Home Secretary asked to sort out Eisteddfod visa problems

 

* International affair: The opening parade of last year's Eisteddfod.

 

 

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is writing to Home Secretary Theresa May to ask her to intervene personally to sort out a visa problem caused by a mistake made by one of her officials.

 

Some performers from Africa and Asia have been refused visas and will not be able to compete at the Eisteddfod in three weeks' time unless Mrs May is able to sort the mess out.

The problem has arisen because the festival has mistakenly been left off a list of so-called "permit-free" festivals so visa applications take more time to process.

 

Eisteddfod Chair Gethin Davies said: "We have over the years had some problems with visas.

 

"We had understood that this year we were going to be placed on the permit free list, which is a list of existing 44 festivals, and we thought we were on that list as well, in which case the issue of visas s far more straight forward.

 

"Due to an administrative oversight at the Home Office which they have held their hands up to, we’re not on that list and consequently each visa application has to be carefully scrutinised by the relevant authorities in the various countries, and some of them are being refused, and it causes us great anxiety.

 

“In the first place we need a cast iron guarantee that the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod will be on the permit free list from now on, plus we want practical help in the short term to assist those people who are still waiting for their visas and to possibly overturn decisions that have been made to refuse other competitors.

 

"I shall be writing a personal letter to the Home Secretary asking her if she can intervene directly in this, and use her considerable influence to see if this unfortunate state of affairs can be addressed as a matter of urgency.

 

"The Eisteddfod is on in three weeks’ time, and time is very short, so we are hoping that we can get that help from the highest level, which will enable these wonderful people who want nothing more than to come and share their culture with us in Llangollen so that they will be able to be with us.”

 

The Home Office have apologised for their error in a letter to Eisteddfod officials.

 

The letter said: "Unfortunately, due to an administrative oversight on our part when changes to the Immigration Rules were laid in February the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod was omitted from the list of permit free festivals included in the new simplified visitor rules.

 

"I apologise for any inconvenience this will cause however I want to assure you that there are alternative routes that can be used in the meantime."

The iconic event was started in Llangollen in 1947 in the aftermath of the Second World War in an attempt to bring peace and harmony to the world through music and dance.

According to the Eisteddfod, several people from China, Algeria, Tanzania and Ivory Coast had already had their visa applications turned down.

Around 100 dancers and musicians are waiting to hear if they will be granted visas in time to compete at this year's event from 7 July.

Among them are two groups from India, five different groups from Morocco, 14 dancers from Ghana and five from Nepal.

Competitors from other parts of the world outside Africa and Asia are unaffected.

The case has also been taken up by Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones.

 

She said: "The Eisteddfod is hugely important to our area. The Home Office has admitted it has made a mistake and it's now vital they put things right."

 

Redundancies at Dobson & Crowther, report says

The BBC is reporting on its news website this afternoon (Wednesday) that 55 redundancies have been declared at Llangollen's Dobson & Crowther printworks which went into administration yesterday.

For the full story, see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-33167417

Meanwhile, earlier today in the House of Commons, Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones urged Secretary of State for Wales Stephen Crabb and the Welsh Government to work together to get the best possible outcome for staff at Dobson & Crowther.

Ms Jones' question came after it was announced that the Llangollen printing company had gone into administration.

Speaking afterwards, she said: "This is terrible news for many local families in Llangollen and the nearby areas.

"It is vital that UK Government, Welsh Government, local councils and all the relevant organisations all work together to ensure there is a serious programme of financial and careers support to help the people who have been so badly affected."

Llangollen residents urge action on climate change

* Friends of the Earth members take to Dinas Bran calling

for the Government to help protect what they love.

Members of Llangollen Friends of the Earth are today (Wednesday) taking part in a national campaign asking MPs to take action on climate change.

They are calling for action to help protect the "things we love in our lives" - from children right down to a cup of tea. 

FoE says drought, crop failure, and mass migration are al effects of climate change, which will greatly affect our all aspects of our everyday lives.

Llangollen resident Kay Polley said: “Climate change will affect so many of the things we care about, from our families to our food to our wildlife and our futures. We are asking our MP to press the UK
government to take action for the climate.”

She added: "Locally, people are concerned about how climate change will affect people around the world, but also how it will affect us here in Wales.

"With the climate talks in Paris, 2015 presents us with an opportunity to make progress on climate change.

"The UK has a big role to play in bringing countries together at the negotiations. Our position at the forefront of the fight against global poverty can help build a better, fairer global deal on climate change."

* For more information visit http://www.llangollenfoe.org.uk/

Dobson & Crowther goes into administration

Dobson & Crowther Ltd in Llangollen has gone into administration.

Christopher Ratten and Lindsey Cooper of Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP have today been appointed administrators for the company, which operates as a manufacturer of bespoke litho printed envelopes and is the UK’s leading supplier of seed envelopes to the horticultural sector.

Baker Tilly Partner Christopher Ratten, who is one of the Joint Administrators, said: ‘Dobson & Crowther has experienced a challenging 18 months. In early 2014 it restructured its operations following the loss of its largest customer and in late 2014 it successfully relocated to a purpose built site on the outskirts of the town.

“Whilst operationally the company was well placed to trade positively into 2015, it suffered a significant setback following the administration of Paperlynx, its largest supplier. As a consequence of Paperlynx’s failure there was considerable disruption to the company’s supply chain resulting in lost sales and consequential cash flow pressures.

"In the lead up to the administration the possibility of further investment or a sale has been investigated. Due to the company’s financial and trading situation it has not been possible to secure such a transaction in the relatively short timescale concerned.

“The administrators are now considering the possibility of continuing the business for a short period in order to fulfil outstanding orders and establish if there are any other parties that would be interested in acquiring the business. Any parties with such an interest should make contact with Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP as soon as possible on 0161 830 4000. Whilst this is being considered it has been necessary to send a high proportion of the 79 employees home.”

Police boss seeks assurances on speed cameras

 

 

 

* Julian Sandham.

 

A police boss in North Wales is seeking assurances speed cameras will not be used as a money-making cash cow.

 

Julian Sandham, the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, says it should be made clear the purpose of the Go Safe scheme is to reduce casualties and save lives.

 

Mr Sandham and his boss, Commissioner Winston Roddick, have written expressing their views to the chief lead officer for the Welsh Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, Carl Langley, the Deputy Chief Constable of Dyfed Powys Police.

 

A study is now being conducted in North Wales to see if the Go Safe scheme could be made more effective.

 

Mr Sandham said: "I am aware of public concern that the speed cameras are being used as revenue raising machines.

 

"I think it’s important that the Go Safe business plan stresses that the priority is the reduction of casualties. There is clearly an enabling infrastructure that underpins all that, but the priority of minimising casualties on the roads in Wales and specifically for us North Wales is important.

 

“Having read the 2015-16 business plan document, there are certain areas where you could conclude that the income generation side of things is prominent. In my opinion it should be made clear that the context is minimising of casualties.

 

"I think we could get more of the general public on side if that message was loud and clear because I think the majority of reasonable people would agree we need to tackle problems where they exist and make our roads safer.

 

"We are undertaking a piece of scrutiny work with regard to this issue and when it is complete we will be talking to the force about our findings.

 

"I would stress, however, there is a great deal of good practice happening already in North Wales.

 

"The system of tasking in North Wales is quite clearly a strong one, and the central ticket office in North Wales seems to be an efficient operation.

 

“Likewise, we have been assured by the Force that deployments are not exclusively aligned to sites which have a history of collisions. Some deployments take place to prevent and reduce the likelihood of collisions, where following analysis and professional judgement, they are considered necessary.

 

“I’m certainly not advocating that we should get rid of speed cameras because used intelligently they have an important role to play.

 

"What I’m advocating is that we should be using Go Safe to its best effect which is reducing casualties on our roads.

 

"We have communicated with Carl Langley to remind him of the proposals we made at the last meeting of the All-Wales Policing Group."

Alcohol campaign a success say police

A recent police and local authority campaign enforcing alcohol legislation across North Wales has been hailed a success in most areas with few premises or individuals falling foul of the law.

The Think Safe Drink Safe campaign at the end of May focused on preventing crime and disorder, enforcing alcohol related legislation and reassuring the public about the work being done to encourage sellers and consumers to take appropriate responsibility.

The operation involved breathalysing motorists, spot checks on taxis, test purchasing at pubs and off licenced premises, school classes on the subject of alcohol and anti-social behaviour and extra patrols to deal with potential disorder.

The feedback reveals that of 245 motorists stopped across Anglesey and Gwynedd five failed the breathalyser test. Although 21 of the 73 off licensed premises in the two counties failed underage test purchases, none of the 28 pubs in the area tested failed.

Meanwhile in Conwy two large events were held during the operation; the Llandudno Air Show bringing in an estimated 40,000 extra visitors to the area and the Mixed Martial Arts Event in Colwyn Bay. Both events passed without incident.

In Denbighshire two pubs failed a test purchase. In Flintshire more than 20 pubs were visited and there were no instances of alcohol related disorder. In Wrexham County three pubs were found to be serving under age customers and three people were detained for possessing cannabis.

Chief Supt Jeremy Vaughan said; “Misuse of alcohol can cause great harm to communities and is a drain on the emergency services as well as health and council resources.

“Nationally nearly 50 per cent of all violent crime is alcohol related, nearly half of all domestic abuse incidents are linked to alcohol and excessive drinking severely increases your likelihood of committing a crime or becoming a victim of crime.

“The results of this operation are encouraging, although it is disappointing to see a number of off licenced premises failing the underage purchasing test.

“Thankfully there were no serious incidents of disorder, but our message to the industry and the public remains the same – Think safe, drink safe. Those who don’t will be dealt with robustly.”

Joss Thomas, Licensing Team Leader, Wrexham Council said; “Compliance with licence conditions was high with only minor issues needing to be addressed. All Wrexham town centre door supervisors were also found to be fully licensed and displaying their identity in accordance with legislation.”

Leisure Centre's big day later this month

Llangollen Leisure Centre has asked us to showcase its forthcoming Sports Day.

It's a community event between 4.30 and 8pm on Friday June 26.  

It includes free use of the Fitness Suite, free fitness classes, football coaching by Wales and Liverpool FC player Harry Wilson, who is an ex-Dinas Bran pupil, and lots more.

Plas Newydd hosts Waterloo anniversary display

* The Waterloo display on the dining table at Plas Newydd.

PLAS Newydd, Llangollen’s own stately home, is currently staging a special display to mark the 200^th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

The famous house has a connection to the battle as its most famous inhabitants, the Ladies of Llangollen, at least twice hosted visits there by the victor, the Duke of Wellington.

Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby were friends of his maternal grandmother, Lady Anne Dungannon, and it was while visiting her home at Brynkinalt, near Chirk, that he called in to see the ladies at Plas Newydd.

Arthur Wellesley, as he was originally known, made his first visit there at the age of 19 in 1788 and it is believed he came a second time in the year preceding his most famous battle, which was fought in Belgium on June 18, 1815 and changed the course of European history.

In the very dining room where he breakfasted with the ladies, the house’s resident heritage assistant Jane Horovitch has arranged a display of Waterloo and Wellington mementos, including pictures of himself and other figures connected with the battle along with copies of various documents of interest.

* Heritage assistant Jane Horovitch puts out
the flags for visitors. 

Centrepiece is a large contemporary map of the battlefield.

Jane said: “I have set things up on the dining room table to reflect the fact that during the Duchess of Richmond’s ball in Brussels the night before his army marched off to Waterloo, the duke famously called for a map to be set out on the dining room table which he then studied with his generals.”

Also featured is a copy of a letter penned by the Iron Duke in 1829, when he was Prime Minister, to Sarah Ponsonby telling her that the King had been pleased to grant her a pension of £200 a year following the death of Lady Eleanor who had enjoyed the same royal privilege.

There is also a picture of a well weathered gravestone at St Sulien’s Church in Corwen bearing the name of Jacko Parry, a claimed Waterloo survivor who died at the age of 73 in 1857.

Jane, who has been part of the team at Plas Newydd for the past 23 years, said: “We wanted to do something to mark the 200^th anniversary of Waterloo because of the connections the Duke of Wellington had to the house.

“He was certainly a good friend of the ladies.

“They recorded after his first visit when he was 19 that he was `handsome, fashionable, tall and elegant’.

“We believe he came to Plas Newydd again not long before Waterloo, in either 1814 or 1815.”

The display, which will be open to visitors until the end of next week, will be flagged up outside the house by the British Union Jack flying alongside the tricolour of France whose army under Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated at Waterloo.

Skates to meet NatWest chief over closures

Clwyd South AM Ken Skates will meet a High Street bank boss later this month in an attempt to save two under-threat branches.

Labour Assembly Member Mr Skates has secured a meeting with NatWest’s regional director for Wales Mark Douglas after the company announced it would shut branches in Llangollen and Corwen later this year, leaving the latter without a single bank.

Mr Skates said: “As I have already said, I am desperately disappointed by this decision and it’s yet another example of a huge company putting profits before people. Let’s not forget it’s these very people who helped bail out the Royal Bank of Scotland, which owns NatWest.

“If NatWest will not budge on its plans to shut these two important branches in Clwyd South, then I will be demanding assurances over jobs and at that the mobile unit the company has promised will visit Llangollen and Corwen will do so regularly.

 

“I will aim to get the best deal possible for my constituents under the circumstances.”

Mr Skates, who is based in Llangollen, added: “This move has come as a real blow to many customers who aren’t comfortable with online banking and who can’t easily get to Wrexham in order to get the face-to-face service they have rightly come to expect.

 “It’s also a major inconvenience for many of the small and independent businesses in both of these key towns who frequently use their local branches to bank takings, so the very least NatWest can do is provide regular access to over-the-counter services for the loyal customers they have effectively turned their backs on.”

Mr Skates will meet Mr Douglas in Cardiff on June 24.

It's all for one at Plas Newydd

A Theatre company are busy sharpening their rapiers, practising lunges and flirting outrageously in preparation for this summer's touring production of The Musketeers, which comes to Llagollen's Plas Newydd on Friday July 31.

Off the Ground Theatre says will be overwhelming amounts of swash and buckle as the, now slightly older, heroes with a little help from Athos’ son and D’Artagnan’s daughter, charm women  - and some men -, quaff wine and fight off Spanish and Dutch spies- all in the name of France.  

This new story, written especially for the company by Daniel Cambridge, brings the Musketeers back together after they first met 20 years earlier.

And this time, the whole future of Europe is at stake as mysterious powers aim to topple the most powerful people throughout the continent. 

With full-blooded and fanciful fighting, live music and a 15-strong cast this promises to be a real summer spectacle.

Off the Ground Theatre started working on the Wirral 19 years ago and have produced over a hundred shows, featuring young talent from across Merseyside and the Northwest. 

This will be the company’s twentieth summer tour. 

The Musketeers is being directed by Chris Tomlinson and OTG’s artistic director, Dan Meigh.

Chris, who recently directed Until They Kick Us Out and assisted on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, both at The Everyman, said: “The OTG summer tour is always so much fun. 

"There is always such an exciting mix of tour troopers who have done it before and new faces who have no idea what to expect. 

"But by the time we open the first show we’re a proper company, partly due to the hard work we have to put in – there’s going to be a lot of sword play and fancy footwork we’re going to have to learn this year – and partly because we all want to put on a great show. 

"The big cast, the story and the great routines should mark this out as a bit special.”

One of the main aims of Off the Ground Theatre is to encourage talent from its native North West of England and this year’s cast recent graduates from OTG and YEP as well as university graduates gaining their first professional experience.

Booking Details:
By Phone: 0151-625-2929 | Mon from 2pm, Tue to Sat from 1pm
In Person: all venues on the night of performance
Online: www.offtheground.co.uk | Easy and secure online booking
Tickets £11, £8  (concessions), £5 (U21s)

Lime rendering at Llangollen garden

Results of Welsh national survey revealed

People across Wales remain highly satisfied with the NHS, education and with their daily lives according to the latest results from the National Survey for Wales.

 

North Wales South East Wales South West Wales The study shows that 91% of people in Wales were satisfied with the care they received from their GPs and 92% with the care they received at their last appointment at a NHS hospital.

The National Survey for Wales, which began in 2012, is based on face-to-face interviews with more than 14,000 people across Wales each year.

It collects robust, detailed information on the views and experiences of people in Wales on a wide range of subjects.

Other key results from the National Survey 2014-15 include:

• 96% of hospital patients felt treated with dignity and respect;
• 90% were satisfied with the overall service they received from the emergency ambulance service, and 79% with the time they had to wait for the ambulance to arrive;
• 81% of parents helped their children with reading and writing at least several times a week;
• 60% of people had no difficulties keeping up with their bills and financial commitments – a higher proportion than in 2012-13 and 2013-14 with 48% and 50% respectively;
• 79% think people in their local area treat each other with respect;
• 35% would like to start their own business;
• 78% of households had access to the internet – an increase from 75% in 2013-14 and 73% in 2012-13; and
• 66% walk or cycle to get around.

The survey for 2014-15 reveals people’s views on the NHS and education, where zero is ‘extremely bad’ and ten is ‘extremely good’.

The overall rating for the NHS was 6.3 and for education 6.6.  The survey found that 83% of people are satisfied with their daily lives.

Welcoming the results, Finance and Government Business Minister Jane Hutt said:  “The National Survey is a great opportunity for people to give their views on public services and the issues facing their communities.

"It paints an accurate and in-depth picture of how people across the country are experiencing the public services that are so important to us all.  It is particularly heartening to see such high levels of satisfaction with the NHS and education.

“The survey is an important resource for us and will support the delivery of public services.   Hearing the views of people across the country will help us make Wales an even better place to live, work and enjoy.”

Llangollen Eisteddfod is a beacon of hope

* Royal composer Paul Maelor.

Royal composer Paul Mealor has hailed the Llangollen International Musical Festival as a beacon of hope and peace in an increasingly troubled world.

Professor Mealor, who was born in St Asaph, says the festival brings people from all over the world together through the international language of music.

He shot to international fame after writing Ubi Caritas et Amor for the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011 and also composed Wherever You Are, which became the 2011 Christmas number one for the Military Wives under the baton of Gareth Malone.

Prof Mealor will be attending the Llangollen Eisteddfod as an adjudicator for the second time this year and for the first time as a vice president of the iconic event which starts on Tuesday, July 7.

He said: “The Eisteddfod is a phenomenal and wonderful event. The whole world comes to this beautiful little North Wales town to share music and culture. Racism, hatred and conflict lose and music wins every time.

“People might have differences, whether political or cultural, but they all speak just one language when it comes to music. And it isn’t just about classical music but all sorts of genres whether it’s folk, jazz, reggae or rock. It doesn’t matter.

“This year, for example, the legend that is Burt Bacharach is performing. How is it possible that a festival in a little North Wales town can attract world stars of that magnitude?

“That’s what the International Eisteddfod is all about, it’s just wonderful. Top quality musicians and performers such as Alfie Boe, Catrin Finch, Gareth Malone and a host of other top stars will be bringing wonderful music to the stage.”

Since 2003 he has been professor of composition at the University of Aberdeen.

He said: “It’s always busy, whether working with my students or composing new music, but one of the highlights of the year is always Llangollen. It shows the best of who we are. There is always such amazing new talent on show.

“The brilliant English physiatrist, Anthony Stoor was right when he said medicine will make you live longer but the arts will make you want to live longer. Imagine a life without music what a terrible world that would be.

“I’m really looking forward to adjudicating at this year’s festival, the standard is always exceptionally high. I competed there myself as a young boy but sadly failed spectacularly.”

Prof Mealor, whose first album for Decca, A Tender Light – a collection of sacred choral anthems – spent six weeks at No 1 in the classical charts, has stressed the importance of ensuring festivals such as Llangollen Eisteddfod receive adequate funding.

He said: “People need to realise how important the International Eisteddfod is and show people the benefits it brings not just to the immediate area but Wales and the rest of the UK as a whole.

“Funding in this day and age is always difficult but the festival stands for so much and it’s vital it continues to go from strength to strength.

“I would encourage anyone who has never been to the festival to go along, even for just a few hours, and soak up what is just an amazing and unique atmosphere.

“Where else would you find people from all over the world brought together in a spirit of peace and tolerance and through a love of one common language – the language of music.”

The Eisteddfod's musical director, Eilir Owen Griffiths, said: "I am thrilled that Paul is returning as an adjudicator this year.

"Paul is a big fan of the Eisteddfod and what it stands for as a melting pot of colour and culture dedicated to the notion of harmony in every sense of the word.

"As we approach the 70th anniversary of this unique festival next year, the magic of the Eisteddfod endures and its message of peace is as relevant today as it was in 1946 in the aftermath of the Second World War."

To book tickets and for more details on the 2015 festival go to the website at www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

AM calls for improvements at health board

Following the publication of a report into Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board by former head of the Welsh NHS Ann Lloyd, North Wales Assembly Member Aled Roberts AM has called for a radical improvements to be made.

 

Welsh Lib Dem Mr Roberts said: “It’s incredibly depressing to read yet another damning report into this failing health board.

 

“This report paints a picture of a health board that has completely lost control.

 

“It is not surprising that staff sickness remains so high when we read of a prevalent bullying culture.  It’s time that those involved had a long hard look at themselves and consider their positions. All members of staff should be held to account and that should start from the top.

 

“Whether it is postponing procedures, waiting lists growing ever higher, and of course major problems about the quality and safety of mental health units, it’s clear that patients in North Wales have been let down badly. 

 

“People in North Wales are fed up of hearing these bad news stories and having to put up with poor treatment.  The Welsh Liberal Democrats aspire for an NHS where everyone is treated with respect, dignity and in a timely fashion. That’s not asking for much and is the very least that people deserve.”

New Dot Cinema plays last film shown at The Dorothy

* Sammy Going South gets its test screening at Llangollen Town Hall.

Below: Period programmes from the Dorothy Cinema. Photos: J Sandiford

LLANGOLLEN’S new community cinema, New Dot, has held a technical test at the Town Hall in preparation for their launch night on Wednesday July 15.

The film they used to test their equipment was a copy of the very last film shown at the original Dorothy Cinema back in 1963.

Alexander Mackendrick's Sammy Going South is a British adventure film from 1963 about a 10-year-old boy travelling by himself across Africa.

According to an original cinema programme held by Llangollen Museum, it was shown on Saturday October 26, 1963, costing 2/6 for adults and 1/6 for pensioners.

Cinema programmer Simon Proffitt explains: “We needed to show something in order to test our projector and fine tune the sound system for the opening night.
“We thought this would create a neat link to our namesake, the Dorothy, so we tracked down a copy.

“We also trialled bits from the actual film we’ll be showing on the night, Oscar-winning romantic comedy The Artist. It looks stunning on the big screen.”

Although the rest of the cinema's 2015 programme is yet to be confirmed, it's unlikely that Sammy Going South will be screened in full to an audience. 

Simon added: “It’s not a bad film, but there are so many other excellent movies out there that people might not have come across before, and sadly we can't show them all.

“There will be some old classics in amongst the newer and less well-known titles, though, and we’re really looking forward to bringing a hand-picked and varied selection to Llangollen.”

The first public cinema event is at 7.30pm on Wednesday  July 15 at Llangollen Town Hall.
Tickets are available from Baileys Delicatessen, Gales Wine and Gift Shop,  or from
www.llangollenfringe.org, priced at £8 (£5 concessions).











* For more information go to: http://www.llangollenfringe.co.uk/index.php/en/festival-2015/94-wednesday-15th-july-new-dot-cinema

Health board's chief executive suspended

The BBC is reporting today that the chief executive of a Besti Cadwaladr University Health Board, which was yesterday placed into special measures by the Welsh Government, has been suspended with immediate effect.

 

Betsi Cadwaladr chairman Peter Higson said the suspension of Prof Trevor Purt was a "neutral act" while arrangements for special measures were sorted out.

For the full story see: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-33061869

Meanwhile, Llangollen campaigner Martin Crumpton, who opposed the health board's decision to close the town's Cottage Hospital, said in a statement: "Suspending the Chief Executive Officer, Trevor Purt, was inevitable and a necessarily step in allowing special measures to be taken, and far-reaching as it goes well-beyond Glan Clwyd, Bangor and Wrexham Maelor.

"It will clearly hearten campaigners at Withybush who were also made promises to reopen their own doctor-led maternity services.

 

"Professor Higson was in an invidious position, caught between his obligation to so-called collective responsibility and his own judgement of what is right, just and in the best interests of the hundreds of thousands to whose care he’d been entrusted.

 

"The very least I can do is reaffirm support from myself and other campaigners I work closely with for his programme of desperately-needed reforms."

 

Plas Newyd's summer programme details

* Plas Newydd where a programme events is planned for summer.

 

Plas Newydd has given details of its programme of events over the next month or so:

Sun 14th to Fri 19th June - Waterloo Week:   

Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, come and visit Plas Newydd as visited by one of the house’s regular visitors – The Duke of Wellington.

Sunday 21st June - Mid-Summers Eve Concert:

Celebrate  the magic and wonder of Mid-Summer’s Eve in the beautiful grounds of Plas Newydd with entertainment from the renowned and popular  Porthmyn choir  (Tickets £5) 6 – 8.30pm

Wednesday 24th June - Painting Day:
  
Talk and tour of the house first then an opportunity to sketch and paint the picturesque gardens and amazing Jacobean carvings within the house. (Normal admission prices apply).

Sunday 28th June – Llangollen Silver Band 4.30pm onwards:

Bring a rug and picnic, games for the kids, whilst being entertained to popular classics by the Llangollen Silver Band (Tickets £5).

Friday July 31st –   The Muskateers:

It’s one for all and all for one as popular theatre group Off the Ground return to the grounds of Plas Newydd for another evening spectacular with The Muskateers.

Health board goes into special measures

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which covers Llangollen, is being placed in special measures, the Welsh Government has announced.

And Llangollen county councillor Stuart Davies has called on Health Minister Mark Drakeford and Wales’s First Minister Carwyn Jones to consider their positions.

Following concerns about the leadership, governance and progress in the Health Board, Mr Drakeford asked the Chief Executive of NHS Wales, Dr Andrew Goodall, to bring forward a meeting between the Welsh Government, the Wales Audit Office and Health Inspectorate Wales - as part of the NHS Wales escalation framework - to review and consider the health board’s current status.

Since the introduction of the framework in March 2014, the Health Board has already been raised to Targeted Intervention, the highest of any of the NHS organisations in Wales.

The tripartite meeting, held earlier today (Monday), concluded that the Health Board should be placed in special measures, the highest level of escalation under the framework.

The Minister has accepted their advice. The Chair of the Health Board has been informed of the Minister’s decision.

Mark Drakeford said: “As a result of the meeting that took place earlier today between the Welsh Government and regulators, I can confirm that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is being placed in special measures.

“This significant decision is made in line with the escalation framework. It reflects serious and outstanding concerns about the leadership, governance and progress in the Health Board over some time. A thorough and balanced assessment has taken place on areas of concern that will form the basis of actions to be taken as a result of special measures.

“Whilst the special measures apply to the Health Board, I want to reassure patients and communities served by the Health Board and staff working for it that day-to-day services and activities will continue as normal.” 

Llangollen councillor Stuart Davies said: “The Health Minister has failed to get a grip of these issues and should consider his position.

“Presiding over all of this unholy mess – don’t forget that two health authorities in South Wales are badly overspent - is the First Minister, Carwyn Jones. He should be considering his position, too.

“Next year is Welsh Assembly election time and the NHS in Wales is in meltdown.”

Referring to his recent appearance as a questioner of BBC’s Question Time when it came to Wrexham a few months ago, Cllr Davies added: “I was right when asked the question by David Dimbleby,  is the NHS better in England than Wales? The answer was correct. Yes.”

Further actions and interventions as part of the special measures will now be considered by the Welsh Government, with advice and support from regulators.

The Health Minister is due to make an oral statement to the Assembly tomorrow (Tuesday 9th June 2015).

A spokesman for Denbighshire County Council said: "We have become increasingly concerned about recent developments at the Health Board on behalf of our residents. We want to reassure the public that following the latest developments,  the Council, as a responsible local authority, will work constructively with the Minister for Health and Social Services to play our part in supporting the turn around and improvement of health services in North Wales. We await the Minister's next statement this week when we will find out the finer details of the steps the Welsh Government will be taking."

MP raises questions over bank closures

Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones has put down questions in Parliament calling on Business Secretary Sajid Javid to meet with senior management of Nat West following the bank's shock announcement last week that it intends to close branches in Llangollen, Corwen and nine other areas of North Wales. 

 

Ms Jones (pictured) has also asked the Government to issue a statement on how it plans to support high street banking in communities in the region.

 

The exact wording of Susan Elan Jones MP's written parliamentary question is:

"Further to plans announced this week by Nat West Bank that they will close branches in Llangollen, Corwen and 9 other communities in North Wales, will the Secretary of State (a) meet with senior management at the Bank to urge them to re-consider their decision and (b) issue a statement on how his Department proposes to support high street banks in communities in North Wales."   

Speaking after issuing her question, Ms MP said: "High street banking is at crisis point across North Wales.

 

"It is a disgrace that Nat West want to close the last branch bank in the growing town of Corwen and that they are also planning to turn their backs on businesses and individuals in the international tourist town of Llangollen.

 

"If David Cameron really wants to lead a One Nation government, then Cabinet Ministers must remember that rural communities are part of our nation too and they need to accordingly by putting pressure on the big banks and actively supporting high street banking in North Wales." 

Strengthened links between council and business

Efforts to strengthen links between Denbighshire County Council and businesses accessing its planning and public protection functions is being piloted in the county – the first project of its kind in Wales.

The Council has a regulatory function to protect the health and well-being of the public through food hygiene, health and safety, Trading Standards, licensing, planning and building control activities.

As part of its Economic and Community Ambition Programme, the Council is now working with the Government’s Better Regulation Delivery Office, with the intention of making sure that businesses receive a co-ordinated response from the Council on regulatory matters through one contact, rather than having to deal with numerous departments.

This initiative is being supported by the Federation of Small Business and the West Cheshire and North Wales Chambers of Commerce.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Public Protection, said: "We want to improve services to our business customers and we’ve already spoken to a number of them about their perceptions. Whilst they understand the need for the various services, there is a clear need for a more seamless service, for closer joint working and for providing assistance and support through advice and guidance.

"We also want to put more emphasis on working with businesses from day one to get things right from a regulation perspective and avoid enforcement action later.

Derek Payet, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills | Better Regulation Delivery Office, said: "The Government’s priority is business growth and it’s great to see local businesses and Denbighshire County Council’s regulatory services working in partnership to achieve this.  It’s good to have an open approach to improvements that will meet the needs of businesses in the area and I’m pleased to be supporting the project through the Better Business for All programme."

Leader of Denbighshire, Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, said: "Improving links with businesses and making the Council more accessible forms part of our Economic and Community Ambition Strategy. The success of the local economy is of utmost importance and we must play our part in assisting businesses to comply with the law and contribute to their future success.

"We look forward to working closely with businesses over the coming months to make this ambition become a reality."

Federation of Small Businesses North Wales Chair Gwyn Evans said: "Every business faces some form of regulation, but if that regulation is done in a clear and proportionate way it makes life easier both for businesses and regulators themselves.

"The FSB has called for more to be done across Wales to improve the quality of regulation and last year we published a major report – Better Regulation for Wales – on this issue.

Colin Brew, Executive Director of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce said: "West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce are pleased to be supporting this positive initiative and would encourage businesses of all sizes to engage and participate and have their voices heard."

Weather stays fine for Plas Newydd Garden Fete

* Plas Newydd field was full of fun activities during the Garden Fete.

Scores of people came flocking to the annual Garden Fete held at Plas Newydd yesterday (Saturday).

The event was organised by members of Llangollen Rotary Club, Inner Wheel Club and the newly-formed Dee Valley Rotary Club.

Llangollen Silver Band played selections, while youngsters were entertained by Punch and Judy, face painting  and a treasure hunt.              

People also had the chance to try their skills at various games and competitions.

There were numerous stalls, including home-made cakes and a plant stall.

A tea tent provided a range of refreshments.

Announcements were made by town crier Chem Cheminais.

Public urged to have a say on doctors' building

* The current health centre on Regent Street.

 

Llangollen people are being urged to tell the Welsh Government how they believe the town’s current health centre could be saved as a community asset.

The building in Regent Street will be left empty when the GPs practice moves to fresh headquarters in the new £5 million primary care resource centre now nearing completion in Mill Street.

A number of people have voiced their concern that the Regent Street building should continue to be used for the benefit of the community.

But Mike Edwards, a board member of Llangollen Cittaslow group, recently discovered by making Freedom of Information request to its owners, the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, that after being offered for possible redevelopment as affordable housing – with no takers – the building is to be put up for sale on the open market.

Mr Edwards has since discovered that the Welsh Government is currently running a consultation exercise called Protecting Community Assets in which it is seeking people’s views on how this should be done.

He said: "As a Cittaslow board member, I'd urge people to complete the online survey to provide the Welsh Government with the community's view on these proposals which already apply in England."

 

The consultation exercise began last month and is due to end on September 11 this year.

* Comments can be submitted online at: http://gov.wales/consultations/people-and-communities/protecting-community-assets-consultation/?status=open&lang=en 
or by post to: Protecting Community Assets Consultation, Welsh Government, Communities Division, Rhydycar, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UZ.

The government says that it intends to publish a summary of the responses.

County responds to library and TIC closure rumours

DENBIGHSHIRE County Council has denied rumours about the future of Llangollen library and Tourist Information Centre (TIC).

In the past few weeks there have been speculation in the town that, that in the face of on-going financial cuts, the council was thinking of axing both facilities, which are housed in the same building on Castle Street.

However, this has been denied by the county council.

In a statement issued to llanblogger, a spokesperson said: “Denbighshire, like all other councils in Wales and the UK, is facing significant financial cuts in the coming years due to the economic climate. This is on top of millions of pounds of cuts already made.

“We have carried out a rigorous budget setting process for the current year during which members committed to maintaining all six of our libraries as it is agreed that these are really important community facilities and so we are looking to develop them further by increasing the One Stop Shop and Self Service facilities in them, so there are no plans to close any or sell them off at this time.

“We recognise the importance of TICs and, again, there are no current plans to close them from Denbighshire, although members did agree for the council to cease running gallery space at Llangollen, Denbigh and Rhyl as this was considered a costly service in the face of such sizeable cuts.
“The gallery at Llangollen is due to finish by late October.”