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.

Season of live music set to begins in Llangollen this week

* UB40 Ft Ali Campbell.

Pop-rock icons Texas are set to launch an unforgettable season of live music in North Wales this week. 

The chart-topping Scottish band is the first of 13 headline acts set to perform at the iconic venue this summer, as part of TK Maxx presents Live at Llangollen Pavilion and the internationally renowned Llangollen International Eisteddfod.

 

Fronted by the inimitable Sharleen Spiteri, Texas will open the series on Thursday June 26, supported by rising Scottish singer-songwriter Rianne Downey.

* Sharleen Spiteri of Texas.

 

Thursday’s opening show will be followed by headlining sets from Rag’n’Bone Man, UB40 Ft Ali Campbell, James, The Script, Olly Murs and The Human League.

 

The headline concerts are presented in a partnership between Live Nation promoters Cuffe and Taylor and Llangollen International Eisteddfod.

Celebrating 78 years, the Llangollen International Eisteddfod kicks off on Tuesday July 8, featuring a stellar line-up with headline performances from Sir Karl Jenkins, KT Tunstall, Il Divo, Beyond Time: The Music of Hans Zimmer, Choir of the World with special guest Lucie Jones, and Bryn Terfel joined by Fisherman’s Friends and Eve Goodman.

In keeping with tradition, the festival also offers a full daily programme of competitions and field entertainment alongside the headline shows.

Artistic Director of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod Dave Danford said: “Once again, Llangollen is the place to be for an incredible summer of live music. We’re absolutely thrilled with this year’s line-up of artists and to be partnering with Cuffe & Taylor again.

 

“Anyone who came last year will know just how special this place is, and we can’t wait to do it all again.”

Cuffe and Taylor co-founder Peter Taylor added: “It’s a pleasure to continue our collaboration with the fantastic team at the Eisteddfod. Llangollen really is a special place, and it’s an honour to bring world-class artists to this beautiful, historic town.

“Whether you’ve lived here for years or are visiting for the first time, I know this summer will be something truly special, full of unforgettable memories. That’s what live music is all about.”

* Rag’n'Bone Man.

The Llangollen International Eisteddfod has come a long way since the first festival in 1947, with more than 400,000 competitors from over 140 nationalities and cultures having performed on the Llangollen stage over the years. 

This year, as the festival marks the ‘Year of Croeso – Only in Wales’, more than 4,000 competitors from 36 countries will head to Llangollen for a vibrant week of competitions and performances. With a focus on promoting international harmony and reconciliation through music and dance, the 2025 Eisteddfod is set to build on the record-breaking success of 2024 and deliver a bigger and better celebration than ever before.

 

For the first time, TK Maxx will join Live at Llangollen Pavilion as presenting partner, as part of an extended agreement with Cuffe & Taylor shows across the country including Lytham Festival, Live at Lincoln Castle, Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Live at The Piece Hall, Derby Summer Sessions, Depot Live, Plymouth Summer Sessions, Bedford Summer Sessions, Southampton Summer Sessions and Live at Powderham.

 

For more information and to purchase final tickets go to llangollen.net and ticketmaster.co.uk

Concert dates 

Live at Llangollen Pavilion 2025  

June 26 – Texas with support from Rianne Downey   

June 27 – Rag’n'Bone Man with support from Elles Bailey and Kerr Mercer   

June 28 - UB40 Ft Ali Campbell with very special guest Bitty McLean and Reggae Roast  

June 29 – James with support from The K’s and Tom A. Smith   

July 3 – The Script with very special guest Tom Walker

July 4 – Olly Murs with very special guest Lemar and Absnt Mind  

July 5 – The Human League with support from The Christians and Altered Images  

 

Llangollen International Eisteddfod 2025

July 8 – Beyond Time: The Music of Hans Zimmer in concert

July 9 – Uniting Nations: One World featuring Sir Karl Jenkins

July 10 – KT Tunstall with support from The Absolute Orchestra 

July 11 – Il Divo with special guest Laura Wright

July 12 – Choir Of The World with special guest Lucie Jones

July 13 – Bryn Terfel: Sea Songs with special guests the Fisherman’s Friends and Eve Goodman

New charity shop opens to benefit the community

* Ken Skates MS and Steve Witherden MP at the official opening of the shop. Pictures by Aled Morris.

A new charity shop has opened in Cefn Mawr selling clothes, homeware and collectables to raise cash for the Dee Valley Trust  (DVT). 

All profits will go to a registered charity funding projects that will benefit the local community. 

A spokesperson for the charity said: "Our fantastic managers Nadine Earle and Ian Wright have worked hard to get the shop off the ground with the support of adviser Sue Sealy and local artist Carol Davies. 

"We had the formal opening last Saturday and cutting the ribbon were Ken Skates MS and Steve Witherden MP. 

"If you have good quality items to donate, or would like to volunteer, please contact Nadine or Ian on 01978 219351. Find us on Facebook or Insta."

* For information, email mark.lacey@deevalleytrust.org.uk

* Inside the new charity shop.

West End star Lucie Jones promises powerful Eisteddfod performance

* Lucie Jones.

A Welsh West End superstar promises to melt the audience’s hearts with the power of her performance when she makes a special guest appearance at the iconic Choir of the World final at Llangollen International Eisteddfod next month.

The Eisteddfod’s competitive schedule culminates each year with this famous evening, which includes the presentation of the coveted Pavarotti Trophy, named in honour of the Italian maestro who twice sang in Llangollen, in 1955 with his hometown choir from Modena, and again at a memorable solo concert in 1995.

The trophy will be handed over by Pavarotti’s widow, Nicoletta Mantovani, with festival Chairman John Gambles and Artistic Director Dave Danford.

Making a guest appearance on the big night will be multi award-winning leading lady Lucie Jones who has starred in a string of hit musicals over the past few years, playing roles such as Cosette in Les Misérables, Holly in The Wedding Singer, Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, Meat in We Will Rock You, Jenna in Waitress and Elphaba in Wicked.

Lucie, from the village of Pentyrch near Cardiff, first rose to fame at the age of 18 in the sixth series of The X Factor and in 2017 represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Despite all this, she admits that although she’s heard much about it and had a long-standing desire to perform there, this will be her first visit to the Eisteddfod.

She said: “Rather weirdly, although I always aimed to come to the festival, I never actually had the opportunity to do so as a child. I’ve been to Llangollen and seen the Pavilion, heard lots about the Llangollen Eisteddfod and know what a huge and exciting event it is.

“So I'm making my debut at the grand old age of 34 and I'm really excited. I'm really, really pleased that I jumped at the chance to come and sing at the festival. I know it's not in a competitive way anymore, but still, it's nice to be there.

“I was also thrilled to hear that Luciano Pavarotti’s widow, Nicoletta Mantovani, will also be there on the night and I can’t wait to meet her, which will be a great honour for me.”

Another reason Lucie says she wants to appear at the Choir of the World is that it provides a showcase for budding star performers – a thing that’s very important to her as she showed when she opened her own Lucie Jones Academy in 2023 and which runs workshops and master classes for young theatre hopefuls given by her fellow West End stars.

“The academy is a big part of what I do as a performer and as an educator. It’s very important to me that we live through this crazy time with positivity and make sure that the next generation who are coming up behind us are properly looked after,” she said.

“I firmly believe that they should be taught to handle the good, the bad and the ugly of life as a performer, which is why I started the academy. To be part of a day where people have learned things is really special to me.”

Lucie wouldn’t give away too much about the songs she’ll be singing at Choir of the World but she promised: “I’ll be doing some musical theatre numbers from the shows I’ve been in and the audience won’t be disappointed with what I’ve chosen. I promise to melt their hearts.”

Dave Danford, Artistic Director of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Lucie Jones to the Eisteddfod stage for the first time. Her powerful voice and stage presence will bring an unforgettable energy to our Choir of the World final – a night already steeped in passion and prestige. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the talent of tomorrow and honour the legacy of Pavarotti.”

New Dot Cinema returns with the classic film Stand By Me

* A scene from the film Stand by Me.

New Dot Cinema, Llangollen’s very own movie palace, is back.

The doors open again on July 25 with the classic coming-of-age film, Stand By Me. 

The monthly screenings will take in classic films as well as new and independent movies to bring people together to enjoy the magic of cinema on the big screen and offering a welcoming space for audiences across the Dee Valley. 

“We’re delighted to relaunch New Dot Cinema with such a brilliant, classic film," said Olivia Brown, who has spearheaded the relaunch of this much-missed community organisation.

“We have a new team of enthusiastic volunteers with lots of ideas for future films and events and we can’t wait to share more details with people in the coming weeks. 

"We’re also setting up a new website along with new pages on Facebook and Instagram where people will be able to check our programme of upcoming films. The team would also like to thank Llangollen Town Council, who gave us a community grant which enabled us to bring New Dot back.”

Stand By Me, based on a novel by Stephen King, takes place over a summer weekend in Castle Rock, Oregon in 1959. 

Four friends set out on a life-changing adventure to look for the body of a missing boy. Knowing only the general location, the boys head out into the woods. What starts out as a lark turns into the defining event of their lives, when they discover the meaning of friendship, learning much about themselves and each other.

 

* Tickets cost £6 and can be purchased online from Ticket Source (+50p booking fee) or in cash from June 27 from Laura’s Tea Room in Oak Street, Llangollen.

New ambulance nerve centre opens in the county

* Staff in the new coordination and communications centre.

The Welsh Ambulance Service has unveiled its new coordination and communications centre in Denbighshire.

The centre, which occupies space within the Trust’s existing estate on St Asaph Business Park, is the new home of Emergency Medical Services Coordination, Operations Quality, Resourcing and Ambulance Care - Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services.

 

The new facility has replaced the former site in Llanfairfechan, which had been in operation since 2001 and was no longer fit-for-purpose.

The official opening was attended by High Sheriff of Clwyd, Julie Gillbanks, who unveiled a plaque at the St Asaph Business Park facility commemorating the occasion.

In a carefully planned operation, staff at the Llanfairfechan site attended their final night shift on 07^th May, with the final 999 call at the site being taken the next morning by Senior Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Lauryn Edwards.

 

Meanwhile, while Lauryn was taking the final call, colleagues on the following morning shift began their first day at Ty Elwy, with 999 call taker Katy Hall taking the first call at the new site.

 

Lee Brooks, Executive Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “This new facility will have a positive impact on all those who work here as well as our patients.

 

“It’s a state-of-the-art facility, providing everything you would expect to see in a modern ambulance call centre.

 

“At a time when pressure and call volumes are consistently high across the entire system, this new centre gives us greater flexibility and resilience, enabling us to better deal with the demands being placed upon us.”

 

The decision to relocate came when the previous building was deemed to be unsuitable due of the expansion of the service, the natural age of the site, and the costly maintenance required to maintain the facility.

 

In November 2023, after careful consideration, Ty Elwy, St Asaph, was determined to be the most suitable option overall.

 

The new site also boasts a gym, relaxation area, on-site training facilities, secure parking, clean, bright, comfortable working areas and easy access to the A55 expressway.

 

During the opening ceremony, High Sheriff of Clwyd, Julie Gillbanks said: “Today, having seen firsthand what is involved in taking an emergency call to the ambulance service, I can really appreciate the advantages of working from this new centre.

 

“I have learnt so much about triaging and screening calls, ensuring that the right care is provided to the right people while providing alternatives to those who may not require an ambulance.

 

“Each and every one of the wonderful staff who work here should be proud of themselves and I congratulate them all for what they do to help the people of Wales.”