History tour showcases Llangollen's rich heritage

Scores of interested history buffs took advantage of Llangollen's first ever Tour Through Time featuring six of the town's historical sites yesterday (Saturday).

The Eisteddfod, the railway, the museum, the old lock up, Plas Newydd and St Collen's Church all took part in the event organised by the recently-formed Our historic Llangollen hanesyddol i bawb, which is a collective of many historic sites and landscapes, heritage experiences and activities in Llangollen and the surrounding Dee Valley. 

All for free and without the need to book, each of the sites laid on expert guided tours which brought their respective histories vividly to life.   

The day started at the Royal International Pavilion at 10.30am and gently wended its way through Llangollen to end at St Collen's at 3.30pm.   

Each site staged its own 45-minute event, with 15 minutes between to allow people to make their way to the next  attraction.  

* Archivist Barrie Potter presents the Eisteddfod's Peace and Music Across the Years at the Royal International Pavilion.

* A selection of vintage Eisteddfod programmes on show at the Pavilion.

* Long-time volunteer Bob Gwynne outlines the rich history of Llangollen Railway at the station presentation.

* A profile of Lt Colonel Charles John Tottenham, a key figure in the development of the railway who had a station built at Berwyn near his home.

* People gather round to hear from Sam Thomson about some of the artefacts held at the museum.

* Sue Hargreaves welcomes visitors to the Heritage Lock Up Centre.

* Kirsty Wild talks people through some of the police and crime related items on display at the Lock Up Centre.

* People gather for the talk about Plas Newydd and its most famous occupants, the Ladies of Llangollen.

* Sue Evans, manager of the St Collen's Genesis Project, introduces visitors to the wonders of the historic parish church. 

Llangollen juniors design town's summer fete flyer

* The winning design for the summer fete flyer.

Llangollen Summer Fete made a successful return in 2024 five years after closing down in 2019 due to the pandemic.

This year's event will return on Saturday June 7 and a competition to design the flyer was run with Year 6 pupils from local junior schools Ysgol Bryn Collen and Ysgol Gymraeg Y Gwernant.

The children, aged nine to 10 years old, submitted their entries and a winner has been chosen whose design will now go into print.

The panel of judges from the Summer Fete Committee had to do choose a single winner in stages. 

The flyer will be delivered to all houses in Llangollen as well as being posted to noticeboards in surrounding areas. 

All the other entries will also then be laminated and form The Treasure Hunt around the fete site on the day. 

For anyone wondering who the winner of the competition was, they should look out for the flyer coming through your door, says a spokesperson for the committee. 

They added: "This year we wanted to include and involve the young people of our town in the fete in a meaningful way and that's why we came up with this idea to run the competition. 

"The entries we received were so excellent that it was a really difficult process to choose a single winner because they were all so creative and clever - it was such a delight to see all the designs that we've decided the whole town must see them all and have the opportunity to enjoy and celebrate the work of our junior designers too. 

"We'd really like to thank The Cornmill for sponsoring all the costs of the competition and The Treasure Hunt, as without their generosity we couldn't celebrate the work of our young people in this manner. We hope to see all the locals from the valley at the fete as this is for our community.

"The committee have also involved young people in other ways and we'll post more about that and the fete in the coming days and weeks in the lead-up to the big day." 

* Llangollen Summer Fete will take place on Saturday June 7, from 12noon-5pm at Plas Newydd Historic House and Gardens. There will be a lot more information about the fete on http://www.facebook.com/llangollensummerfete and http://www.instagram.com/llangollensummerfete . 

At the event, there will be a full entertainment schedule, food and drink, games, crafts and lots of local businesses selling their goods. 

Wellbeing walks set to launch across Denbighshire

The council’s Nature for Health Team are launching a series of weekly Wellbeing Walks in Llangollen designed to promote health, wellbeing, and community connection. 

They will take place across various locations in Denbighshire offering residents a chance to enjoy nature, improve their wellbeing, and meet like-minded individuals. 

Nature for Health is a collaborative project funded by the UK Government, that engages with individuals and communities to promote the role access to nature can play in improving health and wellbeing. 

The programme welcomes people of all abilities to get involved with conservation and healthy outdoor lifestyle activities on your doorstep. 

Starting Tuesday, May 6, these free inclusive walks will occur weekly on different days in various locations across the county. Each walk will last approximately 30 minutes and will cover level ground at a relaxed pace, making them accessible to all abilities. 

Whether you're looking to socialise, gain confidence, or boost your wellbeing, these walks provide a fantastic opportunity to do so, says the council. 

Details for the Wellbeing Walks:

When: Weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, beginning May 6 

Where: Llangollen, Rhyl, Loggerheads, Ruthin and Corwen

Duration: 30 minutes 

The Llangollen walks all start from the Health Centre car park, are led by Chloe, and are on Tuesdays May 6, 13, 20 and 27.

Charlotte Wheeler, Community Wellbeing Officer for Nature for Health said: "We’re thrilled to launch these weekly Wellbeing Walks, giving people across Denbighshire the chance to connect with nature, improve their wellbeing, and meet new friends. 

“Spending time outdoors has been proven to boost both mental and physical health, and these walks provide a simple yet meaningful way to deepen our connection with the natural world while embracing the benefits of fresh air, movement, and community."

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Transport and Environment, said: "The Nature for Health Programme is committed to promoting health and wellbeing by encouraging engagement with nature. Introducing weekly Wellbeing Walks is another fantastic way the team is helping Denbighshire residents lead healthier, happier lives—fostering a deeper connection with the natural world while encouraging outdoor activity and social interaction."

* For more information, please contact natureforhealth@denbighshire.gov.uk or join the team for one of the walks. Registration is required from the first walk and for regular participants. 

MP welcomes expansion of Domestic Abuse Orders

Clwyd East MP Becky Gittins has welcomed the expansion of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders. 

From this week, victims in North Wales - as well as their friends, families or support workers - can apply for Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPO) in the family court at Caernarfon, Prestatyn or Wrexham. 

Police can also apply on their behalf in the magistrates’ court for protection against abusers.

 

Domestic Abuse Protection Orders build on existing police powers, providing stronger protection for victims including forcing perpetrators to stick to strict exclusion zones wearing GPS tags and attending substance misuse or mental health interventions. 

 

Unlike current schemes, these orders cover all types of domestic abuse – including physical, controlling, or coercive behaviour, economic abuse and stalking – and can be issued by all courts. There will also be no maximum duration for these orders, compared to the 28-days current protection orders offer.

 

Becky Gittins said: “Having pushed for this pilot to be extended to North Wales, I am delighted that the Government has taken this step and made these protection orders available to victims across the region.

 

“It is imperative that victims know how to access these orders. If you’re experiencing abuse, contact your local family court, police, or your support worker today to help access a DAPO.

 

“These are practical measures which can make a real difference and are part of this Government’s commitment to make our communities safer, support victims, and halve violence against women and girls within a decade.”

Two big events planned to celebrate VE-Day 80th anniversary

The Town Hall will be lit up in red, white and blue as the grand finale to a special two-day programme of events in Llangollen to mark the 80^th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe. 

Both Bank Holiday Monday (May 5) and Thursday May 8 – the big day itself - will see community-based celebrations across the UK to celebrate the landmark anniversary of VE Day.   

In Llangollen the town council has arranged a full package of events to celebrate the occasion in style all centred on the Town Hall and nearby Centenary Square. 

On Bank Holiday Monday at 9.30am the flag will be raised in the square as the town crier proclaims that the festivities are getting underway. 

In the town hall there will be a free event with performances by a wide range of local groups such as Llangollen Silver Band and The Melodics Choir, dancers Valentine and Karen Lyon and solo singers Charlie Jones and Phil Robinson. 

Throughout the day wartime archive video and photographs will be shown on a big screen while schoolchildren from Bryn Collen and Y Gwernant will make VE Day decorations to deck out the hall. 

There will be stands by local organisations such as Llangollen International Eisteddfod, Dementia Friends, Friends of Llangollen Health Centre, Llangollen Food Share and the local branch of the Royal British Legion for which donations will be accepted.

Complimentary teas, coffees, and cakes will be served throughout the day and the event will come to a close with a performance by North Wales Opera who are currently rehearsing in the town hall for their Opera Cavalleria Rusticana, and the group’s Eve Callahan will sing a VE-Day song.  

 Celebrations continue on the evening of Thursday May 8 when church bells will ring out at 6.30 and the Royal British Legion will lead a short commemoration on the Town Square followed by the lighting up of the Town Hall in symbolic red, white and blue by the mayor. 

May what's on guide for Pengwern Community Hub

Here is the What’s On Calendar for May at Pengwern Community Hub in Llangollen.  

Bookings of social trips should be made two weeks prior to the date of the trip, say organisers.

MS backs efforts to save special riding centre from closure

* Sam Rowlands MS with trustee Victoria Everall while visiting the Clwyd Special Riding Centre.

Sam Rowlands, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is calling on people to support the Clwyd Special Riding Centre. 

The riding centre is a charity based at Llanfynydd, near Wexham, facing a critical financial shortfall.  

The charity has annual running costs of £365,000 per year and urgently needs to raise funds to remain open after May 1.

 

The centre supports a wide range of therapeutic activities, including hippotherapy (physio on horseback), mechanical horse therapy, Changing Lives Through Horses Programme, Equine Assisted Learning, and Riding for the Disabled (RDA) sessions.

 

They have launched a Crowdfunder, which has raised over £40,000 so far, but more support is needed to hit the £365,000 target.  If the target isn’t met, donations will be returned.  You can donate online at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/clwyd-special-riding-centre-in-financial-crisis.

 

Sam Rowlands MS said: “The Clwyd Special Riding Centre is a wonderful charity, which has supported countless individuals over the last forty-three years.

 

“The centre is now facing an unprecedented financial challenge, and it’s not for a lack of trying on their part.

 

“I would encourage everyone to get behind the Centre and support them so they can stay open, and continue to support people for decades to come.”

'Vibrant and eclectic' Fringe opens for 28th edition from July 11-20

Llangollen Fringe Festival returns this summer for its 28th edition, from July 11-20.

Organisers say it promises to be a vibrant and eclectic celebration of the arts, showcasing the very best in comedy, music, dance, theatre, spoken word, and community-led workshops.

Established in 1997, the Fringe has grown into one of Wales’ most distinctive independent arts festivals, attracting performers and audiences from across the UK and beyond. 

This year’s programme will feature an exciting mix of internationally acclaimed artists, emerging talent, and local creatives. 

The 2025 music line-up includes London Afrobeat Collective, a high-energy eight-piece known for their electrifying fusion of afrobeat, funk, jazz and Latin grooves. They will kick off the party with their joyful, multilingual rhythms. 

N’Famady Kouyaté, the dynamic balafon player and Glastonbury Emerging Talent winner, brings his rich blend of Mandingue traditions, jazz, indie, and pop.

Scottish folk innovators Breabach celebrate 20 years at the forefront of contemporary traditional music with their powerful mix of pipes, fiddle, step dance and Gaelic song. 

Adwaith, the bold Welsh-language trio and double Welsh Music Prize winners, showcase their expansive new album Solas, exploring identity, place, and transformation.

The Tubs bring jangly indie rock with folk undertones and post-punk edge, hailed by Pitchfork and Iggy Pop alike, while Afriquoi delivers a thrilling late-night set fusing Congolese guitar, Gambian kora and UK dance music. 

Festival favourite Mr. Scruff returns alongside MC Kwasi for a legendary genre-hopping DJ set packed with deep cuts, visuals and infectious energy.

Jali Bakary Konteh, heir to one of the most revered kora dynasties in West Africa, brings his virtuosic playing and fresh rhythmic arrangements, blending traditional Manding music with contemporary influences. 

Cerys Hafana, the trailblazing Welsh composer and triple harpist, stirs ancient sounds with experimental textures and archival inspirations, creating hauntingly innovative folk fusions.

From across the border, Bill Ryder-Jones, former Coral guitarist turned critically acclaimed solo artist and producer, brings the emotionally resonant songs of his acclaimed 2024 album Iechyd Da to the Fringe, following a year of sold-out orchestral shows and headline performances. 

Also appearing are Filkin’s Drift, the dynamic fiddle-guitar duo whose spellbinding harmonies and adventurous compositions - born from an 870-mile walking tour - blend English and Welsh traditions with remarkable sensitivity and flair.

Artistic Director Neal Thompson said: "We’re so proud to bring the 28th edition of the Fringe to life this July. Llangollen has a long tradition of celebrating music and culture, and this year’s programme reflects our ongoing commitment to artistic diversity and accessibility. Whether you’re here for the music, to laugh, learn something new, or simply soak up the atmosphere – there’s truly something for everyone.”

Alongside the headliners, Llangollen Fringe will once again be buzzing with free events and live music thanks to the return of two much-loved strands. 

Free Workshops offer a vibrant series of community-led sessions across a wide range of artforms, welcoming all ages and abilities to take part. 

Meanwhile, Music Around Town transforms Llangollen into an open-air stage, with live performances popping up in local venues across both weekends. 

* Full programme details and tickets: www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

Town's historic sites offer a tour through time this Saturday

Six of Llangollen historical sites have joined forces to offer a packed programme of short events celebrating different aspects of the town's history - all free of charge and with no need to book.

A Tour Through Time next Saturday May 3, has been organised by the recently-formed Our historic Llangollen hanesyddol i bawb, which a collective of many historic sites and landscapes, heritage experiences and activities in Llangollen and the surrounding Dee Valley. 

The special event starts at the Royal International Pavilion at 10.30am and wends through Llangollen to end at St Collen's Church at 3.30pm.   

Each site in turn will stage a 45-minute event, with 15 minutes between events to allow people to make their way to the next site.  

A spokesperson for the organisers said: "Join in or leave at any stage but the special display, talk or activity at each site will only take place during the time slot allotted.

"Please join us on this free exploratory and intriguing tour through Llangollen’s history.  All are welcome."

The day's programme is:

* 10.30am Eisteddfod Story: Peace and Music across the Years at the Royal International Pavilion, Abbey Road, LL20 8SW.

* 11.30am Celebrating 50 Years of the Llangollen Railway: A look back at the preservation and development of Llangollen Railway at Llangollen Railway, Abbey Road, LL20 8SN.

* 12.30pm Hands on History: A journey through history and prehistory, viewing and experiencing items from the Stone Age to the present day at Llangollen Museum, Parade Street, LL20 8PW.

* 1.30pm Crime and Punishment in Early Victorian Llangollen: Explore Llangollen’s first magistrates’ courtroom, gaol and police station at Lock Up Heritage Centre, Victoria Square, LL20 8ET.

* 2.30pm Home to the Ladies of Llangollen: Visit the home of the Ladies and learn of their journey from Ireland in search of an idyllic way of life, settling in the picturesque landscape of Llangollen at Plas Newydd, Hill Street, LL20 8AW.

* 3.30pm St. Collen’s Through Time: Discover the rich history of St. Collen’s Church, from its origins and medieval past to today’s vision for a modern future at St Collen’s Church, Regent Street, LL20 8HU.

Social care recruitment workshop to be held

* County Hall Ruthin where the social care workshop will be held.

Denbighshire County Council’s Social Care Team are inviting those who are interested in a career in social care to the latest recruitment workshop which will be held at County Hall in Ruthin on Thursday May 8.

The social care team are looking to engage with people who are interested in working within the community and supporting citizens throughout the county.

The workshop will start at 10am and will provide plenty of information about Denbighshire’s successful social care and the application process to join the team. Interviews will also be offered to candidates on the day.

Ann Lloyd, Head of Adult Social Care & Homelessness Service, said: “We are excited to be hosting another workshop centred around our social care roles. We are really looking forward to inviting those who have an interest in the care sector along so that they can learn more about the roles we offer, and the benefits of working for the council.

"The team are looking for enthusiastic and caring people who want to make a difference to people’s lives, and we will also be assessing candidates on the day."

Councillor Elen Heaton, Lead Member for Health and Social Care, said: “This workshop will provide information about the job roles currently available within our friendly social care team.

"The social care team provides care right across our county, allowing people to live happier and healthier lives.

"I would urge anyone who is looking to get into the care sector to come along to this latest workshop to see what we can offer them.”

* To book onto the free workshop please email socialcarejobs@denbighshire.gov.uk or contact 01824 712187.

 

Clair's update on her 630-mile trek to beat pancreatic cancer

* Clair Abbott, left, with daughter Livvie and dog Brodie on the South West Coast Path.

The woman currently tackling a 630-mile hike around the South-West Coastal Footpath to help tackle pancreatic cancer has sent an update on her progress to llanblogger.

And it includes the great news that she now has donations totalling £2,500.

Clair Abbott from Cynwyd, Corwen started her challenge earlier this month and is determined to raise much needed funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, which will go towards vital research into early diagnosis and treatment, as well as support for those affected by the disease which claimed the lives of her husband Richard last year and also that of her mother. 

Clair said: “I think this could make a huge difference. I originally planned to complete this challenge in 2023, in memory of my mum on the 30th anniversary of her passing. But in a cruel twist of fate my darling husband Richard was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early that year.

“Before he passed away in July 2024 he told me it was his wish that I continue as originally planned and complete this mammoth hike, not only to raise funds but to raise awareness.”

In the update on her walk, sent on Thursday, she says: “I'm having a rest day at Hartland Quay in Devon, which is on South West Coast Path, after two 11 mile days. The next stage to Bude is a tough 15 miles so I'm halving it by staying in The Bush pub garden on Friday night!

“So, the first week started stormy. Fortunately, my daughter, Livvie King, was with me at the start. We returned after day one to discover a fellow camper's awning had blown away causing two small tears in my fly-sheet. Fortunately we had some tape.

“We then discovered my dog Brodie, who is walking with me, had injured a paw so Livvie took him to the vets in Minehead while I hiked on. The upshot is that he needs to stay off it till it heals - he's gone back with my daughter. This was good really as he was shivering in the tent, it's too cold at night still, we had to buy him a thermal onesie!

“I've developed blisters, inevitably, even though my boots are over a year old.

“Did I mention the rain? Anyhow, week two has started much better, the sun is shining, I'm hiking solo and staying positive. Turned a corner at Hartland Point and headed south to Cornwall. 

"I've been so overwhelmed by kind and generous donations so far, raised over £2,500 its completely blown me away. Some days like today (blister pain) it's the only thing that is keeping me going, and Id like to express my gratitude." 

Pancreatic cancer is the deadliest common cancer in the UK, with more than half of people with the disease dying within just three months of diagnosis. Survival rates for pancreatic cancer have barely improved in 50 years – in stark contrast to the welcome progress made in outcomes for many other types of cancer. 

Sue Collins, Director of Fundraising at Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: “The funds raised by Clair will help us offer support to patients and families, invest in vital research to help us see the breakthroughs we urgently need, and be a voice for everyone affected by the deadliest common cancer.”

*If you would like to support Clair, you can do so at: justgiving.com/page/clair-abbott-2 

For more information or to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, please visit www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/fundraise