Sian is crowned International Voice of the Future

* Sian Dicker is presented with the trophy by Mario Kreft.

A "sensational" young soprano won one of the main prizes at an international festival.

Sian Dicker, 26,  was crowned as the International Voice of the Future at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

She was presented with the brand new Pendine Trophy and a cheque for £6,000 by Mario Kreft MBE, proprietor of the arts loving sponsor, the Pendine Park care organisation.
Sian clinched the title just ahead of Aberystwyth soprano Catrin Woodruff, 27, and Llandudno tenor Elgan Llyr Thomas, 26, The two runners up both received a cheque for £2,000.

No fewer than 18 hopefuls from around the globe took part in a preliminary competition earlier in the day.

A delighted Sian, from Trowbridge in Wiltshire, said: “Just performing on that stage was such a thrill. Walking out took my breath away, it’s certainly the biggest stage and audience I have performed in front of.

“It’s the first time I’ve entered a competition such as this and I really didn’t think I could win. The standard has been really high and it’s been stiflingly hot which made it even more difficult.

“The £6,000 cheque is an enormous boost to my finances and will help me pay for my studies. I studied for academic music degree at the University of London and am now doing my Masters in Vocal Performance at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. My one ambition is to be an opera singer.”

Sian is married to Daniel Thorne, who is head of mathematics at the Queensmead School, South Ruislip.

She said: “Sadly, he couldn’t make it to Llangollen for the competition as he was teaching all day and it’s too far to drive after work to make it on time. We live quite separate lives at the moment due to my studies but he’s my biggest fan and supporter.

“And my mum, Theresa, who is a cellist, was teaching today and couldn’t make it to Llangollen either. But I called them both and they are as thrilled as I am. What an incredible day!”

According to Eisteddfod organisers, the competition was "catapulted into a new league" and attracted a host of the world' best young singers after Pendine Park contributed £5,000 to the total prize pot, with a further £3,000 coming from Sir Bryn Terfel’s Foundation and £2,000 from the Eisteddfod.

After watching the three stunning performances with his wife, Gill, Mario Kreft said: “The standard of performance we have witnessed was absolutely breathtaking. This is the first year of a whole new format for this competition.

“Our vision is to showcase and nurture young talent and the increased prize fund is designed to help advance their careers.

"It chimes perfectly with our ethos as Pendine Park because the arts in general and music in particular are at the forefront of everything we do so we can enrich lives across the generations.

“The adjudicators had a very difficult task but I don’t believe anyone would argue with their final decision. I thought all three performed wonderfully but Sian Dicker was the deserved winner.

“I hope the recognition she will deservedly get after winning this competition will help her achieve her dream of becoming a major opera star.”

Among those in the audience was Ken Skates AM the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure.

It was, he said, "an immense pleasure" to witness the International Voice of the Future competition during the Llangollen Eisteddfod’s 70^th anniversary celebrations.

He added: “Few businesses in the UK appreciate, or do more, for the arts than Pendine Park Care Organisation. Their support is remarkable.

“It really is a huge honour to be part of this unique event especially as it celebrates its 70^th anniversary."

Eilir Owen Griffiths, Music Director at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: “The quality of candidates for the International Voice of the Future competition is always extremely high, but this year’s entries have really blown us all away. 

“This competition is all about providing exceptional talent with a springboard for their professional careers. The increased prize fund, generously donated by sponsor and long-time supporter of the Eisteddfod, the Pendine Park Care Organisation, has really boosted interest and attracted even greater talent to the competition.

 “We would like to thank all competitors for their fantastic performances but our winner Sian Dicker was truly spectacular. We hope winning this prestigious award will enable all our finalists to take their careers in music to the next level."

The unenviable task of judging the competition went to leading soprano Elin Manahan Thomas and composer Gareth Jones who agreed the increased prize money had  raised the profile of the event to a whole new level.

She said: ““The decision was a tough one but Gareth and I both thought, on this occasion, that Sian Dicker was the clear winner.

“The range of colour in Sian’s voice and her stylistic interpretation of the music along with the way her character shone through all resulted in a very polished performance.”

Runner-up Cartrin Woodruff, of Llanrhystud near Aberystwyth was delighted to make it to the competition final.

She said: “Llangollen is such a respected festival and I have never competed here before. The preliminary round was really tough and I was just delighted to make the final.

“It’s been more like a concert than a competition. I know Elgan really well but had never met Sian before. We have all got on really well and Sian deserved to win. I have no complaints. It was a wonderful competition and I’m just happy to have been part of it.”

Catrin, who studied for a degree in music at the University of York and a Masters in Voice at the Royal Northern College of Music, is due to begin studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in September.

She said: “I’m also married. My husband, Chris Abel, is a physicist and is currently doing his Phd at the University of Sussex but he’s based in Switzerland so we only get to see each other once a month at the moment.

“I have been touring with a pop-up opera company and performing all over the UK for the last few weeks too."

Tenor Elgan Llyr Thomas added:  “I‘m pretty busy at the moment and in fact have performances lined up from now until 2020 which has to be good. I’m working with English Opera and have performances in Paris coming up soon which is amazing.

“And I really enjoyed playing the role of Spoletta alongside Sir Bryn Terfel in Tosca here at Llangollen this week.”

Elgan graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music and completed his studies at London’s Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

He said: “I’m still based in Llandudno but to be truthful I’m all over the place travelling, it comes with the job I suppose. My parents were her to support me. My dad Aled, is due to retire from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and my mum, Eleri is a classroom teaching assistant.

“They are huge supporters and follow my career as much as they are able. They will come to see my performances as often as they possibly can. I also have two sisters, Elen and Alaw and one nephew and two nieces.”

Colourful Eisteddfod parade draws large crowds

The traditional Eisteddfod parade took place this afternoon.

Colourful groups of competitors from around the world and locally were cheered by large crowds as they made their way from the field, across the bridge and into the town centre.

llanblogger was there to record the scenes. 

* Eisteddfod president Terry Waite enjoys an ice cream in the front seat of a vintage car.

* A group from Ysgol Bryn Collen takes a prominent place in the parade.

* A group of overseas competitors wave at the crowds in Market Street.

* Indian dancers give an impromptu performance in Market Street.

* Terry Waite stops off to meet local character Wyn. Picture: Simon Collinge. 

* A Chinese choir draws the applause.

* Members of drum band help set the parade's pace.

* Llangollen town crier Chem rings his bell as he passes by. 

Message of international harmony goes out at concert

* Nia Wyn Jones conducts Only Boys Aloud Gogledd.

International competitors were given a warm and resounding Welsh welcome last night at the Llangollen Eisteddfod’s 70th anniversary International Celebration.

A colourful procession of representatives from some of the 29 countries at this year’s festival were welcomed by a moving performance of Welsh Hymn Calon Lân by Only Boys Aloud Gogledd as a poignant symbol of Wales welcoming the world.

The procession followed a performance of the annual Peace Message by Ysgol Y Gwernant and a recital of the newly composed Peace Anthem by Only Boys Aloud Gogledd.

Entitled Gobaith yn Ein Cân (Hope in Our Song), the piece was composed by Nia Wyn Jones, with words by Nia and songwriting partner Iwan Hughes, specifically for Only Boys Aloud Gogledd.

Reflecting the ethos behind the charity choir, the anthem began with a lone soloist and built up to a rousing finale, reflecting the message intended by its composer.

Nia Wyn Jones said: “The piece highlights how individuals can make things change for the better gradually. For example, if a person smiles, it can be passed on and on and before you know it, happiness is being spread. We all have that ability to do good.”

The opening segment of the concert, sponsored by Westminister Stone, was followed by the annual address from the President of the Llangollen Eisteddfod, Terry Waite CBE who highlighted the unifying spirit of the festival with a self-penned poem from his new book, Out of Silence.

The poem concluded with words that perfectly reflected the reasons behind the inception of the festival 70 years ago, to heal the wounds of World War II, which remain equally as relevant in today’s climate. Mr Waite read: “Be healed. Be at peace. Let the harmony of nations enter your soul. Sing with joy. Today, we are one.”

Following the emotional recital of the poem, the audience was then treated to performances from the Principality Only Boys Aloud Academi and the three finalists in the International Voice of the Future competition, before the first half of the show was rounded off with a vibrant dance performance from Lovely Professional University in India.

The second half of the evening saw the Llangollen Eisteddfod celebrate internationalism and the convergence of cultures even further, with performances from Indonesian dance group Al-Izhar Senior High School Pondok Labu.

A breathtaking rendition of famous Welsh song Suo Gân by the National Institute of Technology, Jinggaswara Student Choir, supported by Only Boys Aloud, stunned the audience as the evening drew to a close. 

Music Director of the International Eisteddfod, Eilir Owen Griffiths, said: “The international celebration is always a highlight of Eisteddfod week and this year, for its 70th anniversary, was no exception.

“The performance was filled with so many beautiful moments, with different nationalities coming together on the pavilion stage. Cultures, languages, traditional dances and musical styles, all merging to create a truly world-class performance that celebrates the internationalism of the festival.”

* To purchase tickets for the Llangollen International Eisteddfod or for more information visit: www.Llangollen.net

Eisteddfod choir sings for Irene's 80th birthday

* The Jinggaswara Itenas Choir sings a special Happy Birthday to resident Irene Williams who was celebrating her 80th birthday.

* Resident Jim Barraclough meets the choir members.

A choir which had just flown 12,000 miles from Indonesia to Wales to compete at an international festival stopped off to join in the 80th birthday celebrations of a care home resident.

The family of Irene Williams was overcome with emotion as the choir burst into a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday in the sun-drenched gardens of the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham.

It was their first song on the first stop of a busy itinerary for the Jinggaswara Itenas Choir, from Bandung, Indonesia, who are in North Wales to compete at the 2017 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

Irene’s daughter, Tammy Hoskins, who was at Highfield care home with other members of the family, said: “It was just beautiful. Everyone was so touched when they sang Happy Birthday to mum. They sang so hypnotically. We were lucky that the choir’s visit coincided with mum’s big day. It made it even more special.”

The choir comprises of young students from the ITENAS technical university. Their visit to Highfield residential home was arranged as a thank you to Pendine Park which is one of the key sponsors of the Llangollen Musical Eisteddfod.

Pendine Park's consultant artist in residence, Sarah Edwards, who has been running a series of children’s workshops on the eisteddfod site said: “It is a lovely occasion for all the residents here and it was so great that Irene’s birthday fell on the same day as the choir’s visit. We couldn’t have wished for anything better.

“The visit was arranged to give some of our residents, who for mobility and other reasons are unable to attend the eisteddfod, a taste of what it is like. It has been a really uplifting experience. These sorts of visits, especially when orientated around music, are so good for residents’ wellbeing.”

One resident, Joan Cliffson, 80, said she loved the vibrant costumes of the choir and was entranced by their music.

She said: “It was lovely, so colourful and their harmonies were excellent. I have always loved music as my husband, Jeff Cliffson, is a singer in Wrexham. He sometimes comes and entertains the residents here so music is something that has always been in our lives.”

Another Pendine Park inhabitant, Barry Bellis, formerly from Rhos, said the performance rekindled memories of his youth when he played in a band.

“We were called The Casuals,” he laughed. “I play guitar and I love music of any kind so this was a perfect day for me.”

Jinggaswara Itenas Choir artistic director Rita Victoria Hildemina, was thrilled to meet the residents of Pendine Park.

She said: “Music is something that can always be enjoyed no matter how young or old you are. We try to spread that message through our songs.

"All our choir members were eager to visit Pendine Park and chat with the residents. It was the first stop for us after flying over from Indonesia.

"It was a long flight but despite that we were still full of excitement about this very special performance and especially pleased to sing Happy Birthday to Irene. We feel very honoured to be asked to visit Pendine Park.”

This year is the third time Rita has performed on the eisteddfod stage, having competed as a soloist in 2010 and then with the choir in 2013.

She added: “A handful of the choir members who came here in 2013 are back with us this year, but most have not been to Llangollen before. They all have said what a wonderful, friendly venue it is. On every visit we have been given such a warm welcome, it feels like a second home.”

Led by their conductor Lusianna Daulay, the choir delighted everyone in the audience with a riveting repertoire of Indonesian love songs and folk songs, including one about a greedy lizard which has to learn to stop being so greedy and be grateful for the simple things in life.

They also sang some specially rehearsed songs in English, including Danny Boy, encouraging residents to join in.

Thanking the choir, Pendine Park Wellbeing co-ordinator Chris Lewis, said: “Everyone has loved it and we were blessed with a beautiful summer’s day so the choir could sing in the garden, which made the atmosphere even more buoyant. It really was an amazing occasion which we will remember for a long time.”

Highfield manager Tracey Smith said: "Music plays a central role in our of our everyday life at Pendine Park and our enrichment programme enriches lives across the generations so it was very appropriate that choir came here today.

"The fact that they were able to sing Happy Birthday to Irene was a perfect and very touching moment which meant a great deal to her family and all of us here at Pendine Park."

Resident, Emma Barber, who tried her hand at playing one of the choir’s drums, said: “They were great. For a choir who has travelled from so far away to play right here in our garden is a real privilege. Here’s hoping they go on to win first prize at the Eisteddfod!”

Free weekend transport scheme launched

A ground breaking new pilot offering free weekend bus travel to passengers across Wales has been launched by the Welsh Government.

North Wales South East Wales South West Wales

The pilot, which will apply to all buses on the extensive TrawsCymru network, will begin on Saturday July 8 and run every weekend until at least May 2018.

It’s hoped the scheme will act as a catalyst for bus travel in Wales, boosting not only the number of passengers but also wider use of the TrawsCymru routes.

In launching the scheme, Economy and Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates said: “From Bangor to Cardiff, Fishguard to Wrexham I hope to see this scheme provide the perfect excuse for people from across Wales and beyond to jump on the bus and spend their weekends enjoying  the diverse beauty of Wales.

“The TrawsCymru network covers large areas of Wales, some of which would otherwise be inaccessible by public transport and, with the summer tourist season around the corner, I’m excited about the impact increased passengers could have on tourism in these areas in particular.

“The free service is subject to availability, but we have also provided additional funding to local authorities to ensure operators are able to deploy more buses to meet increased demand if necessary. Provisions have also been made to reimburse operators of other local bus services should they experience any  reduction of passengers as a result of this pilot, although we are optimistic it will have the opposite effect.

“I’m delighted to launch this ground breaking scheme and look forward to seeing as many people as possible making the most of this fantastic offer to travel across Wales by bus for free.”

It’s hoped the initiative will not only benefit passengers, but will also provide a boost to destinations and tourist attractions both directly on the route and beyond. One tourist attraction hoping for such benefits is the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The Welsh Government will use the pilot to help build a better understanding of how reductions of this nature affect the wider demand for public transport before deciding on its future beyond May 2018.

Website: TrawsCymru

Campaigner and columnist heads for the Fringe

Award winning author, campaigner, chef, and columnist Jack Monroe burst into the public sphere after her blog A Girl Called Jack caught the attention of prolific food writer Xanthe Clay in 2013.

Being tagged “Britain’s austerity celebrity” by The New York Times, Jack’s inventive and delicious recipes provided inspiration for budget Britain.

And next month Jack appears at Llangollen Fringe Festival.

Since 2013 Jack (pictured) has been a resident columnist at The Guardian, has published two best-selling cook books, was the face of Sainsbury’s, campaigned for poverty and hunger charities, fought for equal rights, begun a parliamentary campaign, and appeared on Question Time. 

More recently, Jack Monroe’s profile has surged having publicly won a legal case against the Daily Mail columnist Katie Hopkins.

As a single mum who identifies as non-binary transgender, Jack has become something of an idol for both  the LGBTQ, and the feminist movements alike.

Jack is also an advocate for left wing politics and begun her own campaign trail in 2017, having to step down due to health issues, and receiving death threats in the post.   

Jack will be in conversation with award winning poet Sophie McKeand, on Tuesday July 18 at Llangollen Town Hall as part of Llangollen Fringe.

Sophie is currently the Youth Poet Laureate for Wales, and has interviewed many prolific public figures such as Viv Albertine, Victoria Coren-Mitchell, Jon Ronson, and Sir Andrew Motion.

* TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW AT www.llangollenfringe.co.uk 

The Llangollen Fringe 20th Anniversary Festival takes place from Thursday 13th to Sunday 23rd of July 2017.

Eisteddfod's Tosca brings audience to its feet

* Sir Bryn Terfel on stage for Puccini's Tosca at the Eisteddfod last night.

Crowds at the Llangollen Eisteddfod were brought to their feet to deliver a roaring standing ovation following a breathtaking performance of Puccini’s Tocsa last night.

Internationally renowned opera stars Sir Bryn Terfel, Kristine Opolais, Kristian Benedikt shared the stage at for the very first time to deliver the powerful and unique rendition of the dramatic love story.

The performance at the International Eisteddfod, sponsored by Pendine Park, featured three of the opera world’s most admired talents, accompanied by the acclaimed Welsh National Opera Orchestra, and saw a successful end to the second day of the 70th anniversary festival.

Much-loved Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel returned to the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in the role of Baron Scarpia who was in pursuit of Lithuanian tenor, Benedikt’s Cavaradossi.

Taking the title role, soprano Opolais brought rare dynamism to Tosca, helping to create an unforgettable performance, conducted by Gareth Jones.

The world-class line up also featured rising young talent including locally-recruited Joseph Elwy Jones as the Shepherd Boy and North Wales baritone Steffan Lloyd Owen, who is only the second student from the Royal Northern College of Music to ever win the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Award.

The cast was also joined by students from Ysgol Maes Garmon in Mold who performed in the chorus.

Pendine Park proprietor Mario Kreft MBE said: “It was a truly incredible performance by a stellar cast led magnificently by Sir Bryn Terfel, an opera superstar who is right at the top of his game.

 "The performance of the soprano Kristine Opolais was sublime while the tenor Kristian Benedikt was also brilliant. I must also give a special mention to young Joseph Elwy Jones who was delightful in the role of the Shepherd Boy.

"It was the finest single concert I can recall at Llangollen Eisteddfod which I know was a sentiment shared by many others. It was a truly magical experience.

 “We were delighted to support this concert because music and the arts are an important part of our enrichment programme and we genuinely believe that they improve the quality of life of our residents at our Wrexham and Caernarfon care homes through enriching lives across the generations.

“It was an unforgettable evening of world class opera right on our doorstep in North Wales."

Music Director of the Llangollen Eisteddfod, Eilir Griffiths, said: “This was an adventurous project for the Llangollen Eisteddfod to undertake and what a roaring success it was – the entire cast were spectacular.

“From the world class artists and bourgeoning local talent, to the subtle staging and stunning video work this wonderful opera was brought perfectly to life.

“The performance combined the excellence and expertise of its Welsh and international team, highlighting both the Llangollen Eisteddfod’s ability to attract global artists and showcasing the country’s intrinsic talent.”

Terry Waite drops in on cross-generation music sessions

* Eisteddfod President Terry Waite, centre, watches the music session with Pendine Proprietor Mario Kreft. 

* Pendine residents and staff join in with the jam session.

* Youngsters from a Wrexham school clap along with music workshop leader Jenny Pearson.

Legendary peace campaigner Terry Waite has given his seal of approval to a special event which saw care home residents harmonising with schoolchildren at Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

The festival’s iconic president dropped by as people from Pendine Park care homes in Wrexham were enjoying a sing-along with youngsters from primary schools in the area at music workshops.

Apart from joining in with favourite numbers such as Yellow Submarine and My Bonny Lies Over the Ocean, the Pendine people and the children also kept time with the tunes by shaking tambourines and rattling maracas.

The sessions ran throughout the morning and into the afternoon and were arranged by the arts-loving Pendine care organisation which was sponsoring the whole day.

Attracting hundreds of visiting children, they were led by world-class musician Jenny Pearson, a freelance singer and tutor who has worked with the Welsh National Opera.

Terry Waite, who called into the Pendine tent and sat down to enjoy one of the boisterous sessions, said: “This is a very imaginative and creative programme both for the young people and the residents.

“I’ve just watched nearly 150 children taking part and enjoying themselves so much.

“Perhaps many of the children involved would otherwise have little contact with elderly people, so these sessions perfectly bridge the generation gap.”

Teaching assistant Mandy Warner, who brought along a group of year six pupils from Ysgol Bodhyfryd in Wrexham, said: “It’s great to be here with the children today, especially as for the past two years groups of them have been visiting Pendine’ Hillbury care home in Wrexham to do things like singing and playing bingo with residents.

“They’ve developed a lovely relationship and the children look forward to going there and chatting with the elderly people.”

One of those who is a regular Hillbury visitor, 11-year-old Catrin Williams, said: “We really enjoy going to the home to meet the people there, so it’s been good to come along to the Eisteddfod to see them again and sing with them. I’ve enjoyed it very much.

It was the same story with her classmate Alys Edwards, also 11, who said: “It’s really great to meet the people who live at Hillbury and to hear from them how people used to live in years gone by. Coming here to sing with them today has been very special.”

Another young visitor who got into the swing of the Pendine sessions was nine-year-old Jenna Ashfield from another school group, Gwenfro Primary School in Wrexham, which included around 80 children determined to have a great time.

She said: “It’s been good to have a go at singing with the elderly people and to play the instruments. I’ve had a fantastic time and my favourite song to join in with was Yellow Submarine.”

Matej Ondruch, nine from the same school, said: “Yellow Submarine was also the song I liked best. It’s the first time I’ve been to one of these workshops but I hope I can come again next year.”

The all-action sessions also went down well with residents like 84-year-old Olga Ord from Hillbury. Taking a break from bashing the tambourine in time with the music she said: “I’m really enjoying myself and I love seeing the children having a good time by joining in with the songs.”

And 45-year-old Sian Walley, one of the younger residents at Pendine’s Bryn Bella home in Wrexham, was equally enthusiastic.

She said: “This is the first time I’ve been to one of these music workshops but I’ve been having a great time singing along and playing the maracas. It’s really amazing to see the children having such a good time too.”

The workshops have become a popular annual event at the Eisteddfod and are part of Pendine’s pioneering enrichment programme, which enhances the experience of residents and also plays a key role in personal training and staff development.

Sarah Edwards, artist in residence at Pendine, said: “The idea of the workshops is to introduce the community and children from the region’s schools to the care sector and give them an impression of what we do.

“We’re grateful for Jenny and Howys Price, who played the keyboard, for coming along and lending their enthusiasm and expertise to the sessions.”

Jenny Pearson, who led the workshops, said: “The emphasis has been on inclusion, encouraging the Pendine residents to join in with the music, exercises and singing.

“Everyone involved, of whatever age, has had a fantastic time and it’s been a brilliant day.”

Mario Kreft, Proprietor of Pendine Park, said: “These workshops are our way of reaching out across the generations and to have so many people involved in them is just terrific.

“We invite the schoolchildren to take part in the workshops because I think it is important that young people understand how they can play a part in looking after older people with disabilities.”

“Another aim is to encourage people to talk about what an importance part social care plays in the community.

“This year is a very special time for Pendine because of the continuing celebrations of our 30 years of enriching lives across the generations and also for Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod which is marking its 70th anniversary. We wish the festival the very best for the future.” 

Arty Dinas Brân students brighten Eisteddfod building

* Dinas Brân students with their artwork.

Pupils from Ysgol Dinas Bran have provided a key building on the site of the International Eisteddfod with a makeover for its 70th anniversary celebrations.

They were invited by the eisteddfod to create a piece of artwork that represented the festival’s message of peace, goodwill and international friendship, which have been transformed into a mural to brighten up the hospitality building.

The mural was formally unveiled on Tuesday when 12 of the 100 children involved attended a reception with eisteddfod president, Terry Waite.

The mural will remain on the building, which is used as a reception centre for international competitors throughout Eisteddfod week, as a permanent installation.

Terry Waite said: “The artworks created by the students from Ysgol Dinas Brân are superb and a great deal of thought has gone into communicating the message of the International Eisteddfod.

“Children’s Day is always a very special occasion and it is vital that younger generations continue to participate in the Eisteddfod and spread its message of peace, friendship and uniting people through music and dance.”

Alison McDonald from Ysgol Dinas Brân, said: “We were honoured to be invited by the International Eisteddfod to participate in this project and the children had great fun creating their artworks.

“It was wonderful to see the mural in place and hope that the competitors arriving for the 70th anniversary celebrations - and for future Eisteddfod – enjoy the installation.”

* For tickets and information on the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, please visit www.Llangollen.net

Organisations share Eisteddfod peace prize

* LIME Rotary Peace Award joint winner British Ironworks chairman Clive Knowles with Terry Waite and Eisteddfod chairman Dr Rhys Davies.

An organisation that speaks out to alleviate suffering and a weapons amnesty initiative have won the Rotary International Peace Award.

The Oswestry-based British Ironworks and Médecins Sans Frontières were jointly awarded the accolade at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod’s 70th Anniversary Opening Concert.

British Ironworks was acknowledged for its Save a Life, Surrender Your Knife weapons amnesty project, which culminated in the creation of the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression – an Angel sculpture crafted from surrendered weapons from 43 police constabularies across the country.

Also recognised at the presentation was Médecins Sans Frontières, for its policy of témoignage – speaking out to alleviate suffering and protect human life.

The two winners were nominated along with The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace and the Welsh Refugee Council.

TV presenter and British Red Cross ambassador, Konnie Huq, Richard Hazlehurst of the Bradford Peace Centre and humanitarian and President of the International Eisteddfod, Terry Waite CBE, decided to award both organisations with the prestigious accolade after tough deliberations.

Speaking of the decision, Terry Waite CBE, President of the International Eisteddfod, said: “It would be difficult to imagine more worthy candidates for this award. All four organisations nominated fully embody the International Eisteddfod’s ethos of peace, goodwill and understanding and the judges wish to pay tribute to them all. Selecting the winners was an extremely difficult decision for us to make.

“Médecins Sans Frontières policy of témoignage helps to break down barriers, alleviate suffering and spread the message of peace across the globe, while British Ironworks’ creative and striking initiative identified a real opportunity to address the knife crime epidemic in the UK.

“Both are relatively new initiatives and we hope that this accolade will provide them with a platform to further promote their great works and also encourage others to develop work in this field.”

During adjudication the judges considered the public benefit of the project, the profile and longevity of each organisation and the impact of its work.

Speaking following the presentation of the award, which took place on the stage of the Royal International Pavilion, Paul McMaster, Chair of MSF UK, said: “I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of Medecins Sans Frontieres, and our many staff and volunteers all over the world.
 
“Our organisation was founded by doctors, but also by journalists – we provide life-saving care in war-zones and emergencies, but we also talk about what we see. Speaking out about the desperate situations in which our patients find themselves is a core part of what we do and we are very proud to be recognised for it.
 
“As with all of our work, it’s only with the support of the public that we are able to bear witness to suffering and so to push for change. So thank you to Rotary International and the International Eisteddfod for choosing us as joint-winners alongside British Ironworks – we hope this award will help raise the profile of what we do and help us to speak out even louder.”

Clive Knowles, Chairman of the British Ironworks Centre, added: “It is an incredible honour to be awarded the Rotary International Peace Award alongside an internationally renowned organisation such as Médecins Sans Frontières.

“The next stage of our project is to ensure that the monument fulfills its destiny by being placed on the 4th plinth in Trafalgar Square. We have launched a petition for this and urge as many people as possible to sign it so that can become a focal point in raising awareness of the scourge of knife crime on our streets. 

“Only with the public’s help can the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression and its message reach those it was intended for. This award win will further raise the profile of our mission and we thank Rotary International and the International Eisteddfod for selecting us as joint winners.”

Following its announcement last year as the winner of the inaugural Rotary International Peace Award, the Llangollen Eisteddfod will from this year be the platform for the presentation of the award, to ensure the prize becomes an international and prestigious accolade. 

Molly Youd, from Rotary International, said: “We would like to congratulate both Médecins Sans Frontières and British Ironworks on winning the peace award. Both organisations have made a significant impact nationally and internationally and embody the spirit of the award perfectly.”

* For more information about the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and the Rotary International Peace Award, visit www.Llangollen.net and for more information about Rotary visit http www.rotary-ribi.org

Crowds enjoy Punjabi dance in Castle Street

Crowds in Eisteddfod-week Castle Street were treated to a splash of international colour when the visiting RFCIA Bhangra group performed a traditional Punjabi folk dance on the steps of the library this afternoon (Tuesday). 

Ysgol Y Gwernant to perform Peace Message

Pupils from Ysgol Y Gwernant in Llangollen (above) practising hard ahead of their performance of the poignant Peace Message.

The youngsters will perform the Peace Message - an annual highlight of the festival - on the International Pavilion stage on Thursday as part of the International Celebration.

The performance will also be delivered today (Tuesday) during Children’s Day.

This year the message - which has been coordinated by former Eisteddfod employee Christine Dukes - reflects on the history of the Eisteddfod and in particular its relationship with the weather.

* Visitors to this year’s Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod will be able to access vital information about the festival through its new mobile app, Llangollen.

Built by Caernarfon-based creative agency Galactig, the free app contains content in both Welsh and English and is available now on both Apple and Android. 

It contains videos of all the competitions from the pavilion stage, a timetable of all the main activities on the Eisteddfod field, information on all evening concerts and an interactive map of the site.

Sian Eagar, Chief Operations Officer at the International Eisteddfod, said: “There will be Wi-Fi on the field this year and the new app will allow visitors quick and easy access to information about competitions and concerts throughout the week.

“We are sure that competitors and visitors alike will find it useful to have this information at their fingertips.”

To download the app, simple go to the Apple or Google Play store and search ‘Llangollen’.

For tickets and information on the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, please visit www.Llangollen.net

Residents' concern over health funding

* Cllr Mabon ap Gwynfor (far right) and Cllr Huw Jones (right, next to Mabon ap Gwynfor) handing over the petition to Dr Graham Thomas, Corwen Surgery, with staff and patient group representatives.

Residents in the Upper Dee Valley have demanded that the Health Board and Welsh Government continue to pay a rural support grant to their GP surgery in Corwen.

That was the clear message as campaigners handed over a 600-strong petition opposing plans to cut Corwen surgery's £52,000 Rural Support Payment.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is meeting tomorrow to discuss an appeal by the practice against the proposed cut. The petition was handed in by campaigners to the surgery in order for the surgery to present it to the board during tomorrow's meeting.

One of the petition's coordinators, Councillor Mabon ap Gwynfor, represents Llandrillo ward. He said: "The Rural Grant is there for a reason. It is accepted that running services in a rural area is more difficult and more costly and the people in this area have as much right to receive the best possible health care as those in other areas.

“The surgery staff are excellent professionals, who are all well liked by the community here. Losing this funding will mean that the surgery will somehow have to diversify to attract more funding, with the health care workers having to carry out extra work and not being able to do what they are there for - which is to ensure the well-being and the good health of the people in the Edeirnion valley."

Cllr Huw Jones, Corwen, said: "We appreciate that the health Board are struggling financially and they shouldn't be put in this situation themselves. We are extremely grateful to Corwen Surgery and its staff for the excellent work that they do looking after the well-being of the people of this area. It’s clear that their work means there’s less pressure on other health departments and the Social Services. The result of losing this core funding will result in more work for the other departments within the Health Service and Social Services, which will in the end prove more costly."

Crowds flock to classic vehicle event

Crowds came flocking to the annual gathering of classic road vehicles hosted by Llangollen Railway  at Glyndyfrdwy station over the weekend.

Thirty preserved buses were invited to the show where they rubbed metal shoulders with a host of classic cars and motorbikes.

Examples of the former Crosville company's buses, as introduced for the rail replacement service when the Ruabon to Barmouth line closed in 1965, recalled the road scene on the A5 50 years ago.

Private owners of over 150 vintage cars were invited to show off their pride joys and around 60 motorcycles were on display as the British Motorcycle Preservation Society chose the venue to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Pictures by George Jones.

* A line-up of classic buses.

* Venerable motorcycles on show.

* A vintage Austin was one of the highlights.

70th anniversary Eisteddfod gets underway

As the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary this week llanblogger takes a look at some of the highlights of the festival.

Monday 3rd July

A male voice choir that performed at the first ever International Eisteddfod in 1947 is set to sing alongside two of Wales’ most prolific male voice choirs at the event’s landmark 70th Anniversary opening concert.

The Colne Valley Male Voice Choir will join Froncysyllte (Fron) and Rhosllanerchrugog (Rhos) male voice choirs, to perform with the formidable Canoldir Male Voice Choir, the world class Cory Brass Band, acclaimed conductor Owain Arwel Hughes CBE, euphonium soloist, David Childs and International Voice of the Future 2015 winner, Meinir Wyn Roberts, in a rousing opening concert.

The Fron Male Voice Choir, like the Eisteddfod, celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Formed in 1947, inspired by the inaugural International Eisteddfod, its history perfectly reflects that of the festival with many of its members coming together after returning from war. Remarkably, two of its original members still sing with the Fron today.

The evening concert will also feature the announcement of the winner of the 2017 winner of the Rotary International Peace Award.

The nominees include Oswestry-based British Ironworks’Save a Life, Surrender Your Knife weapons amnesty project, the Welsh Refugee Council, for its work promoting tolerance and respect towards refugees, as well as empowering refugees and asylum seekers to build new lives in Wales; The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace and Médecins Sans Frontières for its policy of témoignage – speaking out to alleviate suffering and protect human life.

This year’s adjudicators will be TV presenter and British Red Cross ambassador, Konnie Huq, Richard Hazlehurst of the Bradford Peace Centre and humanitarian and President of the International Eisteddfod, Terry Waite.

Tuesday 4th July

The Eisteddfod formally opens on Tuesday with International Children’s Day hosted by CBBC presenter Storm Huntley, exclusively for schools. The 70th birthday event will include performances from Only Boys Aloud (Gogledd), Tubalate and the delivery of the poignant Peace Message, delivered by Ysgol y Gwernant, who have been practising hard for the event.

Tuesday evening will see a world-class performance of Puccini’s Tosca with global headliners Sir Bryn Terfel, Kristine Opolais and Kristian Benedikt sharing the stage for the very first time. The Tosca trio will be accompanied by the acclaimed Welsh National Opera Orchestra and will also be joined by locally- recruited Joseph Elwy Jones, 11, who was selected to play the role of Shepherd Boy after open auditions in April.

Sponsor of the Tuesday concert Pendine Park proprietor Mario Kreft MBE said: “It’s promising to be a truly unforgettable evening of world class opera, right on our doorstep starring our very own Sir Bryn Terfel – it’s going to be a very special night and one not to be missed.”

Wednesday 5th July

Wednesday marks the first day of the Eisteddfod’s competitions as well as the dynamic Cultural Showcase competition. The award winning Inclusion Project will also take place during the day.

Celebrating its ninth year, the Inclusion Project, which promotes unity, diversity and accessibility for all, will return to the festival’s main stage with a specially commissioned piece called Making Waves.

Performed by The KIM Choir from Holywell, SCOPE Flamenco Group from Chester, WISP Dance Club from Mold and Amigos y Gymuned from Wrexham, Making Waves focuses on the free flowing emotion of the sea and how it can connect people of diverse backgrounds from shore to shore and was written by poet Aled Lewis Evans with the input of members from all four groups.

The evening will see Grammy award-winning composer Christopher Tin join the Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Soprano Elin Manahan Thomas for an international choral and orchestral spectacular presented by Classic FM’s Andrew Collins. The Calling all Nations concert comes in two halves. The first features a broad spectrum of classical music depicting themes of renewal and togetherness. The second half will be a special performance of Christopher Tin’s Calling all Dawns, a songcycle featuring the iconic Baba Yetu – the theme tune to the globally renowned video game Civilisation IV.

Christopher will be joined by both international performers and the locally recruited Celebration Chorus for the evening concert. The 100 singers have learned eight songs in eight different languages to perform as part of Tin’s 12-piece songcycle – no mean feat in just 11 rehearsals!

Thursday 6th July

Thursday will see the launch of the brand new International Acapella Group Competition and also the announcement of the Children’s Choir of the World Award.

Thursday evening will be the International Celebration, sponsored by Westminsterstone, featuring the International Procession of Nations. The Principality Only Boys Aloud Academi will be special guests, performing music ranging from the 17th Century to current music theatre, with conductor Tim Rhys Evans. 

Ysgol y Gwernant will also return to deliver the Peace Message on the main Pavilion stage with Only Boys Aloud: Cor y Gogledd.

The concert will also showcase the talents of the finalists in the International Voice of the Future competition, which is supported by Pendine Park and the Bryn Terfel Foundation.

Friday 7th July

Friday will see the International Parade of Nations, led by Terry Waite CBE, pass through the town of Llangollen, while in the evening audiences will be treated to An Evening with Gregory Porter, when the acclaimed Grammy-award winning singer, songwriter and actor takes to the pavilion stage.

For his North Wales debut he will be joined by his talented band of musicians and will perform tracks from his newest album Take Me To The Alley as well as older works. With expressive self penned songs full of metaphor and meaning and clever jazzy arrangements, the evening is expected to be a magical night of soulful soothing sounds.

Saturday 8th July

Saturday will see the choral competitions heat up as choirs from across the globe compete on the famous Eisteddfod stage. The world’s best mixed, female, male and open category choirs will fight it out to be crowned 2017’s Choir of the World.

Saturday’s evening concert, which is sponsored by GHP Legal, will feature a special performance of soul and doo-wop 50’s and 60’s hits from The Overtones, Britain’s number one vocal harmony group, before the winners of the adult choir categories compete for the title of Choir of the World 2017 and the prestigious Pavarotti Trophy. 

During the evening the winners of the Dance Champions of the World will be awarded the Lucille Armstrong Award.

Mr Richard Lloyd, Senior Partner at GHP Legal, said: “The Llangollen Eisteddfod’s Choir of the World competition is truly iconic and for many of its visitors and international performers it is the highlight of the week.
 
“Combined with a performance from the Overtones this is set to be an exciting climax to the week’s competitions.   We are proud of GHP Legal’s long association with the Eisteddfod and it is an honour to once again be sponsoring this evening
concert during the festival 70th anniversary celebrations.   We cannot wait to see who is crowned Choir of the World 2017.”
Sunday 9th July

Sunday 9th July - Llanfest 2017

Sunday will be the Llangollen Eisteddfod’s closing party, headlined by one of the biggest rock bands of our generation - Manic Street Preachers.

Supported by along indie rock band Reverend and The Makers, and BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens. They’ll roll out a collection of their most legendary anthems in one of the biggest gigs of the year in North Wales.

The day will start at 2pm when the Eisteddfod’s vibrant outside stages host a feast of contemporary music from a diverse range of rock, pop and indie bands, and talented vocalists, including The Roving Crows, Buddy Holly & The Black Jacks and Army of Skanks.

BBC Radio One DJ, Huw Stephens, said: “I'm very much looking forward to being at Llanfest on Sunday night. I've enjoyed the festival on S4C before now but never been, and I think the Sunday with up and coming artists is a great idea. New artists need a platform to play their music to audiences, and to do that at a renowned festival is a great thing. 

“I'm also looking forward to seeing Reverend and the Makers, real stalwarts of the live circuit, and the legendary Manic Street Preachers in the evening. They are such a brilliant live band, poetic, masterful and utterly captivating on stage. It's going to be a great night!”

Eilir Owen Griffiths, music director of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: "After months of preparation the week of our 70th anniversary concert is finally here. International competitors are flying in from all corners of the globe and we are preparing to welcome some of the world's biggest stars to the Royal International Pavilion Stage - it's an exciting time to be in Llangollen!

"The Llangollen Eisteddfod has always been about bringing people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, with different musical interests and completely different lifestyles together in the spirit of friendship and peace. With over 2,000 competitors expected from 29 countries and acts spanning the genres of Jazz, Soul, Opera, Classical, Rock, Acoustic, Orchestral and much, much more, we feel we have certainly achieved this.

"On a personal note, with this being my final Eisteddfod, I am looking forward to watching this 70th anniversary International Eisteddfod unfold and absorbing every act I see. From the fantastic acts performing in the Inclusion Project on Wednesday and music from our special guests The Principality Only Boys Aloud Academi on Thursday, to Gregory Porter on Friday, The Overtones on Saturday and Llanfest 2017 headlined by the Manics on Sunday, it's going to be a real spectacle. 

"We're looking forward to welcoming all of our acts, competitors and visitors for what promises to be an exciting and uplifting week."

Dr Rhys Davies, Chairman of the International Eisteddfod, said: "I am incredibly proud of the whole team, from the in house staff to our army of dedicated volunteers who support the Llangollen Eisteddfod each year, for putting together such an incredible 70th Anniversary festival. Without them none of this would be possible.

"When I became Chairman I promised a festival that reaches across the border to appeal to a wider national and international audience and this year's evening concerts certainly have achieved that. With stars like Gregory Porter, Kristine Opolais, The Overtones, Christopher Tin, Manic Street Preachers and Reverend & The Makers joining us, we have cemented ourselves as a truly international festival.

"As our 70th anniversary festival begins it's also important to highlight the relevance of the message at the heart of the Llangollen Eisteddfod - bringing people together to sing and dance in peace and international friendship. It has been a difficult year internationally, with a number of terrible incidents such as the Manchester Arena attack and the terrorist incident in Stockholm. Never before - perhaps since the Llangollen Eisteddfod's inception after WWII - has our message of peace and unity been more relevant or important.

"This year's International Eisteddfod is set to be a vibrant, energetic and exciting event from the moment the doors open on Monday for our 70th Anniversary Opening Concert. I hope that all of our guests and performers, local, national or international, enjoy the week, make new friends and experience wonderful music and dance - presented in the way that only Llangollen can!”

* For more information or to purchase tickets for the 70th anniversary Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, including the first ever performance of Making Waves, please visit: www.Llangollen.net

Love blossoms at Llangollen Motorcycle Festival

Shrewsbury couple Jim and Amanda Ankers will be special guests at the Llangollen Motorcycle Festival on August 5 and 6 to celebrate their marriage after Jim’s surprise proposal in the middle of LlanBikeFest in 2015.

Amanda explained: “I was in front of the festival stage when I turned around to find Jim on one knee with a ring. We had talked briefly about getting married before, but this was a complete surprise!”

* Jim and Amanda Ankers on their wedding day.

Amanda accepted immediately and the couple were married on Llangollen Railway Station in June last year, with the reception being held on the train to Corwen.

Amanda added: “We missed LlanBikeFest last year because we were on honeymoon in Portugal so we can’t wait to be back this year and relive happy memories.”

It was motorcycles which brought the couple together in the first place.

HGV driver Jim, 57, who rides a Suzuki GSX1400, responded to a post on Facebook from cleaner Amanda, 48, which said she had bought a new helmet but had nobody to ride with.

They started chatting, went on a blind date and hit it off really well, Amanda said.

* Follow LlanBikeFest on Facebook at Llangollen Motorcycle Festival and Twitter at @llanbikefest.

LlanBikeFest is sponsored by Carole Nash Insurance, with day tickets £10 on the gate or online at www.llanbikefest.co.uk, and children 15 and under free. Or contact the festival office at 07960 693398, office@llanbikefest.co.uk. Club stands and exhibitor bookings are free.