of this."

Service buses will run from the train station at Wrexham for anyone wishing to reach the maes by train, and a regular shuttle bus will run between Denbigh and the maes throughout the week.

Details can be downloaded from the Eisteddfod website, www.eisteddfod.org.uk.

Below are the details of this year’s traffic management system, to help you to reach the maes safely from all directions. If you are travelling from Wrexham, the Marches or mid Wales, follow the A541 to Denbigh through Mold after leaving the A483, or travel to Ruthin on the A525, and follow the road to Denbigh. Then, turn right on the Myddleton Park roundabout to join Whitchurch Road before turning left into the car park opposite Kilford Farm.

109 test positive for drink driving in North Wales

Over 8,000 breath tests were administered throughout North Wales during the month-long Anti Drink and Drug Driving Summer Campaign.

 

Led by Gwent Police, officers stepped up the pressure in a concerted effort to deter people from driving motor vehicles whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

 

During the June campaign a total of 19,906 breath tests were administered throughout Wales with 436 being arrested.

 

North Wales Police administered 8,281 breath tests with 109 testing positive, which equates to 1.3%.

 

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing from North Wales Police said: “We want to get the message across that drinking alcohol and driving or driving under the influence of drugs is unacceptable and that it puts other roads users’ lives at risk.

 

“Through our annual Christmas and summer campaigns we have consistently warned the public that drink and drug driving can kill. It can also lead to a lengthy driving ban and possible loss of jobs and livelihoods with some even facing imprisonment. 

 

“We are disappointed that there is still a group of people who are not listening or ignoring the consequences and continuing to drink or take drugs and drive.

“With the current warm weather, more people may be tempted to have a few drinks, at barbecues or whilst drinking in beer gardens during the afternoons, and may drive without thinking of the consequences.

He added: “Think before you go out, watch what you drink and plan how you will get home.”

 

North Wales Police has a robust strategy around enforcing the ‘Fatal 5’ offences which are drink and drug driving, dangerous driving including unnecessary risk taking, speeding, failing to wear a seatbelt and using a mobile phone whilst driving.

 

Chief Inspector Wareing added: “We are committed to assisting in reducing casualties on the road through the use of targeted operations around high risk groups of people and locations while enforcing the ‘Fatal 5’ offences.”

 

“It is important to stress that the work does not stop here – any amount of alcohol affects your ability to drive, campaigns such as this raise awareness and we will continue to target those breaking the law as part of daily policing.”

 

Anyone with information regarding individuals who are believed to drive whilst over the legal limit or under the influence of drugs, can contact North Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

Notes:

 

• Some of the highest readings recorded during the campaign were 134mg, 115mg and 98mg. The legal limit is 35mg.

 

• Gwent Police carried out 2,058 breath tests with 64 testing positive, refusing or failing to provide.

 

• Dyfed Powys Police administered 7,544 tests of which 142 tests were positive, refused or failed to provide.

 

• In the South Wales Police area 2,023 tests were conducted with 105 testing positive, refusing or failing to provide.

 

• During the 2012 campaign a total of 19,277 were stopped and breath tested by police in Wales and 360 of these tested positive, refused or failed to provide. In North Wales, 10,517 drivers were tested with 101 testing positive, refusing or failing to provide.

Llan now has Buy Local page on Facebook

Community group Keep Llangollen Special has just set up a Facebook page to promote its Buy Local initiative, which encourages people to support their local shops rather then spending their money outside the town.

The new page can be seen at: https://www.facebook.com/BuyLocallyLlangollen?fref=ts

People are being encouraged to visit the site and "like" it to show their support for the campaign.

Keep Llangollen Special reviews its first year

Community group Keep Llangollen Special (KLS) held its first annual general meeting at the Hand Hotel on Tuesday night.

New officers were elected for the forthcoming year and retiring chair, Mike Edwards (pictured below), gave the following appraisal of the group's first year:

"Behind scenes the Management Committee have been working hard meeting at least once a month and discussing a number of issues and initiatives.

* I can understand the frustration in certain quarters that little seems to have been achieved, but major projects such as the Business & Community Hub proposal have long lead times particularly when you are trying to attract Grant Aid funding.

* Our main achievement to date is our Buy Local (BL) initiative which has gathered pace as we have established it as a regular monthly event. Even with such a small group of people it has sometimes been difficult to find members to deliver posters and get them printed.

* We have spent some time investigating a loyalty card scheme following a presentation from a company who provide the infrastructure. The result of these investigations has established that Llangollen has too small a population to support a "commercially" viable scheme. We have been offered a template to establish and run our own scheme, but the Committee decided against this at the present time due to a lack of resources.

*One scheme which is making progress towards launch is the Smartphone App.

* Going back to our Business & Community Hub (BACH) initiative, I have visited Glyn Wylfa in Chirk on a number of occasions and I would recommend everyone to visit because it is extremely impressive what they have been able to achieve. However, it has taken them several years to reach the stage they are at having secured Big Lottery Funding, planning consent and a property which generates income to support the community based activities

* My view has always been that we need to move from a campaigning, lobbying protest group and it is proving difficult to lose this image. In order to move forward we need to redouble our efforts to be seen as a constructive, progressive community organisation working with all interest parties in Llangollen to project the image, identity and already internationally known brand of Llangollen. 

* The independent businesses in Llangollen seem not to have fully appreciated the impact that Sainsbury's will have on their business, but they really need to get their acts together to meet this challenge or else we are going to see shops shutting up and we will be left with a high level of vacant properties as there are in many towns and cities throughout the UK. We need business owners to come on board and fight this corner with us.

* Finally, I have done my twelve months as chair so it's time for someone else to takeover and move us forward. I would like to thank Phil Jones and the Committee for their immense support throughout my year."

Rachel Morris was elected chair, Phil Jones as vice-chair, Di Slater as treasurer, Phil Thane as web master, Annie Powell as membership secretary and Mike Edwards stays on the committee as an ordinary member.

Information on minor injuries in Llan

The following message has been sent by Llangollen Health Centre:

 

From August 1, the minor injuries service in Llangollen will be provided by Dr JRA Davies & Partners – the GP practice. 

 

The service will continue to be run from the Health Centre on Regent Street and will be available from 8.30am until 6.00pm, Monday to Friday.

 

The service is open to patients of Dr JRA Davies & Partners and to those not registered in the local area, such as day trippers and visitors to the area.

 

In the event of a minor injury the health centre advises you to phone the surgery in the first instance so that your injury can be triaged. 

 

The telephone number to call is 01978 860625.

Warning of theft in neighbouring area

Neighbourhood Watch has given details of a theft from Corwen which may be of interest to people in Llangollen:

Between 17:00 hours yesterday and 08:00 this morning (Wednesday) a Quad bike from a remote location in the Corwen area.

The make and model of the quad bike is a Polaris 500 EFI.

It is Royal Blue in colour, has alloy wheels and has a big white spinner on the back.

Please contact NWP on 101 with information quoting reference P119417.