Items from the past found under church floor

* Items found under the floor including glass, lead, nails and a 1919 coin.

Genesis Project Manager Sue Evans along with engineers, an archaeologist, and the church’s architect Duncan Sanderson recently visited St Collen's to closely inspect the void beneath the timber platform holding the pews as part of the on-going re-ordering.

Chris Williams, from Heneb, Clwyd-Powys Archaeology https://www.facebook.com/cpatarchaeology said: “The visit was necessary to develop a design specification for the proposed heating system, the removal of some of the pews and relocation of the font.

“Seven trial holes were opened in the oak flooring of the platform to test different areas.

“The findings from the day show that the base below the platform throughout the church consisted of a compacted lime mortar-rich soil with a combination of mortared stone debris and wood shavings, likely from the construction and subsequent modifications to the timber platform.”

Sue was later able to show members of the congregation some of the items found under the flooring, which included Victorian glass and lead from the windows, Victorian nails and tiles and a coin dating from 1919.

* Expert inspection under the pew area.

The results from the day will enable the project to design a new heating system for the church.

This is just a small part of the much larger project to create a community space within the building, the money for which has been provided by the Heritage Fund and will include the provision of a toilet and kitchen in the church.

Sue added: “We will soon be undertaking some community events which will enable us to research the rich history of the building. So if you would like to be involved with these events then please do get in touch with us.”

Big tent now fully ready for Eisteddfod action

Eisteddfod volunteer Issy Richards was at the International Pavilion yesterday (Monday) to capture the dramatic scenes as the heavy machinery went into action to put up the rear section of the iconic "big tent".

In just a couple of months time it will provide the extra audience requirements for the world-class entertainers such as Sir Tom Jones and Katherine Jenkins who are lined up to appear within it along with a host of talented competitors from across the globe. 

Tractor run raises £2,100 Teenage Cancer Trust

Members of the Vale of Llangollen Rotary Club and Llangollen Young Farmers' Club got together to mark the second donation made possible by their very successful Illuminated Tractor Run last December. 

A total of £2,100 is being sent to assist the work of the Teenage Cancer Trust which works across the UK  supporting young people who are making their way through some difficult times in their lives and their families too.

Both organisations would like to thank everyone locally who helped and supported making these donations possible.

Full hybrid new Suzuki makes for some Swift handling

New Suzuki Swift drive by Steve Rogers

Suzuki could not have picked a better time to launch its new Swift.

Why? Because the supermini cake is getting smaller. Ford shocked the motoring world when it ditched the huge selling Fiesta, add other big hitters like Nissan Micra and Kia Rio and the list of rivals is shrinking.

Not that it is going to be plain sailing, there is still good opposition around yet new Swift has a strong story to tell: A starting price under £19k, class leading economy and a more than impressive spec list.

There are just two grades, Motion and Ultra, and the obvious pick is Motion. Suzuki has packed the entry model with all the essentials so expect LED headlights, heated front seats, rear camera and sensors, navigation with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections, adaptive cruise control and a generous list of other safety aids including blind spot monitor, cross traffic alert, and warning beeps if you stray off line.

Swift made its debut in 1985 but it was the 2004 model that made people sit up and take notice. The eye catching shape has stood the test of time although the new model has a redesigned front and is all the better for it.

There have been significant changes inside as well. The outdated dashboard has a more modern look with a lot of new tech in a prominent 9.2inch touchscreen along with an updated driver's binnacle.

It is still covered with hard plastics - the Japanese prefer it because it is easier to clean - yet it has a quality look about it helped by a two-tone finish.

Swift is one of the smallest superminis so don't expect masses of room. It can cope with four adults but the boot is compact and will struggle to take anything more than three carry on bags.

The other big change is a new 1.2 litre three-cylinder engine. It is a self charging 12V mild hybrid so the benefit from the motor is restricted to a small increase in acceleration, lower emissions and smoother stop/start system.

Three-pot engines sound a bit gruff under hard acceleration but have good low down pick up and are generally frugal on fuel. The Swift is exceptional with a class leading 64mpg from the five speed manual. Performance is only adequate and you will need to drop down gears on hills where it runs out of puff.

The car would benefit from a full hybrid set up like the new MG3 which is way faster but with the extra weight of a battery pack will drink more fuel and cost more.

Suzuki is offering a CVT automatic linked to its highly efficient AllGrip all wheel drive system and for the first time AllGrip will be available with the five-speed manual.

A big part of the Swift's charm is its sporty handling. It is a fun car to dart through twists and turns, body movement is under control and the steering quick and precise. No understeer, no drama just an easy, rewarding drive.

Will there be another Sport model? Who knows because UK Director Dale Wyatt gave nothing more than a considered 'may be' when I posed the question. But he did reveal that Suzuki will launch its first battery electric car next year.

If you lived in India your car would probably be a Suzuki where the company rules the roost with almost half the car market. It has never been very easy in the UK in spite of an enviable reliability record, but they have smoothed over a few rough edges and with its competitive price and outstanding economy this could be the time to go for glory.

Fast facts

Swift Ultra mild hybrid

£20,549 (starts £18,699)

1.2 litre petrol; 82bhp

0-62mph 12.5secs; 103mph

64.2mpg combined

99g/km. 1st year tax £165

Boot: 265-589 litres

Insurance group 27

Operatic's Bad Girls musical now ready for release

* The irritable inmates.

Llangollen Operatic Society are in the last few rehearsals for their forthcoming show, Bad Girls. 

It's billed as a fast-paced, funny, raunchy look at prison life for a bunch of inmates having to deal with less-than-wholesome prison staff. 

“Sprits are high and there's masses of enthusiasm," reports artistic director Chrissie Ashworth.

"And there's absolutely nothing being left to chance, we've got this nailed!"

Bad Girls runs at Llangollen Town Hall from Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 May, including a Saturday matinee. 

Producers say that due to the adult nature of some scenes it is not suitable for under-16s. 

* Tickets are available from: Llangollen Tourist Office, Llangollen Oggie Shop, or online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/llangollenoperaticsociety

* The severe staff.

EE warns of possible service disruption

9.21pm update: EE says the problem has now been fixed. 

EE has issued a warning about possible loss of its service in the Llangollen area, presumably as a result of this evening's thunderstorm.

It says: "MyPlace update: Just to let you know, we have a problem near Llangollen which may be affecting service in the area.

"Everything should be back to normal within 15 hours. We will continue to keep you updated. 

"To keep connected simply use WIFI calling, to get started click here ee.co.uk/wifi-calling."

Change of opening hours for county's libraries

From June 1 the opening hours of Denbighshire’s libraries and One Stop Shops will be changing.

The new hours have been informed and tweaked by library staff, library users and the numerous responses to the public consultation to fit each individual libraries' needs on a case-by-case basis.

The full array of library services are being maintained, and a full programme of activities will be available to users throughout Denbighshire, says the county council. 

The popular Bookstart rhymetime sessions are continuing, and people will still be able to drop into their local Talking Point to find out what help and support is available in their local area, but there may be some changes to specific times.

The Digital Library offering will continue to be available 24/7, giving library members free access to eBooks, audiobooks and ePress via the Borrowbox app, and digital magazines via the Libby app.

* The changes which apply to Llangollen library are:

Wednesday - 2.5pm; Thursday - 10am-1pm and 2-5pm; Friday - 10am-1pm and 2-5pm; Saturday - 9.30am-12.30pm. 

Bryn Collen celebrates "excellent" Estyn report

 

Pavilion packed with garden railway enthusiasts

* A miniature steam engine makes its way around one of the numerous railway layouts on display.

Llangollen's International Pavilion is today playing host to thousands of enthusiasts attending one of the UK's largest garden railway festivals. 

Over 50 leading retailers have laid out their displays and stalls, including some showcasing some of the most ingenious railway model layouts from different periods and countries, catering for all tastes.

There have been locomotives running on various gauges, live steam, gas fired, digital and analogue operations plus a huge range of accessories and parts.

A garden railway or garden railroad is a model railway set up outdoors in a garden. 

The event is the brainchild of Llangollen-based garden model railway enthusiast Keith Potts who himself is the proud creator of a marvellous layout outside his own Llangollen home. 

He said: "Since we held our first garden railway festival in Llangollen in 2020 it has gone from strength to strength. Since COVID, the popularity of garden railways has gone through the roof.  

"Today's event has been a fantastic success as we not only got to see some amazing model railways in action, but there has also been plenty of opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts and learn about different railway models and layouts."  

The festival closes at 4pm this afternoon (Saturday). Tickets are priced at £12 for adults, with free admission for all accompanied children. 

* The Pavilion packed with enthusiasts. 

* Making adjustments to the rolling stock.

 * Lots more stalls and exhibitors next door.

* Stall for specialists.

* Making sure everything is right on track. 

* Right stop for Ffordd-Y-Deryn station.

* An exhibitor all the way from the East Midlands.

* Getting into the correct costume.

* People gather on the platform.

* The local Glyn Valley Tramway's stall gets busy.

 * A famous face puts in an appearance. 

Latest local roadworks alerts

Latest local roadworks alerts from Causeway one.network re:

Fron Bache, Llangollen, Denbighshire,North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency 13 May - 15 May   Delays likely - Diversion route   Name: Diversion   Location: Fron Bache   Description: Streetworks / License - Streetworks   Responsibility for event: Denbighshire County Council   Current status: Planned       Fron Bache, Llangollen, Denbighshire,North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency 13 May - 15 May   Delays likely - Road closure   Name: Fron Bache, Llangollen   Location: Fron Bache   Description: Streetworks / License - Streetworks   Responsibility for event: Denbighshire County Council   Current status: Planned

* Latest local roadworks alerts from Denbighshire County Council are:

A539 OUTSIDE 45 CASTLE STREET 20/05/2024 22/05/2024 Gwaith Trydanol / Electrical Works O'CONNOR UTILITIES (DCC) LLANGOLLEN Goleuadau Traffig Dros Dro/ Temp Traffic Lights  

A539 - Ponsonby Arms, Mill Street, Llangollen MILL STREET 09/07/2024 10/07/2024 I reoli traffig ar llwybr amgen / To control traffic on an alternative route NMWTRA (DCC) LLANGOLLEN Goleuadau Traffig Dros Dro/ Temp Traffic Lights

A539 GLASCOED BACHE MILL ROAD 23/05/2024 23/05/2024 Adferiad/ Reinstatement O'CONNOR UTILITIES (DCC) LLANGOLLEN

OUTSIDE TRYLAN BIRCH HILL 20/05/2024 22/05/2024 Gwaith Dwr / Water Works HAFREN DYFRDWY Ffordd ar Gau/Road Closure

OOUTSIDE HOLLYTOPS FRON BACHE 13/05/2024 15/05/2024 Gwaith Dwr / Water Works HAFREN DYFRDWY (GEORGIA) LLANGOLLEN Ffordd ar Gau/Road Closure

Local advice session to be held for new recycling service

Denbighshire County Council is holding a series of drop-in sessions to answer questions about its new recycling service which comes into effect on June 3.

One of these will be held at Llangollen Town Hall next Wednesday, May 15, between 2 and 7pm.

* There is also comprehensive information about the new service in the FAQs on the website: https://bit.ly/4aBpRGA

Thousands steaming towards Llangollen Garden Railway festival

* Tony Green from Tony Green Models has already set up at the Pavilion.

Thousands of garden rail enthusiasts will be heading to Llangollen this weekend, as the town again plays host to one of the UK's largest garden railway festivals.  

Over 50 of UK’s leading retailers have already set up at the International Pavilion with a fantastic selection of outstanding layouts of the larger scale in railway modelling, catering for all tastes, showcasing garden railways from different periods and countries.  

The event has been organised by Llangollen-based garden model railway enthusiast Keith Potts.  

Previous festivals have been hugely popular in the town famous for its annual International Musical Eisteddfod and own its steam railway.  

A garden railway or garden railroad is a model railway set up outdoors in a garden. Keith has his own garden railway, in his front garden on Horseshoe Pass View.

He said: "We have been busy today welcoming dozens of exhibitors from across the UK.  Llangollen is famous for its steam railway, but more and people are heading to this part of North Wales for our Garden Railway Festival.  

"Not only will you get to see some amazing model railways in action, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts and learn about different railway models and layouts.  

"The festival is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Llangollen countryside, and it's a great opportunity to spend a day out with friends and family.  

"Tickets are selling fast and the great things is that all accompanied children can attend for free."

The event is held at the Llangollen Pavilion tomorrow from 10am until 4.30pm.   

The festival will feature over 50 exhibitors, as well as demonstrations of modelling techniques and larger scale and gauge societies, preservation and heritage societies and railway specialist interest groups.  

There will also be locomotives running on various gauges, live steam, gas fired, digital and analogue operations.

Tickets for the Llangollen Garden Railway Festival are priced at £12 for adults, with free admission for all accompanied children.  Tickets can be purchased from the Llangollen Tourist Information Centre in the centre of Llangollen or by calling 01978 860 828.  On the day tickets start at 10am. 

* For more information and for a list of exhibitors - see https://www.lgrf.co.uk/

Notice given of vacancy on Llangollen Town Council

Notice has been given of a casual vacancy on Llangollen Town Council.

Town clerk Gareth Thomas says: "The vacancy has been caused by the resignation of Cllr Yvonne Ryan.

"A bye-election to fill the vacancy will be held if 10 local government electors give notice, in writing, of a request for such an election to the Returning Officer, Denbighshire County Council, County Hall, Wynnstay Road, Ruthin, LL15 1YN, not later than Wednesday May 22.

"If no such notice is given the Town Council will fill the vacancy by co-option."

Australian trio Germein to support Sir Tom Jones at Eisteddfod

                                                                         

            * Australian trio Germein will support Sir Tom Jones on July 2.

Australian sibling trio Germein will support Welsh icon and music legend Sir Tom Jones when he headlines the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod this summer. 

Sir Tom will present the opening show of the Core Eisteddfod Week on Tuesday July 2 and it is announced today he will be joined on the night by Germein.

 

Indie-pop trio Germein, made up of sisters Georgia (guitar and lead vocals), Ella (bass) and Clara (drums) hail from South Australia. 

 

Germein began turning heads following the release of debut album Because You Breathe in 2013 and have been described as nothing short of mesmerising.

Taking the lead from strong female artists like HAIM and CHVRCHES, they are inspired by the vocal harmonies of iconic bands such as Queen and Fleetwood Mac.

 

With an impressive list of accolades under their belt, including opening for pop icons Little Mix, Ronan Keating, Phil Collins, Jess Glynne, and multiple times for Tom Jones, the trio promises a treat for Llangollen audiences.

Tom Jones has established himself as one of the most accomplished musicians of all time. 

Born in the mining town of Pontypridd, South Wales in 1940, he signed with Decca Records in the 1960s kickstarting a successful career with chart-topping hits such as It's Not Unusual, What's New Pussycat?, Delilah and Green, Green Grass of Home. 

His passion for diverse musical genres has led him to collaborate with legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Van Morrison, Dolly Parton and Ed Sheeran. 

His career has been filled with numerous honours and accolades, including a deeply cherished knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2006, multiple BRIT Awards, a Silver Clef Award, the prestigious Music Industry Trusts Award, and a Hitmaker Award from the US Songwriters Hall of Fame. 

The headlining show will form part of the core week of the 2024 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod which will also see concerts with Welsh icon Katherine Jenkins and international best-selling artist Gregory Porter. 

Along with the core week of the festival running from July 2 - 7, this year sees a series of concerts taking place as part of a new partnership between Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and Live Nation promoters Cuffe and Taylor. 

Tom Jones, Katherine Jenkins and Gregory Porter join global rock stars Simple Minds, British pop giants Madness, indie heroes Kaiser Chiefs, Manic Street Preachers and Suede, BRIT award-winning artist Paloma Faith, chart-topper Jess Glynne, disco legends Nile Rodgers & CHIC and global rock star Bryan Adams among the artists to headline dates either side of the iconic peace festival in 2024. 

Artistic Director of the Llangollen Eisteddfod Dave Danford said: “Tom Jones has been the talk of the town ever since we announced our 2024 line-up, and the opening night of our Core Eisteddfod Week will now be even bigger, with Germein warming up the stage for him. Their catchy brand of indie pop will be just the ticket to build the excitement on Tuesday 2 July.” 

* For more information and to buy tickets go to llangollen.net 

FOLLOW TOM JONES

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llanblogger takes a short break

llanblogger is taking a short break and will be back again in just over a week's time

Paloma Faith fan Ken Skates looks forward to Eisteddfod

* From left, Eisteddfod Board Member David Hennigan with Ken Skates MS and festival Vice Chair John Gambles.

Local Senedd Member Ken Skates says he can't wait for this summer's Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod to begin.

Mr Skates, who represents Clwyd South and is the new Cabinet Minister for Transport and North Wales, is also a Vice-President of the festival.

He recently met up with Eisteddfod organisers for an update as they step up plans for the biggest Eisteddfod for generations.

This year, the festival has partnered with promoters Cuffe and Taylor to bring some of the world’s biggest artists to the town with Bryan Adams arriving in about 50 days' time.  

In June and July, the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Jess Glynne, Nile Rodgers & Chic and Simple Minds are all heading to Llangollen.  

There are major concerts before and after the core Eisteddfod, which takes place from July 2-7 – with Sir Tom Jones making his Llangollen debut followed by concerts by Welsh folk heroes Calan, Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists Johns Boys Chorus, West End stars Kerry Ellis and John Owen-Jones, double GRAMMY award winning Gregory Porter, the internationally renowned Choir of the World and finishing with a Gala Concert from Katherine Jenkins.  

The Eisteddfod will also welcome more than 3,000 competitors from over 30 countries with the popular Parade of Nations, its Children’s Day, popular outdoor stages and much more. 

Ken Skates says he is a Paloma Faith fan and is also looking forward to seeing local choir John’s Boys Chorus.  

He said: “Everyone in Llangollen and North Wales is super excited about this year’s changes at the International Musical Eisteddfod. I can’t wait to attend. It is a fantastic occasion and this year is going to better than ever.” 

He added: “When it comes to who I am looking forward to most, I’ve been to see her before, so I’m going to say Paloma Faith because she is phenomenal. And coming from North Wales, how could I not also mention Johns Boys?”

Llangollen Eisteddfod Board Member David Hennigan said: “It was great to update Ken on our exciting plans for this summer.  

"He has been and remains a huge supporter of our peace festival. We were pleased to congratulate him on becoming Cabinet Minister for North Wales and Transport. 

"This year we are set to welcome tens of thousands of extra visitors to our wonderful town and we are pleased to enjoy continued support from the Senedd.  

"Every summer since 1947 something magical happens in Llangollen - we are a small town with a big voice and this year our festival will be even bigger and better.”

Town is now officially dementia friendly

  

        * The Dementia Friendly group proudly display their accreditation. 

The steering group aiming to have Llangollen recognised as age and dementia friendly says it is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded accreditation by the North Wales Partnership Board as a Dementia Friendly Community with a commitment to take action and improve the lives of people affected by the condition. 

Group chair Angela Williams said: “The group will be outside the town hall entrance with information on dementia during Dementia Awareness week on Tuesday May 14, between 10am and 2pm, and Monday May 13, same times, outside Llangollen Health Centre. 

“Come along and chat to us we will have lots of information on dementia, dementia awareness training and all available help. 

“Becky from Nature for Health will be with us on the Tuesday and the wonderful Ruth Moore Williams with stories and music. 

“We have a carers group who meet monthly. Their next group is on May 9 at 2pm in the Hand Hotel a speaker from the North East Wales Carers Information Service (NEWCIS) is attending that meeting to share lots of information for carers. Please look on our Facebook page for details of various events,  or contact John on 07515051696. 

“Let's make Llangollen a happy friendly knowledgeable place for those living with dementia and older people to live and visit.”

Llan panto group makes £1,500 donation to Nightingale House Hospice

* The panto group make their presentation to Nightingale House's Sue Williams.

Llangollen’s Pantomime group have thanked everyone from the town and surrounding areas for their "amazing" support for this year’s smash-hit production of Jack and the Beanstalk.

Spokesperson Neil Barrett said: "Your support enabled us to be in a position to donate £1,500 to Nightingale House Hospice. 

"It was a privilege to present a cheque for that amount to Sue Williams from Nightingale House at our AGM recently."

He added: "We are delighted to support Nightingale House as it provides such amazing care for the local community.

"We had a fantastic response and amazing support from you, our very supportive community who returned to watch Llangollen’s panto group after three years absence. 

"We can't wait to to put on next year’s production of Beauty and the Beast. Dave and Louise Lyne have already written the script which includes lots of hilarious local themes."