Meet Llangollen's Youth Parliament member

* Youth Parliament member Talulah Thomas.

A student from Llangollen has been elected as a member of the Welsh Youth Parliament.

The parliament, which will meet frequently over the next two years, includes 60 young people aged 11-18 from diverse backgrounds across Wales.  

Representing Clwyd South will be Talulah Thomas, a year 13 student at Ysgol Morgan Llwyd who is hoping to go on to study history and politics at university.

Parliament members will choose the issues they wish to debate and raise awareness of them at national level.

They will also gather views from other young people across the country and work with those with the power to make change.

Talulah said: “During my time as YPM, I hope to work closely with our local AM Ken Skates and MP Susan Elan Jones over these next two years.  

“My key issues are mental health education in schools, promoting culture and the Welsh language and Welsh youth participation in politics.

“I wish to be a member of the Welsh Youth Parliament because the political future of Wales rests with our youth, and our nation's young people must be engaged to ensure progression.”

She added: “I would encourage discussions within schools by starting an all-inclusive committee that will highlight the issues that are important to young voters, as their views are most important to me.

“I hope that this will reflect politics as an essential element of everyday life and create a bridge between the voices of young people and the Senedd in order to negate the rhetoric that it is inaccessible and elitist.

“I would like to create a Welsh language podcast with young people that will discuss and debate issues such as mental health, Welsh independence and the voting age. By using a modern form, I hope to raise political issues in a relaxed and accessible way.

“By being a member of the Syr IfanC Board and acting as the ambassador of my area, I have confidently developed group discussion and debate skills about issues, as well as contributing to the community.

“I have no fear of voicing my opinion and I would be very excited to have the opportunity to act on behalf of young people to ensure that we have the representation that we deserve as the youth of Wales.” 

New waste and recycling scheme gets green light

Plans to change waste and recycling collections in Denbighshire have been given the go-ahead. 

The changes will include:

·         a new weekly collection for recyclables such as paper, glass, cans, and plastic

·         a new weekly collection for nappies and incontinence wear

·         a weekly collection for food waste

·         a new fortnightly collection for clothes and small electrical items

The aim is to encourage more recycling on top of the council’s current rates (64%) to meet the Welsh Government’s 70% target by 2025, with an expectancy that the target will rise to 80% in future.

The council says if residents use the recycling service correctly, it should only result in a minimal amount of residual waste being created. 

As a result, the council will be changing the collection of non-recyclable waste to every four weeks for the majority of households.

Residents will be issued with a  bigger black bin if they need one, but overall, households would have more capacity each week for managing their waste than they have with our current service. 

The new weekly recycling service (using a Trollibloc system) would provide more capacity for recycling when compared to the current fortnightly collection with the blue wheelie bin.  

Residents will be able to free up even more space in their black bin by using new kerbside recycling services for textiles, small electrical goods, batteries and where needed, nappies and incontinence waste.   

The Welsh Government has already committed £7.9 million towards the service. This funding would be used to develop the infrastructure necessary to enable the council to change the service. 

Welsh Government are supporting the changes as the proposed changes mean that the carbon footprint of the new service would be much less. We would be using less fuel, recycling more waste and producing higher quality recycling suitable for use in the UK manufacturing industry, avoiding, where possible, the use of virgin materials sourced from the Earth’s diminishing resources.

Councillor Brian Jones, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways, Planning and Sustainable Travel, said:  “This has been a big decision for the council and these proposals have been explored and considered at great length.

“Whilst we are delighted that the change has been approved, the hard work of preparing for the changes and working with communities begins today. We have taken on board the comments received as part of a consultation we arranged and we want to make the transition to the new service as seamless as possible.

“This proposed new way of working will certainly make the county more environmentally friendly, it will make residents consider what and how they recycle and will also save money through implementing a more efficient and effective service."

Over the coming months, the council will be launching an information campaign to keep residents informed of the changes and any impacts on them and their community. The new facilities that are needed to support the service should be in place early 2021, with the aim of the whole county being moved across to the new service by July 2021.

Further information will be included on www.denbighshire.gov.uk/recycling

* A llanblogger reader submitted a Freedom of Information request to the county council regarding its garden waste scheme, and says this showed it has derived the following income from the scheme:

2015/16 £408k

2016/17 £390k

2017/18. £434k

2018/19 £390k (year to date)

llanblogger takes a short break

llanblogger is taking a short pre-Christmas break but will be back before the big day.

Large audience enjoys town carol service

* The audience sings a carol during the service.

* Llangollen Silver Band provide accompaniment to the carols.

The Rev Phil Poole, to the right of the stage, led worship.

* Cor Canu Hardd take the Town Hall stage.

* Town Mayor, Cllr Jon Haddy, delivers a reading.

A large audience took part in the annual Llangollen Town Carol Service at the Town Hall yesterday (Sunday) evening.

Musical accompaniment, sung in English and Welsh, was provided by Llangollen Silver Band, which also performed a selection of numbers on their own including Winter from Vivaldi's the Four Seasons and Oh Holy Night.

The audience also appreciated the seasonal numbers provided by boys and girls of the local young people's choir, Cor Canu Hardd, conducted by Elen Mair Roberts. Immediately after leaving the stage to warm applause the choir had to dash off to its second appointment of the night, signing at the Eisteddfod Christmas Concert at the Pavilion.

Various readings from the Bible were delivered between the music by people including Town Mayor, Cllr Jon Haddy.

The service, which was organised by the Llangollen Churches Together organisation Cytun, was led by the Rev Phil Poole of Llangollen Methodist Church.

During a break in the service the winning exhibitors in the annual Christmas Tree Festival staged at the Methodist Church were announced. They were Best White Christmas: the Holy Cross Church; Best Traditional: Ysgol Bryn Collen.

Afternoon tea, prepared by volunteers, was served during the first hour of the event.

Inclusive dance competition to open near Llangollen

* Helen from Dolywern takes part in last year's Strictly Cymru final.

Wales’ first fully inclusive dance event, Strictly Cymru, is back for the second year running, with the first regional heats taking place near Llangollen this week.

Organised by the disability charity Leonard Cheshire, Strictly Cymru invites disabled dancers from across the country to take part and show off their talent.

The event is pan disability and aims to improve health, wellbeing and access to sport for disabled people across Wales.

First of the regional heats will be at Leonard Cheshire in Dolywern on Thursday and Friday, December 20 and 21.

This follows the success of last year’s competition, where participants reported significant improvements in their well-being as a result of taking part.

Helen from Dolywern, who had experienced extreme short-term memory loss and limited speech, now engages in conversation, has improved memory and an extended range of vocabulary. She came joint third in Strictly Cymru Grand Final last year.

Helen said ahead of the final last year: "It was a fun event to take part in. I’m amazed was in the final!"

Leonard Cheshire is inviting disabled people across the country to take part in the competition — from keen dancers to complete beginners.

Glyn Meredith, Leonard Cheshire’s Director of Operations in Wales, said: "Dancing improves people’s health, happiness and well-being, opening up opportunities that too often are not accessible for disabled people.

"Following enormous success last year, we can’t wait to see what this year’s Strictly Cymru has to offer.

"We know there is a huge wealth of talent among the community in Wales and this event is the perfect opportunity to bring people everyone together to show what they can do."

The event has been organised in partnership with Para Dance UK.

Patrick McGeough, Para Dance UK CEO, said: "We welcome the opportunity to partner with Leonard Cheshire on this amazing event, enabling the community of Wales to take part in dance, but also developing a legacy that can show and enable the community that everyone can be involved in dance whether that is for fun, creative or competitive reasons.

"We wish all the participants good luck and we look forward to meeting and inspiring everyone to get involved have fun and show that no matter what the ability that all of the community of Wales can dance!”

* For further details and to find out how to take part, please visit: www.leonardcheshire.org/strictlycymru

Mazie designs AM and MP's Christmas card

* Susan Elan Jones MP with Mazie Pemberton, holding her

winning card design, and Ken Skates AM.

A six-year-old schoolgirl has been chosen as the winner of a competition to design this year's Christmas card for the area's AM and MP.

Mazie Pemberton’s entry featuring a colourful tree was Ken Skates and Susan Elan Jones’s favourite out of hundreds submitted.

Her design has been made into the Labour pair’s official Clwyd South Christmas card and will be sent to hundreds of homes, businesses and organisations across the constituency.

Mazie, who is in Year 2 at Rhosymedre Community Primary School, was presented with her framed original, a winner’s certificate and prizes by the politicians on Friday morning.

Susan said: “We would like to thank all the children who took part, as well as their teachers. There were so many wonderful entries it was incredibly difficult to make a decision, so we have included the runners-up designs inside the card as well. The finished article looks fantastic, we’re delighted with it.”

Ken added: “It was brilliant to meet Mazie and present her with her prizes. We could’ve chosen any number of entries because there were so many excellent ones, but Mazie is a deserved winner. I’d like to wish all the children and staff a merry Christmas and a very happy new year. I hope they all enjoy their well-earned break.”

The runners-up were eight-year-old Evie Davies and six-year-old Isobel Paddock, both from Ysgol Acrefair, who will also receive certificates.

Freezing weather closes Ponderosa for the day

The Ponderosa Cafe on the Horseshoe Pass has closed due to bad weather today.

A post on Facebook this morning says ...

Morning everyone,

Due to freezing conditions on the car parks I have taken the decision to close the Cafe today.

The roads are treacherous with black ice in lots of places please only travel over if necessary.

Apologies for any inconvenience

Kind regards Simon Clemence

Llangollen Museum stages its Christmas Carol Concert

* People gather to sing carols during the concert.

Llangollen Museum hosted a Christmas Carol Concert at Valle Crucis Abbey last night (Friday).

By special permission from CADW a large number of people packed inside the ancient chloisters to brave the cold and sing a variety of seasonal songs accompanied by Llangollen Silver Band and Cor Meibion Bro Glyndwr.

The choir and the band also performed a number of solo carols and there were Christmas-themed readings by museum volunteers. 

Local supermarkets donated mince pies and mulled wine.

* Members of Cor Meibion Bro Glndwr perform.

* Llangollen Silver Band provides musical accompaniment to the carols.

Catrin Finch joins eisteddfod line-up for 2019

To celebrate tickets going on sale to the general public Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has announced royal harpist Catrin Finch as the next addition to its evening concert line-up for 2019.

Harpist and composer to the Prince of Wales and vice president of the eisteddfod, Catrin Finch is one of the most accomplished and versatile harpists of her generation.

She joins a line up that already features jazz and bluesman Jools Holland, French-Mexican star tenor Rolando Villazón, salsa, pop and flamenco outfit Gipsy Kings and award-winning Celtic music band, Jamie Smith’s MABON.

Music Director of the festival, Edward-Rhys Harry, said: “We are very proud to announce Catrin as our next addition to the already star-studded line-up, which spans genres and generations, crossing the boundaries of age, culture and creed.

"There really is something for everyone and we’ll be adding even more early in the New Year, with the announcement of our Llanfest headliners for 2019.”

* Tickets are on sale to the general public and can be purchased online at www.llangollen.net or via the box office.

New Audi A6 comes out from the shadows

* The Audi A6.

* Audi A6 cabin.

Audi A6 road test by Steve Rogers

WHO'D be a car salesman trying to shift a big saloon?

Everyone is buying SUVs, aren't they?

Well yes, but there must be a decent market for premium wheels because Audi has spent a bucket full of money developing the new A6.

Trendy SUVs have been flying out of the showrooms all year but top end saloons are still filling executive spaces in company car parks. That is where A6 comes in although the competition is hellishly tough with BMW 5 Series, Jaguar XF, Mercedes E Class and the new Volvo S90 all wanting a slice of the cake.

A6 has always struggled against the highly rated 5 Series and more recently the much improved E Class which is why Audi has gone for broke with the new model.... and it shows.

There has been a big leap forward in technology, refinement, and comfort while the styling mirrors the new design theme seen in A4 and A8 and for me it is now the best looking of the trio.

The car is longer and wider and looks great in S Line trim sitting that little bit lower on the road. Of course the big winner is cabin space where a six foot back seat passenger can sit behind a six foot driver and not feel short changed on leg room. The extra legroom has not compromised boot space which is substantial and can be extended with the seat backs dropped.

No one in the premium sector can trim a cabin like Audi yet they have managed to make A6 look even plusher. The materials are top notch, the finish superb and it looks all the more special with the new twin screen layout first seen in new A8.

In S Line models you get a 10 inch top screen for navigation, radio, mobile phone connections etc with an 8.6 inch screen below for heating controls and the brilliant 12.3 inch virtual cockpit which fills the driver's binnacle with a Google map and dials which are interchangeable for size. Clever stuff.

Everything is digital and selected by touch and I particularly liked the soft click letting you know the selection has been successful. Another neat touch is the increase in backlighting when a hand hovers over switches to the side of the steering wheel.

The amount of information stored in Audi's MMI interface is incredible, pretty much what you get on a home computer. Trouble is it takes a lot of homework to find it and then remembering how you got there.

Both my wife and I remarked that the rear camera could do with a washer but it was five days before we found it had the very function, and in this case easy to find. It's just there is so much going on and some functions will never be used because they will never be found.

Driving new A6 really is something to look forward to. I used to steer friends away from S Line models because the ride wasn't up to scratch but the new suspension, which transformed A4, has done the same here. Even in sport mode the car is settled over poor surfaces while silky smooth is the order of the day on motorways which is where A6 will ply most of its trade.

Audi has developed a new four cylinder two-litre diesel which is so refined it could pass for a V6. With 400Nm of torque pick up is brisk and can catch you out. I put my foot down on a motorway slip road and was surprised to see I was doing 80mph in a flash. Sorry officer but I wanted to get safely ahead of the traffic.

But performance is not the big story here. It is economy. I had to do a double take when I noticed I got 53mpg on a 170 mile mainly motorway journey. We must have had a tail wind on the way home because it went up to 55mpg! That is astonishing considering I was nearly always hovering around 70mph and probably helped by the mild hybrid system which kills the engine when coasting between 34 and 99mph.

The engine is so quiet the driver is unlikely to notice anything has changed. I certainly didn't.

Perhaps for the first time in a long time A6 can offer itself as the best executive car. It no longer lives in the shadow of the BMW 5 Series, that's for sure. All four rivals mentioned earlier have their own special qualities and the final decision may come down to brand loyalty.

Fast facts

Audi A6 40 TDI S Line

£41,110

2-litre turbo diesel; 200bhp

0-62mph 8.1secs; 152mph

62.8mpg combined

117g/km. 1st year road tax £205

Insurance group 36

New Dot's special Christmas screenings

* A scene from It's a Wonderful Life.

New Dot Cinema are holding two free screenings of the well-loved vintage classic, It's a Wonderful Life tomorrow (Friday) and everyone is invited.

Doors open for a Relaxed Matinee at 2:30pm, and for the evening show at 7:30pm.


Both shows will be preceded by some toe-tapping swing music and extra special festive fare such as mince pies, hot drinks and a licensed bar.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate will also be available at the evening screening. Mainfloor or wheelchair spaces can be reserved by emailing hello@newdotcinema.org


In lieu of a ticket, people are invited to bring a Christmas gift, to be distributed by either Welsh Women's Aid, Wrexham or Mike & Val Connolly's Llangollen Community Christmas Lunch.

Welsh Women's Aid has suggested unwrapped gifts for women aged 18 and over such as toiletry gift sets and nightwear.

Mike and Val have suggested wrapped Christmas gifts such as festive treats, chocolates or other stocking fillers. New Dot will be supplying a gift wrapping table for anyone to make use of.

There will also be a collection bucket for those who would prefer to make a cash donation to Welsh Women's Aid.

New Dot's Spring 2019 programme is also set to be released on the night.

The volunteer-run community cinema is starting the new year with an exciting change, offering twice as many films a month. More details will soon be available at www.newdotcinema.org, on Twitter or Facebook.

Tidy Town Team celebrates another successful year

Members of Llangollen Tidy Town Team celebrated another successful year - the 13th - with their annual Christmas dinner held this time at the Wild Pheasant last night (Wednesday).

County advises on Christmas taxi safety

Denbighshire County Council is urging residents to stay safe this Christmas and book taxis in advance of their evening out.

Unlicensed taxis are a common problem across the country and with the Christmas party season in full swing it's important to know how to tell an unlicensed taxi from a licensed one, says the council.

 

All vehicles will be identified by individually numbered plates front and back with hackney carriage vehicles also having a roof sign, while all drivers will carry ID badges.

Cllr Tony Thomas, the council’s lead member for Housing, Regulation and the Environment, said: "Unlicensed taxis may seem to offer a better deal but it's not worth risking your safety to save a few pounds. These vehicles are not insured as taxis and the drivers have not gone through the rigorous checking involved in the licensing process.

“Licensing officers will be carrying out checks to ensure no unlicensed taxis are operating in the area. Never get in a taxi without first checking that it's the one you have booked or that it's a legitimate Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Vehicle.”

When the party is over and you need to get home, remember these guidelines about council licensed taxis:

•             Hackney Carriage Vehicles have a plate attached to the front and rear of the vehicle displaying the vehicle details and licence number.

•             Hackney Carriages can ply for hire from designated taxi ranks and can pick up passengers who flag them down.

•             Private Hire Vehicles have a blue sign attached to the rear doors of the vehicle showing the licence and a plate at the rear of the vehicle displaying the vehicle details and licence number.

•             Private Hire Vehicles can only be booked in advance through an operator.

Never get in to a vehicle that does not display an appropriate plate at the rear. It is not insured and may not be licensed. Ensure that the driver is displaying a council approved driver's badge. For your own safety, always take a council licensed vehicle - the driver and vehicle have both been vetted.

Cllr Hugh Irving, chair of Denbighshire’s licensing committee, said: “Don't let a good night out be ruined by an unlicensed taxi. Always book in advance or make sure you have the number of several local taxi firms stored in your mobile phone before going out.

“Before getting in a taxi ensure the driver knows the destination and always sit in the back. Make sure that you're picked up and dropped off somewhere familiar and well lit, however if you feel uneasy with the driver ask him to stop at a busy, familiar place and get out.”

New Three Eagles opens for business next week

* The Three Eagles team line up ahead of the opening.

The Three Eagles is set to throw open its doors for business next week.

Its management team says reservations are already flooding in from people eager to sample its food and drinks.

Located on Bridge Street in historic Grade II-listed former coaching-inn the Wynnstay, The Three Eagles has been a work in progress over recent months with the building having been subject to extensive renovation works.

As the project nears completion, a strong management team have been assembled.

The majority of them originate from the local area, with almost all having attended Ysgol Dinas Bran.

Until now many of them had spent years plying their trade away from the town – some internationally.

Heading up the  team is general manager Amy Cross. A local farmer’s daughter, she has worked in the hospitality industry since her university days in Liverpool.

Having worked her way around the mountains, lakes and coastline of Wales, she brings over 15 years of experience to the table. Amy spent the last three years in Ireland, leading an award-winning restaurant through its launch in Dublin.

She has a track-record of launching a number of new fine dining restaurants, achieving recognition in the Michelin Guide having fronted a restaurant by 2-Michelin-Star chef Michael Caines MBE.

“It’s such an exciting time not just for the Three Eagles but for Llangollen and North Wales tourism as a whole. The Three Eagles will provide Llangollen with such an important boost for the local economy and it is a real privilege to be part of this journey from the very beginning”, said Amy.

“With the venue’s inception, some excellent career opportunities have been created. It’s the vision and commitment to a better Wales that the Three Eagles represents that has drawn these high flyers home, resulting in the creation of a first-class team. What we’re hoping will be key to our future success is the continued development of our staff.”  

Amy joins experienced international chefs Adam Gaunt-Evans and Oliver Potter at the Three Eagles.

Assistant managers Nicole Farrell and Kim Watson also come with their own expertise.

Nicole has been a driving force behind the exclusive Llangollen wedding venue Tyn Dwr Hall whilst Kim has previously worked in a managerial position for a national gastro pub/restaurant chain.

Their fellow assistant manager Harry Hickson, from over the English border, compliments the team bringing years of managerial experience which meant travelling the globe as far as Australia building his wine knowledge.

Owners of The Three Eagles Matt and Vicky Jones say the concept of the venue has always been about showcasing the very best elements of Llangollen and the surrounding region.

Matt said: “When we set out in the beginning it was very important to us that we created opportunities here in Llangollen – first and foremost for Llangollen people. And that is exactly what The Three Eagles has done.

"The team have come home to take on this exciting project with us and I think that should give some indication as to just how impressive The Three Eagles is going to be.”

* To find out more about The Three Eagles, Llangollen go to www.thethreeeagles.co.uk

MP calls for vote of no confidence in government

Clwyd South's Susan Elan Jones is among several prominent Welsh Labour politicians who have urged the party's UK leader to table a vote of no confidence in Theresa May's government.

It follows the decision to defer a vote on Brexit on Monday.

Labour was granted an emergency debate on Tuesday on the issue after claiming MPs had been "disregarded".

But the party rejected calls to table a vote of no confidence in Mrs May, with Labour officials arguing it had more chance of success when the Brexit deal came back before MPs.

However, some Welsh Labour politicians have urged Mr Corbyn to act.

MPs Susan Elan Jones (pictured), Tonia Antoniazzi, Madeleine Moon, Geraint Davies, Chris Bryant and Owen Smith have all signed a letter to the Labour leadership from Ian Murray asking for a no confidence vote, followed by another referendum.

The Prime Minister is today meeting European leaders and EU officials for talks aimed at rescuing her Brexit deal.

Vote for your favourite Christmas Tree

The annual Christmas Tree Festival at Llangollen Methodist Church is now open to the public.

A total of 14 imaginative and colourfully decorated examples created by a range of local organisations and individuals can be seen - and voted on - at the church which is open specially for viewing next Saturday (December 15) from 10am-3pm and next Sunday (December 16) between 12.30pm and 3.30pm.

* Trees, from left, by Ysgol Bryn Collen, Messy Church and New Dot Cinema. 

* The trees exhibited by, from left, Sheena and Andree, PTFA and Llangollen & District Gardening Club.

* From left, trees by Llangollen Day Nursery and the After-School Drop-in for High School Pupils.

* From left, the trees of Llangollen Eisteddfod, Holy Cross Church and Cefn Mawr Knit and Natter Group. 

* From left, exhibits from Just a Bit of Fun, Llangollen Tidy Town Team and City Church.  

Llangollen formally welcomes its new vicar

* Father Lee Taylor, left, with the Bishop of St Asaph at

yesterday's licensing service. 

* The new vicar greets the congregation at the service.

The communities of Llangollen, Llantysilio and Trevor welcomed the Rev Lee Taylor as their new vicar yesterday (Sunday).

The Bishop of St Asaph and the new Archdeacon of Montgomery, the Ven Dr Barry Wilson, led the special service of licensing and welcome at St Collen’s Church.

Lee Taylor comes to Llangollen from Croydon Minster where he had been serving as Associate Vicar, establishing partnerships with various organisations, businesses and charities around Croydon.

"Working with the community is at the heart of my priestly ministry’, said Lee Taylor, "as I believe that the work of God thrives and flourishes in community. I am greatly looking forward to my move to Llangollen – the festival capital of Wales – and to serving all sections of this wonderful and vibrant community."

Lee was born and brought up in Bolton, Lancashire. He studied theology at the University of Wales, Lampeter, where he was also organ scholar and choirmaster.

Following university, Lee worked at a busy call centre for the gas and electricity supplier Norweb Energy before working as Deputy-Head Verger at Southwark Cathedral for eight years.

In 2010 Lee left London to train for ordination at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, before serving his curacy in Leigh-on-Sea.

The Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt. Revd Gregory Cameron, said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Lee to ministry in Llangollen and the Valle Crucis Mission Area. Lee is a creative and talented priest, who will bring vitality and enthusiasm to his role."

In his leisure time Lee enjoys playing and composing music, ballroom dancing, the arts, hiking, and keeping fit.

He is a member of the British Music Hall Society, is publicity officer for London’s Players’ Theatre, and performs Music Hall turns with The Mary Ward Players.

Eisteddfod hosts Christmas carol concert

* Elan Catrin Parry will appear in the Eisteddfod concert on December 16.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is to host a festive carol concert to celebrate the launch of the 2019 concert series line-up.

The concert on Sunday 16^th December will be filled with young local talent with performances from Welsh singing sensation and finalist of the 2018 Vocal Solo competition, Elan Catrin Parry, who will be showcasing songs from her debut album, “Angel” alongside other special guests pianist Julian Gonzales, Llangollen Operatic Young ‘Uns’, Ysgol Dinas Brân Band and Wrexham County Youth Choir.

Guests will be greeted with a traditional mince pie and merry glass of mulled wine to warm up their own vocal cords in time to join in with the cheerful Christmas carols, in the comfort of the main internal hall in the pavilion.

The Eisteddfod is also offering visitors the chance to win a selection of raffle prizes, with all proceeds from the event going towards their bursary fund, which supports international competitors in their visit to Llangollen.

Llangollen Eisteddfod Chairman, Dr Rhys Davies said: “It’s been an exhilarating few weeks in Llangollen, completing final preparations for the 2019 Llangollen Eisteddfod concert launch, which will showcase musical excellence and offers something for everyone.

“We’re really proud of this year’s festival line-up and our Christmas concert will bring people together in a musical celebration, which is what the Eisteddfod is all about. It promises to be a delightful evening and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming the exceptionally talented Elan Catrin Parry back to Llangollen."  

Music Director of the Festival, Dr Edward-Rhys Harry said: “It’s an extremely exciting time of year here at the Eisteddfod, from announcing the 2019 line-up to getting full-swing into the holiday season.

“The Christmas concert will help to raise vital funds for the bursary fund ensuring that we can welcome as many international competitors to Llangollen in July as possible. It is great to see such talented young local performers giving their time to support this cause.

“It is definitely going to be a Christmas concert not to be missed and most certainly the perfect excuse to enter into the festive spirit.”

* Tickets for the Christmas concert are available from the Eisteddfod Ticket Office by calling 01978 862000 and Llangollen Tourist Information. Tickets are priced at £10 for adults, £8.00 for concessions, £5.00 for children with under 5’s free. For further information please visit www.llangollen.net.

After the highly anticipated announcement of the 2019 concert series last week, priority tickets to the seven-day event went on sale for Festival Pass holders and Friends of the Eisteddfod. To become a Friend of the Eisteddfod and access priority booking, please telephone 01978 862001 or visit www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk/get-involved/become-a-friend.

Tickets for the 2019 concert strand will be on sale to the general public from 9.00am on Wednesday 12^th December.

For regular news and updates about the Festival follow us on Twitter @llangollen_Eist , like our Facebook page Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod or follow us on Instagram @llangollen_eisteddfod. 

Incident involving railway's Santa Special

A spokesman for Llangollen Railway has given details of a “highly regrettable” incident on Sunday afternoon in which at least one hound from the local hunt was hit by a Santa Special steam train after straying on to the track.

Liz McGuinness, business manager of the popular heritage railway, said: “Our Santa Special was on its way back from Carrog station to Llangollen when the incident occurred at around 4pm today near the Deeside loop just after Glyndyfrdwy .

“From what I understand members of the local hunt were somewhere in the vicinity of the line when at least one of the hounds ended up running up the tracks towards the oncoming train which was carrying a large number of passengers – many of them young children – enjoying a festive day out.

“I understand that the train hit at least one of the dogs. I am not certain at this stage how badly the animal was injured but members of the hunt turned up to take the animal or animals away from the scene.”

She added: “No-one aboard the train, either on the footplate or in the passenger coaches, were hurt but the driver and crew were obviously badly shaken by this highly regrettable incident.

“The train eventually made its way back to Llangollen.

“I sincerely apologise to everyone on the Santa Special for what should have been an enjoyable afternoon ending in this way.

“Can I make it clear that the hunt does not have permission to be on Llangollen Railway property at any time.

“A full investigation into the incident will now be carried out by railway management.”

AM hears concerns of Ysgol y Gwernant pupils

* Assembly Member Llyr Gruffydd with pupils of Ysgol y Gwernant.

Plastic waste and traffic congestion in Llangollen were high on the agenda when pupils of Ysgol y Gwernant, Llangollen, met with regional Assembly Member Llyr Gruffydd this week.

Members of the School Council, Eco Council, Road Safety Group and Welsh Language Charter group invited Mr Gruffydd for a meeting to discuss their concerns.

Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales AM, gave a brief presentation of his work as an Assembly Member before listening to the pupils.

Llyr Gruffydd said: “The pupils of Ysgol y Gwernant were intelligent and eloquent, with a real concern about current affairs and issues. The waste and damage caused by Single-Use Plastics was a real worry for them.

“They were interested to hear that Plaid Cymru on Denbighshire Council are running a campaign to make the county a Single-Use Plastic-Free Council and there’s a strong local campaign in Llangollen as well.

“We agreed to write to the Welsh Government and Denbighshire County Council expressing their concerns. They also had concerns about the congestion and safety on Castle Street.

"This has been an ongoing concern for some time and it’s obvious that it impacts on the quality of life of people of all ages in the town. I know that the Town Council has an initiative to try to tackle this and the County Council has allocated some funds to this end, but it’s obvious that the children in the area feel that something should be done soon.

“It’s always a pleasure to talk to children about the issues that affect them. Far too often adults carry a lot of baggage with them and can make matters unnecessarily complicated. It was refreshing to hear the views of the younger generation. Even though they aren’t eligible to vote yet, I’m there to represent them as much as everybody else in the area.

“Ysgol y Gwernant is an excellent school and they obviously take their responsibilities seriously. There was a lovely environment there and it was a real pleasure to visit.”

* The AM chats to the children about a range of topics.

A5 roadworks to start on Monday

Work is due to start on Monday (December 10) to inspect and maintain the rock face on the westbound A5 to the east of Llangollen.  

Being undertaken by contractors on behalf of The North & Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency, the work is due to be completed by next Friday (December 14).

A westbound lane closure on the A5 is required in order to carry out the works.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place during daylight hours in addition to a 10mph temporary speed restriction and convoy working. Traffic signals only will be in place overnight.

The duration of the work may increase following inspection of rock face.

Traffic Wales has apologised in advance for any inconvenience caused by the work.

Bryn Collen's Christmas play was a real cracker

Everyone who saw yesterday afternoon's Christmas play by the children of Bryn Collen's primary school said it was excellent.

This picture was kindly supplied to llanblogger by Cllr Karen Edwards.

Llan celebrates its plastic-free achievements

* Mair Davies, second from left, with representatives of some of the businesses who have become official Plastic-Free Champions and civic leaders at the presentation ceremony in the Town Hall.

Llangollen has joined a network of communities across the UK which are leading the way on tackling

throw-away plastics.

The town has been awarded Plastic Free Community status by Surfers Against Sewage in recognition of the work it has done to start reducing the impact of throwaway plastics.

And, to celebrate, 10 local businesses have been honoured as Plastic-free Champions.

During a ceremony at the Town Hall this week Courtyard Café, Pro Adventure, Taylors Catering (Llangollen Railway), Oak Street Coffee Shop, Manor House, Llan Valley Natural Products, Zingiber Wholefoods, Porter's Deli, Pretty Vintage Tearoom and M'Eating Point each received special awards from Mair Davies who co-ordinates Llangollen's drive to reduce plastic waste.

Mair, from Friends of the Earth Llangollen, launched the campaign earlier this year after starting her own journey to reduce plastic waste.

Registering with the SAS Plastic Free Communities movement, she pulled together key players and businesses in the town to put in place a five-point plan to start reducing the impact of plastics on the local environment.

The objectives include setting up a community led steering group, instigating the Plastic Free Schools education programme, getting local council commitment and working with local businesses, organisations and community groups to minimise the amount of disposable plastics they use.

 “The whole campaign has been a very positive experience, it has been a joy to see the community come together with a shared wish to do their bit,” said Mair. 

“There has been a wide variety of ways that businesses have pledged to do to reduce plastic use, from Ditching the Straw, changing to paper bags, bulk buying, refilling containers, removing single serve items, ditching plastic cutlery and removal of plastic packaging.”

“She added: "There have been a wide variety of events in Llangollen to help reduce plastic in the town, from coffee mornings to litter picks and group talks to help empower people to make the change.

“It has been so nice to see how unifying this issue has been and how it affects all areas within the town, from The Town Council, Cittislow Llangollen, Chamber of Trade, the local Schools and the numerous community groups in the area.

“We couldn’t be more elated at getting Plastic Free Status for the town and being the first town in Denbighshire to get this award. Together we have made great strides to help safeguard nature and the beauty within this beautiful town, but more can be done.

"Of course Llangollen isn’t completely plastic free, but this is recognition of the steps that the community has already made to help reduce the negative impact of plastic.” 

The Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Community network aims to free the places where we live from single-use.

The marine conservation charity, based in St Agnes in Cornwall, says it wants to unite communities to tackle avoidable plastic, from the beach all the way back to the brands and businesses who create it. It says it is not about removing all plastic from our lives, but kicking our addiction to throwaway plastic and changing the system that produces it.

Rachel Yates, Plastic Free Communities Project Officer at Surfers Against Sewage, said: “It’s great to see the work that Llangollen has done to reduce the availability of avoidable plastics, raise awareness and encourage people to refill and reuse.

“We now have almost 400 communities across the UK working to reduce single use plastic and the impact it has on our environment. E

"Every step those communities and the individuals in them take is a step to tackle the problem at source, challenging our throwaway culture and encouraging the habit changes we need to see.”