Work on new children’s play area begins at Queen’s Market

Construction work on a new children’s play area built on the Queen’s Market site has started this week.

The play area at Queen’s Market will be situated close to the side entrances, adjacent to the Queen Street Car Park, and will take roughly 3 weeks to complete.

After completion, commissioning and testing will commence, before fully opening to the public.

The inclusive play area will include more than 20 play features, and will be able to accommodate over 40 users at any given time. The play area is designed for the ages of 0-10+, and will feature interactive, sensory and tactile play boards also.

Built with the Queen’s Market in mind, the theme of the play area will be food and drink, with a ‘café’ and ‘ice cream’ theme incorporated into some of the play equipment.

Chief Executive of Denbighshire County Council, Graham Boase said:

“This play space is a great example of collaboration, which ensures that there is another great and inclusive place in Rhyl for children to play all year round, this time at the iconic Queen’s Market venue.

We expect the construction to take roughly three weeks to complete, before testing and commissioning can commence. I look forward to seeing another brilliant addition to this location open in the near future.”

A spokesperson for KOMPAN UK said:

“KOMPAN UK worked with Queen's Market to develop a Play Area that perfectly complements the Market function, with a fun and playful twist.

Children are able to use their imaginations and role play skills to act out serving or being a customer at their very own Caffi/Cafe!

This Play Area is designed with children that have all different levels of ability in mind, ensuring that there are play activities that don't all require physical strength, but also the option to develop fine and gross motor skills through climbing, crawling and exploring the play features. Playing here develops cognitive skills too with fun games and creative play boards.

We're super pleased to be able to design and install this Play Area at Queen's Market and look forward to installing more exciting outdoor play and fitness in Rhyl in the coming months! Let's Play!”

Hafan Deg hosts successful Summer Event

Hafan Deg Day Centre in Rhyl recently held its Summer Event, and invited the public along to join in on the summer fun with a whole host of activities for the whole family.

Included in the summer fun was a variety of Children’s Entertainment, a Raffle, a Bingo session, a Bric-a-Brac sale and a visit from Scaly Safari Co, who bought along some scaly friends for visitors to see.

Visitors could also have henna art done, and there was also a kite making session for younger visitors.

Refreshments, including tea, coffee and snacks were also available on the day, as well as baked goods.

Hafan Deg Day Centre offers a wide a range of facilities and is a hub for many of the older people who live in its vicinity. The centre currently operates 3 days per week as a day care centre where a range of activities take place for the people attending.

The centre has received key refurbishment work since it has come back into the Council’s hands in 2023.

Ann Lloyd, Head of Adult Social Care and Homelessness said:

“Hafan Deg Day Centre is a place which cares for the local community that live nearby, and today was a lovely example of this, with young and old coming along to enjoy the facility, along with some scaly friends too!”

National Emergency Alert test on 7 September

The UK Government will send a test Emergency Alert to mobile phones across the UK at around 3pm on Sunday, 7 September 2025.

The Emergency Alerts system is used to warn if there’s a danger to life nearby, including extreme weather. It allows vital information and advice to be sent to people rapidly in an emergency.

During the test, mobile phones will vibrate and make a loud siren sound for roughly ten seconds, even if they are set to silent. A message will also appear on phone screens, making it clear the alert is only a test.

The test will be just the second of its kind and follows a government commitment to test the system regularly to make sure it works optimally and familiarise the public with the alerts. This is in line with standard practice in other countries.

Ahead of the national test, the government has been running a public information campaign to notify people that the test is taking place, including communications targeted at vulnerable groups, such as victims of domestic abuse. The campaign will also feature products in British Sign Language.

Opting out

You can find out how to opt out of emergency alerts by visiting the following website which will provide instructions for different devices - https://www.gov.uk/alerts/opting-out

Denbighshire County Council adopts further provisions for Fostering staff

As part of its commitment to staff who decide to become Foster Carers, the Council has recently adopted a Foster Friendly leave policy, offering flexible working arrangements which respond to the needs of Foster Carers who work for the Council.

The policy affirms the Council’s commitment to supporting staff who Foster, and allows an additional 5 days special leave in a 12-month period for those who Foster through the Foster Wales programme.

The additional leave allows Foster Carers who work for the Council to use it for vital periods such as assessment and initial training prior to approval as a Foster Carer and child review meetings, annual Foster Carer review meeting and training.

This leave can also be taken as full or half days.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“This change in policy will allow our staff to have more time and space to help with their important roles as Foster Carers.

This policy change is a reflection of our commitment to those amazing staff members who decide to Foster.”

Rhiain Morrlle, Head of Children’s Services said:

“I am delighted that this policy is in place, it demonstrates Denbighshire’s commitment to supporting staff who wish to foster and those staff that already foster for us.

We have many committed and talented staff across the council, we are confident that many would make excellent foster carers and hope that this policy encourages staff to contact the Fostering Team for a discussion.”

This new policy is also one way in which the Council is transforming one of its services to save money in the long term.

By increasing the number of foster carers in the county, it enables the Council to provide better outcomes for young people in a way which is also more cost-effective.

Ruthin Gaol Receives Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice Award

Ruthin Gaol, the historic Victorian prison museum in the heart of Denbighshire, is proud to announce that it has once again been awarded the prestigious Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice Award for 2025.

This marks the second consecutive year that Ruthin Gaol has earned this accolade, placing it firmly among the top-rated attractions in North Wales and recognising its continued excellence in delivering outstanding visitor experiences.

The Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice Award is given annually to attractions, accommodation providers, and restaurants that consistently receive exceptional reviews from visitors.

Visitors to Ruthin Gaol can immerse themselves in the realities of Victorian prison life under the infamous ‘silent system’. With its atmospheric basement, Pentonville-style upper floor, and stories of infamous inmates such as Coch Bach y Bala, the Gaol offers a compelling blend of history and architecture. Interactive exhibits, a comprehensive audio guide, and family-friendly activities ensure that every visitor leaves with a lasting impression.

Philippa Jones, Operations and Development Manager, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to receive the Traveller's Choice Award for a second year. It’s a real testament to the dedication of our team, who work hard year-round to bring the stories of the Gaol to life in creative and engaging ways.

“We’re so grateful to our visitors for their kind words and ongoing support. Knowing that people leave inspired to leave such positive reviews means the world to us.”

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“Ruthin Gaol is an extremely popular attraction, which we are lucky to have sitting right on our doorstep here in Denbighshire.

“This repeat recognition highlights Ruthin Gaol’s unwavering commitment to preserving its unique heritage while offering engaging, educational, and memorable experiences for all ages”.

For more information about Ruthin Gaol and to plan your visit, please visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/heritage or email the Denbighshire Heritage Service team on: heritage@denbighshire.gov.uk

History beneath the classroom in Rhuddlan school

Thanks to a talk led by Heneb Archaeologist, Ian Grant, members of the summer club (Jester’s Fun Club) at Ysgol y Castell in Rhuddlan got to learn about the history which sits right underneath their school grounds.

Pupils, representatives from the Council, Bryn Build and Heneb in front of new work at Ysgol y Castell, Rhuddlan.

Ysgol y Castell is currently undergoing extension works which will see 16 square metres of addition classroom space added to four classrooms, producing a total extension of 64 square metres for pupil use, with updated learning facilities to be added at the same time. As the school sits on a protected site, excavation work must be monitored by an archaeologist, with the most recent work, the excavation of land for the attenuation tank and yard extension, also falling under this requirement.

During the talk, pupils got to learn about Rhuddlan and their school site through the ages, and how the landscape and archaeological finds have helped archaeologists learn more about the behaviour patterns of people from a number of different key ages, including the medieval ages, and even earlier.

Heneb Archaeologist, Ian Grant.

Pupils got to see some of the archaeological finds that have been discovered at the site from a number of different digs (not the most recent excavation works), which included, but is not limited to, bits of medieval pottery, old animal bones and fragments from tools that were discovered.

Pupils attend a talk before visiting the site.

After the talk and the tour of the discoveries found at the school site, the pupils then got to see the progress on the work that is happening at the school by Bryn Build, who are undertaking the work, which included seeing the newly extended school yard and the dug-out space for the attenuation tank.

Councillor Diane King, Cabinet Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“It was brilliant to attend the talk and the tour at Ysgol y Castell. I learned a lot about the fascinating history of the school site, which dates back much further than I realised.

It was also great to see the progress on the extension work, which will both upgrade and enhance pupils learning and wellbeing, with updated learning facilities to be added at the same time as the extension.”

Councillor Arwel Roberts, School Governor, County Councillor for the Rhuddlan Ward and Chair of the Council said:

“It is so important that pupils learn about the history of their area, and the rich and interesting stories that are right underneath their feet.

Engaging with their local history helps pupils discover more about how and why the area they live and learn in came to be as it is today. The pupils at Ysgol y Castell have the rare opportunity of actually learning about the history that is literally right under their feet, in their school field.”

Councillor Ann Davies, County Councillor for Rhuddlan Ward said:

“At the meeting it was good to see how engaged and well informed the children were.

They were clearly very interested in the archaeological dig and in seeing the artifacts on display.

It is important for the children to know the history and that some of the relics found next to the school in Rhuddlan are up to 9000 years old. I would like to thank Heneb staff for the excellent presentation and all those involved with the archaeological dig.

Having been involved with the school for the last 50 years, I am delighted that the much-needed extension is going ahead.”

The first phase of this project is 65% match funded by the Welsh Government, through its Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme. The remaining 35% of funding has primarily come from a developer’s contribution provided by the Tirionfa housing development in Rhuddlan.

Raising awareness of rogue traders in Denbighshire

Following increased reports of rogue traders, Denbighshire County Council’s Trading Standards Team are warning residents about the dangers of doorstep crime.

Rogue traders can affect anyone, but often elderly and vulnerable people are targeted by those offering home improvement services.

Callers may offer services such as window/gutter cleaning, path and driveway repairs, roofing or building work, gardening and tree maintenance or roof moss removal and can come across as being likeable pleasant individuals but can quickly become forceful and very persuasive once they start their sales pitch.

Scare tactics about leaking gutters causing damp and roots of trees damaging foundations are often used and it can be very easy to be taken in by these individuals.

Traders have also been known to attend at houses selling household products, claiming to recently being released from prison and that their work is a part of a rehabilitation scheme. This scam is often used to find out where elderly and vulnerable people live, and the traders will then pass this information on.

The Council’s Trading Standards Team are warning residents to be extra vigilant when opening the door to cold callers, and to never agree to have work done or buy goods or services because of a doorstep call.

Residents are also encouraged to look out for vulnerable neighbours who may be at greater risk from being scammed and report any concerns to the police and Trading Standards.

Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, said:

 “Rogue traders and doorstep crime pose a risk, particularly to elderly and vulnerable residents in Denbighshire and so it’s important that people know what to do if they suspect that a trader who has visited their home is trading improperly.

“It is important that residents don’t fall for the scare tactics, pressure sales or price reductions, genuine callers will not mind waiting or returning after you have had time to check their information.

“We strongly encourage residents to familiarise themselves with the Council’s guidance on rogue traders and doorstep crime by visiting our designated webpage.”

To report rogue traders to Trading Standards, call the Citizens Advice Citizen Service helpline on 0808 223 1133. To contact a Welsh speaking adviser 0808 223 1144.  In an emergency dial 999. Or for more information on how to avoid rogue traders visit our website.

Flood prevention works to take place on A525

Flood prevention works are set to take place on the A525 between Trefnant Lights and the Denbigh ATS roundabout from Tuesday 26 August until Friday September 5.

The purpose of the works is to resolve the recurring issue of flooding on this section of during periods of heavy rainfall, especially during the winter months. 

The first phase of work from 26 – 29 August will see the road will be closed both day and night, diversion routes will be signed accordingly. Following on, the second phase of these works will see temporary two way lights on the section between 29 August and 5 September.

The first phase of the work is taking place during the school holidays to minimise disruption to the school run and businesses. Water levels are also at their lowest more especially due to the continued dry spell which will assist matters on site and help speed up the works to a successful conclusion.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Denbighshire County Council apologise for any inconvenience that these essential flood prevention works may cause, and we are grateful for local cooperation and patience during this time to ensure that the works are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Morag the Munro take centre stage at show

A UK first electric 4x4 is getting a taste of the Denbighshire highlands at the Denbigh and Flint Show.

Morag the Munro will take centre stage at Denbighshire Fleet Services stand at the 2025 show on August 21.

Sporting a front bumper pair of horns in homage to its roots from Scottish lands, visitors young and old will be able to meet and greet with the new addition that will soon become a familiar site moving across the terrain of the Clwydian Range.

Morag’s arrival, the first of its kind anywhere in the UK, has been made possible by funding from the Welsh Government's Energy Service and the need to replace a fossil fuel-powered pick-up truck that has reached the end of its fleet life.

This addition is part of the Council’s continuing drive to reduce its Fleet carbon footprint.

The Munro Series-M M280, will be used by the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscapes rangers to help with daily duties on the hills and will be based at Loggerheads County Park.

It has a ‘real-world’ electric driving range of 170 miles, a 3.5 tonne towing capacity and is the first series production vehicle from Scotland in more than 40 years.

Named Morag for its similar nature to its Highland cattle counterparts, the Munro was chosen for its ability to tackle the terrain of the Clwydians and other hilly sites, having been thoroughly tested on all types of off-road situations and being able to handle gradients above 40 degrees.

Introducing the Munro is part of Denbighshire County Council's ongoing effort to reduce fleet carbon emissions, improve air quality, and lower long-term maintenance and service costs by replacing end-of-life vehicles with proven electric vehicle equivalents.

Councillor Barry Mellor, lead member for environment and transport, said: "Morag is going to be a great addition for supporting the rangers with work across the Clwydian terrain and will be easy to spot by visitors to the area as well. It’s also fantastic to have what is a UK first, home nations developed EV vehicle now helping maintain Denbighshire landscapes.

“This new addition will provide greener and cleaner mileage at a lower fuel cost and with the general maintenance costs less as well, will provide long term savings.

"It’s a fitting vehicle to operate within this area of outstanding natural beauty and I would encourage all to come and see Morag and chat to our fleet staff to learn more at the show.”

Illegal fly-tipping in Llanferres

There has been an incident of considerable fly-tipping during the early hours of Thursday morning at a layby in Llanferres off the A494.

It is believed that a large lorry has tipped approximately 20 tonnes of waste between 10pm on Wednesday, 13 August and 6am on Thursday, 14 August. Due to the sheer volume of waste tipped on this occasion, Denbighshire County Council, Natural Resources Wales and North Wales Police are conducting an investigation into this matter.

Tony Ward, Corporate Director for the Economy and Environment at the Council, said: “We’d like to reassure residents that we have arranged for the waste to be removed on Monday, 18 August.

“We want to remind everyone in the county that they have a legal duty to ensure their waste is disposed of correctly. Fly tipping and illegal waste disposal can have a serious impact on the environment and can also lead to significant fines for those responsible.”

If residents have have any CCTV or dash cam footage or any further information please report this incident on one of the following:

Phone Denbighshire County Council on 01824 706 000 (8.30am – 5pm, Monday to Friday)

Report online on the ‘Report fly tipping’ page of the website

Natural Resources Wales’ 24 hour reporting line on 0300 065 3000 

Work on the former North Wales Hospital project to start soon

(Former North Wales Hospital)

Work on the former North Wales Hospital in Denbigh has hit a key milestone, with the contract awarded for initial ecology activity.

Denbighshire County Council, who own the site, has appointed Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK for the early phase of ecology protection work, including the construction of two bat barns.

It’s a crucial step in the project timeline, which will allow for the demolition of existing buildings, a move that will enhance health and safety on site and support the next phase of the development.

The former North Wales Hospital scheme aims to deliver a programme of regeneration improvements in three different phases over a 12-year period, and is currently led by Denbighshire County Council, with support from key partners including Ambition North Wales.

The scheme will redevelop the derelict 53-acre site and include restoration of the Grade 2* listed building, new homes, commercial units, as well as green community spaces. 

Denbighshire County Council has secured just under £20 million of UK Government funding for agreed projects within the Vale of Clwyd constituency, one of which is the Former North Wales Hospital project, with £3m allocated through its ‘Pride of Place and Natural Environment’ programme.

In addition, £6.94 million has been secured for the project via Ambition North Wales as part of the North Wales Growth Deal, which is funded by both UK and Welsh governments.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for the Growth Deal’s Land and Property Programme, said:

“I’m so pleased that this first phase is now so close to getting underway.

“This is another important milestone in the development of the Former North Wales Hospital project.

“Not only do these plans aim to regenerate a prominent historical landmark in Denbighshire, but it also plans to support the growth of the local economy.

Hedd Vaughan-Evans, Head of Operations at Ambition North Wales said:

 “We welcome the decision from Denbighshire County Council to approve the £3m funding from UK Government for the Phase 1 works at the Former North Wales Hospital in Denbigh.

“This is an important milestone for the project and crucial to unlocking the development of the site and delivery of the whole project. 

“The investment into the development and the delivery of new employment and training opportunities on the site will act as a catalyst for the regeneration in the town and wider economic growth across the county and region.”

A Jones Bros spokesperson said:

“The buildings at the former North Wales Hospital are derelict, contain asbestos, and are structurally unsound, which is a health and safety concern.

“Jones Bros has secured the site and have site security to prevent people entering the site.

“Health and safety is our number one priority, and this milestone to construct bat barns will play a crucial role to carry out further surveys, liaise with the council to enable site reclamation and demolition options.”

Grant scheme to support commercial property improvements opens

Denbighshire County Council are once again opening their Commercial Property Development Grant.

The grant is open to commercial properties based in eight principal town and city centres across the county and must be within the town or city centre boundaries of one of the following to qualify: Corwen, Denbigh, Llangollen, Prestatyn, Rhuddlan, Rhyl, Ruthin, St Asaph.

The Council secured funding from the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund to offer capital investment grants to regenerate commercial properties located in Denbighshire town and city centres.

The grant scheme, which forms part of the wider Town Centre Property Improvement Scheme Project, can provide individual projects with a grant from £5,000 to £50,000 to develop and upgrade a commercial property.

Funding for up to 70% of a project to enhance the exterior of a commercial property is available through this scheme, with £50,000 being the maximum amount that can be applied for.

Applicants are expected to be able to fund the remaining cost of the project themselves.

Cllr Jason McLellan, Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation, said:

 “The Denbighshire Commercial Property Development Grant is a fantastic initiative targeting vacant, underutilised or untidy properties in town centres across Denbighshire to instigate improvements to visual amenity, stimulate investment, increase employment opportunities and improve the vibrancy of town centres.

“This new scheme will be an asset to any town centre-based businesses or commercial properties across the county looking to improve the exterior of their buildings to help enhance their premises and attract further business. Not only will they benefit the businesses in receipt of funding, but they will also lead to better presented town centres across Denbighshire that will improve the feel and perception of the areas, encouraging local people to take pride in their local town.”

 For more information about the scheme and how to apply for a grant, please visit the Denbighshire County Council website: https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/business/funding-and-grants/commercial-property-development-grant.aspx

Council congratulates pupils on A-level results

Denbighshire County Council is congratulating Denbighshire pupils who are receiving their A and AS Level results today (Thursday, 14th August).

Councillor Diane King, Cabinet Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“On behalf of the Council I would like to congratulate the pupils of Denbighshire that have received their A-level results today. This is a massive day for them, and is a huge achievement that helps shape their next steps.

Pupils have once again this year worked very hard to get here, and I’d like to congratulate them all on this achievement.

I would also like to extend my thanks to the staff that work tirelessly in our schools, and help make these days possible. There has been some fantastic partnership working to ensure that our students achieved the best results possible, and I would like to thank all those who have supported our hard-working students again this year.

We would like to wish all learners the very best in their next steps, the future is wide open for them, and I’d urge them to grab it with both hands.”

School sees dining hall and safety summer improvements

Work has commenced this summer on improvements at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen.

Denbighshire County Council’s Property Team is managing two areas of work at the school to help benefit both pupils and staff at the site.

To support the wellbeing of pupils and staff, work will be carried out to replace the existing dining hall glazing.

It will be replaced with an insulated flat roof incorporating new polycarbonate roof lights. The work is expected to be completed by the end of August.

The property team is also commencing a second phase of work aimed at improving safety at the school site.

Phase 2 of the Ysgol Dinas Bran Safeguarding Scheme will see work carried out at the site to improve pedestrian and vehicular traffic management. The development will also increase segregation away from potential roadside risk to enhance pupil safety at the school.

This work is due to be finished by the end of October.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“We want to maintain the best environments at our schools across Denbighshire to support pupil development and promote strong learning. I’m pleased this work is going ahead at Ysgol Dinas Bran and would like to thank the school for their work and our Property Team for managing these projects.” 

Reimagined and revamped Rhyl Prom set to reopen

After closing for renovation as part of the vital Sea Defence work on the Central Rhyl Coastal Defence Scheme, the prom in Rhyl is set to reopen to the public on August 15^th.

Rhyl Prom

The newly revamped prom has been raised for coastal protection and features a newly poured surface. New access ramps have also been added to the new design to help with accessibility.

Recent work undertaken on the prom has seen pre-cast concrete steps installed and the ground level raised to provide flood protection. Drainage, surfacing, and pavement have also been installed.

Along with this work, street lighting has been installed for a safer, brighter space and new street furniture, flood gates, and handrails have been added.

Still to be implemented into the prom will be a new outdoor seaside workout zone for adults, games play panels, musical play panels, communication panels, imaginative ocean themed play panels, marine life 'Find the native Marine creatures' interactive game, as well as ground graphic fitness and interactive play. The work on installing these is still ongoing. 

Led by artist Ffion Pritchard, who enlisted the help of a number of community groups, a series of community inspired new murals will also be installed, which will span the new coastal defences.

As well as the opening of the new prom, the new Drift Park play area is set to open in its original location, with a new and improved community-chosen design in September.

Drift Park under construction

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“We are delighted to announce that the prom in Rhyl will reopen to the public on August 15th. After being raised as part of the Sea Defence Work, the revamped and reimagined iconic promenade will once more be open for the public to enjoy.

The work undertaken as part of the Sea Defence project has been vital and necessary to protect our coastline, homes and businesses from flooding and increasingly frequent adverse weather events. The prom has been raised significantly, and new flood protection measures have been implemented. We would like to thank the public for their patience and co-operation during this period. The project is almost complete.

The work on the Central Rhyl Coastal Defence Scheme is an important step in terms of the protection of our coastline, along with the Central Prestatyn Coastal Defence Scheme, which was competed and officially opened recently.

This work is part of the larger regeneration plans for Rhyl.

With the newly re-opened Queen’s Market seeing brilliant footfall, and the soon-to-be opened Drift Park, along with the new Strand Cinema, this is a really exciting time for Rhyl.”

The Queen’s Buildings – over 120 years of rich and iconic history on the Rhyl Coastline

The arrival of rail travel to Rhyl in the mid-1800’s saw easier and quicker travel times for day-trippers and tourists, who came primarily from the industrial areas in the Midwest and North-west, to Rhyl’s modern, newly built iron pier, Winter Gardens and the myriad of Hotels and Guesthouses that adorned the front.

Coupled with the famous, sprawling sandy beach that we know and love today, which offers picturesque sunsets and a relaxing walk along its shore, Rhyl became a must-visit seaside resort and jewel on the North Wales coast.

Built as the ‘Queen’s Palace’ in 1902, the original Queen’s building was a red-brick marvel filled with Ballrooms and theatres, before a devastating fire only five years later in 1907 forced a rebuild which saw a new name emerge from the ashes, ‘Queen’s Theatre & Ballroom’. This became a beating heart in the centre of Rhyl with unique offerings such as roller-skating and orchestra performances by night.

The Theatre and Ballroom became a source of relief during the Second World War, with the venue hosting the Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA), which was a Government-backed troupe who helped boost morale during one of Britain’s most trying periods.

The venue welcomed a whole host of famous names through its famous entrance including hosting comedy act Laurel and Hardy on their farewell tour, Marty Wilde & The Wildcats and Sir Cliff Richard & The Shadows.

During the 1960’s and 70’s, the venue saw a change in the way the community was using it. With the Theatre closing, the area was quickly re-developed into the famous market space, which became a bustling and busy indoor market which sold souvenirs for tourists and became an all-weather hit with the locals, who had a space to meet up, no matter the weather.

Even with High Street trends changing, the venue kept a strong sense of community, with the market’s location providing a strong link from the high-street to the promenade. The stalls stood strong, however over time, the building became unsafe, and unfit for purpose. An update and refresh was needed.

In 2018, plans were put in motion for a new, updated image for the Queen’s Building.

The now former buildings were acquired, and subsequently mostly demolished due to safety concerns, to make space for the building that we now know as the Queen’s Market. The iconic Sussex Street entrance was retained and incorporated into the new design.

The newly built, new look space, which opened last month, includes independent food vendors, a double-sided bar, mezzanine space with games and entertainment, and a state-of-the-art stage, which regularly hosts evening entertainment. The new look Queen’s Market is quickly becoming a hub for the community right in the heart of Rhyl, and is hosting delicious food and exciting entertainment for the people of Rhyl, and further afield, breathing new life into the iconic space once more.

Over 120 years have passed since the venue first opened as the ‘Queen’s Palace’ back in 1902, but the core values which made the famous buildings so iconic still stand to this day, with community spirit palpable on both the concourse, and inside the Queen’s Market and events space.

Since opening the doors, thousands have flocked to visit, congregate, chat, sing, dance and meet at the West Parade Venue, which is quickly cementing itself as a go to venue along the coast of North Wales.

Refurbishment work starts at Prestatyn school

Work has started this summer to refurbish part of a Prestatyn school.

Denbighshire County Council’s Property team, supported by the Council’s Education and Children’s Services, are managing a refurbishment programme of the two storey Block 1 at Prestatyn High School.

The full internal refurbishment will include new suspended ceilings, floor coverings, wall finishes, oak skirtings and dado rails.

Work will also see new fire doors fitted together with mechanical and electrical upgrades.

The refurbishment work is due to be completed by the end of October.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said: “We are pleased to be able to go ahead with this work to refurbish this area of the school. The refurbishment of Block 1 at Prestatyn High will greatly improve the learning environment for both pupils and teachers.

“We are grateful to the school for their support while this important work is carried out.” 

Further improvements to Rhyl Promenade

Work is set to take place to improve areas along Rhyl Promenade.

Funded by the Coastal Defence project and Shared Prosperity Transitional Year, the work will be coordinated and carried out by Denbighshire County Council’s Streetscene department.

It follows recent work carried out by the team through Shared Prosperity funding to improve the area, including the renovation of the four ponds along the promenade

Following recently site surveys carried out, this next round of works will address issues that were found.

The Coastal Defence project will fund the following works:

• A replacement of rails and panels due to corrosion. These will be painted to match the existing rails and panels.
• Addressing the seagull structure with the treatment of corroded areas, weld and joint with anti-corrosion material, clean and re-coat with enhanced protection.
• The additional painting of columns and rails adjacent to the Events Arena/Sealife Centre,Lighting columns and rails situated within this area are to be painted also.
• Landscaping area to be seeded and soft landscaping to be placed along the sea defence wall.

Shared Prosperity Funding will be allocated towards the completion of the following works, which is largely within the Events Arena:

• The upgrade of the curved seating shelter due to corrosion issues.
• Removal of the seating posts and roofing canopies. The existing roofing structures have been deemed to be unsafe, therefore requiring removal. Antisocial behaviour has also been taking place within these areas and to address this the support posts and canopies will be removed to leave the seating area only.
• Painting of the steel decorative panels to match existing painting works, which has recently been undertaken.
• Coping stone repairs which have been damaged in two areas, which will require reinstating/replacement.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “We are pleased to continue improvements along the Rhyl Promenade through the funding we have been able to access. This work will complement areas that have already undergone improvement through the direction of Streetscene to further enhance this important part of Rhyl."

The programme of work is estimated to be completed at the earliest opportunity prior to the winter period.               

Improvement works begin at Loggerheads Country Park

Works to enhance Loggerheads Country Park, a gateway to the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape begin.

Following the conclusion of the flood defence works on the site earlier this year, further upgrades are due to begin at the country park.

In 2023, UK Government confirmed their intention to provide £10.95 million of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Clwyd West’s unique heritage, wellbeing, and rural communities.

This funding has been awarded exclusively for successful projects included in Clwyd West and cannot be directed to other projects.

The project will include the refurbishment of the visitor centre and the café alongside further improvements to the toilets and external landscaping, including making the site more sustainable with the addition of solar panels.

ParkCity Multitrade Ltd, based in St Asaph, have been awarded the contract and works will begin in mid-August lasting until early March 2026.

Loggerheads Country Park will remain open to visitors throughout the works which are set to begin in August, with alternative provisions being put in place during the works such as temporary toilets, an exciting new pop-up catering facility showcasing produce from north east Wales and visitor information points.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Council Leader and Lead member for Economic Growth and Tackling Deprivation, said:

“We have seen an increase in visitor numbers at Loggerheads Country Park in recent years and projects such as these, once completed, will help future proof the park and meet the ever-increasing expectations of visitors.

“These sites are much loved National Landscape areas, and it is important that we continue to maintain and develop sites such as these as their popularity grows to ensure that they can continue to be enjoyed by all who visit.”

Plans for the Loggerheads improvement can be accessed on the Denbighshire County Council website.

Jumbo reduction of emissions driven by Waste fleet

A jumbo jet sized amount of carbon emissions has not been wasted thanks to a service’s greener fleet.

Currently around 15 percent of the Council’s Waste Fleet is electric powered and used on suitable routes for collection work.

This fleet has undergone changes since 2022 to help reduce its and the Council’s carbon footprint whilst carrying out collection work across the county.

During early 2023, two Dennis Eagle e-Collect refuse collection lorries were introduced on county northern routes. The vehicles are able to put in up to 100miles and 1000 bin lifts per single charge.

These lorries provide long term costs savings through lower running costs compared to fossil fuel vehicles and cheaper maintenance due to less parts to maintain on the lorries.

Within the last eighteen months five refuse recycling Electra e-Cargo lorries became a part of the fleet. The vehicles provide a range of up to 155miles, again offering greener lower cost miles and cheaper maintenance. They can also be spotted out on the road as each are named on the front of the cabs, Christal Clean is one you can spot on the roads.

Currently the use of the vehicles has produced carbon savings of 409,493kg against the diesel equivalents. To put this into perspective this is the same as a loaded 747 Jumbo or Airbus A380, around 67 fully grown male African elephants or roughly four Flying Scotsmans.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We have looked hard at our overall fleet to see where we can reduce emissions through electric vehicles by introducing them to replace end of life stock and through funding support.

“Waste is an important service, and these EV lorries are integral to helping reduce carbon emissions their fleet produces on a daily basis.

“Our fleet department is constantly monitoring suitable ways for service delivery to reduce our vehicle carbon footprint and the use of these EVs is a prime example of this which will also help reduce long term costs compared to running fossil fuel vehicles.

Close to 3,500 attend Free Play Day held in Rhyl

Held at Christchurch Playing Fields in Rhyl, the 10^th annual Free National Play Day event organised by Denbighshire County Council’s Play Ranger service on August 6^th saw almost 3,500 people in attendance.

Christchurch Playing Field

Following on from a highly successful event last year, this was the 10^th time that National Play Day has been celebrated in Denbighshire, promoting the importance of play for children and to help children and families enjoy their summer holiday.

Children took part in a host of activities including a waterslide, foam party, den building, messy play, ninja training camp, forest school, arts and crafts and cardboard box city. 

Dawn Anderson, Denbighshire Childcare and Play Development Manager said:

“This year’s event was the busiest and best Play Day event since it was first held in Denbighshire back in 2015.

Over the last 10 years the event has grown from strength to strength and has become a key summer holiday activity for children and families across Denbighshire to take part in.

Play is a fundamental part of children’s lives and promoting the well-being of children is one of the Council’s priorities.”

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“I was over the moon to attend this highly popular and important annual event again this year, which is held for free for the people of Denbighshire.

Everyone had so much fun, as they do each and every year.

I’d like to thank all of the staff and volunteers involved, who helped make this 10^th year so special.”

Lucy Cowley wins Learner of the Year at the National Eisteddfod of Wales

Congratulations to Lucy Cowley from Llangollen on winning the Learner of the Year Trophy at the National Eisteddfod of Wales, Wrexham 2025.

Lucy Cowley with Councillor Emrys Wynne

Lucy was brought up a stone's throw away in the village of Is-y-coed, on the outskirts of Wrexham. She was one of four finalists for this year's Learner of the Year.

Lucy lives in Llangollen and is a teacher at Holt Primary School. She dedicated herself to learning Welsh in 2019 and she now joins other new Welsh speakers at Gales wine bar, Llangollen every two weeks. The group discusses and organises visits, gigs and trips, and that over a glass of wine!

Leanne Parry from Prestatyn was also shortlisted for the trophy, along with Rachel Bedwin from Bangor and Hammad Hassan Rind, who lives in Cardiff.

Lucy's Welsh tutor was Non ap Emlyn, has described Lucy's development in Welsh as "amazing":  "She came in 2019 with little Welsh. She was very enthusiastic ... and devoted herself to every task excellently, with a lot of humour and she has improved and improved and is now fluent. For her, Welsh is more than a language, it's a way of life and she wants to share that with other people.

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for the Welsh language, said: "Lucy's success in mastering the Welsh language confirms that reaching the goal of one million Welsh speakers by 2050, although challenging, is possible as we gain more new Welsh speakers.

"Congratulating Lucy and other learners of the Welsh language on their successes, we must thank their tutors who have guided them on their exciting language journey."

Approval for new community hub in Gwyddelwern

(Artist Impression)

A project that plans to provide a new classroom and community facility to a Denbighshire village has recently had its tender process approved by Cabinet.

The project, which is located on the site of Ysgol Bro Elwern will deliver a new classroom, kitchen and ancillary spaces for the school alongside the new community hub.

The £2.7 million project is funded by Welsh Government through its Welsh Language Capital and Universal Primary Free School Meals grant to provide a new classroom and state of the art kitchen for the primary school, and the community hub is funded by the UK Government as part of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing and rural communities.

The new community hub will include a large hall and meeting space to provide improved facilities for social engagements for the local community. It will be managed by the Community Council and will be utilised by Cylch Meithrin on a regular basis. The facility will also be utilised by other local community groups including Merched y Wawr and the Post Office.

Councillor Hugh Evans, Local Member for Gwyddelwern said:

“It’s an exciting time for the whole village that this project is now progressing to the next stage. It has been a lot of hard work to get to this point, however I’m sure that when the works on the provision of a new community hub, alongside a new classroom and state of the art kitchen for Ysgol Bro Elwern are completed, it will become a valuable asset to the people of Gwyddelwern”.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“It is pleasing to hear that the proposed works at the ysgol Bro Elwern site can now progress to the tendering process. The project will not only provide new state of the art facilities for one of our schools, but it will also provide a vital community hub for the residents.

“I would like to thank the local member and the Community Council for their commitment throughout this process and Denbighshire County Council are excited to support the project as it progresses”.

New team starts to help drive forward nature recovery project

A new, temporary role has been launched to help maintain and further improve county wildflower meadows.

The Nature Recovery Streetscene Operatives have been appointed to help support the ongoing maintenance of the Council’s Wildflower Meadows.

The Wildflower Meadows Project helps and protects local nature and supports community wellbeing across the county. It is funded by Welsh Government, through the Local Nature Partnerships Cymru ENRaW project.

During the 2024 season 297 different wildflower species were recorded across these sites and a total of 5,269 individual wildflowers were logged overall, far outnumbering species found on more regularly mown grassland.

Current Streetscene operatives work alongside the Council’s Biodiversity team to manage the meadows in the county alongside other maintenance duties

This new role allows for more dedicated management of meadows across Denbighshire to assist with managing and enhancing the sites as part of Denbighshire County Council’s Climate and Ecological Emergency Response and the Wildflower Meadow project. This is particularly important at this time of year where the right management is vital to ensure the sites establish and develop.

You might spot the operatives out and about doing an early cut and collect of some of our wildflower meadow sites. Some of the sites with low wildflower numbers will benefit from this additional, early summer cut and collect to strip the site of nutrients to reduce grass growth and encourage further wildflowers to thrive.

The new team will also assist with other nature-related and tree maintenance work throughout the county outside of the wildflower season.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Biodiversity Champion said: “The new Nature Recovery Streetscene Assistants will really help us improve the management of our meadows across the county. Having the team will help us to be more direct in the way we maintain the sites, especially those that might need deeper intervention to help them flourish stronger to be a better resource for local nature.

“This team alongside our Biodiversity officers will work together to make a real and positive impact on the conservation of important species and habitats within Denbighshire and add diversity and colour across our sites for all ages to enjoy, along with the pollinators at risk who help put food on our tables.”

Free support for businesses struggling with internet issues

Businesses in Denbighshire experiencing internet connectivity problems are being offered expert support through Denbighshire County Council’s Digital Officer Service in partnership with Cadwyn Clwyd.

Staying connected is vital for business operations, but many companies face challenges accessing reliable, high-speed internet. With multiple government schemes currently available and Openreach continuing its fibre expansion across the region, it can be difficult for business owners to stay up to date with the latest options.

To help, the Council is offering a free advisory service, where a dedicated Digital Officer can provide tailored advice, investigate issues on your behalf, query Openreach, and provide a detailed report on your connection and available solutions.

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, said:

"Digital connectivity is essential for business growth and sustainability. Through this service, we’re making sure Denbighshire businesses aren’t left behind and have access to the support they need to thrive in the digital age.

"We understand the pressures local businesses face, and this service is one way we’re helping to remove barriers and create opportunities for growth."

The service is fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is available to all businesses in Denbighshire at no cost.

To find out more or to access support, contact Digital Officer Philip Burrows at philip.burrows@denbighshire.gov.uk.

#UKSPF

Cabinet Secretary visits newly opened Queen’s Market

The Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant MS, visited the newly opened Queen’s Market in Rhyl on Tuesday (5^th of August).

Welcomed by the Leader of the Council, Councillor Jason McLellan, the Cabinet Secretary enjoyed a tour of the month-old facility, and was also joined by Chairman of the Council, Councillor Arwel Roberts, the Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, Councillor Alan James, MS for Vale of Clwyd, Gareth Davies, and the Programme Managers for the project.

As well as touring both the market space and the versatile events space, the Cabinet Secretary also met with the stall holders who work from the iconic space and Managing Directors from the company who operate the facility.

The new development includes 16 individual food and retail units, a double-sided bar and a large events space. The outside area of the market features a raised and covered decking area, which allows dining space for visitors to dine outdoors. The large events space has seen a number of extremely popular shows and concerts held since opening last month.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant MS said:

“I am delighted to be back in Rhyl and see Queen’s Market for myself, one of the key sites in the redevelopment of Rhyl town centre and a project which has benefitted from around £6.5m worth of support through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns fund.

Offering a range of retail and food outlets, an events area and outdoor dining, this lively new space will create jobs, attract visitors, and breathe new life into the town centre.”

Leader of the Council, Councillor Jason McLellan said:

“This amazing facility has been open for almost a month now, and we are extremely pleased with how the opening few weeks have gone. This is one of the key projects in terms of the regeneration efforts in Rhyl.

The market is filled with talented, high-quality vendors, who have created a collaborative community atmosphere here. There has been some well-received entertainment on show in the events space, and the community feedback about the market space has been really positive.

The venue has been extremely busy since the doors opened last month, and I am really pleased with the modern, high-quality offering that this venue offers the people of Rhyl, and further afield. I am so glad to see this project up and running after a really successful opening period. There is over 120 years of history at this site, and it is great to see this latest chapter start.”

The Queen’s Market project has received funding from the Welsh Government, largely through its Transforming Towns Programme.

The project has received funding from UK Government’s SPF funding.

It has also received funding from UK Government through the Pride of Place & Natural Environment: Rhyl, Prestatyn & Denbigh Programme.

The project is also funded by Denbighshire County Council.

As well as funding the building of the new market, this funding helped the Council to acquire the whole of the old Queen’s Buildings site, demolish the existing buildings which had unfortunately become derelict and unsafe, and build the new Queen’s Market which is the first phase of re-developing this iconic site on the promenade.

Seasonal maintenance starts for meadows

Cut and collect grass maintenance work has started across county wildflower meadows this month.

Denbighshire County Council’s Biodiversity team and Streetscene operatives are working together to organise the cutting of sites to help maintain and support the meadows.

Established in 2019, the Council’s Wildflower Meadow Project is designed to bring back native wildflower habitats to help and protect local nature, by creating connected green urban spaces, as well as to provide spaces for community wellbeing and leisure across the county.

It has also been funded by Welsh Government, through the Local Nature Partnerships Cymru ENRaW project.

Last year nearly 300 different wildflower species were recorded across these sites and a total of 5,269 individual wildflowers were logged overall, far outnumbering species found on more regularly mown grassland.

With the flowering season coming to an end, especially due to the dry weather this Spring and Summer, staff will visit meadows with specialist mowing equipment to carry out the seasonal cut and collect work.

You may notice some of our wildflower meadows are being cut earlier than usual. This is part of this year’s maintenance plan where some sites, that need a little extra help to establish, will receive an early cut and collect once the wildflowers have gone to seed. Native wildflowers thrive on poor-quality soils, so all the cuttings are taken off the meadows to reduce the nutrients in the ground enabling the native wildflowers to grow stronger and set seed for the next season.

The remaining sites will receive the usual end of season cut and collect throughout August and September, after which further enhancement work for some sites is planned.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Biodiversity Champion, said: “We are starting the cut and collect work now as many flowers have already seeded and this will help us maintain and improve the habitats for next year. Our Biodiversity Team has already started work to collect seeds from the meadows for producing seedlings at our tree nursery to be plant back into the meadows.

“I would like to thank those who have supported the project this year which is providing a vital boost for our local pollinators and other wildlife. This work is important in bringing this habitat back to not only support nature but our wellbeing as well after losing nearly 97 percent of meadows in the last 100 years.

As we see more wildflowers return to areas they will help increase diversity and colour for communities to enjoy and give stronger support for the pollinators at risk who play a vital role in putting food on our own tables.

He added: “Our county wildflower meadows are for the equal wellbeing of residents and wildlife to both enjoy now, and most importantly, for our future generations in the shape of our younger Denbighshire residents.”

Let your child’s imagination bloom with the Summer Reading Challenge!

The Summer Reading Challenge is in full bloom across our libraries, with over 1,000 children already signed up! Have you joined the adventure yet?

This year’s enchanting theme, Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, invites children to discover the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world. Created by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with public libraries, the challenge is a fun, free way to keep young readers engaged all summer long.

It is free to sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge and children receive a reward every time they return a book. Our libraries have a great selection of books to choose from ranging from picture books, storybooks, comics, or information books, there is something for everyone.

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“The Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to inspire children to read for pleasure and discover the joy of books during the summer holidays. This year’s theme beautifully combines imagination and nature, encouraging young readers to connect with the world around them. I’d encourage all families to visit their local library, take part in the fun activities on offer, and help their children grow a lifelong love of reading.”

Libraries across the county are also offering a variety of free activities to support this year’s challenge and we are looking forward to welcoming families to come along and get involved.

🎭 Story Time with Mama G – Our favourite pantomime dame returns for lively storytelling sessions in Prestatyn, Rhyl, and Denbigh.

🦎 Wild Science Workshops – Meet the animals behind the stories and learn all about their habitats and behaviours in fun, interactive sessions at each library.

🌱 Nature for Health – Get creative with crafts at Llangollen Library and enjoy story sessions in Corwen’s Community Garden.

Are you ready for a magical summer of reading, exploring, and imagination!

You can find out where your nearest library is and further information about the Summer Reading Challenge by visiting our website.

Community turns out to support famous bird colony

Community members have flown in their support this year for an under-threat bird.

Denbighshire Countryside Services, the North Wales Little Tern Group and other volunteers are currently looking after the 2025 intake at the Little Terns Colony at Gronant Dunes.

The site welcomes the birds all the way from the west coast of Africa. A 3.5km perimeter fence and three kilometres electric fence is in place along the beach area to protect the birds from ground predation. These will be removed at the end of the season to ensure a no trace policy on the area which is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Last year saw 166 breeding pairs recorded and a total of 158 fledglings at the colony, a slight increase on the number of young seen during the 2023 season.

The visitors centre and bird hide at the colony have enabled people to watch the birds from a safe distance.

This season the colony has received two visits from pupils at Ysgol Y Llys, one from the Prestatyn Running Club and a Prestatyn Walking Festival visit to the site.

North Denbighshire Coastal Ranger Claudia Smith explained: “Its been great to have this local support for the colony this season. Everyone has been so supportive an enthusiastic while here on site wanting to hear about the work we carry out to protect these brilliant little birds.

“The colony is a really important asset here in Denbighshire and Wales for giving the Little Terns a fighting future to thrive and survive, to have great local support such as this helps highlight how much the site contributes to protecting these birds.”

Summer holiday plans for Llangollen Countryside parking

Council officers will be monitoring parking at Llangollen’s Horseshoe falls and the surrounding area this summer holiday.

Denbighshire County Council is urging visitors to the hotspot to park responsibly this holiday and look to plan ahead to visit other nearby attractions that are available across the Dee Valley if this area is busy.

A number of preparations have already been made to manage an increase in visitors:

•  Extra countryside rangers will be on site to manage the area and provide support and information for visitors.
• Civil enforcement officers will also monitor the site and surrounding area, especially at predicated peak busy time.
• Fencing has been installed at the Horseshoe Falls car park entrance to stop parking on the grass verges which can obstruct other traffic.
• Awareness signs are prominent at the site advising drivers to park responsibly.
• The Council will also liaise with partners including North Wales Police to monitor any increased traffic issues at the site

Councillor Alan James, Denbighshire Cabinet Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, said: “We do want visitors to enjoy Horseshoe Falls and the surrounding areas but would strongly urge them that parking restrictions are important for both road safety and ensuring there is a fair turnover of parking spaces. Drivers need to be aware that while visiting, anyone not complying with parking restrictions risk receiving a Penalty Charge Notice from our civil enforcement officers.

“Our rangers are on site at Horseshoe Falls to provide advice and guidance to visitors coming to the site and I would ask that the public also respect the important role they are there to carry out.

“Please plan your day in advance and make sure you have other options planned for visiting and parking if you cannot stop at your first choice of venue as the Dee Valley has plenty of attractions to visit.

The school that does Sports Day differently

Nestled up on a hill, sitting just beneath a Medieval castle in Llangollen, Ysgol Dinas Brân’s Sports Day, which this year falls on the last day of term, is a little different than what is traditionally offered.

Arial view of part of the field on Sports Day

An assembly kicks off the day, with a presentation of the year’s achievements displayed on the Sports Hall wall, supported by a soundtrack provided by a pupil-formed band, who impressively cover a number of Oasis’ greatest hits. The presentation also included teacher’s stories of their sporting pasts, signifying the importance of sport throughout school.

Once the presentation is over, the Sports Day (which has also formerly been referred to as ‘The Dinas Brân Olympics’) commences.

Pupil-formed band playing at presentation

Setting up the day is a big task, and starts early in the day, with the Head of Department for P.E., Neil Garvey, and other staff arriving at 6am to prepare.

By 9am, set up in the middle of the school field are a number a 5-a side pitches, a mini golf course with multiple holes, and an inflatable obstacle course. Further along the field sits a massive inflatable dart board for ‘foot darts’ (played with footballs in place of the more traditional darts), a tall climbing wall, and both football and rugby target practice, respectively. Also on offer is a Tug of War contest, canoeing at the nearby canal, Just Dance sessions, and more traditional events such as running races (100m, 400m) and shotput.

Climbing Wall

An Ice Cream Van and a snack stall are the menu of the day with teachers getting to choose the soundtrack to the events. Although an element of competitiveness will always be the case with some events, this day is ultimately set up to have fun and try new experiences.

Once on the field, some pupils rush to get all geared-up to scale the climbing wall, others grasp tightly onto their putters as they traverse the mini-golf section of the field. The variety on offer means that a whole host of hobbies and activities are represented on this Sports Day.

There are no leaderboards, charts or placements for a vast majority of the activities on offer today, as participation is the aim for this sports day, with the idea being that the wide array of activities will help with pupil participation and engagement.

Year groups all take their turn throughout the day taking part in the numerous activities spread across two school fields (and part of Llangollen’s famous Canal) as they run, climb, kick, putt, paddle and jump in the name of a tweaked and different Sports Day, which feels more of a celebration than a competition.

In the afternoon, staff take their turn, with staff sack races set up, where teachers hop head-to-head to reach the finish line first, with pupils cheering them on.

Neil Garvey, Head of Department for P.E. explained:

“Our Sports Day is a little different than your traditional Sports Day. We changed our approach to Sports Day around 12 years ago to try and increase the number of pupils participating in the events.

The previous Head of Department, Helen Davies, set this up, we sat down as a team to come up with ideas to help change the whole idea of a ‘Sports Day’ to get more pupils involved. This was her idea, and is something that we have built on year on year. Each year we have added new events, and partnered up with local businesses in the area to get things such as a big inflatable obstacle course and the climbing wall.

Since we made the tweaks, the number of pupils participating have gone through the roof. You can see on their faces, the pupils really enjoy this approach to Sports Day.”

Jimi, pupil at Ysgol Dinas Brân said:

“I think Dinas Brân’s sports day is actually the best sports day you could ever have! You have all sorts of events like rock climbing and football, anything you’d want to do really.

This year I’ve most enjoyed the climbing wall, as I’d never really done it before and some of the athletics.”

Pupil tries Foot Darts

Maggie, another pupil at Ysgol Dinas Brân said:

“Ysgol Dinas Brân does an excellent Sports Day as it gives a chance to pupils who don’t usually do sports a chance to try new activities.

I’ve really enjoyed the inflatable obstacle course with my friends and the races.”

Mark Hatch, Head Teacher at Ysgol Dinas Brân said:

“The whole purpose of this format is for health and wellbeing, and getting out there. It’s an inclusive day which has everyone trying something new, being active and enjoying themselves.

It’s all about getting the pupils out there, enjoying something different and giving them a whole new set of experiences, and to create a really fun day too.”

Nature on your community doorstep

New nature sites are springing to life in the heart of Denbighshire communities as we move into warmer days.

In 2024 four new community nature spaces were created across the county to provide stronger habitats for nature and a place for local communities to enjoy the delights of the outdoors.

All are very easy to find whilst out walking and here you can find a snapshot of what each site has to offer nature lovers.

Ysgol Henllan pupils rolled up their sleeves to help create a slice of natural history for their village.

Nestled on land behind Meifod Road, Henllan Community Nature space was created with the help of the pupils alongside Denbighshire Countryside Service rangers.

The pupils dug deep to help plant over 1,700 trees on the site which also saw the creation of new footpaths, a pond, wildflower meadows, a recreation space and picnic area, an insect hibernaculum (aka a “bee bank”) and an outdoor classroom.

Countryside rangers also use a unique technique at the site to protect and strengthen the growing trees.

Fleece was used as a replacement for mulch around the trees as it offered an eco-friendlier and carbon neutral way to support the work at Henllan. You can still see areas covered by the fleece which helps release nitrogen into the soil as it biodegrades and holds moisture well in the soil around the trees.

Down the road on the outskirts of St Asaph another community nature space is growing strong.

Thanks to the support of the city’s football club youth teams and Elwy Care Group, Glan Elwy Community Nature Space is home to nearly 2,000 trees on the site. The area is providing stronger habitat spaces for nature to benefit from as well as community spaces for residents young and old to enjoy and learn from local wildlife.

Situated alongside the River Elwy, you can check out the wildlife of the area by hopping on the viewing platform next the land, there’s many animal residents here you may catch a glimpse of.

Ysgol Bryn Hedydd in Rhyl helped breathe life into the new Llys Brenig Community Nature Space.

Located adjacent to Ffordd Elan Park, the pupils with the help of countryside rangers helped to plant 1,885 trees, a mix of native broadleaved varieties appropriate for the local conditions.

This gem amid a bustling community also saw the creation of a pond and wetland area to support local wildlife, installation of new fences around the pond and around the site boundary, and, to allow local residents to connect with nature on their doorstep, construction of footpaths and installation of benches.

Visiting today you might catch a site of feathered friends already enjoying the new area.

And a great little community nature space with a big heart can be found just outside of Clocaenog.

The Clocaenog Community Nature Space saw 18 trees of different varieties planted on site, along with four fruit trees and boundary hedges.

Other work at the land included the installation of a footpath, fencing and an entrance gate, two benches, one picnic table and the establishment of a pond area, making it the perfect place to watch the wildlife world go by this summer, especially as colourful wildflowers planted begin to make an appearance.

The Community Nature Spaces work during 2024 to 2025 alongside woodland creation work at schools across the county received funding out of an £800,000 grant from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

All the community nature spaces are developed to create stronger species-rich habitat for nature to benefit from as well as an area for the local school pupils and residents to enjoy and learn from wildlife that will visit this land.

These areas also bring other benefits including improved air quality, urban heat cooling and opportunities to support community physical and mental wellbeing.

Nurture of nature experience brings all-round help for biodiversity

Across Denbighshire’s land and waters, work is ongoing to help nature recovery in the face of the ever-increasing pressures from man-made and climate change impacts.

County Voice sits down with Biodiversity Officer Evie Challinor to find out what has fuelled the steps to the post she holds today to support the nature we have across our county.

Evie spent the first part of her life exploring what Mid Wales outdoors had to offer for a young adventurous spirit.

She said: “Mid Wales is very agricultural; it was a bit different from up here in that way. There are conservation sites there, but not many that were local to me. However, I spent many hours of my early life adventuring, wading in ponds, climbing trees, and following rivers; wherever I could find to explore.”

Pondering her A-Levels, the prospect of taking on an outdoor career inspired by early outdoor adventuring began to form in Evie’s mind.

“I’d always loved Biology and the natural world, especially studying ecosystems and the connectivity of the natural world. I had always been academically minded up until then and the natural progression from here was to pursue Biology in some form, as a career.  

“After a bit of research, I found Zoology and decided that was the course for me. I went to Bangor University where I spent 3 years studying Zoology. It was fantastic having Eryri and Anglesey right on the doorstep for both learning and recreation… it was a brilliant Uni.”

People who love animals often tend to take on Zoology to keep their passion for conservation alight.

Evie explained: “I think it’s quite common when you get there to realise that can’t study animals in isolation. You also need to know your plants and that’s very true of what I am doing now in this role I am in. Plants underpin everything.”

“During my undergraduate, I was fascinated by comparative zoology, the study of animal’s unique adaptions, and with animal behaviour. These led me quite far down the anthropology and evolution route, including looking at how animals and plants are adapted to their surroundings. Slowly that came round to conservation, ending with my decision to stay on and do a Masters in Conservation and Land Management.”

Building up her experience while at Bangor, Evie also spent some time volunteering with the North Wales Wildlife Trust and the Snowdonia Society.

“The Snowdonia Society were quite active in the area and were a really good organisation for a student to get involved with. They provided transport which was a massive help to a student without a car. I went and did a lot of practical habitat management with them as a result.

“I also had friends who were quite heavily involved in the Amphibian Reptile Conservation Trust across that way, so I did some habitat management for them on Anglesey. The other organisation I spent time with was North Wales Wildlife Trust, who I was fortunate to do some water vole survey training with. I really started leaning into the volunteering more towards the end of my Masters.”

Just before graduating with her Masters, Evie secured an all-Wales role with the National Trust.

“It was based on a strategic level; they were trying to bring together the management plans they had for all their different portfolios and begin to make the practical conservation a reality by starting to match up projects up with funding.”

“I was brought into that team to help with the co-ordination. It was a fantastic role to have, especially straight out of university - some really valuable experience.”

Unfortunately for Evie, like many thousands of people, the Covid Pandemic put an end to this part of her career after she took voluntary redundancy due to the huge impact of the time across many organisations in the UK.

However, she soon picked herself back up and joined Cheshire Wildlife Trust, working in the membership department, simultaneously picking up a role as a forest ranger with another company at the time.

Evie’s first steps into Denbighshire came shortly after when she moved into the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as a ranger down in the Dee Valley.

After a summer in the Dee Valley team, she spent the next nine months at Loggerheads, before moving on to working for the Canal and River Trust.

She explained: “I loved the ranger role in many ways but felt it didn’t give me enough time to dedicate to developing some of the skills that I felt I was missing. The role change to ecological advisor for the Canal and River Trust allowed me to gain some of this experience whilst supporting the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.”

Evie admits after a year with the Canal and River Trust, her ‘dream role’ appeared in the form of the job she holds now.

She said: “I had the practical habitat management experience and plenty of advisory experience, but one of the things I really wanted to get to grips with was the species and habitat surveys, which are a really rewarding part of the sector. 

“I feel like my surveying expertise has come on leaps and bounds by just spending that time out and about. You just feel so good; you come back at the end of the day and you are happy. I feel with the projects we are doing that I’m actually making a difference. I think job satisfaction wise you can’t really get much better than that.”

Highlights working as a Biodiversity officer so far for Evie include finding her first great crested newt on one of the sites she works on, and her first dormouse encounter.

“I’m also loving doing the dormouse surveys. We’ve been doing box checks, bringing all the sites up to scratch… you are just lifting the lids and peaking in, waiting to see if there’s anything there! It’s just a really nice thing to do. Especially when you get the tell-tale signs of occupation by seeing a little nose poke out”.

For the many nature supporters out there, Evie’s advice about following in her footsteps is to start ‘getting out there and volunteering’.

She explained: “That foot in the door also shows that you’ve got a passion. Building those connections with the right people will teach you a lot.”

And her ambitions whilst taking on this role?

“I’m currently working hard to get my first license in the form of a great crested newt licence. Getting my first licence under my belt will be a very big milestone for me, with hopefully more to follow in the future.

“I’m also looking to do a ponds project; I’ve got many aspirations for this one. Creating new ponds and a network of people to share knowledge with across Denbighshire and creating a propagation wing for it.

She added: “So I’m currently out doing lots of surveys, and a little digging around sites, trying to find plants to be able to bring back to the tree nursery to propagate to give us a local seed source. It’s great fun!”

Nursery nurtures strong future for local nature

A tree with a history of an old pub tipple of yesteryear and a plant so rare in Wales are elements of Denbighshire’s own nature finding new life thanks to a blossoming site.

Since 2021, roots have been put in the ground for the Council’s local provenance tree nursery at Green Gates Farm, St Asaph.

Dedicated members of the Council’s Biodiversity team alongside committed volunteers have helped produce a number of highlights at the nursery which is producing thousands of tree and wildflowers from locally sourced seeds to go back out to protect and boost county nature.

Here’s some of the successful projects the hands-on team at the site have grown to fruition.

In 2022 Hound’s tongue, a nationally declining species was found on the Prestatyn Beach Road West meadow. It was previously only recorded in Denbighshire 18 times within the last 116 years.

Seeds were taken from the site to the nursery and thanks to the effort of the onsite team, new plants germinated to go out to other coastal meadow sites to expand its range in Denbighshire.

During 2023 work was carried out to protect and support the future of a wise old tree in Denbighshire.

Over 15,000 acorns were gathered by the team and volunteers and planted at the tree nursery.

Oaks have an important impact on biodiversity by giving support to more life forms than any other native trees. Hundreds of insects can be hosted by the tree providing birds a rich source of food. Across autumn, squirrels, badgers and deer will also feed on acorns.

In 2024 the tree nursery turned its attention to a rare shrub in Denbighshire.

Juniper is rare in Denbighshire, known only at a location on Prestatyn hillside. The shrub is also a priority species for protection in the UK after a dramatic decline due to over grazing and loss of suitable grazing areas.

Efforts were made to protect a solitary juniper in Denbighshire in 2008 when the Council worked with Chester Zoo to put in young plants at Prestatyn hillside to encourage the existing juniper to grow.

Members of the Biodiversity Team  visited the site and harvested seeds to be taken back to the tree nursery for growing the shrub as Juniper provides valuable habitat and food for a diverse range of species, including insects, birds, and mammals.

During this year the tree nursery also raised a toast to support a rare historic tree in Denbighshire

The team at the tree nursery provided a boost for the Wild Service Tree. Over 300 out of 500 seeds collected by the team the previous year germinated at the nursery.

The wild service tree is rare across the county and historically known as the chequers tree due to the fruits that are said to taste similar to dates and given to children in the past as sweets.

Fruit from the tree was also traditionally made into a fermented beer like alcoholic drink and it is believed that this beverage influenced the naming of many ‘Chequers’ pubs and inns across the UK.

Projects this year at the nursery included producing over 1,000 elder trees from an actual elder growing on the site through cuttings. Historically, Elder which provided a source for coloured dyes, was also made to make the patterned Harris Tweed.

And a new generation of an under-threat tree is getting ready to help support a rare butterfly.

The nursery nurtured a large crop of wych elms to help the species which is under threat from Dutch elms disease. Many of the mature trees cut down due to its impact, reducing the growth and spread of younger trees.

Over 1,800 wych elm trees have been grown from seeds collected at Loggerheads Country Park last year to help the tree resurge in Denbighshire. They will be eventually planted out at the Green Gates Nature Reserve development next to the tree nursery.

Wych elms are an important larval food-plant of the rare White-Letter Hairstreak Butterfly, which was recorded at Loggerheads some years back but has since remained scarce across Denbighshire.

A tree written into Shakespeare’s musing on love is also enjoying a new chapter in Denbighshire.

Nearly 2,500 crab apple trees are telling a new story in 2025 thanks to the support of the tree nursery.

Crab apples have long had a link with love and marriage throughout history. The apple pips were thrown into fires while saying the name of your true love, if they exploded that love was true. Celts burned the tree wood during festivals and fertility rites.

And William Shakespeare continued the crab apple’s theme of love by mentioning the tree in both A Midsummers Night Dream and Love Labours Lost.

Growing up to 10metres and lasting around 100 years the crab apple leaves provide a source of food for moths including pal tussock, gen pug and the eyed hawk moth.

The tree is a massive source of food love for nature, birds love the fruits and mice, voles and badgers are also known to enjoy feasting on the apples.

Nature nurtures determination for countryside career

A long-standing love of nature has helped drive one man forward into protecting and nurturing Denbighshire’s local trees and plants.

County Voice sits down with our Tree Nursery Assistant Sam Brown to learn how since an early age, protecting nature has fashioned his outdoor career.

Born at Wrexham Maleor hospital, Sam grew up in Acrefair, a little village halfway between Llangollen and Wrexham.

Early memories include a helping hand from his parents for learning about the importance of the outdoors.

He said: “Mum and Dad brought me up to love nature, we used to go to National Trust properties, RSPB reserves, we have Erddig on the doorstep, Chirk Castle, Ty Mawr Country Park. Basically, they brought me up stomping and walking around in wellies most weekends and outside of school…loving nature was instilled in me at an early age.

“I was a junior ranger at Ty Mawr Country Park with Wrexham Council, they basically ran it as a club, I was eight when I started and around 15 when I finished. They ran it after school, so you would get changed from your school uniform, you would get down there in your wellies for four o’clock and they would run activities for you for an hour.”

Sam honed his countryside skills as a junior ranger by tackling mucking out the animals, to pond dipping to surveying butterflies at the park.

“I really got stuck into it, they instilled quite professional values into us, like how to look after the animals, being friendly chatting to people and training as well, such as a river safety course.”

At school Sam coped with a diagnosis of Dyspraxia while studying but his love for nature helped him through.

He explained: “I liked school, but I didn’t get on with the academics, I was always looking out of the window watching the sparrows and the whitetails and the pigeons outside. I was far more interested in that than the lessons.

“But a few teachers, one of them Miss Mills, my science teacher tapped into that once. When everybody else was doing another science practical she sent me and my friends out to do a bird survey on the school fields. She also ran an after-school gardening club where I got to do all sorts of things.”

Options weighed on Sam’s mind following school after he pondered the choice of a career in Mechanics or Marine Biology which had always been on his mind since a youngster, but the love of nature and the countryside always remained a driving force in the background.

“I was also a bit of a petrol head, really into engineering and cars but I couldn’t do maths very well and that took me off the engineering track because I knew I found it difficult.”

However, nature remained by his side and Sam admits the steps into the career he enjoys today happened quickly.

He explained: “We were just flicking through courses at Coleg Cambria and found a course at Llysfasi College which was Countryside Management and Conservation and Forestry was another option for me as well.”

Sam took part in an open day at the college doing some work and found he loved the activity involved. Joining the Level 2 stage of the course he spent three years at the college working through to achieve Level 3.

“I met some really good people that I'm still in touch with now. Even now sometimes I work with some of them as well. And yes I really, really enjoyed my time at the college. My tutors were really inspiring, really helpful.

One of his tutors was a botanist and helped Sam develop his knowledge of plants and another gave him the skills to work practically out in the countryside.

“When I finished College, I was in two minds as to whether to go to university, I felt I was too young even though most people went at my age… I didn’t feel very ready to move away from home.”

Sam admits he tussled with the idea of going to Aberystwyth University or Liverpool John Moores to study Marine Biology but the continuing call of the nature of the countryside gave him an opportunity that he has never looked back from.

“I ended up going to a job interview for a countryside ranger in the Dee Valley team, I didn’t get that job, but they put me on the relief ranger list. I’d do a day with them here and there, the busy seasons, tree planting, things like that, so I got a good bit of experience with them.

“I know my love was the land, the people on the land and the things on the land. I discovered I loved trees; with my Dyspraxia you do sometimes get fixated with things. I was able to memorise all the native tree species straight away and I got really good at wildflowers as well. From a young age it’s always been there in the back of my head what I really wanted to do.”

Faith is also important to Sam who is a Christian and to him, nature together with his beliefs is a big driver for his commitment and work.

“I’m really passionate about nature…I’m a Christian, I believe God created nature and it deserve respect, the animals…the plants. It’s an amazing resource for our spiritual health, our actual health, we need to recognise that and that the Earth is a precious resource, and I want to look after it.”

Becoming a passionate gardener since leaving college growing plants at home, Sam admits his happy place is in his garden.

Sam also experienced time caring for an under-threat bird at the Little Terns colony at Gronant Dunes as a warden.

“I enjoyed my time with the Little Terns. I loved looking after them, they were lovely animals.”

Following his warden duties, Sam got his current Tree Nursery Assistant role in September 2023 and has been using his skills to boost the county’s local plant and tree population ever since.

“I've been absolutely loving it. Having the opportunity to put all my skills to use here and enjoy making a positive difference to something so close to my heart is so worth it.”

And his tips for anyone wishing to follow in his footsteps?

Sam added: “What you need to do is you just need to volunteer wherever you can. No matter where you are in the country, you're going to have a local Wildlife Trust, you'll have a National Trust property nearby and you'll have a local council countryside service which may do volunteering.

“Also, when you volunteer…its showing a willingness to volunteer. I learnt a lot from volunteering. I'd say more so than any other part of my education. So volunteering is important and of course… just having that determination to keep going.”  

Discover Rhyl’s nature gems

Did you know there are a number of nature spots across Rhyl where you can put your best foot forward to explore?

From the coast to the town there are areas full of blossoming wildlife and sights to discover that can provide you also with a great drop of physical activity.

County Voice takes you on a whistle stop tour around what nature areas Rhyl has to offer.

In the east of Rhyl nestles a young nature reserve in easy reach of the local community. Maes Gwilym Nature Reserve was created as part of the Council's Woodland creation project. There’s over 2,500 trees growing at the site and the existing woodland was enhanced to improve the habitat for nature.

Paths that will take you into the reserve were constructed using recycled material and finished with limestone dust.

A special sight at Maes Gwiliym nature reserve is the wetland area containing an Ephemeral wildlife pond, which is designed to hold a low level of water providing a great habitat for many species.

You can also stop off at the bird hide on the site enabling visitors to enjoy the local wildlife in the area which includes several red and amber listed bird species.

Hedgerows planted are growing strong at the site alongside colourful wildflower meadows. Walking around you can take advantage of seating areas introduced in the area.

Hedgerows were also planted alongside encouraging existing and new areas for wildflower meadows. Seating areas were introduced and damaged fencing and gates were replaced.

A short hop up the road is the new Llys Brenig Community Nature Space, nestled in the Pak View Estate. Created in 2024, 1,885 trees were planted on site along with the creation of a pond and wetland area to support local wildlife, installation of new fences around the pond and around the site boundary, and, to allow local residents to connect with nature on their doorstep, construction of footpaths and installation of benches.

It’s a great small area to visit on a sunny day, you might catch a sight or two of the feathered friends that have taken up home in the ponds on the site.

Bruton Park Nature Reserve offers a good chance to stretch your legs around a circle route or exploring paths cutting through the lands while enjoying great views of the Clwydian Range.

You will find a diverse landscape of woodland, hedgerows, wildflower meadows and even fruit trees while exploring this great gem and alongside the varied plant and trees, keep an eye out for the many local wildlife members.

Another great circular walk to sample nature can be found by visiting Brickfield Pond Nature Reserve.

Countryside rangers and volunteers supported by Nature for Health have carried out work that has seen a community orchard and pond opened up with a new path and bridge leading to this site in the quit corner of the reserve.

The team has carried out improvements to the walkways, removal of dead trees and the tidying up of the viewpoints around the main waters.

And you could catch site of a rare UK mammal whilst walking as areas have also been improved around the nature reserve to encourage more water voles to make their home at the site.

This summer more colour will be on offer around the in the area next to the cycle path leading into the nature reserve from the Ysgol Tir Morfa side.

During autumn and winter, work has taken place to clear bramble. Dead trees were removed to allow more light into the area to support the surviving nature, new spindle and lime trees were planted and a mix of yellow rattle, red bartsia and woodland wild flower mix seeds were sown to support pollinators.

Best of all to soak up the sights of the wildlife on the waters new viewpoints have been opened up along the circular route, some including newly created hazel hurdles as fencing, allowing visitors the time to stop and take in life on Brickfield Pond.

Take your EV around Denbighshire’s attractions

Spring and summer days are upon us, providing the perfect opportunity through more daylight to explore the best that Denbighshire has to offer.

Travelling by vehicle in modern times has seen the addition of hybrid engines and electric powered motors to help get you to locations with less impact on our climate.

Since the first Council Public Electric Vehicles (EV) chargers went live in summer 2022 over 1.5million miles of travelling have been provided through more than 22,000 charging sessions.

For all local EV owners and those further afield, County Voice takes you on a whistle stop tour of where the Council’s own public charging EV stations are there to help you plan your trip around the county to see the sights.

The public network provides a great opportunity to travel around Denbighshire to sample the many attractions the county has to offer while charging your vehicle at one of the sites.

Want to check out bygone travel at Llangollen Railway? You can kick off your experience at Corwen’s Green Lane car park next to the town’s station have five operational EV chargers which you can plug into, enjoy the trip to yesteryear up and down the line and sample Corwen and Llangollen towns whilst your car is topped up.

Coming at the railway from Llangollen, chargers are available at Market Street car park and also the Pavilion car park. These handy locations also give you time around Llangollen to check out attractions such as the Llangollen Wharf, a hike up to Dinas Bran or just to enjoy the sites of the River Dee running through the town.

Jumping in your car and moving up to Ruthin , you can find EV chargers at Cae Ddol car parkm which puts you in stepping distance of learning all about the Ruthin Gaol, And a five minute walk can take you to another historic location in the form of Nant Clwyd y Dre.

But if you are interested in arts and crafts, public charging facilities are also available at Ruthin Craft Centre to allow you to browse the delights on offer at the site while putting charge into your car for your next trip.

Heading to Denbigh, the town’s Post Office Lane provides chargers, giving you the perfect chance to check out the remains of Denbigh Castle which is still standing proudly overlooking the town.

A short hop to St Asaph takes you to the Bowling Green car park at the city which is the perfect starting point to enjoy a scenic walk along the River Elwy or check out the stunning architecture of St Asaph Cathedral.

Travelling to the coast, Rhyl has the perfect place to top up and charge, West Kinmel car park has a number of chargers including rapid facilities for a quick boost. From here you can take a walk through the centre of town to the prom to enjoy Rhyl’s golden sands, or check out the harbour area and Marine Lake complete with the world’s oldest smallest railway. Charging facilities are also available at Morley Road car park.

And a final trip into Prestatyn can find you chargers (including rapids) at Fern Avenue and Kings Avenue car parks, allowing you time to enjoy Prestatyn’s town centre or if feeling brave take a walk down to the seafront to enjoy the attractions awaiting you.

The EV public network is a part the Council’s overall action to tackle climate change following the declaration of a Climate and Ecological Emergency in 2019 by reducing the county’s carbon footprint.

To check out more information on these locations visit our website.

Teachers take on Africa charity trip

Three teachers from Denbighshire recently swapped South Denbighshire for Southern Africa as they embarked on a journey to support children with additional needs in a remote mountain village.

Rachel Costeloe, Tina Hughes, and Kathryn Packer are qualified teachers who work for Denbighshire County Council’s inclusion team and took the 8,000-mile trip from Denbighshire to Lesotho, a landlocked country in Southern Africa earlier this year.

Rachel Costeloe, Tina Hughes, and Kathryn Packer

The three teachers took the trip in their spare time for the ‘One Day’ charity.

As part of a volunteer delegation for charity, the three teachers helped children who are orphaned, some of whom have additional learning needs and require a level of care that is difficult to provide locally without support. During their two weeks, Rachel, Tina, and Kathryn delivered training to a local school and two special schools. They also held an outreach programme for the community, delivering support to those who are vulnerable and those with additional learning needs.

Whilst visiting one of the special schools, they teamed up with the Lesotho Sport and Recreation Commission and provided play and sports activities including some sensory play. 

As Lesotho is twinned with Wales, the team held a cultural day, where the trio held a mini-Eisteddfod which included Dawnsio Gwerin and dancing to Welsh music by the band The Candelas. 

Rachel Costeloe, Additional Learning Needs Advisory Teacher said:

“I truly feel privileged to have been part of this team. I delivered Trauma Training to the teachers in the schools that we visited and to the house parents of the orphans.

I can’t thank my friends and family enough for all the support they have given me.

The whole experience has been life changing and I’m already planning my next trip to Lesotho, and this time I will be taking my daughter with me.”

Tina Hughes, Additional Learning Needs Advisory Teacher said:

“We were fortunate to visit two special schools during our visit, one in Buthe Butha and the other in Leribe.

We worked alongside the Lesotho Sports Academy and some of the international rugby players to promote disability sports sessions.

We also worked alongside teaching staff, delivering training, and sharing techniques on how to develop communication with the use of core boards.”

Kathryn Packer, Behaviour Support Outreach Teacher said:

“I took my knowledge and resources to Lesotho to deliver the 6 Bricks training to the teachers, children, and the house parents.

The games and activities work on memory, motor skills, problem solving, creativity and cognitive flexibility.

It was an amazing experience, a privilege and joy.”

Since returning home, the three colleagues have continued to support the cause from afar, but all three have plans to return to Lesotho in the future, to continue to support the work that is going on there.

In-house EV training electrifies efficiency

An in-house driver training programme is helping 100s of staff embrace non fossil fuel vehicles. 

Denbighshire County Council’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Fleet training programme has so far trained over 500 staff.

The Council’s fleet is continuing to undergo a transition to zero emission tail pipe vehicles to help reduce carbon emission to address the Climate and Nature emergency declared by the local authority in 2019.

In comparison to all Welsh local authorities the Council has one of the highest figures in Wales for the proportion of zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) as a percentage of their fleet, at over 20 percent.

To support the transition the Fleet team devised an EV training package for all Council staff who would need to use electric vehicles during work time to help them operate vehicles safely and efficiently.

The in-house training includes:

• How to safely and efficiently utilise the EV charging infrastructure
• Effective use of regenerative braking systems
• Correct selection of ‘driving mode’ for varying conditions / pay loads

And there are four different levels of qualification available to staff (Training is CBTM 1877 certified):

• Level 1 Bronze – Cars & Small vans
• Level 2 Silver – As level 1 + LGVs such as refuse recycling vehicles
• Level 3 Gold – As level 2 + Buses & Plant / Machinery
• Level 4 Platinum – As Level 3 + Instructor qualification

Martin Griffiths, Fleet Mobility Lead Officer, Denbighshire County Council, explained: “As part of our Council Climate Change and Nature Recovery strategy we are committed to reducing carbon emissions across the local authority, which includes our Fleet.

“We have been transitioning our end of live fossil fuel powered vehicles over to electric with significant support from Welsh and UK Government departments to help us cut down on emissions produced and also reduce long term costs for miles and maintenance across all services our Fleet supplies to.

David Baker, Senior Driver Training & Assessment Officer said “A key part of this is helping staff actually learn more about what an EV can do positively for travel and for the environment and coaching them to get the best out of this equipment.

“Our inhouse trainer supports with getting to grips with how regenerative braking works to extend range and reduce conventional wear and tear on normal brakes. They look at how to smooth out driving to avoid harsh acceleration which impacts on battery performance.

“Other elements taught can include how to route plan to use the vehicle effectively, getting used to the instant torque of the vehicles for safety and increased awareness of surroundings due to the low noise of EVs.

“Effectively the training helps maximise the ability of these cars driven by staff to increase vehicle efficiency and reduce long term costs. It’s also good to help individual staff as well to make their own decisions regarding moving to an EV for personal use.”

The success of the Fleet team’s EV  in-house training has caught the eye of other Welsh local authorities working to reduce their own vehicle carbon emissions.

Martin added: “We are sharing our good practice and experiences with other Welsh Council’s and Public Sector Bodies to help them with their own transition to zero emission.

 “Being able to carry the training out in house and learn from the experiences of our own staff using the EVs has been a massive bonus for how we continue to shape our fleet to tackle carbon emissions in the future.”

A new mural on its way to Rhyl

Artists are putting the final touches to a striking new mural along Rhyl’s coastal defences – a powerful visual tribute to the town’s ongoing regeneration.

Led by artist and facilitator Ffion Pritchard, the project invited creatives from across Denbighshire to contribute to the Ein Rhyl/Our Rhyl campaign.

Supported by Rhyl Neighbourhood Board – an independent collective made up of residents, business owners, politicians, council officers and grassroots organisations - and Balfour Beatty, the mural aims to showcase the heart and heritage of the beloved seaside resort, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

“The response has been incredible,” said Ffion, from Bangor.

“We’ve worked with a wide range of amazing community groups and seen just how much creativity and pride exists here.

“From young people to older residents, everyone has had something valuable to share. This project has brought people together in a powerful way, allowing them to express their vision of Rhyl - what it means to them, where it’s been, and where it’s going. It’s been a joy to help guide that process.”

The mural will span up to 60 pre-cast units and be printed on durable materials such as aluminium.

Alongside the main installation, workshops with local schools, youth groups and families have helped shape a vibrant mural trail reflecting Rhyl’s past, present and future.

Craig Sparrow, Chair of Rhyl Neighbourhood Board, added: “We’re incredibly grateful for the dedication and creativity that’s gone into this project. It’s been fantastic to see the community come together, from third sector groups to individual artists, everyone has played a part.

“Projects like this show just how much talent there is in Rhyl, and how art can help tell our story in such a meaningful and lasting way. I’m really looking forward to seeing the completed mural.

“It’s going to be something we can all be proud of and will showcase the very best of Rhyl, both for residents and visitors.”

Participants have included Ysgol Tir Morfa, West Rhyl Young People’s Project, Viva LGBT Youth Cymru, Brighter Futures, Willow Collective, Ysgol Bryn Hedydd, and families through workshops at the town library. The project is on course to be completed in August.

Working on behalf of Denbighshire County Council, Balfour Beatty’s redevelopment of the East Parade included removing the old promenade and sea walls, widening and raising the new promenade for improved pedestrian and cyclist access, and constructing a concrete-stepped revetment to reduce flooding risk — protecting over 600 properties in Central Rhyl.

The Young Ranger programme

This summer, the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley ranger team has expanded the Young Ranger programme to include a Youth+ group for young adults aged 18-25.

This new group of Youth + Rangers will be trained to help the ranger team carry out surveys around the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley. Volunteer sessions will include 4 training sessions a year, learning specialist skills to carry out ecological surveys. Participants will then be encouraged to carry out independent surveys throughout the year to feed back data to the ranger team.

Anyone interested in joining in should contact Imogen Hammond at imogen.hammond@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Road maintenance update for September

Our Highways department undertake maintenance schemes across the county.

We are responsible for the maintenance and repair of 1,400 kilometres of Denbighshire roads. Our teams carry out a regular programme of works to maintain and improve our roads, which ranges from the repair of potholes right up to resurfacing schemes.

Roads may need to be closed for us to carry out the patching, drainage and other supporting works.

September’s strategic Highways work is listed below:

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Our Highways teams are regularly working all year around to support and maintain the routes we have across the county. We would like to thank our residents for their patience and support this month as we carry out this important work.”

Dates of work may be subject to change due to the weather or other external factors.

Public discover nature delights at historic house

An historic Ruthin house has helped all ages learn about how they can make a difference for local nature. Bionet recently held their 2025 Nature Day at Nantclwyd y Dre Ruthin.

The historic house opened the doors to the public on Sunday August 10 to help all ages learn about the nature and wildlife surrounding their communities.

Joining BIONET at the grounds was Chester University, Denbighshire Tree Nursery, Denbighshire Countryside Services,  Clocaenog Red Squirrel's Trust, Ruthin Friends of the Earth, Nature For Health, BTO, Sea Watch Foundation and Wild Ground.

Visitors to the event also had the chance to take part in fun family activities including facepainting, live storytelling sessions, and willow weaving activities.

The Nature Partnership of North East Wales, BIONET covers the counties of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, working to conserve, protect and enhance the biodiversity of the region for current and future generations.

The Nature Day is funded by the Welsh Government Local Nature Partnership scheme through the WCVA.

Recycling and Waste Parks

Recycling and Waste Parks are available for Denbighshire residents to dispose of their domestic waste. For information on how to find and visit the nearest facility to you, visit this link 

Help shape Rhyl’s future

Big changes are coming to Rhyl, with £20 million of regeneration funding set to be invested over the next 10 years.

The Rhyl Neighbourhood Board has been set up to lead this exciting work, bringing together local residents, businesses, visitors, voluntary groups and community voices to shape a bold new vision for the town.

They would be grateful to receive your views.

Click on the link to complete a short survey >>> https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ourRhyl

You can find out more about the work of the Rhyl Neighbourhood Board and read their latest news on the Council's website.

Discovering Denbighshire...

Looking to discover more of Denbighshire?

Why not take inspiration from our walking and cycling maps for new ideas of places to visit.

For more inspiration on activities in and around Denbighshire visit - https://www.northeastwales.wales/  

Fancy learning something new?

The Denbighshire Tourism Ambassador scheme is a free, online training course to enhance your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the Denbighshire tourism offer.

There are 14 modules to choose from on a variety of themes including walking, cycling, food, arts, coast, history and sustainable tourism.

Watch our short film highlighting the course.

Visit www.ambassador.wales and get started today!

Elder provides younger growth support for nature

A stalwart of the summer is growing a protective arm over a site committed to preserving trees and wildflowers.

Over 1,000 Elder trees are growing strong this season at Denbighshire County Council’s Tree Nursery, laying the foundations to ward off negativity across local land.

Myths surrounding the Elder say planting one near your home is enough to ward off the devil and a solitary elder on the nursery’s boundary at St Asaph is providing a lot of protection through its new offspring.

Historically, Elder which provided a source for coloured dyes, was also made to make the patterned Harris Tweed.

The Council’s Biodiversity Team took cuttings from the tree, got to work at the nursery and the results have preserved the lineage of the older elder watching over the site.

Many of the new Elders will be planted out on the Green Gates Nature Reserve next to the Tree Nursery. The flowers on the trees will help provide up to 60 years’ worth of nectar for insects and the berries food for birds and mammals.

A variety of moth caterpillars can also feed on the tree foliage including the swallowtail, dot moth, white-spotted pug, and buff ermine.

Sam Brown Tree Nursery Assistant said: “Elder is steeped in rich history for both nature and humans and it’s been great to grow this many trees off the tree we have on site here at the nursery. The tree is such a great support for a wide range of nature and it’s nice to think the older one at our site has helped supply us with so many next generation trees to help bring positivity to nature making its home at the Green Gates Reserve and other sites in the county.”

More areas to receive Flying Start assistance in Denbighshire

Further areas within Denbighshire are now set to receive assistance through the Flying Start childcare scheme.

The expanded areas now cover Rhyl, Prestatyn, Meliden, Rhuddlan, Dyserth, Denbigh, Corwen, Llangollen, Llandrillo, Llanfair DC and are applicable to families who have a child who turned 2 years old between 1^st September 2024 and 31st August 2025.

This expansion means that families in the new areas will be eligible for up to 12 ½ hours of funded childcare per week during term time. With more settings offering funded Flying Start Childcare, and new postcodes being added regularly, families are encouraged to check their postcode using the postcode checker on the website.

Denbighshire Flying Start is a Welsh Government funded programme. The aim of the programme is to help children to have the best possible start in life for their future growth and development.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“This latest expansion of the Flying Start scheme will mean that more Denbighshire families can now get access to the free childcare provision. This assistance is a massive help for parents and families.

Residents in the newly expanded areas can check if their postcode is eligible through the postcode checker.”

For more information please visit: https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/childcare-and-parenting/families-first-and-flying-start/flying-start.aspx

Road maintenance update for August

Our Highways department undertake maintenance schemes across the county.

We are responsible for the maintenance and repair of 1,400 kilometres of Denbighshire roads. Our teams carry out a regular programme of works to maintain and improve our roads, which ranges from the repair of potholes right up to resurfacing schemes.

Roads may need to be closed for us to carry out the patching, drainage and other supporting works.

August’s strategic Highways work is listed below:

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Our Highways teams are regularly working all year around to support and maintain the routes we have across the county. We would like to thank our residents for their patience and support this month as we carry out this important work.”

Dates of work may be subject to change due to the weather or other external factors.

For all roadwork information across Denbighshire roads including other Council services and utility companies please visit this link for further information.

Did you know that 1.9% of Council Tax spending goes towards public protection and environmental health?

1.9% of Council Tax spending goes towards public protection and environmental health and as part of this, the Council inspects approximately 720 restaurants, cafes and take aways every year to ensure that these premises are operating safely for the residents of Denbighshire.

In addition, the Council responds to over 1,200 requests a year relating for housing and pollution.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Working Denbighshire offers free, weekly wellbeing sessions

Working Denbighshire offers free, weekly wellbeing sessions across the county - from drop-ins and wellness walks to youth support and confidence-building activities. They're open to all Denbighshire residents aged 16+, and they’re completely free! Check out the latest timetable and events here. 

Did you know that school transport accounts for 2.9% of Council Tax spending?

School transport accounts for 2.9% of Council Tax spending and for that the Council transports approximately 2,871 learners safely to 75 schools throughout the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Downloading eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers etc

You can download eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines and newspapers for free using the Borrowbox app? All you need is your library card and PIN. Not a library member? It’s free to join online www.denbighshire.gov.uk/libraries

Did you know that Denbighshire Heritage Service accounts for 0.9% of Council Tax spending?

Denbighshire Heritage Service accounts for 0.9% of Council Tax spending. For that it preserves and promotes the county’s unique history, caring for important historic sites, including Ruthin Gaol, Plas Newydd, Nantclwyd Y Dre, Rhyl Museum (based in the library) and a large collection store.

This ensures Denbighshire’s rich history remains accessible for education, wellbeing, and enjoyment.

Through our attractions, events, and learning programmes, we support local pride, cultural tourism, and the economy while protecting heritage for future generations.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that Planning and economic development accounts for 0.7% of Council Tax spending?

Planning and economic development accounts for 0.7% of Council Tax spending.

The Local Planning Authority processes around 1,000 planning applications per year alongside 10-20 appeals and 50-100 pre-application enquiries.

The Authority also respond to over 500 planning compliance cases.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that 1.1% of Council Tax spending goes towards Countryside Services?

1.1% of Council Tax spending goes towards Countryside Services and for that, the service manages over 80 countryside sites and over 1,200 hectares of public green, for both recreation and conservation.

These range from the Country Parks of Loggerheads and Moel Famau, the County Tree Nursery at St. Asaph, Brickfields Pond in Rhyl, Prestatyn Dyserth Way, Llantysilio Green in the Dee Valley and numerous smaller amenity community spaces across the County.

The Service has specialist team covering Ecology and Trees throughout the County, the National Landscape designation, recreation and rights of way, organises nature for health walks and events and manages the Countryside Centre at Loggerheads and catering at Plas Newydd.   

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that street lighting accounts for 0.8% of Council Tax spending?

Street lighting accounts for 0.8% of Council Tax spending.

For that, the Council maintains 11,763 street lights and 1,547 illuminated signs and bollards throughout the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Denbighshire Youth Service

That Denbighshire Youth Service is open to everyone aged 11 to 25 years. They offer social activities and opportunities to develop interests as well as help and support for anyone that needs it. To find a youth club near you or for help and support for children and young people, please visit our website.

Did you know that 29.8% of Council Tax spending goes towards adult and children’s social care?

29.8% of Council Tax spending goes towards adult and children’s social care. And with 36.7% going to schools and education, this means that over 66% of your Council Tax goes towards protecting the most vulnerable in society.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Council Tax only accounts for 25% of total Council funding

Council Tax only accounts for 25% of total Council funding. When you pay your annual Council Tax bill, 1.8% of that pays for waste and recycling collections - the equivalent of £32.89 per year (based on a Band D property council tax of £1,799.48 per year). Most of Council Tax spending goes towards the most vulnerable in society - schools and education is the biggest expenditure accounting for 36.7% while adult and social care accounts for 29.8%. Find out more on our website

Did you know that all primary

All primary aged children are eligible for free school meals through the Universal Primary Free School Meals scheme? This is a Welsh Government initiative which has been set up to help with the rising costs-of-living. You can find out more information on the Council's website.

Did you know that single use vapes are being banned in Wales from 1 June?

Single use vapes have been banned in Wales since 1 June.

The ban includes vapes containing nicotine, non-nicotine, CBD and other health/vitamin devices, and the Council’s Trading Standards team is encouraging Denbighshire businesses to switch to reusable products before the ban comes into place.

You can find out more on our website.

Did you know?

Schools and education accounts for 36.7% of Council Tax spending, and social care accounts for 29.8% which means that over 66% of your Council Tax goes towards protecting the most vulnerable in society.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website.

Working Denbighshire has its own section on our website?

Working Denbighshire has a section on the Council's website. Working Denbighshire is here to help residents aged 16 and over who might be struggling or worrying about money. Whether you’re looking for work or need support to get back on your feet, we’re here to guide you towards a better future. Why not have a look on our website.

Part of Council Tax spending goes towards the Fire Service?

Part of Council Tax spending goes towards the Fire Service.

Not all Council Tax collected pays for council services, 2.5% goes towards the Fire service. To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website.

Did you know that roads and infrastructure accounts for 1.8% of Council Tax spending?

Roads and infrastructure accounts for 1.8% of Council Tax spending.

Within that, the service is responsible for 1,419km of carriageways (excluding trunk roads), 601 highway bridges and culverts, 302 retaining walls and 26,000 gullies.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that 1.8% of Council Tax spending goes on emptying bins and recycling?

Emptying bins and recycling accounts for 1.8% of your Council Tax bill, which equates to £32.89 per year (based on a Band D property).

For that, the Council collects approximately 73,000 containers from over 47,000 households every week across the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Ffordd Parc Bodnant

Have you dropped by Ffordd Parc Bodnant this summer?

The area was developed during 2023 by the Council’s Climate Change team, Countryside Services staff and volunteers. Nearly 1,500 trees, including hedgerow trees, were planted at the site.

A pond was added to the site which is designed to hold a low level of water to provide optimum conditions for many species to thrive. Alongside this is a unique, locally crafted wooden outdoor classroom which has a bat roof to give the nocturnal mammal a place to roost.

Countryside staff have also worked to improve an orchard at Parc Bodnant and develop a wildflower meadow to allow native species to thrive at the site.

Maes Gwilym Nature Reserve

Have you visited Maes Gwilym Nature Reserve, Rhyl this summer? Maes Gwilym Nature Reserve was created as part of the Council's Woodland creation project. Volunteers, Council staff and local members planted 2,500 trees at the site as well as enhancing the woodland area.

Paths were constructed using recycled material and finished with limestone dust. To restore the wetland area a pond on site was designed to hold a low level of water. It is known as an Ephemeral wildlife pond which provides the optimum conditions for many species.

A bird hide has also been established on the site enabling visitors to enjoy the local wildlife in the area which includes several red and amber listed bird species.Hedgerows were also planted alongside encouraging existing and new areas for wildflower meadows. Seating areas were introduced and damaged fencing and gates were replaced.

Major road maintenance programme

Denbighshire County Council has announced which road areas will benefit from a major Welsh Government funded road maintenance programme. More here

Dogs on Lead Campaign

We're asking dog owners to be mindful of keeping their dogs on a lead while walking through the countryside. Watch the video below to hear from a local farmer on the work they've been undertaking to keep their livestock safe.

Planning Enforcement in Llandegla

Denbighshire County Council recently undertook work in connection to a planning enforcement notice in the County.

For more information on the Council’s planning procedures visit our website

Llanrhydd Street, Ruthin community woodland

Three years on from initial planting, Llanrhydd Street, Ruthin community woodland is growing stronger support for local nature and providing a great spot for nearby residents to visit and enjoy changing wild landscape.

800 trees were planted in 2022 alongside wildflower meadows, a new wildlife pond and the construction of an outdoor classroom.

Have a look at the site below 👇

Llys Brenig Community Nature Space

Have you visited the Llys Brenig Community Nature space this summer?  Last year, pupils from Ysgol Bryn Hedydd alongside other community volunteers assisted Denbighshire County Council Countryside Rangers at the site to plant 1,885 trees, a mix of native broadleaved varieties appropriate for the local conditions. The project also involved the creation of a pond and wetland area to support local wildlife, installation of new fences around the pond and around the site boundary, and, to allow local residents to connect with nature on their doorstep, construction of footpaths and installation of benches.

Henllan Community Nature Space

Have you taken a walk around Henllan’s Community Nature Space this summer? Last year Ysgol Henllan pupils dug deep to help rangers plant over 2,000 trees on the site, which also saw established new footpaths, a pond, wildflower meadows, a recreation space and picnic area, an insect hibernaculum (aka a “bee bank”) and an outdoor classroom.

Glan Elwy Community Nature space

Have you stopped to have a look at the Glan Elwy Community Nature space this summer?  Last year St Asaph’s football club youth teams and Elwy Care Group helped countryside rangers plant nearly 2000 trees at the site to help local nature.

Working Denbighshire's jobs fair returns in September

Jobseekers across Denbighshire are invited to the Working Denbighshire Jobs Fair on Wednesday, 10 September from 10am to 2pm, at the 1891 Bar & Restaurant, Rhyl Pavilion.

Held in partnership with Job Centre Plus, this free event will bring together a wide range of local and national employers, all looking to recruit for current vacancies across various sectors. Following the success of the last event in Spring, which welcomed over 50 employers, this year’s fair is set to be even bigger and better.

Confirmed employers include the British Armed Forces, Shotton Mill, Warner Hotels, Clwyd Alyn, Leader Optic, and Kids Planet, offering roles across hospitality, care, manufacturing, education, and more.

A dedicated quiet hour from 1pm to 2pm will also be in place for anyone who would benefit from a calmer, more accessible environment.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“We’re proud to be working in partnership with the Job Centre to help bring opportunities directly to our communities.

"Events like this are a great example of how we can support local people into employment and showcase the brilliant businesses who are hiring right now across Denbighshire and beyond.”

The Department of Work and Pensions said:

“Jobs fairs give a fantastic opportunity for the residents of Denbighshire to see employers face-to-face to discuss the roles available. In many cases jobseekers meet up with them the following week for interviews, which may lead to employment.

“We’re proud to be working in partnership with Working Denbighshire on many varied projects giving our customers the chance to grow and reach their potential.”

The event is open to everyone, whether you're looking for a new job, exploring career options, or interested in training and support.

For more information and updates, visit working.denbighshire.gov.uk or follow Working Denbighshire on social media.

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.

Rebuild and Bloom: Free Lego wellbeing sessions

Working Denbighshire is inviting adults (aged 16+) to take part in a unique series of creative wellbeing sessions this autumn, where Lego isn’t just for kids.

“Rebuild and Bloom” is a four-week programme of free sessions running every Tuesday afternoon from 12:30 to 2:30pm, starting 16 September until 7 October 2025. The sessions will be delivered at Rhyl Library.

The sessions aim to boost wellbeing, confidence and personal development through the simple but powerful joy of building with Lego.

The sessions will be led by Floss Barrett, a LEGO flower artist whose personal journey of recovery inspired the programme. Floss began building with LEGO following a knife attack that left her with severe injuries to both hands. As part of her physical recovery, she started using LEGO to rebuild strength and mobility in her fingers, but soon discovered it also became a vital tool in rebuilding her wellbeing.

Floss is a passionate volunteer who specialises in Botanical LEGO Flowers and is eager to introduce others to the calm, creativity, and joy this unique hobby can bring.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“Supporting people to feel better, believe in themselves and explore new opportunities is at the heart of everything we do. Rebuild and Bloom is a brilliant example of how creativity and connection can inspire people to move forward.”

The initiative is being delivered by Barod, Working Denbighshire and Floss, and supports people to improve their wellbeing, gain confidence, and take steps toward employment or training.

Floss Barrett, Working Denbighshire volunteer said:

“When I was at my lowest, LEGO gave me a place to escape. It became my safe haven, a world where I could just be me. I want others to feel that same calm, focus and creativity. LEGO helped me heal and I truly believe it can help others too.”

The sessions will be relaxed, inclusive, and open to all adults, whether you’re looking to improve your wellbeing, rebuild confidence, or just try something new. No experience is needed, and both Floss and the Working Denbighshire team will be on hand to support attendees throughout.

You can attend just one session or all four, but availability is limited so booking a place is essential. To book your place visit our website.

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.