Issue 198, March 2016
Llanferres
Yo ur se loca cu rity l sp ec ial ist Intruder Alarms Closed Circuit TV Automatic Gates & Barriers Takeover Maintenance and Service
In the UK we spend more time and money on our homes than anywhere else in the world
Is yours protected ? For advice and support call AGS today !
01352 707888 t: 01352 707888 f: 01352 707889
Field Way Denbigh Road Mold Flintshire CH7 1BP
e: info@ags-security.co.uk www.ags-security.co.uk
News & Views 3
Welcome Welcome to the March edition of News & Views. A massive thank you to all who supported our ‘Nearly St David’s Quiz and wine tasting night’. Thirteen teams battled it out for the coveted title of Most Intelligent People in the Village - but it was The Daft Dils who were victorious on the night! (See pages 17 - 19 for pictures) Don’t forget the Playing Field’s Llanvegas Casino Night on Easter Saturday 26th March (see page 10). In addition to supporting this event, there’s another chance to support your local park and raise money by voting in the Tesco ‘Bags of Help’ initiative. You can vote in the Mold and Holywell stores between 27th Feb and 6th March (see page 5). If you are new to the village (or if you have lived here for years) why not try
one of the many clubs we are fortunate to have on our door step there’s something for everyone Indoor Bowls, Gardening, Dancing, Over 60’s, Whist, Tai Chi and Toddlers! Thanks to Tony King for his article on Friendly Societies of Llanferres and also to John Almond for his superb Nature Notes. If you have any photographs or articles of interest, please do send them in. This year will see the 200th edition of News & Views, so if you have any pictures from when it first started (around 20 years ago) it would be great to receive them. Paul & Siobhan Tel: (01352) 810668 Email: news@llanferres.org www.llanferres.org
Graham Johns Building and Plastering Specialising in:
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
Internal Skimming Internal Rendering External Rendering Dry Lining Pebble Dashing Fibrous & Decorative Coving
t: 01352 810924 m: 07816 877998 NO JOBS TOO SMALL
4 News & Views
Notices
Happy Birthday to the following In March Eleanor Dolan on 5th March Finley Jaggard who will be 5 on 5th March Emma Barnes on 18th March Emma Clarke on 19th March Esther Skelhorn on 21st March Bernard Evans on 26th March Tracy Griffiths on 27th March Joe Lewis who will be 14 on 28th March Cadhan O'Garra on 30th March Edward Moore who will be 17 on 30th March If you would like a birthday or special announcement included in News &Views please send the details to: news@llanferres.org or 2 Cae Gwyn, Llanferres, CH7 5SL. Tel 810668
News & Views 5
Help to keep Llanferres playground open by voting in Tesco stores at Mold & Holywell between 27th Feb - 6th March.
ln addition to a new Zip wire, we will purchase play equipment suitable for children with physical and learning difficulties. We will create a sustainable hedgehog habitat in which hedgehogs can grow in number and the local school children can study.
EVERY VOTE COUNTS!
Equipment in the park is in need of replacement, and as a charity, we rely entirely on donations.
6 News & Views
March Diary Dates 1st
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St. David's Day 9.15am Toddlers Group 7pm Bowls Club 6.30pm Llanferres Dance Club
Mothering Sunday 9.30am Morning Worship, St Berres’ Church 6.30pm Tai Chi 7.30pm Gardening Club 9.15am Toddlers Group 2pm Over 60s Club 7pm Bowls Club 6.30pm Llanferres Dance Club 7.30pm Community Council Meeting
9.30am Morning Worship, St Berres’ Church 6.30pm Tai Chi 7pm Whist Evening 9.15am Toddlers Group 7pm Bowls Club 6.30pm Llanferres Dance Club St. Patrick's Day
9.30am Holy Communion, St Berres’ Chuch 4pm Messy Church at Gwernaffield Church Hall 6.30pm Tai Chi 7pm Whist Evening 9.15am Toddlers Group 7pm Bowls Club 6.30pm Llanferres Dance Club Good Friday 10.30am Devotional service, St Berres’ Church 7.30pm Casino Night BST Begins Easter Sunday 9.30am Easter Day Holy Communion, St Berres’ Church Easter Monday 7pm Bowls Club 6.30pm Llanferres Dance Club Events in italics are in the Village Hall
Check the latest Village Hall bookings on our website: www.llanferres.org Click on ‘What’s on’ on the main menu
News & Views 7
News from the Druid Inn 6 Nations Rugby Come and enjoy the remaining games of the 6 Nations Championship including the crunch England v Wales match on March 12
Mother’s Day March 6th Enjoy Mother’s Day at the Druid bookings being taken throughout the day. Call to reserve on 01352 810225
Accommodation Pressure on to entertain this Easter? Too many guests? Why not accommodate them at The Druid - family accommodation available - Bed & Breakfast from £65 per room per night including a fabulous cooked breakfast
THE DRUID INN Tel: 810225
www.thedruidinn.com
8 News & Views
News & Views 9
Indoor Bowls
LLANFERRES OVER 60's Club Members enjoyed a colourful informative talk on A Visit to Peru by Mr Brian Jones
Every Tuesday 7.00 - 9.00pm Llanferres Village Hall New Members Welcome
Free Range Eggs If you live in Llanferres and are interested in having free range eggs, from local farm, delivered to you on Friday evening, ÂŁ1.30 for 1/2doz Please let me know.
Joe 01352 810265 Village Hall Booking Check the online calendar to see if the Hall is free at: www.llanferres.org then call Gilly Carney Tel: 07741 316 349
Pat Armstrong made arrangements for twenty member to visit The Cinema at Theatr Clwyd in April. Next meeting Tuesday 8th March 2.00 pm when the speaker will be Mrs Joan Williams (Mrs Pankhurst) on "Welsh Folk Tales".
10 News & Views
FUN CASINO NIGHT
Enjoy a great night out at one of the village’s most popular events – Play Poker, Black Jack, Roulette and more – all for fun money – then bid for some fabulous prizes at the end of the night with your winnings!
Saturday 26th March 2016 Llanferres Village Hall Doors open 7:30 pm ‘til midnight Lots of super prizes MUST be won on the night
Tickets: £15 Ticket ● ● ● ● ●
price includes: Entry to all tables Glass of bubbly on arrival Hog roast * $$$ “gambling money” Licensed bar
Dress to impress - no jeans
*Vegetarian option available but only with prior notice
Tickets available from any committee member or by contacting Wayne Thomas on 07487784649. Proceeds in aid of Llanferres Playing Field & Recreation Association
News & Views 11
Telephone kiosk at Tafarn-y-Gelyn Llanferres Community Council are considering using the Telephone Kiosk as a retail outlet for a resident/residents of Tafarn-y-Gelyn to sell their produce e.g. Eggs, Flowers, Vegetables. Would any resident be interested in utilising this facility? If so, would you please contact the Clerk or any Council member, their telephone numbers are on the next to back page of this magazine. The Council will then consider any proposals at the next Council meeting on 10th March to see if such a project is feasible.
COUNTRY PARK PAINTERS Our local Art Group now meets in the Loggerheads Country Park every Thursday from 9.30 to 12 noon. We are in the meeting room next to Caffi Florence and have an open door policy. Please call in to see what we do - we may even manage a cup of tea!
Need any sewing work done? Curtains,Valances, Pelmets, Blinds, Cushions, Clothing alterations Give Barbara a call on 01352 810485
12 News & Views
Cyngor y Cymuned - Llanferres From the minutes of the meeting held on 11th February 2016:- Present: Cllr. John Almond (Vice Chairman), Cllr. Margaret Davies, Cllr Rob Armstrong, Cllr. David Twomey Cllr. Adrian Walls, Cllr. Rob Jones, Cllr. Yvonne Foden McCorry, County Councillor Martyn Holland the Clerk Mrs Gwyneth Dillon and members of the public. 1. Apologies: Chairman Cllr. David Jones, Cllr. Jac Armstrong. In the absence of the Chairman, Vice Chairman Cllr. John Almond Chaired the meeting. 2. Meeting open to the public for ten minutes: A member of the public complained again about the large amount of gravel on the Maeshafn road between The Nant and the river which was a traffic hazard. Further up, the same road was being undercut at the sides and a large amount of water and gravel was washing onto a private property. County Councillor Matryn Holland will investigate and try to arrange a meeting on site with the Highways Officer. Another member of the public reported what, appeared to be a blocked drain in Ty'n Llan which was causing water to flood across the road. He also asked could anything be done to fill in the 'Pot Holes' in Rectory Lane. The County Council had maintained the road for the last twenty years and it was, therefore, felt that they had accepted responsibility for the road but this was questioned. The hedges in Rectory Lane had been cut but the verges had been damaged by the tractor doing the cutting. He also brought to the Council's attention a pamphlet, entitled 'Focus', issued by Flintshire County Council which appeared to by encouraging people to come to Cadole and trespass on private land to sledge when there was snow. This was considered to be irresponsible and unacceptable. A letter of complaint will be sent to the advertising editor.
February
3. Declarations of Interest: None declared. 4. County Councillor's Report: Councillor Holland reported that 1) Planning permission had been granted for a chalet at Bryn Ffynnon Farm, Forestry Road. 2 )The promised salt bin had been delivered to Cae Derwen. [Councillor Almond, as a resident, had sent a letter of thanks to the Highways Officer]. 3) Work on the overflow car park for Loggerhead Country Park has started and this would necessitate temporary road closure. The car park should provide accommodation for 75 cars when completed. 4) The Council Tax will only be raised by 1´5% for the coming year as the Government cuts had not been as savage as expected. 5) Local Government reorganisation was still being discussed. 6) Community Councils will have to be declared 'Competent', that is when their accounts are passed by the Auditor. ( Llanferres' accounts already are). 5. Minutes of previous Meeting: The minutes of the Meeting held on Thursday 14th January 2016 were signed as a true record. 6. Matters Arising: It had been agreed at the last meeting that a dedicated computer system should be bought for the Community Council. The Clerk had done some research into a suitable model and was given permission to pursue the matter with a maximum budget of £500. 7. Reports from other meetings: The Clerk (Mrs Gwyneth Dillon) had intended to attend a meeting of the Society of Local Council Clerks on the 4th February but was unfortunately indisposed. 8. Maintenance in the Community: Nothing at the moment. 9. Red Telephone Kiosk: Discussion took place as to a suitable use for the Telephone Kiosks. It was decided to pursue the possibility of installing a
News & Views 13
Meeting
Llanferres - Community Council
defibrillator and a WiFi connection in the Kiosk in Maeshafn and to consider using the one in Tafarn y Gelyn for the sale of local produce. 10. Risk Assessment: Nothing at the moment. 11. Field Adjacent to the School (Maes Ysgawen): Nothing to report at the moment. 12. Training and Finance: Nothing to report. See item 7 above. 13. Bills: HMRC for January £38´80; Clerk's salary £*****; Village Hall rental for February £10´00; Membership of One Voice Wales £97´00; Water Rates £19´72(Paid by Direct Debit). 14. Planning Matters: 21/2016/0041 Proposal: Erection of a stable block building and manège for personal use. Location Lonfa, Eryrys, Mold. It was resolved to raise no objections but to request that the building be stained to a colour sympathetic to the surroundings. 21/2015/1224 Proposal: Conversion of stone barn and brick ship to form 2 dwellings, demolition of dutch barn and cow kennels and installation of new septic tanks (revised scheme to application no 21/2011/1002) (partially
retrospective) Location: Outbuildings of Cae Odyn, Tafarn-y-Gelyn, Llanferres. It was resolved to raise no objections subject to the proposal being acceptable to the AONB authorities. 15. Maeshafn Playing Field: Still ongoing. 16. Correspondence List: Together with items discussed above: 1) Information regarding the Planning Training to be held in Flintshire 29th June 2016. Cost £30 per person with a £5 discount if booked 1 month in advance. 2) Chair of County Council - information regarding the dates of the Charity Concerts 23rd March - Llangollen Pavilion and 28th April Rhyl Pavilion. 17. Changing the date of the 14th April 2016 Meeting: Councillors agreed to change the date of the April meeting to 21st April to accommodate the Clerk who has a commitment for the 14th. 18. Other Matters that have been brought to Councillors' Attention: Dealt with in matters above. 19. Date of next meeting: Thursday 10th March 2016. John Almond, Vice Chairman
14 News & Views
Church News Sunday Services in March Sunday 6th March Sunday 13th March Sunday 20th March Friday 25th March Sunday 27th March
9.30am Morning Worship (Mothering Sunday) 9.30am Morning Worship 9.30am Holy Communion 4pm Messy Church at Gwernaffield Church Hall 10.30am Devotional service (Good Friday) 9.30am Easter Day Holy Communion
Lent While we remember the 40 days Jesus spent in the Wilderness during Lent, there is Morning Prayer in Church every Thursday at 9am. In Easter week there is also Night Prayer at 7.30pm on Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd March. Church decoration Gay Headley will be coordinating decorating the Church for Easter from 2pm on Good Friday. Any donations or help would be welcomed.
Baby and Toddler Group 9.15 to 11.15am every Tuesday during term time. ÂŁ1 including a drink and biscuits.
Professional, reliable service Telephone: 01352 750342 Mobile: 07933 803 972 Email: arfontrevor@tiscali.co.uk Address: 28 Parc Hendy Mold CH7 1TH
We encourage parents and grandparents of babies and toddlers to come along. It is a good way for the children to have a play while getting to know those they may start school with and also to meet other local parents. Village Hall Booking Check the online calendar to see if the Hall is free at: www.llanferres.org then call Gilly Carney Tel: 07741 316 349
News & Views 15
Traditional cosy pub serving food 7 days a week.. Choose from the exciting and varied menu and eat in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. Children's menu now available, please ask for the toy box which will keep your little ones entertained. During the winter months pull up a chair next to the log burner and enjoy a pint of one of our local cask ales. The Miners Arms is dog friendly - look out for the doggie treat pot on the bar! Free WIFI throughout the pub - please ask for the password. We have a separate room available for meetings, business lunches, small family occasions and parties with catering options to suit all.
A big thank you and congratulations to John & Helen who celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary at The Miners. A great night was had by all! Opening times Mon 6.00 -11.30 Tues 6.00 -11.30 Weds to Fri 12.00 - 3.00 6.00 -11.30 Sat 12.00 -11.30 Sun 12.00 -11.30
Food service 6.00 - 8.30 6.00 - 8.30 12.00 - 2.30 6.00 - 8.30 12.00 - 9.00 12.00 - 7.00
A very Happy St. David’s Day to all our customers! Monday Evenings Steak night 2 x 8oz steaks & a bottle of wine £22.95 Booking strongly advised Tuesday Evenings “Treat yourself to a sweet" night Purchase any main course from the full menu and receive a desert if your choice (excluding cheese board) Mothering Sunday March 6th Special menu and treat for Mum! To book call: 01352 810464 Miners Mess Tin. Try one of our mess tin meals -a weekly special served in a mess tin just like the miners did! Just £5 Served Wednesday - Friday 12pm - 2.30pm. Full menu also available - take a look at www.miners-arms-maeshafn.co.uk
The Miners Arms, Maeshafn Tel: 01352 810464 www.miners-arms-maeshafn.co.uk
16 News & Views
WHIST EVENINGS at the Village Hall The Whist Evening continues to be popular with over two dozen regular members enjoying the evening. Winners of the last few weeks were : Jan 25th. - Pat Armstrong and Medwyn Clemence Feb 1st. - Gay Headley and Tony Griffiths Feb 15th.- Pat Armstrong and Trevor Webb As always new members are welcome 7pm start on Mondays except 2nd in the month) , cost ÂŁ2.50. For further information contact Rob Armstrong 810259.
Save a life - give blood Ysgol Bryn Coch, Mold Saturday 19th March Saturday 14th May
10:00-12:00 & 13:30-15:45 10:00-12:00
You can give blood if you: are fit and healthy weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs or 50kg are aged between 17 and 66 (or 70 if you have given blood before) are over 70 and have given blood in the last two years Men can give blood every 3 months and women can give blood every 4 months.
News & Views 17
The News & Views
” y a D ’s d i v a D . “It ’s nearly St
QUIZ NIGHT
The overall winners- The Daft Dils
Pic
1 2 3
2
More pictures over the page
Team (Position in brackets)
The Daft Dils (1) The Oddballs (10) Naked Spring Chickens (9) 4 The Elephant’s Iced Bun (12) 5 Norfolk and Chance (8) 6 Never Woefuls (5) 7 Ben Doon & Phil McCavity (3=) 8 Darling Daffodils (7) 9 Ever Hopefuls (2) 10 Polly, Wolly, Dollies (3=) 11 The Cgs (6) 12 You are a Quizard Harry (13) The Bar Bahs (11)
Score
87 68 70 55.5 70.5 75 78 71 83 78 74 54.5 66.5
18 News & Views
The News & V . “It ’s nearly St
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4
5
6
8 Thank you to everyone who attended and supported us. Special thanks to Aunty She, Paddy, Gilly, Les, Wendy, Yvonne and Elaine for help on the night and to all who gave raffle prizes and donations. Big thanks also to the ever-reliable Adrian Walls for the sound system.
News & Views 19
Views
David’s Day”
QUIZ NIGHT 9
7 10
11
We raised an excellent £1,022.50 on the night so very many thanks for taking part in such great spirit and giving so generously. We’ll update next month what that means after all the costs (when we’ve worked them out!) Paul & Siobhan
12 Thanks to Paddy Carney for the photographs
20 News & Views
5 - 7 August, 2016 Kendrick’s Field, Ruthin Road, Mold CH7 1QQ Already confirmed: Connie Lush , Yes Sir!, Alex McKown, Midnite Johnny Many more to follow, for the latest news see the website:
www.nwbluesandsoul.co.uk
Be Our Guest!
Glan Llyn is situated in the Clwydian Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our house dates from the 1850's, we have completely renovated it, maintaining plenty of ‘olde worlde’ charm while utilising all the latest eco – green technologies. Each room is uniquely and artistically styled with an en-suite wet room, free WiFi, TV, fridge, hair dryer. We also have a selection of high quality self-catering accommodation to suit every need. Fishing, paragliding and several 18-hole golf courses are all within a few miles. Bring your horse, canoe or cycle with you! We have stables and grazing for your horse, and secure drying and “A lovely friendly welcome storage facilities for all your equipment and tack.
from Richard and Paola. We stayed in The Sun Room: tasteful, comfortable Walking Offa’s Dyke? Riding on a long distance trail? We can transfer your luggage from your and spotlessly clean… …Highly recommended!” last accommodation and onto your next.
Glan Llyn Guest House, Pant Du Road, Mold, Denbighshire CH7 4DD t: 01352 810841 e: richard@guestinourhouse.co.uk w: www.guestinourhouse.co.uk
News & Views 21
FLINTSHIRE BREAST CANCER NOW GROUP STEP OUT FOR BREAST CANCER 9TH APRIL 2016-MOEL FAMAU The group is organising its annual STEP OUT FOR BREAST CANCER and once again are supported and led by Walkabout Flintshire. There will be a choice of two walks: a short one of 2.5 miles and a longer walk to the Jubilee Tower of 4.5 miles taking approximately 3 hours. We can accept donations on the day of £5 or sponsorship forms are available on request If you would like to support this worthy cause, please meet at the lower car park at Moel Famau Country Park at 9.30 for 10.00 am start (car park is £2 to open barrier) Sponsor Forms or further Information are available Tel 01352 753807 or 01244 341382
This walk will be dedicated to Janet Hunter who sadly lost her battle with the disease last November. Funds raised will hopefully help to achieve the Charity’s aim that the last person will have died from Breast Cancer by 2050.
Would you like the opportunity to ride horses in the Clwyd forest? If so, we have two who need regular exercise and grooming. It would involve a monthly contribution towards their keep. If you are interested please contact June on 07900404767 to discuss.
22 News & Views
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News & Views 23
SHARE UPDATE First of all, I'd like to give a huge THANK YOU to everyone locally who has either offered their services recently as a SHARE Volunteer or dropped off donations of warm clothing, blankets, rucksacks and tents to this new local charity. In January, the SHARE Aid Centre moved from Flint to new premises on the ground floor of the Old Mold County Library. This new centre is where SHARE Volunteers now collect, sort and despatch aid to those most in need. Around 21,000 items of aid have already been sent out to the refugees on the Greek Island of Leros. We have also sent desperately needed tents, food and clothing to the refugees in 'The Jungle' at Calais and filled a 40ft container full of aid from across North Wales, to the war torn town of Madaya in Syria. Many local homeless centres and charities have also benefited from our support. In January, we also opened our first ShareShop in Northgate St, Chester. The ShareShop sells good quality clothing, books, shoes & toys alongside great coffee and cake. 50% of the profit from the shop goes directly to help the homeless and the remaining 50% supports refugees, wherever they are. Customers have the opportunity to buy a 'suspended coffee' or 'clothing voucher' which can later be redeemed by a homeless person. The homeless in Chester are also able to help themselves to the clothing that hangs on our 'Kindness Wall' in the shop porch when they need it.
We are still collecting the following priority items, so if you have any of these that you no longer use or need, please consider donating them to SHARE
CLOTHES Warm Fleeces – jumpers or zip-ups
EQUIPMENT Tents (2-man preferred but any size welcome) Sleeping bags (children sizes really urgent) Backpacks/Rucksacks Thermal rugs/liners Blankets
Waterproof jackets/coats Waterproof hats Waterproof trousers/overtrousers Jogging bottoms Warm Hats, Gloves and Scarves Walking boots/sturdy shoes – with warm socks tucked inside (new or good condition please) I’m happy to call and collect your donations if you are unable to pop down to the SHARE HQ in Mold yourself. Just call me, Joanne McKinstry on 01352 810506 The SHARE website can be found at www.shareaid.co.uk . We are also on Facebook by searching for Share or ShareShop. THANK YOU, On behalf of SHARE
24 News & Views
Maeshafn
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Office: 01352 810315 Mobile: 07776 032329 Web: www.celtic-stone.co.uk
News & Views 25
The Friendly Societies of Llanferres In the nineteenth century, before social security and pension schemes, the only means open to workers to make arrangements for themselves in the event of sickness, injury, old age and death was to subscribe to a friendly society. Friendly societies operated a mutual benefit insurance, or a saving scheme, to which members regularly contributed a fixed sum and on which they could draw when misfortune struck. Their activities were controlled by a rule book and they were obliged to submit accounts every five years to the controlling body. They were very popular and there were about 27,000 societies in the UK by the end of the nineteenth century.
Llanferres Society members wore a sash) assembling for a march behind a brass band to the residences of local gentry. This would be followed by a religious service and then a feast at the respective inn. Financial matters would then be speedily dealt with and the rest of the day, until nightfall, would be taken up with dancing and games. In their heyday both societies were well subscribed and had over a hundred members each.
The introduction of the National Insurance Act of 1911 by David Lloyd George was the death knell of many friendly societies. The Llanferres Friendly Society was particularly badly hit and in both 1917 and 1918 its secretary and the society were fined for There were two friendly societies in failing to file a five yearly report to the Llanferres. The Llanferres Friendly Registrar General. The Society was Society was formed in 1846. Its social finally wound up in 1920. activities were based at the Red Lion Inn, and then at the Miners Arms, The Ancient Order of Foresters Court Maeshafn, when the former closed in Foel Famau continued in existence until 1917. 1966 when its membership had fallen to below 50. Its assets and commitments The Ancient Order of Foresters had a were transferred to the Brymbo branch branch known as Foel Famau which which met at the Bethel schoolroom. had its Court room at the Loggerheads Inn. The exact date of formation of this branch is unclear but was probably 1868 or 1869. Two of Tony King the early members were Peter Edwards of Ty fy nain and John Jones, shop, Tafarn y gelyn. Both societies celebrated the anniversary of their date of formation by a full day of activities. This started by members in full regalia (the
Village Hall Booking Check the online calendar to see if the Hall is free at: www.llanferres.org then call Gilly Carney Tel: 07741 316 349
26 News & Views
We, as a community, have helped out with the Mountain bike marathon over the last 10 years and have received donations for the upkeep and maintenance of our village playing field. I cannot thank you enough for this. Recently new swings and frames have been fitted in the park. Without your time and effort this event would not be able to take place. The organisers for the MTB marathon have been in talks with me over the last few months and had planned to ‘rest’ the Ruthin event this year. However, due to the positive response and feedback from many of the riders about the Ruthin event, they have decided to keep it in the calendar for 2016. This is brilliant news for our community and for the park. In the past the LPFRA have received a donation of £2000 for volunteering our time, a sum I’m not sure we get from any other fundraising event. The SCOTT UK mountain bike marathon - Ruthin will take place on the 10th – 11th September 2016. Please email crc_marshal@hotmail.co.uk Or call 810461. Thanks, Dan Hurst Chairman of the LPFRA
News & Views 27 Steve Clarke, of Cae Gwyn, is running his very first half Marathon in Liverpool on the 13th March all on behalf of a very special children’s charity - Claire House on the Wirral. He’d be really grateful if you could spend some time encouraging him and make a donation however large or small. His Just Giving page is: https://www.justgiving.com/STEVE-CLARKE12. JustGiving sends your donation straight to Claire House Children’s Hospice and automatically reclaims Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer, so your donation is worth even more. Thank you for your support!
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28 News & Views
A note from your County Councillor It is great to start my report this month with some good news. Denbighshire have announced one of the lowest council tax increases in Wales for the coming year at 1.5%. As reported last month, we were all pleasantly surprised when the Welsh Government started the year by not cutting the funding for the majority of councils in Wales by as much as they had originally planned. In Denbighshire it means that we do not have to find an additional two million in savings and it also means
that we do not have to raise taxes as much to cover any deficit between income and expenditure. Once again I have received reports about a large amount of gravel being washed down on to the Llanferres Maeshafn road and I will ask the county to send out a team to remove the offending stones. I have also asked to meet with highways officers in Maeshafn to look at the road as you enter the village where the ground beneath the road is being washed away. I am still investigating the problems relating to the surface of Rectory
News & Views relies on the help of a number of distributors every month in order to reach everyone’s home. They are: ● John & Joan Almond ● Dave & Eleri Ivanoff, ● Sue, Miners Lane, Maeshafn ● The Harveys ● Alan Clinton ● Sue Davies ● The Givelins ● The Shillitos ● David & Janet Jones Thank you to all for your time every month. We are looking for another volunteer to deliver approximately 16 copies of the magazine in Maeshafn. Please let us know if you would be able to help with this each month.
News & Views 29
A note from your County Councillor Lane and who has the responsibility for maintaining it. As the road is unadopted the County say that they have no overall responsibility but some residents feel that as the council may have filled in potholes in the past there is a precedent for the county to continue with minor repairs.
has been made to feel very welcome.
If anyone has any paperwork or copies of correspondence relating to Rectory Lane that indicates that there is such a precedent, I would be grateful if they could let me know, as it would help me in my campaign to get this matter resolved once and for all.
When we left the States I was glad to be leaving their Presidential elections behind, but it looks as if we are now settling in for a long election campaign for the Welsh Assembly Government and what could be a momentous referendum on our future with Europe. A lot more politics to come!!
On the 20th February I was asked to cut the ribbon at the opening of the new 10k fell runners route through Llandegla Forest. It was a great honour to be asked but credit must go to the Clwydian Range Runners with a special mention for Dan Hurst, Gareth Jaggard and the committee for finding the funding and for clearing and setting up the route. If you are a keen runner it is well worth a visit. Finally I spent January if the States helping to move my mother home to the UK for good. She is settling in with me here in Llanarmon and she has already joined the Llanferres indoor carpet bowling club who meet on a Tuesday night in the village hall. She is enjoying the company and the bowling and she
There is a little difference in the weather here compared to Florida but before we left, the area around Tampa was hit by hurricane winds and a Tornado which sadly killed two residents in a mobile home.
Best wishes, Martyn
Babysitter (18 years old), willing to work day time and night time for ÂŁ5 an hour. Currently at university in London but available to work from June until September. Any enquiries please contact me on 07909223189 or email: daniel.scott.philipson@hotmail. co.uk Daniel Philipson
30 News & Views
News & Views 31
Nature Notes At this time of year it is always a pleasure to see the carpets of Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), also known as Candlemas bells because traditionally they are in flower on 2nd February. A patch I saw recently had growing amongst them Scarlet elf cup fungus. The bright red cups contrasted sharply with the white of the snowdrops and looked, at first sight, like splashes of blood. Despite its widespread distribution, Snowdrops are not a native species being introduced probably in the early 16th century. They are considered to have some medicinal properties. They contain galanthamine and are used in some countries for the management of Alzheimer's disease and its lectin is being studied for use against HIV. This lectin is also an insecticide effective against pests in the orders Coleoptera (beetles), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and Hemiptera (contains aphis and leafhoppers). Conversely, early Bumblebees feed on its nectar and pollen. Walking in a local wood I was attracted by the sounds of Squirrels and watched as two animals rushed up and down the trees, jumped from branch to branch and even along the ground before again racing up the trees. It was a wonder they did not fall but Grey squirrels can leap up to six metres and can fall down to the ground about nine metres without being harmed. What I saw was probably an amorous male pursuing a female, as now is the time that Squirrels mate. The young, usually three in number, are born in March or April, after a six week gestation period and are independent at
about three to four months old. They are mature enough to breed at a year old. I also came across a Holly tree still carrying a good crop of berries and found some wide open flowers on some of the branches which seems rather early for next year's crop. This tree is testament to the mildness of the winter (so far) as birds usually plunder the berries if they cannot find other food. I have known the berries to be stripped by Christmas in some years. Yet there are always some Holly trees from which the berries are never taken (there are several in Llanferres) even in the harshest of winters, and I have never been able to ascertain why these are not attractive to the birds. Are they of a particular variety or species? I would be interested to know. The tree in question normally has its berries taken. I noted the first of the wild Daffodils blooming, earlier than I have ever recorded them before. After a mild winter it is always something of a lottery as to how well daffodils will flower. The bulbs need a period of cold to initiate flower bud development and without it will only produce leaves. This characteristic is utilized by commercial growers to produce the earliest blooms for Christmas or before. The bulbs are stored at 9°C for 15-16 weeks to imitate an early winter and are then, when partly grown, brought into a heated greenhouse were they bloom in about 3 -4 weeks.
John Almond (01352 810808 Copyright Š March 2016 John Almond. All rights reserved.
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Local Councillors Martyn Holland, Denbighshire County Councillor for Llanferres, Llanarmon yn Ial & Llandegla. 01824 780703 martyn.holland@denbighshire.gov.uk Gwyneth Dillon, Clerk to Llanferres Community Council, 01978 790269 Llanferres Community Councillors David Jones, Chairman, 01352 810511 John Almond, Vice Chairman, 01352 810808 Rob Armstrong, 01352 810259 Jac Armstrong, 01352 810259 Margaret Davies, 01352 810491 Yvonne Foden-McCorry, 01352 810867 Rob Jones, 01352 810500 Dave Twomey, 01352 810690 Adrian Walls, 01352 810223 Please contact any of the above if you have anything you would like to be brought to the attention of your Community Council.
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Village Organisations Badminton Club - June Healy Tel: 810264 Bowling Club - Every Tuesday in the village hall, 7pm - 9pm Contact Dave Twomey Tel: 810690. Church - Rev’d Canon Adrian Copping, The New Rectory, Rectory Lane, Llanferres, Mold, CH7 5SR Email: adriancopping@hotmail.com. Tel: 810936 Church Wardens - Mrs Anne Woodward, Cysgodfa, Tafarn-y-Gelyn, Llanferres, CH7 5SQ, Tel: 810270 Mr Rob Armstrong, The White House, Rectory Lane, Tel: 810259 Clwydian Conservation Campaign - Pen y Chwareli, Pant Ddu Road, Nercwys CH7 4DD Clwydian Range Runners - Chairman Gareth Jaggard Tel. 810357 Email: clwydianrangerunners@hotmail.com Gardening Club - Mrs Chris Smith, Tyn-y-Wern, Forestry Road, Llanferres. Tel 810516 Llanferres Alcoholic Mountain Biking Soc. (LAMBS) - Gordon Jones Tel: 810305 Llanferres/Colomendy Art Group - Betty Cook 810 722 Llanferres Community Council - Mrs Gwyneth Dillon, Rhosddigre, Llandegla, LL11 3AU Tel: 01978 790269 Llanferres Playing Field & Recreation Association - Secretary, Gareth Jaggard. Tel: 810357 Maeshafn Cricket Club - Secretary: Steve Pugh Tel: 810327 Old People's Welfare Committee - Chair, Yvonne Foden-McCorry Tel: 810867 PTFA Ysgol Bro Famau - Chair, Kym Willis 07578392305 / 01824 780888 Llanferres Over 60s Club - Betty Cook. Tel: 810722 Village Hall Booking Secretary - Gilly Carney. Tel 077413 16349 Village Hall Management Committee - Chairman, Rob Armstrong. 810259
News & Views: Paul & Siobhan Gothorp 2 Cae Gwyn, Llanferres, Mold, CH7 5SL Tel: (01352) 810668 Email: news@llanferres.org www.llanferres.org th Deadline is 20 of the month prior to publication
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