Calling singers for eisteddfod's celebration chorus

* A chorus on song at an earlier Llangollen Eisteddfod.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is calling for passionate singers to join a special Celebration Chorus to mark this year's 70th anniversary of the festival.

An open session for people interested in taking part is being held at St John’s Church in Abbey Road on Saturday January 28, from 10am-1pm.

The chorus will sing during the eisteddfod performing Calling All Dawns by Christopher Tin on Wednesday July 5 to a live audience in the International Pavilion.

Festival musical director Eilir Griffiths said: “The Celebration Chorus has been a highlight of the International Eisteddfod in previous years and we’re excited to continue this proud tradition as we celebrate our 70th anniversary.

“Every year the support from the local community is overwhelming and it’s fantastic to see people actively getting involved in the eisteddfod.

“We encourage anyone with a passion for singing to join us at rehearsals and be part of a special performance of this song-cycle which, with its message of unity, is entirely appropriate for the eisteddfod stage.

"Entry to the chorus is open to anyone who is able to commit to the rehearsal schedule but previous choral experience would be an advantage.

“So, whether you’re a soprano, alto, tenor or bass – or even if you’re not sure what you are - we need you!”

Spaces in the chorus are limited.

* For further information, email info@international-eisteddfod.co.uk, or call 01978 862000.

AM's challenge over Independent Living Grant

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood has challenged the First Minister over the Welsh Government’s decision to transfer the Welsh Independent Living Grant to local authorities.

The Welsh Independent Living Grant helps disabled people to live independently.

Mr Isherwood (pictured), who chairs the Cross Party Group on Disability, told Carwyn Jones of the concerns this is causing disabled people.

In November Mr Isherwood urged the Welsh Government to provide a statement or debate on future support for disabled former recipients of the Independent Living Fund.

In the chamber he said: “Further to the Welsh Government announcement it was transferring the Welsh Independent Living Grant to local authorities, a campaigner in Wrexham, Nathan Davies said he felt that disabled people had been sold down the river and that all they could see was yet more fighting.

"Disability Wales expressed disappointment that the Welsh Government didn’t follow Scotland in setting up an Independent Living Fund (ILF) which Northern Ireland has also commissioned its ILF from.

“How, therefore, will you engage with such concerns to ensure that not only local authorities and health boards, but the Welsh Government itself, is complying with the intention of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, placing a duty on public authorities to promote the involvement of people in the design and delivery of care and support services?”

The First Minister replied: “The decision was taken to enable payments to be made uninterrupted to former recipients in Wales. It was an interim decision, designed to last until 31 March this year, while we considered which arrangements were appropriate to provide support in the longer term.

"Following advice from the stakeholders advisory group, which does include organisations that represent disabled people in Wales, we are introducing, from this April, a two-year transitional arrangement, whereby support in the future will be through normal social care provision.”

Mr Isherwood added: “the UK Government devolved responsibility for the Independent Living Fund, transferring £27 million recurrent annual funding to the Labour Welsh Government, and the Welsh Government introduced its Welsh Independent Living Grant on 1st July 2015, to run until the end of March 2017.

"It should have been designed and delivered with disabled people themselves.”

Give legal status to volunteers, says MP

Clwyd South Labour MP Susan Elan Jones (pictured) has called on the Government to give an official legal status to full-time volunteers.

Speaking in the House of Commons as MPs examined the National Citizen Service Bill, she said: "Volunteering does not have any legal status in this country.

"Indeed, volunteers aged 18 and over, or anyone else, could be designated as not in employment, education or training.

"For those aged 18-plus who go on volunteering programmes, there is no agreement that that should mean national insurance contributions and the like. We need to develop those ideas."

The MP also spoke about the importance of involving more young people as charity trustees and in bringing together people from different backgrounds She also paid tribute to the Community Participation element of the Welsh Baccalaureat.

Speaking afterwards, Susan Elan Jones MP said: "In America since the days of President Johnson and President Kennedy, full-time volunteering - or 'service' as it's often called - has a legal status and huge numbers of young people take part in it.

"The same is true also in France, Germany and other countries - and I think it is something we need to look at here too."

Ms Jones will next week serve as a member of the Bill Committee for the National Citizen Service Bill.

Three Musketeers panto is a swashbuckling success

* From left, Jo Potts as D’Artagnan, Tracey Rawlinson

as Athos, Tessa Orton Jones as Porthos and Justine Bradey as Aramis.

The rapier-like wit of the King’s cavaliers thrust straight to the heart of the audience on the glittering first-night of the latest Llangollen panto.

The Pantomime Group took the brave step of breaking away from more traditional fare like Jack and the Beanstalk and Dick Whittington to present The Three Musketeers – with apologies to Alexander Dumas – and it certainly paid off.

It was a lavish chuckle-fest from start to finish, thanks to a huge and talented cast which filled the stage at the Pavilion.

In the title roles were the terrific trio of Tracey Rawlinson, Tessa Orton-Jones and Justine Bradey as, respectively, Athos, Porthos and Aramis.

Testosterone abounded as the threesome swashbuckled and thigh-slapped their way through the plot, actually loosely based on the more serious original, which sees them triumph in their quest to help the Queen of France out of a rather embarrassing situation she’s got herself into with the Prime Minister of Great Britain.

Helping the Musketeers along the way is the young and impetuous Gascon who wants to join their ranks, D’Artagnan, played with a real zest by panto stalwart Jo Potts.

Pitted against our heroes is the evil Cardinal Richelieu, played with delicious devilishness by real live Frenchman Nico Decourt.

Also wonderfully nasty and attracting lots of traditional hisses and boos from the crowd in the process is Jo Pearson as Milady de Winter

Taking the role of Queen Anne and her prat of a paramour, the Duke of Tottenham, are one of the best amateur stage comedy duos around, Louise Cielecki and Nathan Lloyd.

And stage-lisping his way through the whole thing with aplomb as King Louis XIII of France is another Llan panto favourite, Simon Orton-Jones, who also has the distinction of directing the show.

It’s a real family affair for him because not only is his missus one of the Musketeers but their two daughters, Millie and Celyn, also have significant roles in the production.

Settings, including some nice video footage of the Musketeers going through their swashbuckling paces in a park – think it’s local rather than Paris – projected behind them as they sing one of their numbers, are extremely inventive.

There’s a good choice of toe-tapping songs interspersing the action, well backed by a six-piece band.

To steal the Musketeers’ famous catchphrase, this show is definitely one for all.    

You can see it tonight, Saturday and Sunday.

Friday, the show starts at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm).  On Saturday, there are two performances, 1.30pm (doors open at 1pm) and 6pm (doors open at 5.30pm) and a Sunday matinee (doors open 2pm, show 2.30pm). 

* Tickets are also available online at  https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenpanto and from Jades Hair & Beauty, Llangollen or Gwyn Davies (Butchers), Llangollen.  You can also reserve tickets by calling 01978 860297.      

County's efforts to combat dog fouling paying off

Efforts to tackle dog fouling in Denbighshire are paying dividends, with a drop in the number of complaints being received over a three-year period.

Figures from January 2013 to the end of 2016 show a declining trend, down from 59 complaints in January 2013 to 38 in November 2016, although there have been an increase in the number of complaints each year in the winter months.

The council has a long-running campaign to tackle dog fouling and environmental crime, with a key focus on education and prevention, as well as enforcement action against those individuals who fail to clear up after their dogs.

Prevention activities have included direct engagement with dog owners about the council’s approach, handing out bags, spraying dog foul with yellow chalk to highlight problem areas, the introduction of yellow glow in the dark signs to deter would be offenders and high visibility patrols.

Dedicated operations have been carried out in ‘hot spot areas’ where there have been regular complaints..

In 2016, there were 77 notices issued to individuals for dog fouling offences.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, said: “We are delighted that our efforts are proving successful, but we want to continue with our campaign for clean and tidy streets in Denbighshire.

“Residents have told us that dog fouling is on the top of the list of issues that they want us to address and we have been working tirelessly to raise the profile of dog fouling issues and raising the profile of the matter.

“Of course, the majority of people act responsibly and clear up after their animals. We would like to thank them for that. This message is targeted at those individuals who act in an irresponsible manner and who show disregard to the health and well-being of other people in the community."

* You can report any instances of dog fouling by reporting it through the Council’s website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/dogfouling or by phoning 01824 706000.

Denbighshire "great place to do business"

Denbighshire County Council is reassuring businesses that the County is a great place to do business and that business start-up and survival rates are improving.

Figures released by Lloyds Banking Group suggest a reduction in business start-ups in the County between November 2011 and November 2016, based on the take up of products from a number of banking groups.

But in Denbighshire the number of active enterprises increased between 2011 and 2015 from 3135 to 3330, while the number of ‘business births’ has increased from 280 a year in 2012 to 350 in 2015.

Business survival rates are very good in the County and show 95 per cent (up from 91 per cent in 2011) of firms opening in Denbighshire continue to trade for at least one year, while more than 60 per cent (up from 52 per cent in 2012) are still trading three years on, which is comparable to the Welsh average.

Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, Denbighshire’s Lead Member for the Economy, said: “As a Council we feel the data presented by Lloyds Banking Group does not represent the full picture.

“The situation in Denbighshire is very positive, with more businesses operating in the County now than in 2011, a healthy number of business start-ups combined with really positive survival rates. We feel this is a much better indicator of success.

“The message we want to send to businesses is that a large majority of those that start in the County survive beyond three years. That makes Denbighshire an excellent place to start a business.

“Denbighshire, and its partners, are working hard to support businesses as part of its Economic and Community Ambition Programme by offering a wealth of advice and support, providing grants to assist firms looking to expand, as well as streamlining the regulation process to save traders time and money.

“By providing a supportive and business friendly environment - a key Council priority - we’ve helped to make Denbighshire an excellent place to start and run a business.

“We have also made it easier for businesses looking to relocate to the county by offering a quick and professional service. An example of this having a positive effect was the recent £6million investment by the Real Petfood Company at Bodelwyddan.”

A recent survey of Denbighshire businesses found more firms were looking to maintain staff numbers (82 per cent) and are expecting sales and profitability to improve (64 per cent) than in the 2015 survey.

The survey, undertaken by BE Group, which had 496 respondents, found more firms (54 per cent) were expecting to invest in capital, up from 37 per cent in 2015.

Denbighshire County Council will soon be announcing details of its annual March for Business month, a series of free networking, advice and workshop sessions for businesses both small and large. 

There will be a wide-range of events covering topics including retail skills, starting a new business, digital skills and how to create a healthier and happier working environment.

* For more information on March For Business contact econ.dev@denbighshire.gov.uk or 01824 706896 or follow @ebddcc on Twitter.

 

Steam gala celebrates double 50th aniversary

* Ex-LMS 8F No. 48624 will take pride of place in the Spring Steam Gala. 

Llangollen Railway will be celebrating the end of the Paddington to Woodside Expresses 50 years on at its Spring Steam Gala over the weekend of March 3-5.

Along Birkenhead Lines will feature an intensive timetable of both passenger and mixed traffic trains, a great collection of historic steam locomotives and special attractions along the line.

The weekend also marks the 50th anniversary of two significant events - the last steam-hauled Cambrian Coast Express and 50 years since the last through working from London Paddington to Birkenhead (Woodside).

A railway spokesperson said: "Work is in hand to make this gala one of the most historically accurate and authentic steam events yet achieved at Llangollen. Expect to see cameos, displays, recreations and all the appropriate paper ephemera."

The gala will feature a number of special visiting steam locomotives :

• LMS 8F No.48624 (c/o The 48624 Locomotive Group & GCR PLC)
• GWR No.6960 "Raveningham Hall" (c/o West Somerset Railway)
• LMS 'Flying Pig' No.43106 (c/o The Ivatt Class 4 Group & Severn Valley Railway)

In addition, the Llangollen Railway's 'home fleet' pool of locos for this event will be:

• LMS 'Black 5' No.45337 (making her return after overhaul)
• BR Standard Four tank No. 80072
• GWR '5101' Large Prairie No.5199
• BR Manor No. 7822 "Foxcote Manor"
• Class 03 Diesel No.03162 (a former Birkenhead shunter)

The visiting Ivatt Class 4MT 43106 was the last BR steam locomotive to travel between Chester and Shrewsbury, on 1st August 1968.

The loco's journey was carefully routed to limit movement 'under the wires' and travelled via Frodsham, Chester, Wrexham and Shrewsbury on its way to Stourbridge Junction for preservation on the Severn Valley Railway at Bridgnorth.

* Download our FREE Advanced Information booklet for the latest news on the gala from: http://www.llangollen-railway.co.uk/event/spring-steam-gala-3rd-march/

MP calls for new domestic violence law

Clwyd South Labour MP Susan Elan Jones MP has called on the Government to urgently bring in a law that would stop perpetrators of domestic abuse from directly cross-examining their victims within the family court system.

Questioning Minister of State for Courts and Justice Rt Hon Oliver Heald MP in the House of Commons Chamber recently, Ms Jones (pictured) said: "Everyone who has spoken today, including the Minister, has said the situation is urgent.

"In view of that and the fact that he said primary legislation will be needed, is there any reason why he cannot commit to the Government presenting that within three or four months?"


After her Commons exchange, Ms Jones said: "This dreadful practice is rightly banned in our criminal courts and it shouldn't be allowed within the family court system either.

"It needs to be stopped urgently. The Government has now committed to banning the practice, but there must be no further delay. It really isn't right how people can be directly confronted and questioned by those who have been violent and abusive towards them."

One possible solution was suggested by Justice Select Committee Chair, Robert Neill MP, who said the simplest answer would be to adopt the criminal provisions “lock, stock and barrel” and accept that the “modest” cost of a court-appointed advocate to undertake the cross-examination was necessary.


* The parliamentary exchange can be seen at:
http://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/6eda3191-6f6f-4e7c-8e6a-8c3f40918f69?in=16:12:28
https://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2017-01-09a.34.5

Winter weather advice from ambulance service

WITH Wales having its first wintry weather, the Welsh Ambulance Service is reminding members of the public to stay safe and use the service appropriately.

The Trust is taking extra precautions to ensure it can continue to get help to patients during the adverse weather by making its 4x4 vehicles available to respond and topping up stocks of salt on stations.

Ambulances are also fitted with winter tyres which work more efficiently on snow or ice.

The Trust’s dedicated falls teams are on standby for the likely increase in trips and falls.

North Wales’ Community Assistance Team – a partnership with North Wales Fire and Rescue Service which aims to reduce the number of people who need to attend hospital after a fall – will be rolled out into Flintshire and Wrexham temporarily in preparation for increased demand.

The Trust is appealing to all patients who have booked transport via its Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service to make contact if they no longer need transport‎.

These patients are also advised that there may be potential delays to their transport if adverse weather hits, and so are encouraged to bring with them essentials like medication, food and money.

Director of Operations Richard Lee said: “We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for Wales and have contingency plans in place to deal with the adverse conditions currently predicted across the region.

“We are also working with other emergency services and organisations to make sure we can get medical help to a patient in the safest manner in wintry conditions.

“We are well prepared to deliver the same high standard of care to the people of Wales, but inevitably when it is snowy or icy our responses may take longer.

“We would ask the public to help us by keeping well and using the 999 system wisely.”
There are extra precautions people can take to protect themselves from the risks associated with cold weather so they don’t become ill or injured.Richard has this advice for the public.
Top tips to keep well this winter

·        Check that your heating system works properly – keep the temperature in the room you are using at around 21°C

·        Dress for warmth and comfort, putting on several thinner layers of clothing to trap the heat – wear warm, dry, flat boots or shoes with good non-slip soles, especially in frosty or wet weather

·        Eat a well-balanced diet with hot meals every day – have regular hot drinks to give you extra warmth and energy

·        Keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet – check you have enough basic medicines at home to manage common ailments, such as coughs, colds, headaches, indigestion, upset stomach and diarrhoea

·        Keep an eye on your neighbours to ensure they are looking after themselves

·        Take extra care in the mornings when it’s likely to be most icy – elderly residents are particularly at risk of slipping and falling while going about everyday tasks like taking the bins out or even feeding the birds. That can lead to serious injuries such as broken limbs or hips, requiring surgery and a stay in hospital

·        Instead, when it gets icy, they are advised to stay indoors; and if possible get a fit and healthy friend or relative to run any errands for them. Or, wait until later in the day when ice has thawed.

·        Make sure your vehicle is winter ready carry an emergency kit in your boot – this should include an ice scraper, torch, first aid kit, blankets and jump leads

·        Drive responsibly in poor visibility and conditions – it's better to drive slowly and smoothly to avoid braking sharply

·        If you’re forced to abandon your vehicle in heavy snow, please park it responsibly so that emergency vehicles can pass

The public are reminded that there are a host of alternatives to 999 and the Emergency Department.

If you’re ill and unsure what to do, take one of the many NHS Direct Wales online symptom checkers for tailored advice.

You can also call the service on 0845 46 47 for 24/7 health advice and information – or 111 if you live in the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board area.

You can also visit your GP, pharmacist or nearest Minor Injuries Unit, where there is no need for an appointment.

Ambulances are for serious and life-threatening emergencies only.

Roadshows on how to become a councillor

Denbighshire County Council will be hitting the road with a series of information roadshows aimed at the county’s residents who are thinking of becoming a county councillor.

The next county council elections will take place on Thursday, May 4 on the same day as the city, town and community council elections. 

Council representatives will be on hand at the roadshows to provide information on the role of the county councillor, how the Council works, the issues county councillors will face after the elections, the nomination and election process and the support available to councillors once elected. Serving councillors will also be available to share their experiences and insights on the office of elected member.

The roadshows will take place at the following locations:

Fforddlas Community Centre, Rhyl – Tuesday, January 24

Conference Room 1a, County Hall, Ruthin – Tuesday, 31 January

Restaurant at the Nova, Prestatyn – Wednesday, February 8

Denbigh Town Hall – Tuesday, February 28

All events will begin at 7.30pm and will last for approximately two hours.

Whilst booking is not essential, it would be useful if people could register their attendance at one of the workshops by e-mailing:  democratic@denbighshire.gov.uk or by phone: 01824 712589. 

For further information about any aspects of the elections process, including nomination packs,  please visit: http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/elections or call 01824 706000.

Eisteddfod receives £1,000 boost from Rotary

* From left, Denbigh Rotary Club president Gwynfor Evans,

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod competitor

liaison officer Merle Hunt and Rotarian Gwyrfai Jones with the £1,000 donation.

 
The Rotary Club of Denbigh has made a donation of £1,000 to Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in its 70th anniversary year.

The money will go towards the eisteddfod’s bursary fund, which supports competitors from across the globe who require financial assistance to attend and compete at the festival.

"The club has supported the Llangollen Eisteddfod for many years, with many of our members attending every year,” said Rotary Club spokesman John Davies.

“We’re proud to show our support of this iconic festival which is such a large part of the area’s heritage.”

Merle Hunt, competitors liaison officer for the eisteddfod, said: “As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on donations, sponsorships and support from volunteers.

“We would also like to extend our thanks to the many other Rotary Clubs in the local area that support the eisteddfod, both financially and with the gift of their time as volunteers.  

“It is these supporters who make it possible for the eisteddfod to continue each year.”

This year's eisteddfod takes place from Monday-Sunday July 3-9.

* For more information and to buy tickets, go to: www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

Latest Llan panto is one for all

* From left, Jo Potts as D’Artagnan, Tracey Rawlinson

as Athos, Tessa Orton Jones as Porthos and Justine Bradey as Aramis.

Llangollen Pavilion will be transformed into the scandalous court of Louis XIII as the town’s Pantomime Group perform The Three Musketeers.

The historical tale gets the traditional pantomime treatment as the young and impetuous D’Artagnan strives to find the missing piece of the True Quiche of Lorraine, helped, somewhat reluctantly, by the three musketeers, Athos, Aramis and Porthos. 

Will they be able to save Queen Anne, whose reckless flirtations with the Duke of Tottenham have got her into rather a pickle, or will Louis send her to the dungeon to meet her fate at the hands of the evil Cardinal Richelieu?

The pantomime, which has been running in Llangollen for more than 30 years, will take place from January 19-22.

Its director, Simon Orton-Jones from Pengwern, Llangollen, said: “The Three Musketeers may not be a traditional pantomime story but it lends itself very well to this sort of production.

“In typical panto fashion, the three musketeers, along with d'Artagnan, are played by women, there’s a pantomime dame, played by a man and for the first time in a long time, the pantomime horse returns to our production.

“The cast and crew are working hard to ensure this is an entertaining and memorable show.”

Two former pupils from Ysgol Dinas Bran who have recently completed courses at Drama School take on two lead roles.  Louise Cielecki plays Queen Anne and Nathan Lloyd plays The Duke of Tottenham.
 
A live band will accompany the production with music from, amongst others, Justin Timberlake, One Direction and Duran Duran.  

The Three Musketeers runs from Thursday, January 19 to Sunday, January 22 at Llangollen Pavilion. 

On Thursday and Friday, the show starts at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm).  On Saturday, there are two performances, 1.30pm (doors open at 1pm) and 6pm (doors open at 5.30pm) and a Sunday matinee (doors open 2pm, show 2.30pm). 

* Tickets are also available online at  https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenpanto and from Jades Hair & Beauty, Llangollen or Gwyn Davies (Butchers), Llangollen.  You can also reserve tickets by calling 01978 860297.

County prepares for wintry weather

With weather warnings in place, Denbighshire County Council says it has plans in place to deal with snow and icy conditions.

If freezing temperatures are predicted, the council will be out and about treating main A and B class roads, as well as key routes between villages.

During each salting run, there are nine vehicles out and about  treating 570 km of roads.

The council’s gritting teams operate from depots at Bodelwyddan, Ruthin and Corwen and there is currently 3,600 tonnes of salt in place, with further stocks available from suppliers at short notice, if required.

The council also  has an arrangement in place with 25 local contractors to assist with the work of clearing minor routes countywide.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, said: “The weather forecast seems to be changing virtually by the hour  and it is difficult to predict how much snow, if any we will experience in the county.

“However, we can assure residents that we have teams of staff on stand- by across the county and we are monitoring all the latest weather updates coming in.  We will take the necessary action to deal with the condition and to keep the roads as clear as possible.

“We would ask people to keep an eye on the weather forecasts online, social media, television and radio.”

In the event of any school closures, the council’s website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk and social media accounts will be updated.

Politicians voice concern over water company's future

Shareholders of a company have been urged to think of the workforce and local jobs when they vote on its future.

The Dee Valley Water board will decide which of two rival bids to accept on Thursday morning (January 12), with employees at the firm’s Rhostyllen headquarters having previously raised concerns about a possible takeover by Severn Trent Water.

The Coventry-based company has outbid investment firm Ancala, which is the workforce’s preferred option.

Clwyd South AM Ken Skates and MP Susan Elan Jones, along with Wrexham MP Ian Lucas, have put their names to a series of letters supporting the staff.

A joint statement by Mr Skates and Ms Jones said: “As the people elected to serve this area, we continue to fight for the Dee Valley workforce and for the people of Clwyd South. The employees have made it clear what they want, and we have supported them throughout this process. We continue to do so.

“First Minister Carwyn Jones spoke in Senedd about Dee Valley Water and said he could not support any change that would mean the loss of jobs at Rhostyllen. People’s livelihoods must be the primary concern when shareholders’ cast their vote.”

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas added: “This is a crucial meeting where the future of a valued local employer will be decided. Shareholders should understand that hundreds of jobs will be affected by the decisions they take and I would urge them to listen to the views of the people who work for Dee Valley Water.”

The three Labour politicians have previously said Severn Trent has not offered sufficient guarantees over jobs and welcomed Ancala’s intention to retain Dee Valley Water’s operations and brand.

Dee Valley Water employs about 180 people and has 230,000 customers across the Wrexham and Chester areas. The company’s average household bill is £126, compared to Severn Trent’s average of £174.

County offers grants to boost companies' digital profile

Firms looking for a digital makeover can now take advantage of a business grant.

Denbighshire County Council’s Business Development Grant scheme has awarded more than £71,000 to 17 Denbighshire firms since April last year.

The grant has been expanded to offer more financial support for businesses looking to take advantage of digital technology to help stimulate local innovation, improve competitiveness and help reach new markets.

This includes opportunities for all types of businesses, including firms looking to take bookings online and send automatic appointment reminders by text or email or replacing their old telephone systems with cheaper internet based systems.

Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, leader of Denbighshire, said: “Even the smallest business can benefit from this grant.

“Websites have well established benefits for trade and in 2017 more funding is available for local businesses to create their own high quality online presence and even venture into selling online.

“I would encourage eligible businesses in the county to apply for a grant as soon as possible as the funding is awarded on a first come, first served basis.”

Up to 75 per cent of costs may be funded and proposals will have to demonstrate how the investment will develop the business.

The scheme, which forms part of the Council’s Economic and Community Ambition Programme, also offers funding to new and existing businesses to create employment, improve business competitiveness and create a vibrant local economy.

As well as increasing the funding for the digital element of the scheme, the overall cap of the grant has been raised from £5,000 to £10,000 and the limit on applicants’ annual turnover has increased from £250,000 to £500,000.

* For more information or to apply for a Business Development Grant from Denbighshire County Council visit Denbighshire.gov.uk/business or contact 01824 706896.

Llangollen WI's committee for 2017

Llangollen WI has sent in this picture of members of their committee for 2017.

Railway volunteers get to work tidying trackside

* Volunteers at work on the line of Llangollen Railway

near Berwyn. Picture by David Roberts.

Over the winter period, it is a common misconception that the Llangollen Railway goes into slumber mode until the trains restart in mid-February.

In fact, it is a busy time for the volunteers and staff to undertake maintenance tasks along the line in readiness for visitors in 2017.

In the area around Berwyn a large amount of work has been going on to manage the vegetation growing along the lineside.

This is a regular but often ‘behind the scenes’ part of railway operations and enables the travelling public to see the countryside through which the railway runs instead of a green corridor.

Last Saturday a dozen volunteers were on hand to assist with the clearing and burning the vegetation on the embankment to the east of the station.

The stockpiled brushwood from two years ago proved to be perfect basis for some lineside bonfires, which were kept well fed with freshly cut saplings and branches throughout the day.

The ground was also strimmed using a heavy-duty power tool, to give a neat finish.

The exposed retaining wall appears to be in good condition, although its exposure will enable a more detailed structural survey to be carried out.

Unmanaged trees and plants can cause serious safety problems for the railway by covering up signals or falling on to the tracks.

Any lineside clearance work done on the Llangollen Railway is conducted outside of the bird nesting season.

The areas of lineside vegetation proposed for clearance work are carefully inspected for birds' nests prior to any work commencing.

The Railway has said a massive thank you to everyone who has participated in the clearance work so far this season.

AM "seriously concerned" over regional prosperity figures

* See response from Wales's Economy Secretary Ken Skates at the foot of the story ...

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood says he is seriously concerned that the publication of new economic prosperity figures show North Wales is trailing even further behind the rest of the UK. 

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has published regional gross value added (GVA) figures for 2015, which measure the value of the goods and services per head of population produced in an economy.

They show that at £16,059, West Wales and the Valleys, including four North Wales counties, Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy and Denbighshire, still has the lowest GVA of all UK sub regions, down again to just 63.3% of the UK average.

West Wales and The Valleys has had the lowest GVA per head of all UK sub-regions in each of the years1997 to 2015, moving relatively further away from the UK average since the start of the time period.

Anglesey still has the lowest GVA amongst all UK local areas at £13,411, down again to just 52.9% of the UK average.

Even GVA per head in Wrexham and Flintshire, which stood at 99.3 per cent of the UK average in 1999, has fallen again to just 84% of the UK average.

At £18,002, Wales continues to have the lowest GVA per head amongst the 12 UK nations and regions, standing at only 71% of the UK average.

Mr Isherwood (pictured) said: “With Labour Welsh Government in charge of economic development in Wales since 1999, this record of failure is a betrayal of North Wales, demanding a change of direction.

“The UK Government announced in its March 2016 Budget that it was ‘opening the door’ to a Growth Deal for North Wales and that it would be looking for the next Welsh Government to devolve powers down and invest in the region as part of any future deal.

“Proposals detailed in "A Growth Vision for the Economy of North Wales", developed by the North Wales Economic Ambition Board in partnership with the Mersey Dee Alliance and the Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership, went to both the UK and Welsh Government’s last summer.

“The UK Treasury responded by asking the Ambition Board to detail their strategic priorities and prioritise projects, and the Chancellor’s  Autumn Statement in November 2016 confirmed that the UK Government continued to be open to discussing options for a Growth Deal with North Wales.

“However, the Welsh Government has dodged my questions about how and whether it has responded to the call in the North Wales Growth Vision document for the devolution of powers by the Welsh Government over employment, taxes, skills and transport, which it states ‘would boost the economy, jobs and productivity, create at least 120,000 jobs, and boost the value of the local economy from £12.8 billion to £20 billion by 2035’.

“After almost 18 years of Labour excuses, the time has come to enable North Wales to become a beacon of prosperity, vision and ambition.”

The Economy Secretary, Ken Skates said:  “Latest GVA figures show an improving  picture for Wales, with 2015’s total  GVA for Wales  standing at £55.8 billion, an increase of 3 per cent on the previous year and rising faster than the UK average.

“The figures also show  that GVA per head  increased by  2.8 per cent on 2014 figures in Wales compared to an increase of 2.1 per cent for the UK,  and last year stood at £18,002.

“Latest  figures mean Wales’ increase in GVA per head was the third highest of UK countries and regions.

“We recognise there is  more to do  and we will keep working hard to grow Wales’ economy. Developments  such as our  Valleys Taskforce, Wylfa Newydd and our plans for the Third Menai Crossing will all help to drive up GVA in some of Wales’ less prosperous communities.

“There is absolutely no room for complacency but these figures  do show that our pro-business approach is driving growth and  making a real difference to the lives of ordinary people  across Wales.”

Local author plans to kickstart new novel

Local author David Ebsworth is taking pre-orders this month for his new Spanish Civil War thriller, Until the Curtain Falls, through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.


The novel comes highly recommended, and if anyone wants to pre-order a copy it will help him to get the book launched successfully.


Until the Curtain Falls is the sequel to his 2013 Spanish Civil War novel, The Assassin’s Mark.


The novel starts off in October 1938 as a British foreign correspondent is on the run in northern Spain, hunted by three different and deadly enemies determined to kill him before he can reach the Mediterranean coast and freedom.


It’s already picked up some literary plaudits including:


“A cracking, finely paced story of civil war, betrayal, fear and bravery. It is also remarkable for its robust and honest characterisation and its terrific detail.” - Elizabeth Buchan, bestselling author of Consider the Lily, I Can’t Begin to Tell You and The New Mrs Clifton.


“A pacy thriller set in the murky world of civil war Spain where nothing is quite what it seems. Until the Curtain Falls confirms Dave Ebsworth’s reputation as a first-rate story teller with a sharp eye for historical detail.” - Dr David Mathieson, Spanish Civil War historian and tour guide, author of Frontline Madrid.


It’s planned to publish the novel in both in English and Spanish and make it available for pre-order through a Kickstarter crowd funding campaign which allows the author to test whether there’s a market for Until the Curtain Falls.


Dave said: “If enough people pre-order, then we go ahead and readers have helped bring the story to life. They become part of the story itself. Part of the team. If we don’t get enough pre-orders, of course, we don’t publish. Then it costs nothing.”


* Here's a link to the Kickstarter campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/527857657/until-the-curtain-falls-hasta-que-caiga-el-telon?ref=category.

Guest loco for railway's spring gala unveiled

* Ex-LMS 8F No. 48624 will take pride of place in the Spring Steam Gala. 

Llangollen Railway has announced details of the guest locomotive which will star at its first Spring Steam Gala from March 3-5.

Ex-LMS 8F No. 48624 will take pride of place in the event which is entitled Along Birkenhead Lines. 

The 8Fs were one of the most successful locomotive designs of all time and were devised by William Stanier for the London, Midland & Scottish Railway.

The design was chosen by the War Department for large scale production in the Second World War and eventually 852 members of the class were built.

The 8Fs were no strangers around the Wirral and North-East Wales during the 1950s and 1960s, including hauling heavy goods train up the notoriously steep climb to Brymbo steelworks.  

In 1967 a now long-scrapped member of the class, No.48697, hauled the final passenger train through Llangollen on an enthusiasts' rail tour.

No. 48624 is unique in preservation in that it is the only surviving example built at Southern Railway built example, being completed as part of the War Effort in 1943 at Ashford Works.

The locomotive is normally based on the Great Central Railway in Leicestershire.

Llangollen Railway says it will be making further locomotive announcements soon.

Christmas tree recycling ideas

Denbighshire County Council are encouraging residents to recycle their Christmas trees this New Year, with a number of ecological options available.

Subscribers to the garden waste service can place suitably trimmed/ chopped up trees in their green bins or sacks for collection.

Trees can also be taken to one of the three staffed Recycling Parks or taken to the Saturday morning services provided at Corwen and Llangollen.

Alternatively, there is a scheme to have old Christmas trees placed within the sand dunes of Barkby beach, Prestatyn and at Talacre beach, Flintshire.

For a donation, St Kentigern Hospice in St Asaph is offering to collect discarded Christmas trees on behalf of Denbighshire County Council and Flintshire County Council.

Christmas Trees will be placed on the sand dunes to help future flood defences and reconstruct the sand dunes.

To get involved in this scheme you need to register your details on the website www.charityxmastreecollection.com or over the phone on (01745) 536022 with the charity’s Fundraising Office, telling them where to pick the tree up and make your donation pledge.

The charity Christmas tree collection website closes Sunday 8^th and collection of trees will take place on 13^th, 14^th and 15^th of January. The drivers are all volunteers who have donated their time to the charity.

Tweed and Prosecco trek is Walking Festival highlight

* Organiser Mike Smart, left, and Pip Gale of Gales Wine Bar get ready for the Tweed and Prosecco Walk on May 1. 

PEOPLE taking part in a special Tweed and Prosecco Walk in Llangollen are being invited to dress for the occasion.

The event, which is part of the town’s annual Walking Festival, takes place on May 1 and trekkers involved are invited to get into the spirit of things by donning tweeds and other vintage attire.   

The Tweed Walk starts in Llangollen's riverside restaurant, The Corn Mill, with tea or coffee and locally made Welsh cakes.

Then there’s a short walk to Llangollen Railway Station where people can enjoy a nostalgic steam train ride along the River Dee.

The guided walk visits historic locations in the company of a friendly tweed-clad guide who will gently lead and share his knowledge of local history, folk tales and legends ranging from ruthless giants, fighting monks and fairy kings to a demon barber and the holy grail.

The day ends at Gales Wine Bar with prosecco and canapés.

Organiser Mike Smart said: “Certificates will be presented and there will be a special prize for the best dressed vintage rambler.

“Also on offer during the walking festival are the Offa's Dyke Path 18-mile challenge walk with free beer, a 15-mile wilderness walk with a steam train ride also with free beer and two eight-mile meanders, one also with a steam train ride.

“You can also try a free Nordic walking taster session for beginners, enjoy walking the local landscape and see the horse-drawn canal boats with an experienced Blue Badge Guide in the UNESCO World Heritage site.

“All the festival walks are within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”

Mike added: “This year’s Llangollen Walking Festival is on April 29 and 30 and May 1 and I’d advise people to book early as places are limited on all the walks.

“Like us on Facebook.com/LlangollenWalkingFestival and follow us on Twitter #LlanWALKfest.”

“You can book on line at http://www.llangollenwalkingfestival.co.uk/”

No change in summer opening date for new supermarket

Despite the on-site activity some llanblogger readers are reporting, Llangollen's new supermarket is not due to open until the summer.

That's the latest word from Aldi who will be running the superstore alongside fellow discount chain Home Bargains.

A number of our readers have been in touch to say they have seen work going on inside the Berwyn Street building, leading to speculation that the twin businesses might have an earlier opening date than originally announced.

But a spokesperson for Aldi told llanblogger earlier said today (Wednesday): "We've just got summer 2017 as the scheduled opening currently."

However he assured that the blog would be "kept in the loop" if there was any change to the situation. 

The new Aldi will create up to 30 jobs, says the company.

The discount grocery chain also says it aims to encourage links with other local traders.

A statement issued soon after the development received planning permission from the county council last year said: "We are really pleased to be opening a new store in Llangollen. We understand that there is a strong local interest in the future of the Berwyn Street site, so we are pleased to announce that we will be taking it on and bringing it into productive use.

“Not only will the new store deliver a multi-million-pound investment in the local area and create up to 30 much-needed new jobs, it will also provide greater shopping choice for local people and help them save money on their weekly grocery shop.”

The statement adds: "Unlike other retailers, Aldi has a unique offering and does not act as a one-stop shop.

"Aldi stores do not have a butcher, fishmonger or bakery, nor do they provide childcare facilities or sell tobacco.

"Instead, Aldi is known for encouraging linked trips between its stores and other local businesses, encouraging residents to complete their shopping at other local shops, adding to the vitality and viability of the local area.

"Recruitment will start during construction: anyone interested in jobs at the store should register their details on www.aldirecruitment.co.uk"

MP urges people to speak out on driving offences

Clwyd South Labour MP Susan Elan Jones is urging local residents to take part in a UK-wide Government consultation on driving offences related to causing death or serious injury.

Ms Jones, who introduced a bill to Parliament calling for tougher sentencing for driving offences, is a past recipient of the Parliamentarian of the Year award from road safety charity Brake.

She is currently campaigning for greater road safety on the A5 and A483 on both sides of the Welsh border between Oswestry and Wrexham. 

Ms Jones (pictured) has repeatedly questioned Government Ministers on road safety.

She recently led a debate in Parliament on sentencing policy, calling for the Government to review sentencing relating to road safety offences - something Ministers finally agreed to do at the end of last year.

Now she is calling on local residents to respond to the Government consultation in large numbers.

She said: "The law on driving offences in this country is totally inadequate. A previous generation changed our laws and culture to tackle the scandal of drink driving.

"We need to do the same in tackling sentences for those who kill or seriously injure people on our roads today."

* The Government's consultation can be found at  https://consult.justice.gov.uk/digital-communications/driving-offences-causing-death-or-serious-injury/

Members of the public have until 1st February 2017 to respond.