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<title>North East Wales Weblog</title>
<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/</link>
<description>The BBC Local team blog about issues affecting North East Wales.  Follow us on Twitter where we share website news and links.</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2010</copyright>
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<item>
	<title>Zip wire adventure course on Moel Famau - a good idea?</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The people behind <a href="http://www.goape.co.uk/">Go Ape</a> - the outdoor activity centre with obstacle courses and zip wires in trees - have <a href="http://goapedownloads.opendebate.co.uk/downloads/Information-2.pdf">drawn up plans</a> [.pdf document] for a so-called <a href="http://moelfammau.openforum.zipwild.com/about-zip-wild.asp">Zip Wild course at Moel Famau</a> country park.</p>

<p>But before they submit a formal planning application to the local authorities - they want to hear your thoughts on their ideas.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gerald-davison/434225077/" title="IMG_0806 by Gerald Davison, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/179/434225077_b4dc322676.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="Go Ape at Hatchmere, Delamere Forest" /></a></p>

<p>There's a <a href="http://moelfammau.openforum.zipwild.com/discussion-wall.asp">discussion wall</a> where the first comment was posted by Brendan who writes: "I am fundamentally against this development... I will currently put my faith in the local councils who look after this AONB and SSSI, because developments within such areas are notoriously difficult to push through."</p>

<p>Whether Brendan's comment sets the tone of the discussion remains to be seen.</p>

<p>Here are some further links you may find useful.</p>

<p>There's a dedicated fan site regarding <a href="http://www.moelfamau.co.uk/">Moel Famau</a> which is part of the <a href="http://www.clwydianrangeaonb.org.uk/">Clwydian Range</a>, a so-called <a href="http://www.clwydianrangeaonb.org.uk/text01.asp?PageId=29">Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty</a>, managed by <a href="http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en-gb/DNAP-6ZQLAB">Denbighshire Countryside Services</a>.</p>

<p>Related: <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/nature/default.stm">BBC North East Wales - Nature & Outdoors</a></p>

<p><small>[Photo shows a Go Ape course at Delamere Forest, courtesy of Gerald Davison via Flickr]</small></p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/zip_wire_adventure_course_on_m.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/zip_wire_adventure_course_on_m.html</guid>
	<category>environment</category>
	<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:13:25 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Hotel&apos;s Welsh-English name change - a snub or &apos;just business&apos;?</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Did you see locals giving their views in front of the TV cameras last night about the <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8498287.stm">Gateway to Wales hotel changing its name</a> to align itself with visitors to Chester rather than north Wales?</p>

<p>Everyone said they felt the hotel should stay true to its name and its location - Deeside - firmly in Wales.</p>

<p>It's not the first time such a row has been prompted by a business trying to drum up business from over the border - rather than marketing itself using north Wales tourism.</p>

<p>So much so that a <a href="http://www.notcheshire.moonfruit.com/#/named-and-shamed/4518309628">local website</a> was set up some time ago to <a href="http://www.notcheshire.moonfruit.com/#/named-and-shamed/4518309628">take business to task</a> regarding such decisions.</p>

<p>The <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83873/politician-slams-hotel-name-change-as-slap-in-the-face-to-flintshire-.aspx">Leader</a> picked up on the story previously with a <a href="http://janetryder.blogspot.com/2010/01/anger-at-hotel-name-change.html">blog by Janet Ryder AM</a> headlined, 'Anger at hotel name change'.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, her <a href="http://wrecsamplaid.blogspot.com/2010/02/trade-descriptions-act.html">Plaid colleagues in Wrexham</a> have now got Flintshire Council Trading Standards involved, querying whether the name change could be misleading.</p>

<p>But the <a href="http://www.dayshotelchesternorth.co.uk/location.aspx">hotel website and map</a> clearly shows it's in Wales.</p>

<p>So, should we be concerned if businesses on this side of the border use such a tactic if they think it's more beneficial? Is it just business - and does that make it OK?</p>

<p>Or do you feel this more evidence of the so-called Chesterfication of north Wales - something which last week led to a <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8491110.stm">15,000-name petition</a> - opposed to a plan on tightening links between Welsh and English counties - being presented to the Welsh assembly?</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/hotels_welshenglish_name_chang.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/hotels_welshenglish_name_chang.html</guid>
	<category>welshidentity</category>
	<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:12:47 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Local stories in the press this week</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/84652/rhyl-lifeboat-sos-hoax.aspx">Rhyl lifeboat SOS hoax</a> - Rhyl Journal<br />
Rescuers from Rhyl are hunting an SOS hoaxer who sparked a major sea search. </p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/02/04/three-leisure-centres-at-risk-as-flintshire-council-says-it-may-stop-running-them-55578-25758283/">Three leisure centres 'at risk' as Flintshire Council says it may stop running them</a> - Daily Post<br />
Connah's Quay Sports Centre, Hope Sports Centre and Saltney Sports Centre could be shut for good if the schools to which they are affiliated or local councils can't afford to take over the running costs.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.denbighshirevisitor.com/news/denbighshire-news/2010/02/03/tourism-experts-slam-depressing-rhyl-105722-25753439/">Tourism experts slam depressing Rhyl</a> - Denbighshire Visitor<br />
Resorts like Rhyl and Colwyn Bay are "depressing" and need more inspiring messages to galvanise their tourism industry. Marketing consultants say the two towns need rebranding to promote a positive image.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/84625/chirk-cadbury-workers-seek-assurances-over-future.aspx">Chirk Cadbury workers seek assurances over future</a> - The Leader<br />
Union chiefs are seeking urgent assurances about the future of Cadbury's Chirk factory and its 250 workers from the new American owners of the iconic British chocolate firm.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.bordercountiesadvertizer.co.uk/news/84550/oswestry-man-wins-uk-tough-guy-challenge.aspx">Oswestry man wins UK Tough Guy Challenge</a> - The Tizer<br />
An Oswestry athlete has come through fire, ice, flooded tunnels and aerial rope runs to win the UK's Tough Guy Challenge.</p>

<p>[If you want daily updates, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">Twitter</a> or use our <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/11450932039928557451">Google Reader</a>] </p>

<p></p>

<p></p>

<p><br />
</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Alys - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_20.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_20.html</guid>
	<category>newspapers</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:05:54 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Ysgol Heulfan - simply outstanding</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.ysgolheulfan.co.uk/pages/simply_outstanding.htm">Ysgol Heulfan</a>, Gwersyllt, Wrexham, has been deemed "outstanding" - a word used 180 times - in its latest <a href="http://www.estyn.gov.uk/dynpages/rep_schools.asp?qProviderType=Primary+school&qLEA=Wrexham">Estyn</a> inspection report [<a href="http://www.estyn.gov.uk/inspection_reports/Ysgol_Heulfan_November_2009.pdf">Read it for yourself</a>, PDF document].</p>

<p>"We really want to sing and shout about this news," said one of the governors, Michele Walker, especially as the school has seen a major turnaround in its performances. </p>

<p>Headteacher Julia Thomas Haigh says the achievement is down to everyone working together: "Thank you to all for making Ysgol Heulfan such a success story," she says.</p>

<p>The news follows hot on the heels of another school success story, <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/tv_and_radio/newsid_8470000/8470461.stm">Why St Christopher's is so special</a>.</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/ysgol_heulfan_simply_outstandi.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/ysgol_heulfan_simply_outstandi.html</guid>
	<category>goodnews</category>
	<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:58:11 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>How to report a pothole and get it fixed</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/_47222628_-2.jpg"><img alt="_47222628_-2.jpg" src="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/_47222628_-2-thumb-400x225.jpg" width="400" height="225" class="mt-image-right" style="float: right; margin: 0 0 20px 20px;" /></a></span>As <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8492969.stm">Wrexham council plans to spent an extra £100,000 to repair potholes</a> and the assembly government is to give Welsh councils <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8487126.stm">£2.75m to help repair potholes on Wales' roads</a>, here's how people can report a pothole and get it fixed.</p>

<p>Firstly, you can report the problem to your local council - <a href="http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en-gb/DNAP-72BH46">Denbighshire</a>, <a href="http://www.flintshire.gov.uk/wps/portal/english/services?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=/Web+Content/Flintshire/English/Services/100011">Flintshire</a> and <a href="http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/sections/transport_streets.htm">Wrexham</a> - or <a href="http://www.writetothem.com/">alert your local councillor</a>. </p>

<p>Meanwhile, other people have been raising such problems with online help group and charity <a href="http://www.fixmystreet.com/faq">fixmystreet.com</a> as they can pass on complaints to the right authorities.</p>

<p>Searching the site you can see people have serious concerns about the state of their roads, like <a href="http://www.fixmystreet.com/report/91081">Steve</a> in Wrexham who writes: "Dangerous potholes just at the base of the Berwig Hill on a bend and next to the junction with Maes y Ffynnon Road, the area is unlit. If a motorcycle were to hit them in the dark someone could be seriously injured or killed."</p>

<p><a href="http://www.fixmystreet.com/reports/Denbighshire">'Dangerous roads' are also an issue in Denbighshire</a> and <a href="http://www.fixmystreet.com/reports/flintshire">potholes are among a host of problems being raised in Flintshire</a>.</p>

<p>Finally, the <a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/02/02/mapping-north-wales-potholes-join-in-55578-25742583/">Daily Post</a> is attempting to map potholes in the region to highlight the widespread problem.</p>

<p>Something similar has been done by hyperlocal websites such as <a href="http://hashbrum.co.uk/2010/01/how-to-report-a-pothole/">Hashbrum</a> in Birmingham.</p>

<p>Further reading: <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/8453969.stm">Why is snow so bad for potholes?</a> </p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/how_to_report_a_pothole_and_ge.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/02/how_to_report_a_pothole_and_ge.html</guid>
	<category>snow</category>
	<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:59:16 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Local stories in the press this week</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/26/rhyl-teen-s-life-was-saved-thanks-to-kidney-donor-mum-55578-25686144/">Rhyl teen's life was saved thanks to kidney-donor mum</a> - Daily Post <br />
Rebecca Brierley, 13, whose life was saved when her mum, Sally, gave her a kidney has told how the gift has changed her life.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/28/llangollen-woman-s-amazing-recovery-after-being-given-5-chance-of-survival-55578-25700358/">Llangollen woman recovers after being given 5% chance of survival </a>- Daily Post<br />
Zara Roberts, given a slim chance of survival after a car crash which left her with brain damage, is well on the way to becoming a special needs teacher.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/84413/wrexham-boy-dies-after-battling-brain-tumour.aspx">Wrexham boy dies after battling brain tumour</a> - Leader <br />
Alice Hedley has paid tribute to her nine-year-old "little hero", Arthur, who has died after a brave battle with a brain tumour.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.flintshirechronicle.co.uk/flintshire-news/local-flintshire-news/2010/01/28/fans-fury-at-flintshire-nightspot-after-x-factor-star-olly-murs-gig-51352-25698311/">Fans fury after X-Factor star Olly Murs' gig</a> - Flintshire Chronicle<br />
Angry fans have hit out after paying £15 to see X Factor runner-up Olly Murs - but he only did a four-song set lasting 20 minutes at Buckley's Tiv.<br />
- <a href="http://www.flintshirechronicle.co.uk/flintshire-news/local-flintshire-news/2010/01/28/buckley-nightclub-the-tivoli-has-had-its-opening-hours-extended-to-3am-51352-25698318/">Tivoli opening hours extended to 3am</a></p>]]><![CDATA[<p><br />
[If you want daily updates, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">Twitter</a> or use our <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/nickbbcwrexham">Google Reader</a>] </p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_19.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_19.html</guid>
	<category>newspapers</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010 11:35:44 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>We&apos;re out of recession but are you in the mood to celebrate?</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/f18/4294344614/" title="A busy Wrexham shop by Karen OIiver, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4294344614_a3818ba405.jpg" width="500" height="313" alt="A busy Wrexham shop by Karen OIiver, on Flickr" /></a></p>

<p><a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8479552.stm">Welsh economy 'out of recession'</a>, says today's headline. </p>

<p>Whilst that's good news, the cuts have gone so deep BBC Wales' <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8479774.stm">Nick Servini</a> reckons no one's in any mood to celebrate as "this recession has changed the industrial map of Wales".</p>

<p>He's not wrong. Since May 2008 north east Wales has lost in the region of 3,400 jobs [tag: <a href="http://delicious.com/bbcnortheastwales/jobs">jobs</a>].</p>

<p>Industrial estates across Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, have seen the closures of factory premises:<br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8081186.stm">Indesit, Kinmel Park </a>- 302 jobs<br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/7175046.stm">Arquest, Greenfield Business Park</a> - 85 jobs<br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/7844256.stm">Marshalls, Llay Works</a> - 55 jobs</p>

<p>The face of the High Street in towns and villages has been changed with <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shricthism/2245027380/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">post office closures</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/f18/4290461628/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">pubs</a> and the loss of some big names like <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bmott/3132816411/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">Woolworths</a> and <a href="http://www.world-of-digital.com/forums/f11/mfi-closing-down-sale-upto-80-a-28009.html">MFI in Wrexham</a> to name just a few.</p>

<p>Established local and family businesses have been hit hard too:<br />
- <a href="http://wrexhamblog.wordpress.com/2009/03/15/jt-vernons-holt-hit-by-recession/">JT Vernons, Holt</a><br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/7973649.stm">Dee Jays of Rhyl </a><br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/mid/7885472.stm">Seventh Heaven Beds of Chirk</a><br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/7867199.stm">Ffrith Leisure on Ffrith Festival Gardens</a></p>

<p>On the upside, there are signs of success, with the Financial Times' <a href="http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/1db5fd18-0621-11df-8c97-00144feabdc0.html">House & Homes</a> having lots of good things to say about Llangollen and Chirk - plus: <br />
- <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/84267/wrexham-s-property-market-on-the-up.aspx">Property prices on the up in Wrexham</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/18/third-new-hotel-planned-for-rhyl-55578-25622746/">Third new hotel planned for Rhyl</a><br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8339000/8339666.stm">Hawarden Farm Shop reinvents itself</a></p>

<p>If you've any good news to confirm things are on the up - do tell us!</p>

<p>[Thanks to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/f18/">Karen Oliver</a> for the use of this photo. Plus, view her photo study of Wrexham]</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/how_much_has_recession_cost.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/how_much_has_recession_cost.html</guid>
	<category>jobs</category>
	<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:23:27 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Snow brought nature to our door</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gruts/4213599436/" title="Carolyn feeding a robin by Richard Carter, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4213599436_16a88938f2.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Carolyn feeding a robin" /></a></p>

<p>Did you notice that the snowy weather brought birds closer to us - mainly because they were desperate for food?</p>

<p>Here's a great photo from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gruts/4213599436/">Richard on Flickr</a> who was out on Moel Famau with Carolyn when she put out her hand to tempt a robin with some bread.</p>

<p>I watched the BBC nature programme, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/autumnwatch/2010/01/snow_watch_your_questions_answ.html">Snow Watch</a>, and they were telling us that country birds in particular were coming into towns and people's gardens because there had been so much snow that they couldn't find food.</p>

<p>Cue the <a href="http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/b/bullfinch/index.aspx">bullfinch</a> that dropped in on our bird table in Mold. I've never seen one before and, although I wouldn't class myself as a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twitchers'_vocabulary">twitcher</a> [I'm more of a <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">twitterer</a>], we felt lucky to see it.</p>

<p>Did you spot anything? The <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/autumnwatch/2010/01/snow_watch_your_questions_answ.html">Snow Watch</a> team are interested to hear.</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_brought_nature_to_our_doo.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_brought_nature_to_our_doo.html</guid>
	<category>snow</category>
	<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:06:48 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Local stories in the Press</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/84064/seven-point-plan-to-ease-flintshire-traffic-woe.aspx">Seven-point plan to ease Flintshire traffic woes</a> - Leader<br />
A road expert has come up with a seven-point plan to solve the congestion nightmare that has plagued Shotton for years.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/20/parents-to-build-respite-retreat-in-memory-of-llay-teenager-55578-25637700/">Parents to build respite retreat in memory of Llay teenager</a> - Daily Post<br />
A charity set up by the parents of Nicola Riley, 14, has raised close to £300,000 to send children with cancer, and their families, on holidays. Now, they want to build a dedicated retreat for families.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.denbighshirevisitor.com/news/denbighshire-news/2010/01/20/jobs-scheme-has-increased-employment-in-rhyl-105722-25643966/">Jobs scheme has increased employment in Rhyl </a>- Denbighshire Visitor<br />
A "unique winning formula" has helped thousands of people back to work in Rhyl, MPs have been told. <br />
- <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8471172.stm">ConvaTec, Deeside, laying off 100 workers</a> - BBC News <br />
- <a href="http://www.bordercountiesadvertizer.co.uk/news/83979/oswestry-tax-office-to-close.aspx">Oswestry tax office to close with the loss of 22 jobs</a> - Tizer <br />
Tag: <a href="http://delicious.com/bbcnortheastwales/jobs">Jobs</a></p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/21/nigel-kennedy-and-karl-jenkins-at-llangollen-international-festival-55578-25648520/">Nigel Kennedy and Karl Jenkins at Llangollen International Festival </a>- Daily Post<br />
Violn virtuoso Nigel Kennedy and composer Karl Jenkins are among the big names headlining this year's Llangollen International Festival.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/84139/police-warn-of-more-wrexham-raids.aspx">Police get tough</a> - Leader<br />
Police in Wrexham have stressed more raids are being planned at addresses around the town and search warrants are set to be executed in the coming weeks. The message to criminals came from PC Miles Hanmer in the wake of two-days of raids carried out on Thursday and Friday last week for investigations involving the misuse of drugs and handling stolen goods. </p>

<p><a href="http://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/84146/prop-idol-roberts-picked-for-wales.aspx">Prop Idol Roberts picked for Wales</a> - Denbighshire Free Press<br />
Prop star Eifion Roberts is set to perform in one of the world's greatest rugby competitions. The giant front row forward from Llanbedr DC is a surprise inclusion in Wales' 35-man squad for the 2010 RBS Six Nations Championship. </p>]]><![CDATA[<p><br />
[If you want daily updates, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">Twitter</a> or use our <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/nickbbcwrexham">Google Reader</a>]</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press.html</guid>
	<category>Shotton</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:21:03 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Worries as Brymbo&apos;s industrial heritage crumbles</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Monday, 25 January - Related update:</strong> <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8478844.stm">Calls to maintain WWII weapons site at Rhydymwyn</a></p>

<p><span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/brymbo.jpg"><img alt="brymbo.jpg" src="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/brymbo-thumb-500x375.jpg" width="500" height="375" class="mt-image-right" style="float: right; margin: 0 0 20px 20px;" /></a></span></p>

<p>Contributor Brian sent us this photo showing the state of the former pattern makers and carpenter's shop building on the old <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/sites/brymbo/steel.shtml">Brymbo Steelworks</a> site, Wrexham. </p>

<p>The photo shows the building - which is listed - in a dilapidated state and Brian is concerned that "the history and heritage of, not just Brymbo or north east Wales, but the UK, is at risk".</p>

<p>The timing of Brian's photo coincides with this week's launch of a joint BBC and British Museum project, <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8462000/8462184.stm">A History of the World</a>, highlighting <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8354000/8354295.stm">local artefacts</a> and objects which shaped history.</p>

<p>And among <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8354000/8354295.stm">north east Wales' artefacts</a> is <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/ahistoryoftheworld/objects/rjRT56COSs2TfwLmTo5BgA">cannon boring equipment</a> invented by Brymbo Steelworks' founder <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/guides/halloffame/innovators/john_wilkinson.shtml">John Wilkinson</a>.</p>

<p>There's lots of reading material available regarding the steelworks site and wider community, its past and planned redevelopment. </p>

<p>Wrexham Council has an extensive <a href="http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/heritage/brymbo_steelworks/sharp_as_steel.htm">Brymbo Steelworks online archive</a>, while <a href="http://www.bhg.org.uk/">Brymbo Heritage Group</a> is working to preserve Brymbo's history via people's memories. </p>

<p>Brymbo's redevelopment involves <a href="http://www.fermac.com/projects/buildings__infrastructure/residential/brymbo_reclamation.aspx">a number of groups</a>, and <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/81688/new-dawn-for-brymbo-steelworks-site-as-supermarket-and-shops-planned.aspx">hopes for the area</a>. </p>

<p>Meanwhile, further information about Brymbo, such as its local groups and community councillors, can be gleaned via the <a href="http://www.brymbo.org/">Brymbo website</a>. </p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Alys - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/brymbos_industrial_heritage.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/brymbos_industrial_heritage.html</guid>
	<category>History &amp; Memories</category>
	<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:47:05 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Local stories in the press this week</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83803/snow-chaos-causes-traffic-gridlock-in-wrexham-and-flintshire.aspx">Snow chaos causes traffic gridlock in Wrexham and Flintshire</a> - The Leader<br />
The Leader has a round-up of how the recent snow and ice have caused a number of accidents on the roads.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/83778/staff-prepare-for-closure-of-leading-dyserth-employer.aspx">Staff prepare for closure of leading Dyserth employer</a> - Rhyl Journal<br />
Anglia HomeServe's Dyserth plant is to close with the loss of more than 150 jobs. It's another blow to an area which lost 300 jobs when Indesit's Bodelwyddan plant closed last summer.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/12/driver-caught-doing-105mph-in-a-30-zone-in-north-wales-55578-25576980/">Driver caught doing 105mph in a 30 zone in North Wales</a> - Daily Post<br />
A driver on the A548 in Towyn is to be prosecuted for reaching 105mph in a 30mph zone, reports the Daily Post which also other examples of the speeds reached by motorists caught by cameras or speed detectors.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83766/wrexham-town-centre-key-to-city-status-bid.aspx">Wrexham town centre key to city status bid</a> - The Leader<br />
Welsh Secretary Peter Hain is backing Wrexham's bid for city status and says transforming the town centre will be key.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/83636/big-cat-alert-in-denbighshire-.aspx">Big cat alert in Denbighshire?</a> - Denbighshire Free Press<br />
A couple walking at the Alwen Reservoir claim to have spotted paw prints the size of a man's hand!  It's one of many suspected sightings of big cats in the area.<br />
<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/guides/weird/mythsandlegends/pages/panther.shtml">Big cat sightings</a></p>

<p>[If you want daily updates, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">Twitter</a> or use our <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/nickbbcwrexham">Google Reader</a>] <br />
</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Alys - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_18.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_18.html</guid>
	<category>newspapers</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:37:57 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Using old photos to refind our past, German bombers over Buckley and Bronze Age Wrexham</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/Flint.jpg"><img alt="Flint, Henry George Bishop and daughter Jean, c1935" src="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/Flint-thumb-500x354.jpg" width="500" height="354" class="mt-image-right" style="float: right; margin: 0 0 20px 20px;" /></a></span></p>

<p>There's usually a couple of stories to be told when looking at old photos like this family photograph contributed by Michael Gregory. It shows his mother, Jean, when she was a young girl, as well as his grandfather, Henry George Bishop, in the 30s.</p>

<p>And to those of us who don't know the people pictured, just look at the detail in the background, a rich tapestry, don't you think? There's the castle on the Dee and the chimneys of Courtaulds' that disappeared from the skyline in 1980.</p>

<p>Michaels tells us that Henry was a manager at Courtaulds' Castle Works between 1935-37. </p>

<p>Meanwhile, local historian Vicky Perfect explains that Courtaulds converted the former Muspratt Chemical works to Castle Works, demolishing the old chemical works to build Castle Works in 1920.</p>

<p>Production started in 1922 but was closed by 1977. The chimneys were demolished in 1980.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/sites/flintshire/pages/courtaulds2.shtml"> -More about Courtaulds in Flint</a> courtesy of Flint Local History group</p>]]><![CDATA[<p>Continuing the local history theme, we came across the website <a href="http://buckleyatwar.webs.com/">Buckley at War</a> which has some rich detail showing how the Flintshire town was affected by World I and II.</p>

<p>It also has accounts of town's encounters with German bombers and their crew as well as aerial photos of the town from the cockpit of a Spitfire as well as the names of the town's fallen servicemen, with links to their records on the site of the <a href="http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2957594">Commonwealth War Graves Commission</a>.</p>

<p>We've also been reading up on the latest work of a team of volunteers taking part in the <a href="http://www.caeralyn.org/community-archaeology.php">Caer Alyn Archaeological and Heritage Project</a> to understand more about the ancient history of the site around Llay.</p>

<p>One of the most signifacant recent finds is <a href="http://www.caeralyn.org/community-archaeology.php?refID=&content=story&storyID=231&fixedmetadataID=">rock art said to date to the Bronze Age</a>.</p>

<p>We hope to glean more info shortly and plan to add it to our <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/history/default.stm">history section</a>.</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/using_old_photos_to_refind_our.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/using_old_photos_to_refind_our.html</guid>
	<category>History &amp; Memories</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:29:15 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Snow brings out Good Samaritans and lots of good news</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>We want to hear if a Good Samaritan has helped you in the snow. Use the form below. In the meantime, here are some of the good news stories we've come across.</p>

<p>There's <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83773/free-food-for-villagers-in-rhos-today.aspx">free food for people in Rhos</a>, today [and which has received its <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/magphen/4249283070/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">fair share of snow</a> over the last week].</p>

<p>For a planned conference at the <a href="http://www.stiwt.co.uk/">Stiwt</a>, involving personnel from North Wales Police, has been cancelled and rather than let delegates' food go to waste, staff have been delivering it door to door to people in the Wrexham village.</p>

<p><a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/north_east/8456535.stm">Wrexham fans turned up at the Racecourse this morning</a> with their shovels and brushes to clear snow from the pitch, or face having an eighth successive game postponed.</p>

<p>Mum of three <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83655/flintshire-mum-hailed-a-hero-for-meals-service.aspx">Linda Murrary</a> - "has been hailed a hero" - delivering meals on wheels to vulnerable people across Flintshire.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83663/staff-and-parents-help-reopen-wrexham-school.aspx">Rachael Connell</a>, headteacher at Wrexham's Brynteg CP School, has been paying tribute to parents for helping to clear snow from the school to keep it open as much as possible during the cold snap.</p>

<p>And, despite the drama, there was a <a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/12/woman-gave-birth-on-m53-in-snow-55578-25579838/">happy ending for Maria Hollis</a>, 30, who gave birth on the M53 after getting stuck in traffic during last week's blizzard. </p>

<p>Husband Kevin managed to flag down a passing ambulance - but Maria gave birth to baby Maggie minutes before arriving at hospital.</p>

<p>There have been other stories of homeowners helping struggling motorists on the roads from Wrexham up to Coedpoeth and Minera. Some made sandwiches and prepared flasks while others helped to push vehicles out of trouble.</p>

<p>And then there's the story of <a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83571/wrexham-taxi-driver-gives-stranded-pensioner-room-for-the-night.aspx">kind taxi drivers </a> in Wrexham, who gave food and a bed for the night to a stranded passenger - and then drove her home for free the next day.</p>

<p>Have you got any similar stories to share?</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_brings_out_good_samaritan.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_brings_out_good_samaritan.html</guid>
	<category>goodnews</category>
	<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:16:08 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Local stories in the press this week</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flintshirechronicle.co.uk/flintshire-news/local-flintshire-news/2010/01/07/project-launched-by-menter-a-busnes-to-find-flintshire-s-best-food-51352-25540315/">Flintshire's finest foods</a> - Flintshire Chronicle<br />
A project has been launched to put the food of Flintshire in the spotlight - and on to more plates. The plan is to map out who is producing what and how much and to see how it could best be marketed. </p>

<p><a href="http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2010/01/05/north-wales-police-runs-up-750-000-bill-on-hire-cars-55578-25525259/"><br />
North Wales Police runs up £750,000 bill on hire cars</a> - Daily Post<br />
North Wales police has run up a £750,000 bill in just five years for hiring cars. It works out at a cost of more than £400 a day - enough to buy one family car, such as a Vauxhall Astra, every month.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/83592/bogus-callers-take-substantial-amount-of-cash-from-elderly-wrexham-woman.aspx?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter">Bogus callers take 'substantial' amount' of cash from elderly Wrexham woman</a> - Leader<br />
Police are appealing for witnesses after an elderly woman in Penycae had a "substantial" amount of cash stolen from her home by bogus callers.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/83477/ambitious-rhyl-seafront-development-project-wins-buyer.aspx">Rhyl seafront development project back on</a> - Rhyl Journal<br />
Work is finally expected to start on a multi-million pound development in Rhyl. Progress on the resort's ambitious £85 million Ocean Plaza development, located on the former Ocean Beach funfair looks set to go ahead this year following news of a buyer being found. </p>

<p><a href="http://www.bordercountiesadvertizer.co.uk/news/83533/cracks-appear-in-wrexham-bridge.aspx">Cracks appear in Chirk bridge</a> - Tizer<br />
Pontfaen on the B4500, near Chirk, was shut by Wrexham Council to all traffic and pedestrians after a crack appeared on the bridge on Tuesday afternoon.</p>]]><![CDATA[<p><br />
[If you want daily updates, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/bbcwrexham">Twitter</a> or use our <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/nickbbcwrexham">Google Reader</a>] </p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_17.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/local_stories_in_the_press_thi_17.html</guid>
	<category>newspapers</category>
	<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:41:04 +0000</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
	<title>Snow photos - a round-up of local scenes being shared on the web</title>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Updated: 11 January 2010</strong></p>

<p>Here's a round-up of snow photos from around north east Wales being shared on the web by locals.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/samthesham/4264441994/" title="Horseshoe Pass closed by Sam the sham and the photos, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4264441994_a224cd3700.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Horseshoe Pass closed" /></a><br clear="all" /></p>]]><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gerald-davison/4248396838/" title="More blizzard! 16:00 by Gerald Davison, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4248396838_3b6e1f59da.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Snow outside Mold Ex Servicemen's Club" /></a> <br clear="all" /></p>

<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/keithooo/4250293265/" title="Llangollen Canal by keith.evans59, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4250293265_35ca5ec195.jpg" width="500" height="335" alt="Llangollen Canal" /></a><br clear="all" /></p>

<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/one_planet_adventure/4239772845/" title="Snow Boarding in the Clwyds (2-1-10) by one_planet_adventure, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4012/4239772845_31881d98d8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Snow Boarding in the Clwyds at Llandegla" /></a><br clear="all" /></p>

<p>And there's more:</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/iantindall/4245412363/in/pool-clwydianrange">Clwydian Range</a></li>
	<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/matprice/4251061478/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">Cambridge Square, Wrexham</a></li>
	<li> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/magphen/4249283070/in/pool-northwalesstreetscenes">Heavy snow at Rhos, near Wrexham</a></li>
	<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/39938860@N03/4241405839/">Llandegla stream </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/39938860@N03/4242184912/">Ruthin and the hills</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/f18/4248790655/">Sainsbury's Plas Coch car park, Wrexham</a></li>
</ul>

<p>And there's more:</p>

<p>We're also uploading <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northeastwales/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_8424000/8424232.stm">contributors' photos</a> from around north east Wales and sent to us by email: wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk</p>

<p>Use the form below to share more links of local snow scenes on the web.</p>]]></description>
         <dc:creator>Nick - Web Team </dc:creator>
	<link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_photos_a_roundup_of_local.html</link>
	<guid>http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/walesnortheast/2010/01/snow_photos_a_roundup_of_local.html</guid>
	<category>Photos</category>
	<pubDate>Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:43:39 +0000</pubDate>
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