The mystery surrounding the origins of a set of Irish harp pins unearthed at a Welsh castle over 45 years ago will be revisited in June as part of Wales’ oldest music festival.
Twenty-four tuning pins for an Irish harp were discovered during an archaeological dig at the historic castle above the town of Montgomery in in 1967 and are displayed in the town’s Old Bell Museum.
Archaeologists, historians and musicians have been left puzzled as to why a near-perfect set of Irish harp pins should have been excavated at the site.
The mystery will be re-examined as part of Gregynog Festival when a harp historian and a world-famous harpist give a historical and musical presentation about the pins.
Researcher Dr Karen Loomis and Siobhán Armstrong, founder of the Historical Harp Society of Ireland and one of today’s leading players of the early Irish (or ‘Brian Boru’) harp, will host the evening at Montgomery Town Hall on June 20 and attempt to unravel the mystery.
Originally built by Henry III in 1223 as a border stronghold, Montgomery Castle was later home to Edward Herbert, 1st Baron Herbert of Chirbury, during the 17th century.
“Since the harp pins were discovered, there’s been great mystery surrounding their origins,” said Dr Rhian Davies, artistic director of Gregynog Festival, which runs from June 16-26 in Mid Wales.
“Were they part of a complete Irish harp? Who owned the instrument, where was it made and what kind of music would have been played on it? And, most intriguing of all, what was an Irish harp doing at Montgomery Castle?”
More will be unveiled at “The Montgomery Castle Harp Pins” event at 7.30pm in Montgomery Town Hall on June 20.
This year, Gregynog Festival’s theme is Eire and a packed programme of events includes world-class Irish musicians plus international artists who specialise in performing Irish repertoire.
Music, drama and talks inspired by the Easter Rising and Fron-goch feature during the festival programme as well as forming part of the Welsh Government’s project Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
A substantial outreach programme is again planned and will be revealed shortly under the name Irish Coffee.
A Welsh Government Visit Wales signature event, the festival attracts visitors from across the world each year to venues throughout Mid Wales, including the famous Gregynog Hall, near Newtown, home of the Davies sisters who launched the event because of their passion for music and the arts.
In addition to placing the area on the international music and arts map, Gregynog Festival plays a part in supporting the rural economy, attracting visitors into the area and raising its profile.
Last year, the festival attracted at least £150,000 of spend into Mid Wales as well as working with local people through an outreach programme involving musicians and artists visiting local schools, cafes and residential homes.
The box office for the Gregynog Festival has just opened with tickets available through www.gregynogfestival.org and 01686 207100.
-END-
Notes to the Editor
Gregynog Festival
The Gregynog Festival is a lottery funded project for the Arts Council of Wales, a signature event of the Major Events Unit, Welsh Government (Visit Wales), and the only Welsh member of REMA, the European Early Music Network based at Versailles. It has also received funding for the 2016 season from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
Launched by sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies at Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown in 1933, the Gregynog Festival is Wales’ oldest classical music festival. The granddaughters of industrialist, entrepreneur and politician, David Davies, who came from Llandinam, Powys, they became philanthropists travelling throughout Europe, passionate about art and music, and bequeathing over 260 works from their collection to the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, where many are now displayed.
The Gregynog Festival attracts visitors from all over the world into Wales as well as having a social and economic impact on the local community through its investment in concerts, workshops, talks and community outreach projects.
The Montgomery Castle Harp Pins
Musicians are working to reconstruct historical performance and repertory for the early Irish harp.
Siobhán Armstrong, founder and Chair of the Historical Harp Society of Ireland, is a leading historical harpist specializing in this instrument, and is currently pursuing PhD research at Middlesex University, London in early Irish harp performance practice.
Every bit of surviving historical material helps to inform this kind of work. Much valuable information can be gleaned from the instruments themselves, and this has been the work of Karen Loomis, who recently completed a PhD at the University of Edinburgh studying two pre-eminent surviving specimens, the National Museum of Scotland’s ‘Queen Mary’ and ‘Lamont’ harps.
At present, there are only 18 known surviving historical instruments. Occasionally, individual Irish harp tuning pins have been found, either by metal detectorists, or as part of archaeological digs.
Although a single tuning pin may not seem like much, it can hold important clues to the history and development of the instrument, so whenever one turns up, it’s a little bit exciting.
Tuesday 31 May 2016
Gregynog Festival prepares for Irish influx
The countdown is on for start of Wales’ oldest music festival, the Gregynog Festival, as its gears up for its 2016 season in Powys.
Themed on “Eire”, this year’s festival celebrates Ireland and its connections with Wales and includes a star-studded line up of Irish musicians and speakers who will travel to locations throughout Mid Wales, including the historic Gregynog Hall near Newtown, for events between June 16 and 26.
This year’s line-up has a strong focus on folk as well as classical music and sees Jordi Savall and Hespèrion XXI with Martin Hayes, Mahan Esfahani, The Irish Consort, Ailish Tynan and Iain Burnside, The Fidelio Trio, Chamber Choir Ireland, Daniel Grimwood, Ensemble Nevermind, Finghin Collins, The Goodman Trio and Aoife Ní Bhríain all strolling down Gregynog’s green carpet.
This year’s festival is also a special occasion for artistic director, Dr Rhian Davies, who celebrates 10 years at the helm
“This is a very special year for me as it marks a decade since I took over the mantle of the Gregynog Festival, a festival that has always been close to my heart as someone who was born and brought up in Newtown and attended the concerts as a child,” said Dr Davies.
“The past decade has seen us continue to develop and grow the festival, inviting the finest international musicians of our time to make Wales and UK debuts so that we can all enjoy music-making of the highest quality right here in Mid Wales’ most beautiful locations.”
The Gregynog Festival, launched in 1933 by philanthropists Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, granddaughters of Victorian mining and railway entrepreneur David Davies, will feature concerts, drama, poetry, film, talks and exhibitions on the theme of Eire between 16 and 26 June at venues throughout Mid Wales.
It comes as the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising will be marked in Wales this summer, recalling how 1,800 Irish people who took part, including Michael Collins, were kept at the Fron-goch prison camp near Bala.
Music, drama and talks inspired by the Rising and Fron-goch feature during the festival programme as well as forming part of the Welsh Government’s project Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
Repertoire ranges from medieval times to the 21st century and the Golden Age, when major European composers such as Handel and Geminiani lived and worked in Dublin during the 18th century, is also remembered.
Other highlights include talks by Dr Edel Bhreathnach about the Celtic Library at Gregynog, and Professor Prys Morgan on the tercentenary of the birth of Arthur Blayney, Gregynog’s last Blayney Squire.
There's a talk to mark 125 years since the founding of the National Museum of Ireland by the director Raghnall O Floinn and two experts Dr Karen Loomis and harpist Siobhan Armstrong unravel the mystery of the Irish harp pins which were found at Montgomery Castle and are now displayed in the Old Bell Museum.
An evening of drama, Rebel Rebel, sees Aisling O’Mara and Robbie O’Connor re-create the true story of two actors who left the Abbey Theatre stage to join the Easter Rising. Lyn Ebenezer, the well-known journalist and broadcaster, presents his latest research about Fron- goch Camp, near Bala, where rebels including Michael Collins were detained.
Events take place in Pennant Melangell, Aberystwyth, Montgomery and Llandinam as well as the Music Room at Gregynog Hall itself.
The box office for the Gregynog Festival has just opened with tickets available through www.gregynogfestival.org and 01686 207100.
Notes to the Editor
The Gregynog Festival is a lottery funded project for the Arts Council of Wales, a signature event of the Major Events Unit, Welsh Government (Visit Wales), and the only Welsh member of REMA, the European Early Music Network based at Versailles. It has also received funding for the 2016 season from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Cymru’n Cofio | Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
Launched by sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies at Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown in 1933, the Gregynog Festival is Wales’ oldest classical music festival. The granddaughters of industrialist, entrepreneur and politician, David Davies, who came from Llandinam, they became philanthropists travelling throughout Europe, passionate about art and music, and bequeathing over 260 works from their collection to the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, where many are now displayed.
The Gregynog Festival attracts visitors from all over the world into Wales as well as having a social and economic impact on the local community through its investment in concerts, workshops, talks and community outreach projects.
For more media information, please contact:
Owain Betts, t: 01686 639028, e: Owain.Betts@ombpr.com
Or Kate Gedge, t: 01874 730300 or 07754 149577, e: kr.pr@btinternet.com
Themed on “Eire”, this year’s festival celebrates Ireland and its connections with Wales and includes a star-studded line up of Irish musicians and speakers who will travel to locations throughout Mid Wales, including the historic Gregynog Hall near Newtown, for events between June 16 and 26.
This year’s line-up has a strong focus on folk as well as classical music and sees Jordi Savall and Hespèrion XXI with Martin Hayes, Mahan Esfahani, The Irish Consort, Ailish Tynan and Iain Burnside, The Fidelio Trio, Chamber Choir Ireland, Daniel Grimwood, Ensemble Nevermind, Finghin Collins, The Goodman Trio and Aoife Ní Bhríain all strolling down Gregynog’s green carpet.
This year’s festival is also a special occasion for artistic director, Dr Rhian Davies, who celebrates 10 years at the helm
“This is a very special year for me as it marks a decade since I took over the mantle of the Gregynog Festival, a festival that has always been close to my heart as someone who was born and brought up in Newtown and attended the concerts as a child,” said Dr Davies.
“The past decade has seen us continue to develop and grow the festival, inviting the finest international musicians of our time to make Wales and UK debuts so that we can all enjoy music-making of the highest quality right here in Mid Wales’ most beautiful locations.”
The Gregynog Festival, launched in 1933 by philanthropists Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, granddaughters of Victorian mining and railway entrepreneur David Davies, will feature concerts, drama, poetry, film, talks and exhibitions on the theme of Eire between 16 and 26 June at venues throughout Mid Wales.
It comes as the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising will be marked in Wales this summer, recalling how 1,800 Irish people who took part, including Michael Collins, were kept at the Fron-goch prison camp near Bala.
Music, drama and talks inspired by the Rising and Fron-goch feature during the festival programme as well as forming part of the Welsh Government’s project Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
Repertoire ranges from medieval times to the 21st century and the Golden Age, when major European composers such as Handel and Geminiani lived and worked in Dublin during the 18th century, is also remembered.
Other highlights include talks by Dr Edel Bhreathnach about the Celtic Library at Gregynog, and Professor Prys Morgan on the tercentenary of the birth of Arthur Blayney, Gregynog’s last Blayney Squire.
There's a talk to mark 125 years since the founding of the National Museum of Ireland by the director Raghnall O Floinn and two experts Dr Karen Loomis and harpist Siobhan Armstrong unravel the mystery of the Irish harp pins which were found at Montgomery Castle and are now displayed in the Old Bell Museum.
An evening of drama, Rebel Rebel, sees Aisling O’Mara and Robbie O’Connor re-create the true story of two actors who left the Abbey Theatre stage to join the Easter Rising. Lyn Ebenezer, the well-known journalist and broadcaster, presents his latest research about Fron- goch Camp, near Bala, where rebels including Michael Collins were detained.
Events take place in Pennant Melangell, Aberystwyth, Montgomery and Llandinam as well as the Music Room at Gregynog Hall itself.
The box office for the Gregynog Festival has just opened with tickets available through www.gregynogfestival.org and 01686 207100.
-END-
Notes to the Editor
The Gregynog Festival is a lottery funded project for the Arts Council of Wales, a signature event of the Major Events Unit, Welsh Government (Visit Wales), and the only Welsh member of REMA, the European Early Music Network based at Versailles. It has also received funding for the 2016 season from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Cymru’n Cofio | Wales Remembers 1914-1918.
Launched by sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies at Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown in 1933, the Gregynog Festival is Wales’ oldest classical music festival. The granddaughters of industrialist, entrepreneur and politician, David Davies, who came from Llandinam, they became philanthropists travelling throughout Europe, passionate about art and music, and bequeathing over 260 works from their collection to the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, where many are now displayed.
The Gregynog Festival attracts visitors from all over the world into Wales as well as having a social and economic impact on the local community through its investment in concerts, workshops, talks and community outreach projects.
For more media information, please contact:
Owain Betts, t: 01686 639028, e: Owain.Betts@ombpr.com
Or Kate Gedge, t: 01874 730300 or 07754 149577, e: kr.pr@btinternet.com
County’s premier business awards launched
Businesses across Powys gathered in Llandrindod Wells for the launch of the county’s premier business awards.
The annual Powys Business Awards, which began in 2009, were launched today at Llandrindod Wells’ County Hall with sponsors and past finalists attending the event.
Cllr Avril York, Powys County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, said: “The Powys Business Awards are getting bigger and bigger each year and we’re delighted to continue supporting them.
“Not only do the awards provide an excellent opportunity for the county’s businesses to raise their profiles, it gives us the chance to showcase their quality.
“The Powys Business Awards are now an important date in the business calendar and I would urge all businesses in the county to enter this year’s awards. They are an excellent way of highlighting the range and expertise of the county’s businesses and also they celebrate their success.”
With a range of new categories added this year, the awards are an opportunity for all businesses, social enterprises and charities to compete for a chance to be a finalist no matter if they are large or small or if they are a new start-up or existing business.
At the launch, organisers Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, Powys County Council and the Cambrian News announced the confirmed list of categories and sponsors for this year’s business awards.
Application forms are now available for the 2016 Powys Business Awards, which will culminate in a black-tie dinner this year bring held in the Infantry Battle School, Dering Lines in Brecon on Friday, September 30.
Ceri Stephens, group manager for Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, said: “The Powys Business Awards provide a fantastic platform for businesses to raise their profile. Those who enter the awards are independently judged on their excellent standards.
“The awards also provide a public forum where finalists can gather in the presence of other business leaders and their peers to celebrate their success on the night.
“Winners on the night will also benefit from local publicity as the awards are covered by local and regional newspapers and broadcasters. Everyone who reaches the finals also has the added bonus of having a free professionally made short film about their business which can be added to their website or otherwise used in their publicity.”
The categories for the 2016 Powys Business Awards are:
• Start-up Business Award sponsored by The County Times
• Micro Business Award sponsored by FSB
• Entrepreneurship Award
• Growth Award sponsored by Finance Wales
• Manufacturing Award sponsored by Myrick Training Services
• Agricultural Business Award sponsored by Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors
• Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality Award sponsored by NPTC Group
• Social Enterprise/ Charity Award sponsored by Mid-Wales Housing Association Ltd
• International Trade Award sponsored by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group
• Technology & Innovation Award sponsored by RES
• Excellence in Customer Service Award sponsored by Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd
• Team Achievement Award sponsored by The Cambrian News and The Brecon & Radnor Express
• Judges Special Award sponsored by Sodexo
• Company of the Year Award sponsored by Powys County Council
Application forms, judging criteria for each award, rules and guidance can be found on the website www.powysbusinessawards.co.uk . For more information contact Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, The Business Unit, NPTC Group Newtown Campus, Powys, SY16 4HU, Tel: 01686 628778 e-mail: info@mwmg.org
Picture caption:
At the launch of the 2016 Powys Business Awards in Llandrindod Wells are (back row, from left) Major Jimmy Law, Infantry Battle School, Brecon; Peter Swanson, Mid Wales Housing Association; Nick Evans, Powys FSB; Kevin Morris, NPTC Group; Brian Dunlop, Myrick Training (front row, from left) Gaynor Morris, Finance Wales; Cllr Avril York, Powys County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration; Gail Jones, Alun Griffiths Contractors; Samantha Mayers, RES and Ceri Stephens, MWMG.
Could you discover Britain’s favourite Hidden Gem?
Leading pork pie manufacturer, Pork Farms, is on the hunt to find the nation’s top three favourite Hidden Gems – and need the people of Britain to help them to find them.
Pork Farms, has teamed up with UK Tourist Boards to discover those special places that, while may be known to some, maybe totally unknown to others and are inviting people to visit the Pork Farms website to inspire their inner explorer.
Hidden Gem explorers have until July 31 to submit their own favourite Hidden Gems before the top five from each region are picked to become a very special regional shortlist.
Kim Burgess, head of markets for Pork Farms, said: “Do you love exploring unknown territories or have a favourite family place that means the world to you? Is your little piece of heaven right here in the UK?
“Pork Farms celebrates the best of British and we want to find the nation's top Hidden Gems that really are Britain's undiscovered treasures.”
The top three Hidden Gems from across the country will go on to win a place in a Pork Farms national advertising campaign, with the three people who submitted each of the top three, winning their very own “gem” and a weekend stay at one of the UK’s Hidden Gems.
To get involved, visit: http://www.pork-farms.co.uk/join-in/hidden-gems/
-ENDS-
For media enquiries please contact Charlotte Tuohy or Rachel Hurst on 01257 262498 or email charlotte@kr-pr.co.uk or rachel@kr-pr.co.uk
Notes to Editors:
• Pork Farms is owned by Addo Food Group, the premium producer of chilled savoury pastry products in the UK
• The group has six businesses around the UK, each with a specialist centre with expert teams focused on leading the thinking and development in their category
• The Addo Food Group brands are Pork Farms, Wall's Pastry, Tottle, NO G, Farmhouse, Millers, Scrummy Eggs and Bowyers
Friday 27 May 2016
Sunny weather hails successful motor rally through Shropshire/Powys borders
The sunny weather brought classic car enthusiasts out in their masses last Sunday to participate in a rally through the beautiful Shropshire and Powys borders countryside.
Kidderminster Motor Club Ltd held its seventh annual ‘Hills and Valley Tour Rally’ which included 60 classic and historic cars, which was split into four sections.
The tour, which took in the hills and valleys of South Shropshire and Powys, started and finished at Kerry Vale Vineyard, an award winning family run business three miles south of Montgomery. Participants enjoyed a breakfast and evening buffet provided by the vineyard in partnership with local business JP Hog Roasts.
Organised by Kidderminster Motor Car Club, the tour’s objective was to raise funds for the charity Concertina – Music for the Elderly.
The club was founded in 1961 by a group of enthusiasts who had one common interest – motor cars.
From the vineyard the tour moved north through Montgomery over the moorland of Long Mountain, stopping at Bodfach Hall, Llanfylin for refreshments. They then continued on to Lake Vyrnwy to take in the stunning views, before tackling a climb to the top of Bwlch Y Groes.
Lunch was then enjoyed at Meirion Mill, Dinas Mawddwy before heading south into the hills above Carno, arriving at Castle Caereinion Community Centre mid-afternoon for refreshments courtesy of the local WI.
The final section of the tour took drivers through the picturesque valley of the River Rhiw and across the top of the hills above Newtown, through Bettws Cedwain and back through Montgomery to the vineyard, where they enjoyed a hot buffet, dessert a glass of award winning wine and an art exhibition.
Tour organisers Mac and Sheila Roath said: “The tour, which was organised as a sociable day out, was a fantastic success. The stunning scenery and fantastic hospitality provided everyone with a very memorable day”.
They thanked Kerry Vale Vineyard for first class hospitality and all of the other kind establishments who accommodated the 60 cars, their drivers and passengers.
For more information about events run by the Kidderminster Motor Car club contact
Phone: 01562 752950 or visit the website: kidderminstercarclub.co.uk
For information about events at Kerry Vale vineyard visit: www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk or call 01588 620627.
Picture captions:
Some of the cars parked at Kerry Vale Vineyard.
Kerry Vale Vineyard owner Geoff Ferguson serves a glass a wine to a member of the motor club.
ENDS
For more information contact Nadine Roach at Kerry Vale Vineyard on Tel: 01588 620627.
Aberystwyth celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of Roald Dahl!
People across the globe will this year mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Roald Dahl, one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century.
His contribution to the fields of children’s literature, poetry and screenwriting are unparalleled, and his subversive, humorous and darkly clever tales continue to entertain and thrill children across the world.
The Roald Dahl 100 celebrations coincide with ‘Wales: Year of Adventure’ in 2016. Dahl himself was no stranger to adventure, as a child getting up to well-documented mischief in the local sweetshop in Llandaff or as a young pilot during World War Two.
Aberystwyth is joining in the celebrations with a series of events taking place throughout the summer at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, National Library Wales and Ceredigion Museum.
Wales Millennium Centre and The Aloud Charity present Land of Song: Roald Dahl 100 Celebration at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Monday, June 6 at 11am. Join thousands of school children across Wales to celebrate the life of the world’s greatest story teller, Roald Dahl. Using songs from his associated works and celebrity narrations of some of his most famous books, this fully interactive concert is part of the wider Roald Dahl 100 Celebrations.
Sell a Door Theatre present James and the Giant Peach at Aberystwyth Arts Centre from July 26 to 31. This performance is suitable for all the family.
MusicFest Aberystwyth will be offering two very special performances of Roald Dahl poems as part of MusicFest Aberystwyth 2016, on July 24 and 25. On Sunday, July 24, Magnard Ensemble will perform a composition by Martin Butler of Roald Dahl’s revolting rhyme Dirty Beasts for wind quintet, piano and narrator.
The concert will also include Solem Quartet and in addition to Dirty Beasts will feature Shostakovich String Quartet No 8 in C minor, Op. 110 Barber Summer Music for wind quintet Mendelssohn String Quartet in A minor Op.13
On Monday, July 25, Ceredigion Museum will host a performance for children and their families of ‘Revolting Rhymes and Marvellous Music!’. The lively, dynamic chamber group Magnard Ensemble and narrator Rebecca Kenny explore the world of Roald Dahl’s poetry through live instrumental music and theatre.
In their presentation of the well-known tale of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, accompany them and composer Paul Patterson deep into the forest on an interactive musical adventure. You will meet some of your favourite, familiar characters and you might even think that you know the story, but take care - in the weird and wonderful world of Roald Dahl’s imagination nothing is ever quite what it seems.
Staff from the Roald Dahl Museum will be visiting the National Library of Wales to hold a special event this summer 2016. Further details will appear on their website and on social media.
Anni Llŷn, Children's Poet Laureate of Wales, will be on hand to welcome all of Mid Wales' little monsters for a session filled to the brim with fun and preposterous poetry at the National Library of Wales on August 26 from 10am to 12noon! There will be an opportunity to have a look around the exhibition and draw inspiration from the master of mischief himself, Roald Dahl. Be prepared to rhyme, compose silly lines and fall about in stitches in the workshop suitable for children aged seven to 11years.
Join the National Library of Wales for a Roald Dahl tea party on Saturday, September 10. Creative writing workshops for Children (Years five and six) will also take place during the day and children will be encouraged to take inspiration from Roald Dahl’s The BFG to create their own Welsh giants.
To book tickets for any of these events or for further information, contact the venues:
Aberystwyth Arts Centre: 01970 62 32 32 www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk
Ceredigion Museum: 01970 633088
MusicFest Aberystwyth: 01970 612 034 musicfestaberystwyth.org musicfest@aber.ac.uk
National Library of Wales: 01970 632 933 www.llgc.org.uk
Ends
For more information contact Elin-Haf Elin-Hâf Williams at the National Library of Wales on Tel: 01970 632534
His contribution to the fields of children’s literature, poetry and screenwriting are unparalleled, and his subversive, humorous and darkly clever tales continue to entertain and thrill children across the world.
The Roald Dahl 100 celebrations coincide with ‘Wales: Year of Adventure’ in 2016. Dahl himself was no stranger to adventure, as a child getting up to well-documented mischief in the local sweetshop in Llandaff or as a young pilot during World War Two.
Aberystwyth is joining in the celebrations with a series of events taking place throughout the summer at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, National Library Wales and Ceredigion Museum.
Wales Millennium Centre and The Aloud Charity present Land of Song: Roald Dahl 100 Celebration at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Monday, June 6 at 11am. Join thousands of school children across Wales to celebrate the life of the world’s greatest story teller, Roald Dahl. Using songs from his associated works and celebrity narrations of some of his most famous books, this fully interactive concert is part of the wider Roald Dahl 100 Celebrations.
Sell a Door Theatre present James and the Giant Peach at Aberystwyth Arts Centre from July 26 to 31. This performance is suitable for all the family.
MusicFest Aberystwyth will be offering two very special performances of Roald Dahl poems as part of MusicFest Aberystwyth 2016, on July 24 and 25. On Sunday, July 24, Magnard Ensemble will perform a composition by Martin Butler of Roald Dahl’s revolting rhyme Dirty Beasts for wind quintet, piano and narrator.
The concert will also include Solem Quartet and in addition to Dirty Beasts will feature Shostakovich String Quartet No 8 in C minor, Op. 110 Barber Summer Music for wind quintet Mendelssohn String Quartet in A minor Op.13
On Monday, July 25, Ceredigion Museum will host a performance for children and their families of ‘Revolting Rhymes and Marvellous Music!’. The lively, dynamic chamber group Magnard Ensemble and narrator Rebecca Kenny explore the world of Roald Dahl’s poetry through live instrumental music and theatre.
In their presentation of the well-known tale of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, accompany them and composer Paul Patterson deep into the forest on an interactive musical adventure. You will meet some of your favourite, familiar characters and you might even think that you know the story, but take care - in the weird and wonderful world of Roald Dahl’s imagination nothing is ever quite what it seems.
Staff from the Roald Dahl Museum will be visiting the National Library of Wales to hold a special event this summer 2016. Further details will appear on their website and on social media.
Anni Llŷn, Children's Poet Laureate of Wales, will be on hand to welcome all of Mid Wales' little monsters for a session filled to the brim with fun and preposterous poetry at the National Library of Wales on August 26 from 10am to 12noon! There will be an opportunity to have a look around the exhibition and draw inspiration from the master of mischief himself, Roald Dahl. Be prepared to rhyme, compose silly lines and fall about in stitches in the workshop suitable for children aged seven to 11years.
Join the National Library of Wales for a Roald Dahl tea party on Saturday, September 10. Creative writing workshops for Children (Years five and six) will also take place during the day and children will be encouraged to take inspiration from Roald Dahl’s The BFG to create their own Welsh giants.
To book tickets for any of these events or for further information, contact the venues:
Aberystwyth Arts Centre: 01970 62 32 32 www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk
Ceredigion Museum: 01970 633088
MusicFest Aberystwyth: 01970 612 034 musicfestaberystwyth.org musicfest@aber.ac.uk
National Library of Wales: 01970 632 933 www.llgc.org.uk
Ends
For more information contact Elin-Haf Elin-Hâf Williams at the National Library of Wales on Tel: 01970 632534
Thursday 26 May 2016
Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence for Shropshire border vineyard
Kerry Vale Vineyard has been recognised as a top performing vineyard by travellers on the world’s largest travel site for the second time in two years.
The family owned vineyard on the Shropshire/Powys border has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence for the second time in two years. The achievement celebrates hospitality businesses that have earned great traveller reviews on TripAdvisor over the past year.
Certificate of Excellence recipients include accommodation, eateries and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience.
This news comes at the start of English and Welsh Wine Week (May 28 – June 5), a national campaign celebrating the very best of English and Welsh wine.
Kerry Vale Vineyard provides customers with the opportunity to discover the secrets of English and Welsh wine within a relaxed and contemporary space. It also offers an art gallery featuring exhibitions from local artists and a wine café and kitchen, which make good use of the exceptional local produce.
The vineyard is open six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm and will be promoting a variety of offers during English and Welsh Wine Week.
Owner June Ferguson said “Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the entire team at Kerry Vale Vineyard and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review. There is no greater seal of approval than being recognised by one’s customers.
“The accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.”
For more information about the vineyard, visit: www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk or call 01588 620627.
The family owned vineyard on the Shropshire/Powys border has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence for the second time in two years. The achievement celebrates hospitality businesses that have earned great traveller reviews on TripAdvisor over the past year.
Certificate of Excellence recipients include accommodation, eateries and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience.
This news comes at the start of English and Welsh Wine Week (May 28 – June 5), a national campaign celebrating the very best of English and Welsh wine.
Kerry Vale Vineyard provides customers with the opportunity to discover the secrets of English and Welsh wine within a relaxed and contemporary space. It also offers an art gallery featuring exhibitions from local artists and a wine café and kitchen, which make good use of the exceptional local produce.
The vineyard is open six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm and will be promoting a variety of offers during English and Welsh Wine Week.
Owner June Ferguson said “Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the entire team at Kerry Vale Vineyard and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review. There is no greater seal of approval than being recognised by one’s customers.
“The accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.”
For more information about the vineyard, visit: www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk or call 01588 620627.
Great Little Trains of Wales receives £67,000 UK Government funding boost
The Great Little Trains of Wales (GLTW) has won a funding package from the Department for Transport (DfT) to work together with Arriva Trains to attract tourists from London to Wales.
GLTW, which represents 11 railways across Wales, put together an entry for the DfT Heritage and Community Rail Tourism Innovation Competition and has secured an award of £67,000 to implement the plan.
Using the message ‘Use the Big Train to see the Little Trains’, the first step will be to produce a new guide for tourists, inspired by the Bradshaw’s Guides of years gone by, that suggests a range of trips by train to make it easier for the novice public transport user or overseas tourist to get around.
Rail Minister Claire Perry said: "We want to show the best of British to our visitors and Heritage and Community Railways are part of that package. I am delighted that the Great Little Trains of Wales is one of 17 national winners across Britain. I look forward to seeing the scheme develop, providing another great reason to visit Wales."
GLTW chairman Charles Spencer said: "We were very pleased indeed to win this funding against stiff competition. We have a tough challenge in getting the pilot edition of our new guide out this summer so the tourism business in Wales can benefit this year, but we believe it will give a valuable boost to the Great Little Trains of Wales brand which is well known around the world."
It is hoped to launch the guide – which will be supported by a dedicated website - at a major London station at the beginning of August.
/ends/
A short video file can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3Fg1urk-IY&feature=youtu.be
For further information contact Charles Spencer at charles.spencer@wllr.org.uk or Andrew Thomas at Welsh Highland Railway on Tel: 01766 566072 athomas@ffwhr.com
Minecraft competition aims to recreate the National Library building
Looking for something to do over half term? Why not take part in a Minecraft video game competition at The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth?
The aim is to re-create The National Library of Wales building as accurately as possible. To be in with a chance of winning a prize, contestants must use the Digital Build Challenge pack to re-create library building in Minecraft.
Contestants will need a licensed copy of Minecraft to compete. Further Information at:
https://www.llgc.org.uk/en/services/education/projects/minecraft-competition/
A panel of staff from library will judge the competition, with 80% of the score focusing on the outside of the building. The age of the contestant will be taken into account when judging. Prizes ranging from £50 to £20 will be awarded to the best three submissions and the closing date is July 1, 2016.
Ends
For more information contact Elin Williams on Tel: 01970 632534/
Inaugural Wales Map Symposium looks at how maps have shaped the nation
Carto-Cymru - The Wales Map Symposium 2016: Shaping the Nation, will take place at The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth tomorrow (Friday).
Carto-Cymru is hosted by the library in association with the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales and will evaluate the role of maps in both depicting and creating the nation both as an entity on the ground and also as a perception in the minds of people.
It will explore how maps have shaped the nation through looking at the borderland, the geography of the Welsh language and the achievements of Renaissance Welsh cartographer, Humphrey Llwyd.
This event will share the wealth of cartographic material available to researchers at the library and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
It will also show how innovative technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, are being used to depict sites and landscapes of the past.
Pedr ap Llwyd, director of collections and public programmes, said: “It is fitting that this map symposium is held in the National Library of Wales, the home to the largest map collection in Wales and one of the largest in the British Isles. I’m confident it will offer us the opportunity to showcase the wealth of our map collection which belongs to the people of Wales
Huw Thomas, map curator at library, added: "This is the first time we have held such an event. We've had a really positive response and we are looking forward to a great day with some really excellent speakers."
Presentations include Mapping the Marches: Marginal Places and Spaces of Cartographic Innovation by Keith Lilley, Professor of Historical Geography, Queen’s University Belfast
Shapes of Scotland: Maps, history and national identity will be the topic for Chris Fleet, map curator at the National Library of Scotland. Yolande Hodson, map historian and cataloguer of King George III's Military Maps in the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle, will speak about ‘The Military Map Collection of George III: a cartographic record of European wars, empires won and empires lost’.
Rhys Jones, head of geography and earth sciences at Aberystwyth University, will speak pn ‘Ail-ddychmygu daearyddiaethau’r iaith Gymrae - Re-imagining geographies of Welshness while Huw Thomas address the audience about ‘Humphrey Llwyd and the map of Wales’.
‘Maps and mapping at the Royal Commission; putting the past in its place’ is the topic for Tom Pert, on-line development manager for the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
ends
Further Information: Elin-Hâf, 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
Carto-Cymru is hosted by the library in association with the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales and will evaluate the role of maps in both depicting and creating the nation both as an entity on the ground and also as a perception in the minds of people.
It will explore how maps have shaped the nation through looking at the borderland, the geography of the Welsh language and the achievements of Renaissance Welsh cartographer, Humphrey Llwyd.
This event will share the wealth of cartographic material available to researchers at the library and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
It will also show how innovative technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, are being used to depict sites and landscapes of the past.
Pedr ap Llwyd, director of collections and public programmes, said: “It is fitting that this map symposium is held in the National Library of Wales, the home to the largest map collection in Wales and one of the largest in the British Isles. I’m confident it will offer us the opportunity to showcase the wealth of our map collection which belongs to the people of Wales
Huw Thomas, map curator at library, added: "This is the first time we have held such an event. We've had a really positive response and we are looking forward to a great day with some really excellent speakers."
Presentations include Mapping the Marches: Marginal Places and Spaces of Cartographic Innovation by Keith Lilley, Professor of Historical Geography, Queen’s University Belfast
Shapes of Scotland: Maps, history and national identity will be the topic for Chris Fleet, map curator at the National Library of Scotland. Yolande Hodson, map historian and cataloguer of King George III's Military Maps in the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle, will speak about ‘The Military Map Collection of George III: a cartographic record of European wars, empires won and empires lost’.
Rhys Jones, head of geography and earth sciences at Aberystwyth University, will speak pn ‘Ail-ddychmygu daearyddiaethau’r iaith Gymrae - Re-imagining geographies of Welshness while Huw Thomas address the audience about ‘Humphrey Llwyd and the map of Wales’.
‘Maps and mapping at the Royal Commission; putting the past in its place’ is the topic for Tom Pert, on-line development manager for the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
ends
Further Information: Elin-Hâf, 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
Monday 23 May 2016
Trails re-open at award winning visitor centre
The trails at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, near Aberystwyth, have now reopened as the second phase of tree felling moves past the half way mark.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is felling up to 20,000 trees near the popular visitor centre to slow the spread of Phytophthora ramorum, a disease which is attacking larch trees.
The visitor centre, also run by NRW, provides places to go running, walking, mountain biking, orienteering and horse-riding.
Gareth Owen, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre manager, said: “Bwlch Nant yr Arian has a special place in the hearts of local people and visitors and I want to thank them for their patience during this time.
“We’ve worked hard to make sure that parts of the forest have always been open for people to enjoy, but we couldn’t avoid closing some of our trails while the work took place.”
NRW has already replanted around 12,000 native trees at Bwlch Nant yr Arian since the last phase of major tree felling in 2013.
The area will continue to be replanted with a mix of species including Douglas fir, Western red cedar and native broadleaf.
“The tree felling will now continue in the valley below the car park area, so this will not affect the visitor centre or the trails,” added Gareth.
The felled timber is being sent to local sawmills to produce timber for the construction industry. Any money made will be reinvested into the Welsh Government’s Woodland Estate.
As part of the #Keepitclean campaign NRW asks all visitors to help stop the spread of Phytophthora ramorum by washing boots and equipment, such as bikes, before visiting woodland again.
Sticks or foliage should be left in the woods and any fallen needles should be brushed from cars before leaving the woodland.
You can keep up to date with news and events at Bwlch Nant yr Arian by following the site on Facebook.
Natural Resources Wales is a Welsh Government Sponsored Body. Its purpose is to ensure that the natural resources of Wales are sustainably maintained, enhanced and used, now and in the future
For more information www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk
Press office: 029 2046 4227 / pressoffice@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk (24hrs)
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is felling up to 20,000 trees near the popular visitor centre to slow the spread of Phytophthora ramorum, a disease which is attacking larch trees.
The visitor centre, also run by NRW, provides places to go running, walking, mountain biking, orienteering and horse-riding.
Gareth Owen, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre manager, said: “Bwlch Nant yr Arian has a special place in the hearts of local people and visitors and I want to thank them for their patience during this time.
“We’ve worked hard to make sure that parts of the forest have always been open for people to enjoy, but we couldn’t avoid closing some of our trails while the work took place.”
NRW has already replanted around 12,000 native trees at Bwlch Nant yr Arian since the last phase of major tree felling in 2013.
The area will continue to be replanted with a mix of species including Douglas fir, Western red cedar and native broadleaf.
“The tree felling will now continue in the valley below the car park area, so this will not affect the visitor centre or the trails,” added Gareth.
The felled timber is being sent to local sawmills to produce timber for the construction industry. Any money made will be reinvested into the Welsh Government’s Woodland Estate.
As part of the #Keepitclean campaign NRW asks all visitors to help stop the spread of Phytophthora ramorum by washing boots and equipment, such as bikes, before visiting woodland again.
Sticks or foliage should be left in the woods and any fallen needles should be brushed from cars before leaving the woodland.
You can keep up to date with news and events at Bwlch Nant yr Arian by following the site on Facebook.
Natural Resources Wales is a Welsh Government Sponsored Body. Its purpose is to ensure that the natural resources of Wales are sustainably maintained, enhanced and used, now and in the future
For more information www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk
ENDS
Press office: 029 2046 4227 / pressoffice@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk (24hrs)
Friday 20 May 2016
Pre-register for Wales Rally GN to enter special prize draw
The eagerly-anticipated route for the 2016 Wales Rally GB (October 27-30) will be announced on Wednesday, June 1, with advance tickets going on sale the same day.
Spectators can pre-register their interest before that date to be entered into an exclusive prize draw to win a pair of tickets to the pre-event Preview Day plus a money-can’t-buy passenger ride in a rally car with a top driver. Those who pre-register via the official walesrallygb.com website before midnight on Tuesday, May 31 will automatically be entered into the draw.
While the exact 2016 route remains a closely guarded secret, Britain’s round of the FIA World Rally Championship will again be based in North Wales, at the Deeside Rally Village. Three days of dramatic competitive action will centre on the legendary forests of Mid and North Wales, with some exciting new challenges sure to be popular with competitors and fans alike.
The event’s new date in late October brings the rally forward by two weeks. This not only brings the promise of better weather but also coincides with half-term at many schools in the region and offers families some great entertainment over the holiday break.
Last November’s Wales Rally GB attracted an increased number of 87,000 visitors, a figure which is likely to be topped once again in October.
Follow Wales Rally GB on Twitter @WalesRallyGB or join the conversations on Facebook at www.facebook.com/walesrallygb using #WRGB
Since its inception in 1932, the International Rally of Great Britain has been run 71 times. Enforced stoppages have included World War 2, Suez Crisis (1957) and Foot and Mouth (1967).
It is one of only two events (along with Finland) to have retained its status as both a qualifying and scoring round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) since the championship was established in 1973.
Wales Rally GB is the 13th round of this year’s WRC and is organised and promoted by International Motor Sports Ltd (IMS), the commercial arm of the Motor Sports Association, the governing body of UK motor sport.
Branded as Wales Rally GB since 2003 when the Welsh Government became the principal funding partner, the rally is based out of a central Rally Village in Deeside with competitive stages throughout North and Mid-Wales. It was awarded the Best Event (Large) accolade at the National Tourism Awards for Wales 2015.
The event’s official website is www.walesrallygb.com and provides regular news updates.
Ends
For more information contact Jonathan Gill, Wales Rally GB Media Office, on Tel: 01372 414120 or 07860 563000. E-mail: Jonathan.Gill@MPACreative.com
Thursday 19 May 2016
Peter Sam returns to Talyllyn Railway
‘Peter Sam’ from the Rev Wilbert Awdry’s Skarloey Railway is returning to Talyllyn Railway on June 2 when he will be hosting a very special party.
Called ‘Peter Sam’s Party’, the event will include brake van rides with Peter Sam at Abergynolwyn Station and special shuttle trains between Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol hauled by another visitor from the Isle of Sodor, Rusty the diesel.
At Abergynolwyn, there will be miniature train rides, a puppet theatre, craft activities, a treasure hunt, badge-making, face painting and balloon modelling. There will also be activities in and around Tywyn Wharf Station, as well as a ‘Spot Peter Sam’ competition along the length of the railway. In addition,there will be other visitors from the Skarloey Railway who will add to the fun and delight children of all ages.
The party will begin with a special train from Tywyn Wharf Station at 9.50 am, and other trains will be running throughout the day. Normal fares will apply.
Great family food will be on offer all day in King's Licensed Café from breakfast to afternoon tea at Tywyn Wharf Station and light refreshments are available in the Quarryman’s Caban Tea Room at Abergynolwyn Station.
It was Tom Rolt, one of the pioneers of Talyllyn Railway and himself a well-known author, who originally suggested to the Rev. Awdry that he should think about writing a series of stories in his famous ‘Railway Series’ that featured Talyllyn’s locomotives.
The upshot of this was that Talyllyn’s locomotives Talyllyn, Dolgoch, Sir Haydn, Edward Thomas, Douglas, Midlander and Tom Rolt were all eventually incorporated into his books as Skarloey, Rheneas, Sir Handel, Peter Sam, Duncan, Rusty and Ivo Hugh.
Picture caption:
Peter Sam is returning to Talyllyn Railway in June.
Photo: Jon Mann)
ends
Editor’s notes
Talyllyn Railway is a narrow gauge railway opened for goods traffic in 1865 and shortly after for passenger services, which have operated every year since between Tywyn on the west coast of Wales and Nant Gwernol just over seven miles inland. In 1951 operation of the line was taken over by the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and became the world’s first preserved railway.
Operation of the line is primarily by volunteers from all walks of life, with a small paid staff. It is now a major tourist attraction in the mid-Wales area, contributing significantly to the area’s economy.
Talyllyn Railway is the owner of locomotives Talyllyn, Dolgoch, Sir Haydn, Edward Thomas, Douglas, Midlander and Tom Rolt, which were written into the Rev. W. Awdry’s stories as Skarloey, Rheneas, Sir Handel, Peter Sam, Duncan, Rusty and Ivo Hugh.
For further information about this press release please e-mail: pressoffice@talyllyn.co.uk or phone either 0113 281 8235 or 01654 710472.
Broneirion organising outdoor performance of ‘A Winter’s Tale’ in June
An open air performance of ‘A Winter’s Tale’ is being organised at Broneirion, Llandinam, the training centre and headquarters of Girlguiding Cymru next month.
The performance by the Willow Globe Company from Rhayader at 7pm on Thursday, June 16 will be under cover in the event of rain. Tickets are available at £10 for adults and £5 for children. The audience is being invited to bring a picnic blanket and a barbecue will be available from 5.30pm.
Willow Globe Company describe ‘A Winter’s Tale’ as “a fairy story of lost and found with jealous furies, an abandoned baby, a sheep shearing feast and The Bear!”
All money raised by the event will support Girlguiding Cymru. To book a ticket call Tel: 01686 688204 or email Broneirion@girlguidingcymru.org.uk.
The Willow Globe is a scaled down version of the Globe in London, being a third of its size in diameter. The willow has been carefully woven into an organic and spiritual theatre, starkly sculptural in spring, which is almost completely absorbed by its lush, green surroundings in summer months.
Artistic director Phil Bowen and Sue Best believe it is one of the largest willow constructions in the country and probably the only one in use as a theatre in the world.
They host events from April to September, offering syllabus Shakespeare for schools through workshops, community productions and professional tours. The venue, which has wet weather cover in a theatre within a converted barn, offers an eclectic mix of music, Shakespeare and other arts events.
Picture caption:
Rehearsals for ‘A Winter’s Tale’ by the Willow Globe Company.
Tuesday 17 May 2016
Free wine for vineyard customers to celebrate English Wine Week
Kerry Vale Vineyard near Montgomery is offering a free wine tasting to their customers to celebrate English and Welsh Wine Week.
Free tastings will be available from Saturday, May 28 to June 5 (excluding Monday, May, 30t) during café opening hours at Kerry Vale Vineyard’s wine café just. No pre booking is necessary, just call in at Kerry Vale Vineyards cafe. You must be 18 or older to participate in this event.
Customers will be able to sample and enjoy six award winning Kerry Vale Vineyard wines with every meal purchased.
During English Wine Week, which runs from May 28 to June 5, vineyards and outlets across the country will be highlighting English wines, including offering an opportunity to taste and get to know them better.
Riding high on the success of 2015, which saw an impressive growth in sales and widespread media coverage, 2016 looks set to be an action-packed year for English wine. High-profile events include the ninth International Cool Climate Symposium (ICCWS) hosted by the UK wine industry, which takes place in Brighton from May 26-28.
Julia Trustram Eve, marketing director at English Wine Producers* (EWP), whose members represent some 80% of volume produced in the UK, said: “English wines have really captured people’s attention. English wine producers are so much more proactive now, both collectively and individually, with an increased presence at consumer and trade events across the country.
“The momentum has really been gathering and after last year’s unprecedented press coverage, international awards and exciting developments within the industry, 2016 looks set to be an eventful one for English wine.”
Kerry Vale Vineyard is a small, English vineyard situated on the Welsh border with rural Shropshire. Planted in 2010, the vineyard covers six acres of farmland and resides at the eastern tip of the Vale of Kerry.
Many passionate English and Welsh wine producers are keen to show off their high quality wine which is now competing with and beating the best in the world. To see what other vineyards are doing visit: www.englishwineweek.co.uk and www.winetrailwales.co.uk/
Ends
For more information contact Nadine Roach at Kerry Vale Vineyard on Tel: 01588 620627.
Free tastings will be available from Saturday, May 28 to June 5 (excluding Monday, May, 30t) during café opening hours at Kerry Vale Vineyard’s wine café just. No pre booking is necessary, just call in at Kerry Vale Vineyards cafe. You must be 18 or older to participate in this event.
Customers will be able to sample and enjoy six award winning Kerry Vale Vineyard wines with every meal purchased.
During English Wine Week, which runs from May 28 to June 5, vineyards and outlets across the country will be highlighting English wines, including offering an opportunity to taste and get to know them better.
Riding high on the success of 2015, which saw an impressive growth in sales and widespread media coverage, 2016 looks set to be an action-packed year for English wine. High-profile events include the ninth International Cool Climate Symposium (ICCWS) hosted by the UK wine industry, which takes place in Brighton from May 26-28.
Julia Trustram Eve, marketing director at English Wine Producers* (EWP), whose members represent some 80% of volume produced in the UK, said: “English wines have really captured people’s attention. English wine producers are so much more proactive now, both collectively and individually, with an increased presence at consumer and trade events across the country.
“The momentum has really been gathering and after last year’s unprecedented press coverage, international awards and exciting developments within the industry, 2016 looks set to be an eventful one for English wine.”
Kerry Vale Vineyard is a small, English vineyard situated on the Welsh border with rural Shropshire. Planted in 2010, the vineyard covers six acres of farmland and resides at the eastern tip of the Vale of Kerry.
Many passionate English and Welsh wine producers are keen to show off their high quality wine which is now competing with and beating the best in the world. To see what other vineyards are doing visit: www.englishwineweek.co.uk and www.winetrailwales.co.uk/
Ends
For more information contact Nadine Roach at Kerry Vale Vineyard on Tel: 01588 620627.
Friday 13 May 2016
Talyllyn Railway’s new general manager takes up post
Talyllyn Railway’s new general manager Tracey Parkinson has taken up her post this week. She is pictured being welcomed by David Ventry, interim managing director, in front of locomotive No.7 'Tom Rolt' at Tywyn Wharf Station.
Photo to be credited to Darren Turner.
Ends
For more information please contact Ian Drummond at Talyllyn Railway Press Office on: pressoffice@talyllyn.co.uk or phone either 0113 281 8235 or 01654 710472.
Thursday 12 May 2016
Celebrate Dylan Thomas Day at The National Library of Wales
The National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth will be celebrating International Dylan Thomas Day on May 14 with an exciting exhibition: Under Milk Wood.
The free exhibition will open on Saturday and will run until May 21, providing visitors with an opportunity to view items from the library's manuscript, visual and printed collections and reflecting the enduring popularity of Under Milk Wood.
Included will be #DyddDylanDay #peopleschoicewinner, the famous sketch map by Dylan Thomas of the fictional village Llareggub.
The exhibition also features a script of the radio play, the musical score by his childhood friend Daniel Jones, printed editions of the work and photographs taken during the filming of Andrew Sinclair's classic production.
Linda Tomos, national librarian, said: "I'm excited that some of our new Dylan Thomas acquisitions not previously shown to the public will be part of this pop up exhibition to note International Dylan day.”
During the past decade, the library has made considerable efforts to enhance its Dylan Thomas collection and now provides a wealth of material to researchers and readers eager to learn more about the poet and his work. In particular, drafts of his works, word lists and letters from Thomas reveal much about the way he wrote and demonstrate his exceptional ability as a writer.
This exhibition, focusing on one of his most enduring works, demonstrates the appeal of Under Milk Wood from early performances to the present day and reflects the numerous stage, film, animated and recorded adaptations and interpretations.
Among the manuscripts on display is a letter recently acquired by the library from Dylan Thomas to Elizabeth Reitell. The letter, addressed from the Boat House, was sent in June, 1953, soon after Dylan's return from a tour of America and less than five months before his death.
Sian Bowyer, the library’s assistant archivist, said: “There is evidence suggesting that this manuscript and another already held in our collections were previously owned by the same collector and we're extremely glad to be able to reunite these items which became separated for some reason many years ago.”
Picture caption:
One of the Under Milk Wood manuscripts from the National Library of Wales.
Ends
Further Information: Elin-Hâf 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
Talyllyn Railway turns back the clock to the 1970s
It was back to the 1970s for Talyllyn Railway during its ‘Road to Adventure’ gala over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend.
The Saturday and Sunday particularly focussed on the 40th anniversary of the opening of the extension between Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol in May, 1976.
To celebrate there was a ‘70s feel to the event with people in costume and a range of memorabilia on display, including a room full of 1970s children’s games, such as ‘Mousetrap’ and ‘Subbuteo’.
There was a display of Abba memorabilia at Abergynolwyn Station and Saturday evening saw a ‘70s disco for members and guests at Tywyn Wharf Station.
On the trains there was a special timetable on Saturday with trains running only between Tywyn Wharf and Abergynolwyn where passengers had to change trains for a special shuttle service from there to Nant Gwernol.
Then, on the Sunday, the railway ran the peak service timetable from the summer of 1976, the year the extension was first opened.
There were also several special events over the weekend. ‘The Big Bang’ commemorated the first blast to start work on the new extension that originally took place in October, 1970. This time the ‘blast’ was detonated by Tim Rolt, son of railway preservation pioneer Tom Rolt, who had set off the original charge.
Those who worked on the extension project, who became known as the ‘Gwerns’, rode on the first train through to Nant Gwernol. The train was fitted with the original opening headboard for the occasion. They paused for a brief ceremony at Abergynolwyn before the train headed through to its destination.
Bank Holiday Monday saw a double celebration with the 75th anniversary of the railway’s diesel locomotive No.5 ‘Midlander’ and the 25th anniversary of the railway newest steam locomotive, No.7 ‘Tom Rolt’. Tom’s sons, Richard and Tim, re-enacted the naming ceremony for the locomotive originally performed by their mother Sonia.
John Bate, for many years the railway’s chief engineer and the designer of No.7, also cut a special cake that had been made of the occasion. Among the other guests was Lawrie Ellis, who had been part of the gang that had found ‘Midlander’ at a quarry near Nuneaton and had brought it to the railway in 1957. Lawrie was also the first person to drive it on the Talyllyn.
“The weekend was a great success, passenger numbers were up on the same weekend last year and a lot of fun was had by many people,” said a ralway spokesperson. “The weekend certainly stirred up memories for a good many.
“Now we move on to the final gala of our 150th anniversary celebrations, the appropriately named ‘Grand Finale’ between July 1-3, which promises to be an event not to be missed.”
Picture captions:
Ready to party ‘70s style at Tywyn Wharf Station
Some of those involved in the railway in the 1970s, including some of the original ‘Gwerns’, celebrate the 40th anniversary of the opening of the line to Nant Gwernol at Abergynolwyn Station.
ends
Editor’s notes
Talyllyn Railway is a narrow gauge railway opened for goods traffic in 1865 and shortly after for passenger services, which have operated every year since between Tywyn on the west coast of Wales and Nant Gwernol just over seven miles inland. In 1951 operation of the line was taken over by the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and became the world’s first preserved railway.
Operation of the line is primarily by volunteers from all walks of life, with a small paid staff. It is now a major tourist attraction in the mid-Wales area, contributing significantly to the area’s economy.
For further information about this press release please e-mail: pressoffice@talyllyn.co.uk or phone either 0113 281 8235
Tuesday 10 May 2016
Railway flushed with success on 25th anniversary of toilets opening
In one of his final acts as interim managing director of Talyllyn Railway, David Ventry led the commemorations of the 25th anniversary of the official opening of the public toilets at Abergynolwyn Station on Friday.
A small crowd gathered to witness the event as David cut the paper ribbon to mark the occasion. The toilets were originally opened in 1991 by the well-known railway publisher and author Ian Allan.
He had previously written an article criticising the level of passenger facilities provided by Heritage Railways, highlighting the need for modern toilet facilities in particular. Therefore, when it came to the original opening ceremony he was the obvious choice to officiate.
Previously, passengers had had to walk down the steep drive to the station to the toilets, then situated in the car park at the junction with the main road. This was not only time-consuming and difficult for parents with young children, but was also a problem for those with mobility issues.
Therefore the provision of toilets next to the main station building was a great improvement. Later, similar facilities were provided at Tywyn Wharf and Dolgoch Stations.
“With all the celebrations over the past few years, we could not overlook this anniversary,” said a railway spokesperson. “Although this was essentially a bit of fun, it also makes the serious point that today passengers are not just interested in steam locomotives and scenery, they also want excellent facilities to enable to them to have an enjoyable day out.
“The Abergynolwyn toilets were the first step in seriously upgrading our facilities at the time, a course which we have followed ever since and will continue to do so into the future in order to provide a first class experience for our visitors.”
David concluded his role as interim managing director when new general manager Tracey Parkinson took up her post yesterday (Monday).
Picture caption:
Interim managing director David Ventry with customer care manager Lorraine Simkiss commemorate the opening of the toilets at Abergynolwyn Station by railway publisher Ian Allan 25 years ago.
(Photo: D. Turner)
ends
Editor’s notes
Talyllyn Railway is a narrow gauge railway opened for goods traffic in 1865 and shortly after for passenger services, which have operated every year since between Tywyn on the west coast of Wales and Nant Gwernol just over seven miles inland. In 1951 operation of the line was taken over by the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and became the world’s first preserved railway.
Operation of the line is primarily by volunteers from all walks of life, with a small paid staff. It is now a major tourist attraction in the mid-Wales area, contributing significantly to the area’s economy.
Railway preservation’s first female volunteer visits Talyllyn line
Thelma Whitehouse, believed to be the first woman to volunteer on the Talyllyn Railway in 1951, visited the railway with her son Michael for a trip on a specially arranged train on April 29.
The wife of Pat Whitehouse, the first secretary of Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society, she volunteered to help prepare the line for its opening in May, 1951 as the world’s first preserved railway.
Sixty-five years later Mrs Whitehouse was back at Wharf Station ready to board a special train composed of the same locomotive and carriages that had formed the first train of the railway preservation movement on May 14, 1951. She was greeted by society chairman Jane Garvey.
Also present were Richard and Tim Rolt the sons of Tom Rolt, one of the main driving forces behind the preservation of the Talyllyn Railway. They had driven to the railway in one of Tom Rolt’s cars an Alvis dating from the 1930s. Thelma’s son, Michael Whitehouse, who himself is very much involved in the Heritage Railway movement, also signed copies of his book ‘Talyllyn Pioneers’ about the early days of the preserved railway.
Picture caption:
Thelma Whitehouse (right) poses with Talyllyn Railway Society chairman Jane Garvey in front of locomotive No.2 Dolgoch at Tywyn Wharf Station.
(Photo: Ian Drummond)
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Editor’s notes
Talyllyn Railway is a narrow gauge railway opened for goods traffic in 1865 and shortly after for passenger services, which have operated every year since between Tywyn on the west coast of Wales and Nant Gwernol just over seven miles inland. In 1951 operation of the line was taken over by the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and became the world’s first preserved railway.
Operation of the line is primarily by volunteers from all walks of life, with a small paid staff. It is now a major tourist attraction in the mid-Wales area, contributing significantly to the area’s economy.
Evening of jazz classics at Andrew Logan Museum
Hannah Lockerman and her band return to the Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture in Berriew on Friday, May 20 for an evening of jazz classics.
This presentation is the first in a quartet of spring/summer evenings presenting jazz at the Berriew museum. RADA trained Lockerman and her band will pay homage to the Queens of Jazz and perform a repertoire of contemporary classics made famous by Billie Holliday, Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles.
The Hannah Lockerman Band comprises Roy Johnson (Shrewsbury Big Band, West Coastin' Jazz Group, Ludlow Jazz Quartet and the Dragon Band), the tenor saxophonist whose group played at the museum earlier in the year. Hannah is additionally backed by line-up of drums, bass, and piano.
“Hannah enthralled audiences when she and her band played in October,” said Michael Davis, chair of the board. “We are delighted she is able to return.”
The Hannah Lockerman Band will play shortly after doors open at 8pm. Tickets are £15 and can be bought from the museum, Andrew Logan website (http://andrew-logan.myshopify.com/collections/tickets-for-events), or in person at R. H. Bunners, Montgomery.
The Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture opened in Berriew in 1991 and celebrates an auspicious 25-year silver anniversary in 2016. The museum is open 12 – 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays throughout June, July, August and September and by arrangement. Entry is only £3 or £1.50 for concessions and family tickets available. For more information contact the museum on Tel: 01686 640 689.
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Editor's Notes:
1. Born in Witney, Oxfordshire in 1945, Andrew Logan qualified in architecture in the late 1960s and has worked across the fields of sculpture, stage design, drama, opera, parades, festivals and interior design. To him, “Art can be discovered anywhere.” Logan crosses cultures and embodies artistic fantasy in a unique and unprecedented way. His work is the art of popular poetry and metropolitan glamour. From his early fame amongst London’s fashionable crowd, he has become an influential artist of international stature, with exhibitions as far afield as Los Angeles (USA), Monterrey (Mexico), St Petersburg (Russia) and Mumbai (India).
2. Hannah Lockerman was born into a musical family, both parents have been musicians and teachers over a time span of 40 years. With their support and encouragement she sung and played multiple instruments from a young age.
Professional performance began in Theatre. After studying at RADA Hannah toured nationally with the RSC, including the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Barbican Theatre and London's West End, during which time her musical and singing abilities were frequently utilised by theatre directors.
The jazz legends of the past have been of greatest musical inspiration since young childhood. Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone and Peggy Lee. Today Hannah is also heavily influenced by Madeleine Peyroux, Stacey Kent, Diana Krall and Amy Winehouse.
3. Roy Johnson was trained at the Royal College of Music with Professor P Dixon. After leaving the Army, he taught in Dudley and then joined cruise liners, playing in settings as diverse as Bahrain and with Bonnie Tyler. He has been teaching locally for 40 years and plays Saxophone with the Shrewsbury Big Band, the West Coastin' Jazz Group, the Ludlow Jazz Quartet and the infamous Dragon Band.
For more information, contact Anne-Marie Pope on 07813 885 906 or the Museum direct on 01686 640 689, almos@andrewloganmuseum.org
Snowdonia eco guest house the only Tesla destination charging point in North Wales
Bryn Elltyd Eco Guest House at Tanygrisiau, near Blaenau Ffestiniog has teamed up with Tesla Motors to provide Tesla destination charging.
Tesla wall connectors add 58 miles of range per hour to the company’s Model S, charging the vehicle overnight and replicating the convenience owners are accustomed to at home. Bryn Elltyd Eco Guest House joins a rapidly growing network of resorts in Tesla’s destination charging program.
The company partners with hotels, resorts and restaurants around the world to offer Tesla wall connectors as an amenity for visitors, allowing them to charge their Tesla Model S at locations where they want to stay for several hours.
Model S offers 270 miles of range on a single charge so the high power wall connector can easily top off the Tesla in just a few hours. Bryn Elltyd Eco Guest House is constantly finding new ways to heighten the guests’ experience.
“By combining leading-edge technology and the forward-thinking of Tesla with our commitment to provide outstanding service and offerings, we now have the ability to offer guests a seamless and convenient charging experience during their stay,” said John and Ceilia Whitehead, owners of Bryn Elltyd Eco Guest House.
The Whiteheads installed three electric charging points four years ago but are only now starting to see a surge of interest as more people invest in electric or hybrid cars.
“Not many places can claim to have three electric car charge points powered by homemade or UK renewable electricity and have two commercial hydro plants and a steam train station within 200 metres,” said John. “We currently give away free green electricity car fuel to all guests.”
The Tesla destination charging at Bryn Elltyd Eco Guesthouse.
Picture caption:
Top: A Tesla Roadster parked outside Bryn Elltyd Eco Guesthouse.
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For more information please contact John and Ceilia Whitehead on Tel: 01766 831356 Mob: 07905568127 or Email: info@ecoguesthouse.co.uk
The Judge’s Lodging is a winner for families
The Judge’s Lodging in Presteigne has just been voted in the top 10 best days out for families in Wales by Good To Know Media and Essentials Magazine.
Described in the published entry as ‘a kid’s dream’ for its ‘hands-on’ policy, which allows visitors to explore the life of the Victorian inhabitants of the building to their heart’s content, The Judge’s Lodging is understandably proud of its ability to enchant all ages.
A totally unexpected nomination, staff at the Victorian courthouse are absolutely delighted and hope that it will encourage families to visit them. “Historic houses are often overlooked when thoughts turn to family fun,” says the museum’s development manager Gaby Rivers, “but we aim to make history as fun as we can here for all ages.”
The Judge’s Lodging is the only attraction to be chosen from Mid Wales on the award list and the letter the visitor attraction received from Good To Know stated: “We’re sure we won’t be the only ones wanting to return again and again...
“Here at the family section of Goodtoknow and Essentials magazine, we’re always looking to inspire our readers and give them what we think are the best ways to spend their precious moments of down time, as well as giving them great value options for entertaining the kids.
“Days out are a great way to spend some quality moments with the family and when we considered the overall cost of a day out with you, and how much families would get out of their adventure, we felt their time would be really well-spent at your location.”
The letter went on to praise “the focus you have towards children, their learning and families”.
If you want to try out some family fun there for yourselves, just wait until the ‘Our Favourite Things’ trail at half term, which is currently being prepared and launching on May 28. This hilarious search for objects from the Sound of Music’s ‘My Favourite Things’ launched a new community exhibition featuring some of the best and quirkiest items from the local history collection held at the museum.
The Judge’s Lodging is open from Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays.
Picture caption:
Photograph of boy sitting in Judge’s chair with wig.
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For more information please contact Gabrielle Rivers, development manager at
Rallynuts Motorsport Severn Valley Stages is full steam ahead
Organisers of this year’s Rallynuts Motorsport Severn Valley Stages are delighted to announce that not only will the event be going ahead as planned on June 4, but there will be no increase to the advertised entry fee of £525.
The popular event offers 44 competitive stage miles in classic Welsh forests such as Cefn, Crychan and Radnor, seeing an exciting new route across stages which have been chosen this year primarily for their prime condition.
The organising team has also ensured the event provides maximum value for money for its competitors by providing 64% of single stage usage (36% of repeat usage) with an entry fee of just £525.
Thanks to the efforts of the Motor Sports Association (MSA), the governing body of UK motor sport was able to reach an agreement with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) late last week to secure an extension to the 2015 road usage fees.
This means the Midland Manor organised event can now scrap the surcharge that potentially could have been imposed if an agreement had not been reached with NRW and competitors will now be able to sample some of the best stages in the country at a realistic cost.
Joint clerk of the course Chris Ashley is confident the route will suit everyone in the field. “We have deliberately chosen the stages this year because we know they are of an excellent surface and stand up very well to a second pass,” he said.
“The route was also designed to avoid any roads used previously this year by other events as best we could, meaning the entire field can benefit from smooth roads. Add to this just 36% of repeat usage and we truly believe we have an excellent format for all.
“I would encourage everyone to enter as soon as possible to ensure they can sample classic Welsh Stages at this price.
“It has, of course, been a tense time for all of the rallying community and whilst the situation after our event has not yet been resolved, this news from the MSA means we can continue to offer some of the best stages in Wales at a cost effective figure.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the MSA for all their hard work in negotiations with Natural Resources Wales and we can really press ahead with plans to host yet another fantastic event in the Welsh forests.”
The Builth Wells based rally is proud to be a round of the Mintex MSA British Historic Rally Championship, Pirelli MSA Welsh Rally Championship, the new HRCR Stage Masters Challenge and a reserve round of the FMP Rally Challenge.
Regulations for the 2016 Rallynuts Motorsport Severn Valley Stages and the online entry form are available on the brand new event website, visit www.severnvalleystages.co.uk
Or follow the event on social media:
www.facebook.com/severnvalleystages or www.twitter.com/svsstages
2015 historic category winners Richard Hill and Iwan Jones in their Ford
Escort MKII. Please credit the attached image to RallySport Media
Picture caption:
Top: 2015 overall event winners Bob Ceen and Andy Bull in their Subaru Impreza WRC.
Please credit the attached image to RallySport Media
Tuesday 3 May 2016
National Library of Wales president wants new Welsh Government to face up to its duties
New president of the National Library of Wales Rhodri Glyn Thomas has reminded politicians, particularly those who will form the next government of Wales, to resource and respect the country’s national institutions.
In his opening comments to the library’s board of trustees, he said: "The next government of Wales needs to recognise the importance and unique status of national institutions, such as the National Library, by creating a strategy that enables them to operate as truly national institutions.
"The national library plays a very important role in the life of the nation and must be given the resources to fulfil its responsibilities. The Government needs to realise that it has a duty to maintain these institutions and treat them separately from non-statutory institutions.
"In order to maintain the library’s core values of collecting, preserving and ensuring that Welsh culture and history is accessible to present and future generations, as well as reaching out to new audiences especially those in deprived parts of Wales, the Welsh Government needs to acknowledge that the library fulfils a unique role which is irreplaceable.
"The national library has managed to cope with nearly a decade of cuts, but further cuts will threaten its ability to deliver its services not only to the current population but to future generations.
"If the next Welsh Government wishes to maintain our national organisations as productive, vibrant contributors to Welsh society, a strategy and appropriate budget is needed in order to do so."
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Further Information:
Elin-Hâf 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
Elin-Hâf 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway launches £600,000 new train
The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway unveiled a brand new train valued at well over half a million pounds with a trip from Tan y Bwlch to Beddgelert and back for VIPs on April 28.
The VIPs included Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas, Baron Dafydd Wigley, the High Sherriff and Lord Lieutenant of Gwynedd and Gwynedd county councillors. Members of the team responsible for the design and building of the carriages were on hand alongside senior management from the railway.
With the opening of the Welsh Highland throughout in 2011, it became clear that the gleaming new WHR stock rather outshone the carriages of its older sister. But in 2016, all that is set to change.
The Ffestiniog will not simply get a new carriage or two; it will get an entire new train, with a specification matching or even exceeding that of the Welsh Highland stock. The first four carriages for the new FR 'B' Set are super saloons 117 and 119, service / kitchen car 125 and Pullman observation car 150.
In pride of place is the £250,000 luxury Pullman observation car 150 which builds on the railway's expertise with Glaslyn, one of the Welsh Highland’s Pullman cars named by the Queen in 2010.
Designed and built entirely in-house, 150 will now enter public service, together with its companion £150,000 service car 125, which will enable FR passengers to enjoy the standards of service offered on Welsh Highland trains.
Along with the new observation car, two new standard class super saloons - offering what would be considered first class accommodation on most heritage railways - will form the core of the new train, which will eventually consist of 10 carriages capable of running over the entire 40-mile route between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Caernarfon.
Each of these carriages carries a £100,000 price tag. A further third class saloon is currently under construction at Boston Lodge.
Boston Lodge has built new carriages since the dawn of the restoration era 60 years ago. The reason is simple: standard gauge heritage lines have an ample supply of ex-British Rail carriages awaiting restoration, but narrow gauge railways have no such luxury.
There is no strategic reserve of narrow gauge rolling stock and certainly none that meet the standards of comfort and safety demanded in the 21st century.
Since the Ffestiniog reopened for traffic in the 1950s, the railway has steadily introduced new carriages and their design has evolved over the years. The Ffestiniog has been at the forefront of passenger carrying innovation for over 150 years and is now the second-largest carriage maker in the UK, according to carriage shop manager Norman Bond.
In a few years’ time the F&WHR will boast two full sets of the larger WHR stock – new WHR saloon is nearing completion in the carriage works - while the FR will have two made up of slightly-smaller carriages and a third capable of operating on both lines.
Rather than an appointment with the scrapman's torch, the old FR carriages replaced by the new builds are being refurbished and finding a new lease of life at other UK narrow gauge lines.
Picture caption:
All four new carriages together with an original Ffestniog Railway carriage from 1880 in the foreground. Behind the observation car is original Welsh Highland Railway carriage 23, built in 1894. Left to right are carriages 119, 117, service / kitchen car 125 and Pullman observation car 150.
Pic: Andrew Thomas
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