Eve Goodman to perform at Eisteddfod's Bryn Terfel concert

 

                                                      * Eve Goodman.

North Wales singer-songwriter Eve Goodman will make her debut at the iconic Llangollen International Eisteddfod on Sunday 13 July 2025 in a major concert led by operatic superstar Sir Bryn Terfel, alongside Cornwall’s famous Fisherman’s Friends.

Eve, who grew up in Caernarfon and now lives in Y Felinheli, is thrilled to be part of such a prestigious night. 

“I’m very excited,” she said. “I love singing with Bryn and feel our voices weave magic together in a wonderfully unexpected way. Though we are both known for performing in quite different genres, I feel our voices meet in a very beautiful way.”

It will be a night that celebrates the songs of the sea and deep-rooted musical traditions – themes close to Eve’s heart. 

“I am also thrilled to be sharing the stage with Fisherman’s Friends. I am deeply inspired by the sea and spent some years living in Cornwall as my partner is Cornish, so I look forward to immersing myself in the nautical themes of the concert.”

The concert also marks a special moment in Eisteddfod history – 70 years since Luciano Pavarotti first performed at Llangollen as a young singer. 

Pavarotti’s widow, Nicoletta Mantovani, will be attending the performance in tribute to his legacy. 

The concert will also feature the Pendine International Voice of the Future final with Nicoletta presenting the Pendine Trophy alongside Mario and Gill Kreft from Pendine Park, the care organisation.

Reflecting on the occasion, Eve said: “I’m over the moon! As a singer I feel honoured to be sharing the stage with these incredible artists, and I feel moved and deeply grateful to be adding my voice to this prestigious chorus. To be following in the footsteps of Pavarotti and performing in front of his widow is such a privilege.”

Describing her style, Eve said: “As a bilingual singer-songwriter, I combine honest lyricism with mesmerising musical hooks and patterns. I take the stage with captivating presence and clarity. Inspired by nature and the more-than-human world, my music connects deeply to our inner and outer landscapes.”

Eve’s performance promises to add an intimate, poetic thread to a night already rich in talent and emotion. Her debut at the Eisteddfod is eagerly anticipated as part of one of the festival’s most powerful and poignant concerts in years.

The concert is being sponsored by the arts loving care organisation Pendine Park via the Pendine Arts and Community Trust (PACT). 

Pendine Park owner and director Mario Kreft said: “We are absolutely delighted to sponsor this very special concert at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, marking not only the 70th anniversary of Pavarotti’s first performance here, but also the 40th anniversary of Pendine Park. 

"Supporting the arts has always been at the heart of our ethos, and we believe strongly in the power of music and creativity to enrich lives - something we’ve championed throughout our care work. It’s a real honour for Gill and me to help bring together such incredible artists as Sir Bryn Terfel, Eve Goodman and Fisherman’s Friends for what promises to be a magical evening in the heart of North Wales.” 

County council chief executive Graham Boase to retire

After nearly 40 years working in local government Denbighshire County Council’s Chief Executive is to retire.

Graham Boase (pictured), who has been in his role for the past four years but has worked for the county since its inception in 1996, will step down at the end of  next January.

A qualified town planner, Mr Boase previously held the posts of Director Economy & Public Realm and Head of Planning & Public Protection at Denbighshire. He previously worked for two London boroughs.

Announcing his retirement, he said: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to be CEO of such a wonderful council and county and while I’m still very much enjoying the role, following a period of reflection, I’ve come to the decision that now is the time for me to prepare for a different future away from work.

“I will remain one hundred percent committed and focussed on my duties for the remainder of my time with the council and the next seven months will provide time to recruit a successor and to ensure a brief handover period. It will also give the new CEO time to bed in before the next local government elections in 2027.

“I’d like to thank colleagues and councillors alike,  both past and present for the help, support and friendship throughout my time at Denbighshire – it’s meant so much to me. While I’m sad to be leaving my role, I’m immensely proud to have worked here for the past 30 years and will always keep a keen eye on what’s happening in Denbighshire.”

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council, said: “I’d like to thank Graham for all his hard work and dedication to Denbighshire County Council in his many roles over a number of years, and of course, most recently in his role as Chief Executive.

“In this role he’s guided the authority skilfully through extremely challenging times. Graham has been a huge support to me and we’ve worked well together – I’m going to miss that working relationship. While it’s sad to hear that he’s leaving the council, I understand it’s a personal decision and I’d like to wish him all the best for the future.

“I look forward to working with him over the coming months as we embark on the process to appoint a new Chief Executive to guide the authority into the future.”

Texas pay tribute to Mike Peters during Pavilion headline show

* Frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri. All pictures: Desh Kapur Photography/ CUFFE & TAYLOR

Scottish rock icons Texas brought their unmistakable sound to North Wales as they launched a summer season of live music at TK Maxx Presents Live at Llangollen Pavilion.

 

It’s been 36 years since they burst onto the music scene with their debut hit I Don’t Want A Lover, and the band, fronted by Sharleen Spiteri, were on top form as they kicked off the night with that very song.

 

A 90-minute set followed, packed with hit after hit – including Halo, Hi, In Our Lifetime, Summer Son, Say What You Want and Black Eyed Boy – all interspersed with Spiteri’s trademark humour and easy conversation with the sell-out crowd.

 

But it was the encore that delivered the most emotional moment of the night. Returning to the stage, Spiteri paused to share a heartfelt dedication to her dear friend Mike Peters of The Alarm, describing him as: “A true gentleman, a great musician, a great songwriter, and one of the kindest, truest people I’ve ever met. He always wore his heart on his sleeve and he will be very sadly missed.”

 

Spiteri then dedicated a powerful rendition of Suspicious Minds to his memory.

 

A video of the special tribute can be found HERE.

 

Supporting Texas was rising country folk star Rianne Downey, adding a Scottish flavour to the evening. Downey impressed the crowd with her original material, as well as crowd favourites Rotterdam and Don’t Marry Her from her collaborations with Paul Heaton.

 

* TK Maxx Presents Live at Llangollen Pavilion continues on Friday (June 27) with headliner Rag’n’Bone Man.

* Rianne Down supports Texas.

* Texas fans outside the Pavilion.

* A packed Pavilion crowd at the show.

Intrepid duo tackle tough Welsh 3000s Challenge for Royal British Legion

* Nic Palmer in his RAF Reserves uniform.

A man from Glyndyfrdwy and his close friend are lacing up their hiking boots for a noble cause as they prepare to tackle the formidable Welsh 3000s challenge in support of the Royal British Legion.

Starting late this afternoon (Thursday) Nic Palmer and Jake Noble will attempt to reach the summit of all 15 of Wales’s highest peaks — each over 3,000 feet — in under 24 hours.

That means they must cover roughly 30 miles and over 4,000 metres of ascent through some of Snowdonia’s most rugged and breathtaking terrain. 

The route begins with the steep scramble up Crib Goch in the Snowdon massif, continues through the Glyderau range, and finishes in the remote and rocky Carneddau.

* Jake Noble.

The challenge is particularly meaningful for Nic, a newly-enrolled member of the RAF Reserves, who is eager to give back to those who have served and sacrificed. 

“Joining the RAF Reserves has deepened my respect for the armed forces,” he said. “the Royal British Legion does incredible work supporting veterans and their families, and this challenge is my way of giving something back.”

The pair have already made a good start towards their £500 goal, with hopes of far surpassing that target by the time they complete the hike. Supporters can follow their journey and contribute via their JustGiving page.

The Royal British Legion, founded in 1921, provides lifelong support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces and their families. Donations raised through efforts like this help fund vital services ranging from mental health support to emergency financial aid.

* For more information or to donate, visit: justgiving.com/page/nic-and-jake-3000s

Bird flu protection zone set up in Glyn Ceiriog, says BBC

BBC Wales is reporting this morning that protection zones have been put in place in two areas of Wales - including Glyn Ceiriog - where there are confirmed cases of bird flu.

* For the full story, see: https://share.google/TH1BWkba0NoNRyujO

MS and MP back St Collen's fundraising campaign

* Ken Skates MS is briefed on the fundraising campaign by project manager Sue Evans.  

An iconic Llangollen church’s fundraising campaign is being backed by its local Member of the Senedd and Member of Parliament. 

Clwyd South MS Ken Skates visited St Collen's to hear more about plans to preserve and reorder the Grade I-listed church.

Volunteers involved with the Genesis project have already raised thousands of pounds themselves and have been busy applying for grants to breathe new life into ‘one of the most architecturally and culturally important landmarks in the region’.

“This is a hugely important local landmark and I wish the team every success in their campaign to conserve St Collen’s, and in particular its nationally significant medieval ceiling,” said Mr Skates.

“The church is one of the most architecturally and culturally important landmarks in the region, and I’m proud to get behind this campaign however I can.”

* ... and is shown by the ornate and historic ceiling of the church.

Clwyd East MP Becky Gittins said: “Not only is St Collen’s Church historically significant to our area, but it plays a hugely important role within the community. I was delighted to have the opportunity to learn more about the conservation plans at my recent surgery and want to support the team in their work over the coming months.”

Project manager Sue Evans said: “At the heart of the church is a rare and intricately carved timber ceiling, considered among the finest in Wales. However, this unique feature is at risk without specialist conservation, and securing adequate funding for its protection is now a pressing priority.”

Alongside the conservation work, the reordering project will modernise and adapt the interior of the church, creating an accessible and flexible space which will host a range of activities including arts and cultural events, school and youth performances, wellbeing and support groups and exhibitions, public talks and educational workshops.

Sue added: “Despite enthusiastic support from the community and initial fundraising efforts, we are now facing a significant shortfall and are applying to the National Lottery Heritage Fund to help with reordering and Cadw for the ceiling.

“Ken and Becky’s endorsements add great weight to our applications and helps demonstrate the strength of support for this vital heritage and community investment.”

Mr Skates said: “This project is not just about restoring a building – it’s about revitalising a much-loved community space and ensuring that future generations can both benefit from and take pride in this extraordinary piece of Welsh history.”

Any individuals or local businesses who would like to donate can contact Sue at: stcollens@gmail.com

 

Eisteddfod's daytime events will 'celebrate culture, colour and fun'

* Daytime action from last year's Eisteddfod.

Llangollen International Eisteddfod returns from July 8–13, bursting with music, dance and global celebration. 

From the famous parade and pop-up performances to global dance workshops, family fun, and vibrant outdoor stages, daytime at Llangollen Eisteddfod is a joyful, non-stop celebration of culture, creativity and community, say organisers.

The festival is promising its most family-friendly and inclusive festival ever with over 4,000 performers from around the world and more than 50 groups from across the UK. 

This year’s daytime programme is bigger, bolder and more joyful than ever before. From early morning until early evening, the Eisteddfod field, town centre and surrounding venues will come alive with a whirlwind of outdoor performances, workshops, the Parade of Nations, family fun and cultural encounters.

The festival has revealed a dazzling array of daytime activities, including performances on two vibrant outdoor stages and the Eisteddfod Amphitheatre, hands-on workshops, craft stalls, a wide range of food and drink, and much more. Every day promises a kaleidoscope of entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Families can make the most of the all-week Kids Zone in the Amphitheatre, packed with crafts, circus skills, music, games and storytelling. The Sensory Den provides a calm and welcoming environment for relaxation and inclusive play, while WILD CHILD brings messy, sensory fun for the weekend crowd.

* A choir competing in the 2025 festival performs at St Collen's Church.

The town of Llangollen joins the celebration, with daily recitals at 1pm at St Collen’s Church, performances in Centenary Square, preliminary competitions at the Town Hall, and the spectacular Parade of Nations – where thousands of international competitors fill the streets with colour and song.

Daytime highlights include “Community Roots and Rhythms, Wales”, a moving showcase of six multicultural groups from across Wales telling their stories through music, dance and poetry; “The Gathering”, where UK and international performers share a stage in an exuberant exchange of traditions; and an afternoon curated by BBC Radio Cymru’s Rhys Mwyn featuring trailblazing Welsh-language artists Pedair, Mared and Buddug.

Visitors can also take part in Chinese, Bulgarian and Manx and many more dance workshops, and enjoy a special showcase of winners from the 2025 Urdd Eisteddfod. The week culminates on Sunday July 13 with a Family Fun Day starring children's TV favourite Andy Day and his band The Odd Socks, presented in partnership with Music for Youth.

John Gambles, Chair of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: "Our Eisteddfod spirit isn’t just confined to the Pavilion or the Eisteddfod field – it fills the whole town. From pop-up performances in Centenary Square, recitals in St Collen’s Church, to the buzz of preliminary competitions in the Town Hall, there’s something happening around every corner. Llangollen truly comes alive during Eisteddfod week, and we encourage everyone to explore, enjoy and be part of the magic across our town."

Dave Danford, Artistic Director of the Eisteddfod, added: "This year’s Eisteddfod offers something truly special – from breathtaking evening concerts featuring global stars like Sir Karl Jenkins, Sir Bryn Terfel, KT Tunstall and Il Divo, to a vibrant daytime programme packed with music, dance, workshops and family-friendly activities. The atmosphere on the field throughout the day is electric, with performers from around the world sharing their culture and talent across our outdoor stages. Whether you come for the world-class concerts or to soak up the unique daytime experience, there’s something magical here for everyone."

Gates to the Llangollen Pavilion open daily at 9am. There are dozens more events across the daytime and for an in depth guide to the biggest party in years - see https://international-eisteddfod.co.uk/event_picker/on-the-field/

Daytime Highlights – Day by Day

Wednesday July 9

12–4pm: Community Rhythms and Roots Wales presents six Wales-based multicultural groups, celebrating peace and creativity, supported by the Arts Council of Wales.

4.30–5.30pm: Parade of Nations – a sea of colour as over 4,000 competitors march through the town. Follow the samba band to the Eisteddfod grounds for entry for just £1, with The Gathering performance featuring UK and international performers blending music and dance.

Thursday July 10

Workshops in Salsa, Irish dance, poetry (with WCIA), and sustainable garland-making. Performances from Huw Aye Rebals and Sonya Smith, and from 4pm, BBC Radio Cymru’s Rhys Mwyn curates an afternoon of cutting-edge Welsh language music featuring Pedair, Mared, and Buddug.

Friday July 11

A diverse musical offering with Abraham Derby, Yasmine Latkowski, Tim Eastwood (Wales Border Bagpiper), Evrah Rose, Carlos Grassot and MSWOG. Highlights include a showcase from Urdd Eisteddfod winners and dance workshops in Chinese, Bulgarian and Manx folk traditions.

Saturday July 12

Catch live sets from Onika, Autone, Magic Mirrors Band and Daf Jones. Author Samantha Maxwell discusses her latest book, with more poetry from Evrah Rose, and traditional dance workshops. WILD CHILD activities continue throughout the day.

Sunday July 13 – Family Fun Day

A relaxed day for families, with outdoor entertainment and a special lunchtime concert in the Pavilion with children’s TV presenter Andy Day and his band The Odd Socks, in partnership with Music for Youth.