Abersoch RNLI New Year's Day Dip Cancelled

Message from the organisers (20/11/2021):
"It is with great regret that Abersoch RNLI is no longer able to hold the traditional New Year’s Day Dip. This is due to new health and safety protocols put in place by RNLI Headquarters. The demands of these new requirements are such that we have no alternative to cancelling the Dip.
The Abersoch RNLI Crew and Fundraisers are very disappointed at having to make this decision, as for fourteen years the Dip has been a major fundraising event that has been enjoyed by the many participants and spectators. They are thankful for the generous support over those years.
Everyone at Abersoch RNLI now wishes everybody a very Happy New Year and hopes that people will find another way to celebrate 2022."

December 07 2021

Press Release From Ysgol Abersoch Governors

"At the Ysgol Abersoch Board of Governor’s meeting held 25 November 2021 it was decided that since we overwhelmingly object to the closure of the school, we have a conflict of interest when it comes to the fulfilling the requirment put upon us to terminate the employment of the school staff.  

Consequently, seven independent voluntary Governors have resigned since they feel it is untenable to continue in role given that it is Gwynedd Council’s decision to close the school, and the responsibility for terminating staff employment should be handled by the Council. We will not do their dirty work for them.

We are being asked to follow a process that is not fit for purpose, where we are being pressurised to respond within a limited time frame and intimidated by a threat of being labelled as a school where there is a breakdown in the way it is governed according to the “Statutory Guidance for Schools and Local Authorities Welsh Government Document (202/2016) Schools Causing Concern.”

This does not reflect the many years of commitment, effort and dedication to being the best version of a Governing Body that we have worked towards. It is the final insult given the total absence of any communication or engagement from the Education Department to the parents, staff and governors of Ysgol Abersoch, beyond the issue of statutory notices during the consultation period.

It is a source of profound sadness and regret that despite our very best efforts, we have not been able to secure the future of Ysgol Abersoch. We are both furious and devastated that the Council see fit to close any school part way through an academic year and in particular at Christmas. 

However, let there be no doubt that as long as the school remains open, as individuals and Friends of Ysgol Abersoch, we will continue to fully support the staff, parents and children of this wonderful school at the heart of our community."

Abersoch Christmas Weekend To Go Ahead
The organisers of the annual Christmas Weekend in Abersoch have confirmed that an event will take place this year.

Details so far as follows - but will be updated as more information becomes available...

Dates: Friday 26th & Saturday 27th November
- Harbour tree, village tree and shops trees throughout the village
Friday:
- Late night shopping in the village
- 5.15pm: children singing - note this is cancelled
- 6pm Santas Sleigh drive through the village
- 6.30 to 730pm Pwllheli brass band playing in the village
(Other events on Fro eve TBC)

Saturday:
- 11.30am to 3.30pm - Characters in and around the village - Cinderella, Prince Charming & Fairly Godmother.
- 12 noon onwards - Christmas Market at Abersoch farm shop. (Also on Sunday)
- 12 noon onwards - Santa's Grotto at Abersoch farm shop
- 2 to 3pm Pwllheli brass band playing in the village
- 3.30 to 4.30pm - Pwllheli brass band playing at Zinc
- 6pm Santas Sleigh drive through the village

<photo: John Wormald

< click on image for larger version

November 14 2021

Press Release From Ysgol Abersoch Governors

"Gwynedd Council Cabinet’s decision to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 December 2021 delivers a devastating blow to our children, their families, our community and language. Our efforts to keep open the school have been dismissed through rhetoric and it is beyond belief that this decision has been made in the interests of the children. Gwynedd Council, through the Plaid Cymru councillors, are bulldozing ahead their self-interested agenda, the cost of which is borne by our local communities and the Welsh Language. We have been let down by the council time and time again, and find it unbelievable that even in such difficult times, there is no communication forthcoming to us as a school, parents or governors from the Education Department regarding our fragile situation. We are furious."

November 14th 2021
Abersoch RNLI Receives Kind Donation From Parwich Oddfellows

Sue McCann, volunteer Fundraising Chair, received the donation from Parwich Oddfellows (Derbyshire), who raised £570.00 at a recent race night for Abersoch RNLI. Oddfellows member, Richie Maddocks and his son Dougie, who is a junior member, met with Sue at the lifeboat station where they were presented with a Certificate of Thanks on behalf of the RNLI. The Parwich branch have been keen supporters of Abersoch RNLI for many years now as many members have long-standing ties with the area. Due to Covid-19 restrictions the lifeboat station is not yet open for visitors, however ‘tractor mad’ Douglas was promised a guided tour of the lifeboat station as soon as restrictions allowed.

If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit our Just Giving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli. Your donations allow us to continue saving lives at sea

October 15th 2021
Abersoch RNLI Assist Casualty Taken Ill During Family Day Out.

The volunteer crew received a request from UK Coastguard following reports of a male casualty feeling unwell on board a vessel in Porth Ceiriad. The crew were paged at 14.54 and the ‘Peter and Ann Setten’ Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched at 15.08pm and was requested to give initial medical assistance and then subsequent medical extraction. In a calm sea-state and fair weather conditions, on arrival at the scene the male casualty was found lying down in the cabin of a large power boat where he reported feeling clammy and faint. RNLI volunteer helm, Fritz Williams, decided that due to the difficulty moving the casualty, and the fact that he was in a warm comfortable vessel, they would stay on board to give medical assistance whilst the vessel travelled to Pwllheli Marina where extraction directly into an ambulance would be safer and easier. The lifeboat crew followed behind. On arrival at the marina the vessel was met by the UK Coastguard team, paramedics and the Coastguard Search & Rescue 936 helicopter paramedic. The casualty was then transferred to hospital for further examination. The lifeboat then returned to Porth Ceiriad where they assisted the family by escorting their other vessel onto a mooring at Abersoch before returning to the station at 18.10pm where the lifeboat was then thoroughly washed down, refuelled and left ready for service. Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said, ‘The family took the correct action in swiftly requesting help when the skipper reported feeling unwell. The vessel was well equipped with VHF radio, mobile phone and flares and they were therefore able to communicate quickly and efficiently with the UK Coastguard’.

October 01 2021

Consultation On "Strengthening Enforcement Of The Dangerous Use of Recreational & Personal Watercraft"

This is an open consultation. From the UK Gov website:

"Consultation description
Proposes changing legislation to place bring recreational and personal watercraft within scope of the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.

By this change:​

- personal watercraft and other recreational watercraft users will be subject to the same safety obligations, where appropriate, that exist for the operators of ships
- enforcement authorities will have an additional power of prosecution to be used in cases of deliberate or negligent misuse."

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/strengthening-enforcement-of-the-dangerous-use-of-recreational-and-personal-watercraft

October 01 2021

Open Consultation - Local taxes For Second Homes & Self-Catering Accommodation

From the Welsh Gov Website:

"We are consulting on the discretionary powers which allow local authorities to levy a higher rate of council tax on:

- second homes
- long-term empty properties.
We are also asking for views and evidence on the criteria used to define a property as self-catering accommodation for local tax purposes."

Further info here:

https://gov.wales/local-taxes-second-homes-and-self-catering-accommodation

October 01 2021

Abersoch & Llanengan To Merge In Council Boundary Shake Up

Gwynedd Council is set to lose 6 councillors after Welsh government ministers approved recommendations from a bounday commission. The result of this will be for the wards of Abersoch and Llanengan to merge into one new ward. Mynytho and Llanbedrog will also be merged, as well as Aberdaron and Botwnog. This is expected to be in place by the time of the next council elections in May 2022.

More on this from the Daily Post at:
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-lose-six-councillors-boundary-21718876

September 29 2021
Harbour Hotel Site Development To Finally Begin

In some positive news for the local economy and for future employment opportunities, it has been announced today that the site of the former Harbour Hotel, will see building work commence on a new hotel, spa and apartments. The work is expected to commence in Spring 2022. The developers, PGGH, will work with Bespoke Hotels (Grosvenor Hotel Chester), to deliver a £30 million development which will include 42 luxury bedrooms and suites, a restaurant, bar with sea-view terraces, function facilities, gym, spa with swimming pool, treatment rooms and thermal suite - as well 18 apartments.

The Harbour Hotel closed in 2004 and was demolished in 2016. The new Hotel will be called "The Abersoch" and is expected to open during 2023.

The Daily Post have further info at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/30m-abersoch-hotel-development-set-21707429

September 29 2021

School Governors To Appeal To Government After Council's Decision To Close School

The cabinet of Gwynedd Council voted yesterday to confirm the closure of Ysgol Abersoch at the end of this year. Pupils currently at the school will be transferred to a neighbouring school in January 2022.

School governors have vowed to continue the fight against closure, by appealing the decision to the Welsh government.

BBC article here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-58726351

Welsh language article and video here: https://www.bbc.com/cymrufyw/58724717

September 05 2021
Abersoch RNLI Called To Another Paddleboard Incident
The lifeboat crew were paged by UK Coastguard at 16.41pm Wednesday 1st
September 2021 following reports of two paddleboarders in difficulty at Porth
Neigwl. The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, the Peter and Ann Setten, was launched at 16.51pm but was later stood-down after the father of one of the casualties had swam out to assist them.
The volunteer crew continued to the beach at Porth Neigwl to speak to the casualties, two female teenagers, and check that no further assistance was required before returning to the lifeboat station at 17.35pm where the lifeboat was thoroughly washed down, refuelled and left ready for service.
The girls, who were both wearing wetsuits, had no means of calling for help with them and were not wearing lifejackets. Andy Vowell, Lifeboat Operations Manager, said ‘We would always advise wearing a lifejacket whenever heading out onto the water as well as carrying a means of calling for help’. He added, ‘With the sharp increase in the popularity of paddleboarding over the last two summers, and in an area where the beaches do not have the benefit of lifeguards, we have seen a sharp rise in the number of call-outs for the lifeboat.’
If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit their Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli

September 04 2021
Abersoch RNLI Receive Kind Donation From SCYC Mirror Fleet.

South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club recently hosted the annual Mirror Dinghy Week and kindly donated the entry fees to Abersoch RNLI. Due to Covid restrictions the event was unable to take place last year and it was still looking doubtful for this summer. However as restrictions eased the yacht club was able to host a scaled down event and rather than charge competitors the usual entry fee they asked for donations of £10.00 to Abersoch RNLI. They enjoyed some excellent sailing and managed to put on ten races during the course of the week plus a Junior Helm race. Selina Collinson, spokesperson for Mirror Dinghy Week at SCYC said, ‘The Club decided to request a donation to the lifeboat station of £10 per boat per entry.’ She added that ‘the event was organised with just 10 days notice and none of the usual social events - just plain racing’. Phill Brown, Chair Abersoch RNLI, received the generous donation of £240.00 on behalf of the Charity and is pictured here at the yacht club with keen Mirror Week competitors, Tom, Annabelle and Lucas.

August 27 2021
Several Call-outs To Paddleboarders In Difficulty For Abersoch RNLI.

The busy summer season has seen Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew being tasked a number of times to paddleboarders in difficulty in the bay and they are urging people to be mindful of the weather and tide conditions before setting out. Yesterday, 25 August 2021, they were tasked by UK Coastguard at 11.04am to two paddleboarders drifting towards Pen y Cil in Aberdaron bay. One of the casualties had dialled 999 and requested the Coastguard as they were struggling to paddle against the current to get back to the shore. The ‘Peter and Ann Setten’ Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched but was later stood down as a fishing vessel in the area who had come across the pair was able to assist and return them safely to the shore where they were met by the Coastguard mobile unit. On Monday, 23 August 2021, the volunteer crew were paged at 14.13pm following reports of a kayaker and a paddleboarder, again in the area of Aberdaron bay. On this occasion is was a member of the public who called 999 as they were concerned that they had lost sight of the two vessels. The lifeboat was launched shortly after and upon arriving at the scene the crew found that neither were in difficulty and were making good headway towards the beach. Andy Vowell, Lifeboat Operations Manager, said ‘The call was made in good faith but on this occasion all was in order’. He added, ‘If you do suspect someone to be in need of help you should always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard’.

Advice for paddleboarders from the RNLI can be found in the article below...

August 12 2021
Advice For Paddleboarders From The RNLI

Abersoch RNLI have offered some advice due to the increase in call outs for Paddleboarders...

"With an increase not just here in Abersoch, but nationally aswell of RNLI callouts to Paddleboarders heres an important safety message from one of our Abersoch RNLI helms Andy Gunby:
Here at Abersoch we want to make sure your paddleboard experience is one you’ll remember for all the right reasons by taking some steps to stay safe.
- Always wear a suitable floatation device & wear your leash
- Check weather forecast and tide times. If in doubt don’t go out
- Carry a means of calling for help. Take a fully charged in a waterproof pouch
- Go with a friend if possible / tell someone where your going & for how long
- If you get into trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI/

There are some aditional points to the above which we think are also worth pointing out regarding weather and local conditions...

- Check the weather forecast and tide times before you set out. If the water is too choppy, you might find it difficult, especially if you are a beginner (or a youngster) And be aware, the conditions can change quickly. 

- Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore.

- Wear suitable clothing for the time of year.

It appears to be the weather conditions, especially the wind, which has caused most of the local call outs.

More info at:
https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding

<photo from last summer's dramatic rescue of a paddleboarder off Aberdaron.

August 11 2021
Abersoch RNLI Called Out To Struggling Paddleboarders
Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew were paged by UK Coastguard at 11.21am Monday 9 August to following reports of a paddleboarder in difficulty off Abersoch main beach.

The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat was launched at 11.36am and arrived at the scene within minutes and found a further person on an inflatable trying to assist in towing the paddleboarder back to the shore. The crew checked whether any medical assistance was required and remained on scene until the casualties, one adult female and one teenage male, were safely back on the beach. Neither of the casualties were wearing lifejackets.

The volunteer crew then carried out a sweep of the bay and came across five people at Penrhyn Du, 1 adult male, 2 teenagers and 2 children, on paddleboards who were in danger of being swept out to sea in the strong offshore wind. The lifeboat escorted the casualties, who were not wearing lifejackets and had no means of communication, back to the safety of the beach.

The lifeboat returned to the lifeboat station at 12.20pm where it was thoroughly cleaned, refuelled and left ready for service.

Volunteer helm, Andy Gunby, said ‘Here at Abersoch we want to make sure your paddleboard experience is one you will remember for all the right reasons by taking some steps to stay safe, such as wearing a suitable floatation device and leash and always carrying a means of calling for help such as a fully charged mobile phone in a watereproof pouch’. He further advised ‘Check the weather forecast and tides and if you are in any doubt then don’t go out and ensure someone knows you are going out’.

If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit our Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli. Your donations allow us to continue saving lives at sea.

August 09 2021
Further Incidents Over The Weekend
Following on from Friday's tragedy, the Abersoch RNLI lifeboat was tasked to Porth Neigwl to reports of children in difficulty in the water. The call was cancelled, as a member of the public and former qualified beach lifeguard and surf instructor, who was on the beach at the time, was reported to have carried out the rescue. It should be noted, that due to the time it takes the lifeboat to reach Porth Neigwl, it is often too late to be able to offer any useful assistance. (See news item August 3rd 2020).

In other incidents, local auxillary Coastguards assisted an Ambulance crew treating a man with a serious leg injury at Porth Towyn. This was followed by another shout at the mines at Porth Ysgo, where a young woman had fallen approximately 35 feet and sustained serious injuries. She was eventually extracted for evacuation by helimed. Info on the Porth Ysgo incident can be read at: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-58143594

August 09 2021
Tragedy At Porth Neigwl
As reported below, a man in his 40's and in an unresponsive state, was pulled from the water at Porth Neigwl on Friday. Efforts to resuscitate him by the public and by paramedics who were airlifted to the scene, were sadly unsuccessful.

August 09 2021
RNLI Rescue 2 Paddleboarders
The volunteer crew were paged by UK Coastguard following reports of two paddleboarders who appeared to be in difficulty some quarter of a mile off the main slipway. Abersoch RNLI were paged at 14.34pm Friday 6 August 2021 and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched at 14.45pm. With a strong south westerly wind and a choppy sea state the crew quickly located the two casualties. One male and one female, who were had no means of calling for help and were not wearing lifejackets, were safely returned to the main beach where they were handed over to shorebased Coastguard team for assessment. Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said ‘We urge everyone who undertakes waterbased activities to always wear a lifejacket and have a means of communication, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, with them.’ The Atlantic 85 returned to the Abersoch lifeboat station where it was then thoroughly washed down, refuelled and left ready for service.

August 07 2021
Local Emergency Services Respond To Serious Incidents
Emergency services were called to 2 separate incidents on local beaches yesterday. One incident was due to an unresponsive man being pulled from the water at Porth Neigwl. Further information to follow.

July 29 2021

Funnel Cloud Spotted Off Abersoch
A funnel cloud was spotted across the bay off Abersoch on Wednesday, as storms moved across the area.

For those interested in reading more about these features - wikipedia has a good description... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Funnel_cloud

< photo: Liza Hunt

July 28 2021

New Live Streaming Cam For Porth Neigwl
West Coast Surf have upgraded the webcam overlooking Porth Neigwl, with a new live streaming cam. The live image cam be viewed at the West Coast surf report page at:
https://www.westcoastsurf.co.uk/surf-report-and-forecast-3-w.asp

July 28 2021

Royal Mail Stamp Set Include Abersoch Bottlenose Dolphin
Royal Mail have released a set of stamps under the title of "Wild Coasts" and the photo of the bottlenose dolphin was taken off Abersoch by wildlife photographer, Graham Eaton.

Click here for the Royal Mail Wild Coast page, where the stamps can be purchased.

Grahams' website has some stunning photographs and can be viewed at:

https://www.grayeatonimages.co.uk

July 27 2021

Lifeboat Called Out To Drifting Inflatable Off Porth Neigwl
Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew were paged at 5.04pm Sunday 25 July to investigate an unmanned jet ski and then diverted to assist a drifting inflatable.
The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat was launched at 5.15pm and headed out to investigate the jet ski however Pwllheli lifeboat was tasked to take over as Abersoch crew were diverted by HM Coastguard to assist an inflatable drifting off Porth Neigwl.
On arrival at the scene, in a moderate sea state and a northerly wind, they found the inflatable with one person holding on and one in the water trying to assist. Both casualties, who were not wearing lifejackets, were taken on board the lifeboat and assessed by the crew. They were then returned to the shore along with the inflatable and handed over to the care of Aberdaron Coast Guard.
The lifeboat returned to the lifeboat station at 6.30pm where it was thoroughly cleaned, refuelled and left ready for service.
Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said ‘We would always advise that inflatables are best kept for use in the pool and should not be used in the sea’. He added, ‘If you are planning a day out on the water, we always recommend that you wear a lifejacket and have a means of calling for help’.
If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit our Just Giving page
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli.

Your donations allow us to continue saving lives at sea.

July 16 2021
Abersoch & Porthdinllaen RNLI Called Out To Overturned Dinghy.

Both RNLI volunteer crews were paged by UK Coastguard following reports of three people in the water after their dinghy had capsized off Ynys Enlli.

Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew were paged at 11.33am Thursday 15 July and the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, the Peter & Ann Setton, was launched at 11.40am and headed towards Ynys Enlli in a moderate sea state with a strong offshore northerly wind. The all weather lifeboat from Porthdinllaen was also launched at 11.38am.

The inshore lifeboat arrived at the scene at 12.05pm where the Coastguard helicopter had successfully airlifted the three adult male casualties, who were in the water, to safety. The inshore lifeboat crew assessed the situation and then safely towed the overturned vessel, a 3m Tobin Sport dinghy with a 15hp outboard engine, to Aberdaron main beach where the casualties remained in the care of the shorebased Coastguard team. The all weather lifeboat from Porthdinllaen was then stood-down and returned to the lifeboat station.

The Atlantic 85 returned to the Abersoch lifeboat station at 13.30pm where it was then thoroughly washed down, refuelled and left ready for service.

July 15 2021
Update On Abersoch Regatta Events
Events that will be going ahead this coming August 2021:
11/08/2021 Open Golf Competition. Abersoch Golf Club. Tel: 01758 712622
14/08/2021 Sailing Regatta. 10.00am Abersoch S.C.Y.C Tel: 01758 712338 Click following link for Entry Form & More https://www.abersochregatta.co.uk/regatta-entry-form
14/08/2021 Best Dressed Vessel (Boat, Sailing Yacht)
14/08/2021 Best Dressed Beach Hut. Judging starts @ 14.00pm Traeth Abersoch Main Beach.
17/08/2021 Surf Competition ????? Will update asap
At the moment the Yacht Club and the Golf Club Bar is open to members only due to Covid-19 Rules, to reduce the numbers of people in the Bars. This rule looks as if it may change after the 07/08/2021 in which case the Abersoch S.C.Y.C & Abersoch Golf Club may open their Bars to the general public on Abersoch Regatta Day.
Info from the regatta Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/abersochregatta

July 15 2021
Llanbedrog Boat Jumble - Sunday 22nd August
A new event for the area will take place across the road from the Llanbedrog petrol station in August.

Second hand boats, small craft, wetsuits, life-jackets, engines, fenders and much more. Grab yourself a bargain at the first ever Llanbedrog Boat Jumble in support of RNLI Abersoch and RNLI Pwllheli.

Admission (on the door, all proceeds to RNLI):
Adults - £2` / Children - Free / Parking - Free

For further info and info on trading pitches, see the Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/events/169026515211491

Updated July 09 2021
Pfizer Vaccine Clinic Saturday 10th July On Pen Llŷn
There will be a Pfizer vaccine clinic in Nefyn on Saturday for the young people of Llŷn!

Are you aged 18-39 and want the best protection for you and your community?

If so, turn up at Tŷ Doctor Surgery, Nefyn this Saturday between 8am-1pm and you’ll get:

1st dose

or... 2nd dose if 8 weeks has passed since first dose.

July 08 2021
Well Done To Abersoch RNLI Fundraiser Louise!
RNLI volunteer fundraiser, Louise Baldwin, took part in the super challenging Pen Llyn Ultra-Marathon on Saturday, 3 July.

After many months of training Louise finally took to the roads and beaches of Pen Llyn to complete the brutal 50 mile run all in aid of raising vital funds for Abersoch RNLI.

Louise,who has been a volunteer at the Lifeboat Station for many years, decided that she was no longer ‘content with running around the block’ and set herself a new challenge to raise vital funds for the Charity that took her completely out of her comfort zone. And what a challenge that was!

With a mixture of rain, sunshine and wind Louise battled on throughout the day on Saturday with a mix of many emotions along the way and completed her 50 miles in spite of the pain of burning blisters and moments of self-doubt.

When asked about her best and worst moments of the day she had this to say, ‘It took lots of digging deep to stay in the Ultra yesterday. I developed blisters quite early on with soaked trail shoes’, and added ‘It was tough and lonely at times, when faster runners had gone ahead’.

Despite the toughness of the challenge there were some ‘best bits’ too for Louise, in addition to the welcoming mug of the ‘best tasting hot chocolate ever’, she said ‘There was fantastic organisation, volunteers and marshalling all the way round, together with great support from the local community’ and the very best bit, she told us, was a surprise visit from her grandson, Charlie, who secretly surprised her at Pentre-Uchaf with around 8/9 miles still to go with extremely blistered and sore feet.

Abersoch RNLI fundraising chair, Sue McCann, said ‘We are so grateful to Louise for her amazing effort and commitment to raise much needed funds for the Lifeboat Station’ and she added ‘What a challenge to take on, we wonder what will be next?’.

You can still show your support to Louise by visiting her Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rnliabersoch-ultramarathon

Photo Credit: RNLI/James Baldwin

Updated June 30 2021
Challenging Times For Abersoch Hospitality Businesses
The covid situation and the chronic shortage of staff this season is continuing to bring some very challenging circumstances for the cafes, bars and restaurants in the Abersoch area. Recent closures due to covid include the Zinc restaurant and also The Vaynol. Some of the closed businesses have re-opened or should start to re-open over the coming days, however, the Vaynol have posted on Facebook that they will be closed until the 9th July. The businesses that have remained open are reporting a deluge of enquiries, with some reports of abuse from some customers who have had tables cancelled from establishments which have closed.

Updates to the closures and re-openings wil be posted on out twitter feed.

Unfortunately, the Daily Post is reporting that the newly opened Abersoch Apres Sea bar, which is on the site of the old Palm Cafe and Indian, has been issued a closure notice by the local council, which means it will be shut for 14 days from the 25th June. The Daily Post report relating to this closure can be found at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-cafe-ordered-shut-two-20929925

Updated June 23 2021
Abersoch Regatta Events Mostly Cancelled
The village run Abersoch Regatta events have been motly cancelled again this year, with only the sailing and golf events set to take place. This means those looking forward to events such as the annual raft race, paddle board race, sand castle competitions, best dressed beach hut and crab catching, will have to wait another year. The cancellation come amidst the continuing covid situation and the uncertainties regarding holding events on areas which are managed by the local council..

June 21 2021

Lifeboat Called Out To Rescue Underpowered Inflatable

Another call out for the volunteer lifeboat crew...

The volunteer crew were paged at 2.09pm Friday 18 June after reports were received by HM Coastguard of a small rib drifting out of sight.

The Peter and Ann Setten Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched at 2.20pm. On arrival at the scene the small inflatable, which had a 2HP outboard fitted and two people on board, was found on Warren beach, east of Llanbedrog headland.

The small vessel had departed from Pwllheli and was unable to make any headway on it’s return due to the wind strength, choppy sea state and moderate swell. The casualties, one adult male and one teenage male, were wearing wet suits and also carrying a mobile phone. No lifejackets were on board.

HM Coastguard mobile unit dealt with the casualties ashore.

Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said, ‘It is essential that you always check the weather conditions and tide times before heading out and ensure that your vessel is suitable for the conditions’. He also added that, ‘Lifejackets should be worn at all times’.

Updated June 20 2021
Covid Temporarily Closes Abersoch Businesses
Several businesses in Abersoch voluntarily closed for deep cleaning this week, due to a positive covid test by a staff member and associated concerns. Those involved included The Vaynol and The Little Tea Rooms, which have since re-opened. Kin and Co and the new Abersoch Apres Sea have closed their doors for longer and will reopen on the 28th June (Apres Sea) and 29th June (Kin and Co).

June 17 2021

Gwynedd Council Confirm Closure Of Ysgol Abersoch

Latest statement from Ysgol Abersoch School Governors (16th June 2020)...

"The decision by Gwynedd Council Cabinet to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 December 2021 is a devastating blow to our children, their families, our community and language.

The Cabinet has stated that this decision is based on providing the best educational experience. In Gwynedd Council’s opinion this appears to be met through larger class sizes, which still contain mixed year groups, as well as closing a school in the middle of a school year.

The Council’s approach and its responses to our researched, considered proposals, including each and every letter of community support we received, confirms our belief that the decision to close Ysgol Abersoch was made from day one.

We have battled to keep the excellent educational resource that is Ysgol Abersoch open for our future generations, effectively introducing ways to increase pupil numbers and inspire new ways of learning throughour Beach School, an initiative that did not even warrant a single mention during the decision meeting.

Yet an Education Department that terms itself “Modernising Education” has chosen to disregard the innovation that we put in place, instead selectively applying policy that serves only to suits its own needs.

The report contains questionable pupil number projections and fails to address why a neighbouring school has been allowed to go over capacity to the detriment of other schools, nor does it consider the potential demographic changes to come due to Covid as well as new housing policies.

The whole process is heavily skewed in favour of the Council and it seems clear to us that the Statutory Consultation process has been purely a tick box exercise to fulfil the Welsh Government school closure policy criteria. Little questioning or challenge to the content of the report was made despite the response in the Consultation identifying weak statements and opinion being presented as facts.

We will continue to object to the proposal to close Ysgol Abersoch, and thank everyone for their ongoing support.

"Mae penderfyniad Cabinet Cyngor Gwynedd i gau Ysgol Abersoch ar Ragfyr 31ain, 2021 yn ergyd enbyd i'n plant, eu teuluoedd, ein cymuned a'n hiaith.

Nododd y Cabinet y seiliwyd y penderfyniad hwn ar ddarparu'r profiad addysgol gorau. Ceir hwn, ym marn Cyngor Gwynedd, mewn dosbarthiadau mwy o faint, sy’n dal i gynnwys grwpiau blynyddoedd cymysg, ynghyd â chau ysgol yng nghanol blwyddyn ysgol.

Mae dull y Cyngor, a'i ymatebion i'n cynigion ymchwiliedig, ystyriol, gan gynnwys pob llythyr o gefnogaeth gymunedol a dderbyniwyd, yn cadarnhau ein cred y penderfynwyd cau Ysgol Abersoch cyn dechrau’r Ymgynghoriad.

Rydym wedi brwydro i gadw'r adnodd addysgol rhagorol sy'n Ysgol Abersoch ar agor ar gyfer cenedlaethau'r dyfodol, gan gyflwyno ffyrdd o gynyddu nifer y disgyblion ac ysbrydoli dull arloesol newydd o ddysgu trwy ein Hysgol Draeth, menter nad oedd hyd yn oed yn gwarantu ei grybwyll yn ystod cyfarfod y Cabinet.

Ond eto, dewisodd yr Adran Addysg, sy'n galw ei hun yn “Moderneiddio Addysg”, ddiystyru'r arloesedd a roddwyd ar waith gennym, gan ddefnyddio polisi yn ddetholus sy'n diwallu ei anghenion ei hun yn unig.

Cynhwysir amcanestyniadau dadleuol yn yr adroddiad, ynghyd â methu â mynd i'r afael â pham y caniatawyd i ysgol gyfagos fynd dros gapasiti, er anfantais i ysgolion eraill. Nid yw, ychwaith, yn ystyried y newidiadau demograffig posibl i ddod oherwydd Covid, yn ogystal â pholisïau tai newydd.

Mae'r broses gyfan wedi'i gwyro'n drwm o blaid y Cyngor ac mae'n hollol glir i ni mai proses ymarfer ticio blychau yn unig fu’r Ymgynghori Statudol i gyflawni meini prawf polisi cau ysgolion Llywodraeth Cymru. Ni ofynnwyd cwestiynau na herio cynnwys yr adroddiad er gwaethaf bod yr ymateb i’r Ymgynghoriad wedi adnabod y cyflwynid datganiadau wan a barn fel ffeithiau.

Byddwn yn parhau i wrthwynebu'r cynnig o gau Ysgol Abersoch, a diolch i bawb am eu cefnogaeth barhaus."

June 10 2021

Update On The Campaign To Save Ysgol Abersoch / Abersoch School

Statement by the Board of Governors Ysgol Abersoch 10 June 2021...

"We are highly disappointed with the recommendations put forward by the Education Department to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 December 2021. Despite a strong campaign and an outstanding response from our community, our regeneration proposals have been disregarded and our questions challenging the Council’s approach left unanswered. Gwynedd Council’s position that the decision is based on providing the best educational experience for the children is unfounded as evidenced in their pursuit to close Ysgol Abersoch mid-school year. The Council has pledged that the housing crisis in Gwynedd and resultant threat to local communities as a result of second homes is one of its main priorities yet it is pushing through a school closure agenda. We urge the Cabinet to take a wider viewpoint and keep Ysgol Abersoch open for future generations to ensure the survival of our language and culture."

Mae penderfyniad Cabinet Cyngor Gwynedd i gau Ysgol Abersoch ar Ragfyr 31ain, 2021 yn ergyd enbyd i'n plant, eu teuluoedd, ein cymuned a'n hiaith.

Nododd y Cabinet y seiliwyd y penderfyniad hwn ar ddarparu'r profiad addysgol gorau. Ceir hwn, ym marn Cyngor Gwynedd, mewn dosbarthiadau mwy o faint, sy’n dal i gynnwys grwpiau blynyddoedd cymysg, ynghyd â chau ysgol yng nghanol blwyddyn ysgol.

Mae dull y Cyngor, a'i ymatebion i'n cynigion ymchwiliedig, ystyriol, gan gynnwys pob llythyr o gefnogaeth gymunedol a dderbyniwyd, yn cadarnhau ein cred y penderfynwyd cau Ysgol Abersoch cyn dechrau’r Ymgynghoriad.

Rydym wedi brwydro i gadw'r adnodd addysgol rhagorol sy'n Ysgol Abersoch ar agor ar gyfer cenedlaethau'r dyfodol, gan gyflwyno ffyrdd o gynyddu nifer y disgyblion ac ysbrydoli dull arloesol newydd o ddysgu trwy ein Hysgol Draeth, menter nad oedd hyd yn oed yn gwarantu ei grybwyll yn ystod cyfarfod y Cabinet.

Ond eto, dewisodd yr Adran Addysg, sy'n galw ei hun yn “Moderneiddio Addysg”, ddiystyru'r arloesedd a roddwyd ar waith gennym, gan ddefnyddio polisi yn ddetholus sy'n diwallu ei anghenion ei hun yn unig.

Cynhwysir amcanestyniadau dadleuol yn yr adroddiad, ynghyd â methu â mynd i'r afael â pham y caniatawyd i ysgol gyfagos fynd dros gapasiti, er anfantais i ysgolion eraill. Nid yw, ychwaith, yn ystyried y newidiadau demograffig posibl i ddod oherwydd Covid, yn ogystal â pholisïau tai newydd.

Mae'r broses gyfan wedi'i gwyro'n drwm o blaid y Cyngor ac mae'n hollol glir i ni mai proses ymarfer ticio blychau yn unig fu’r Ymgynghori Statudol i gyflawni meini prawf polisi cau ysgolion Llywodraeth Cymru. Ni ofynnwyd cwestiynau na herio cynnwys yr adroddiad er gwaethaf bod yr ymateb i’r Ymgynghoriad wedi adnabod y cyflwynid datganiadau wan a barn fel ffeithiau.

Byddwn yn parhau i wrthwynebu'r cynnig o gau Ysgol Abersoch, a diolch i bawb am eu cefnogaeth barhaus.

May 28 2021

Lifeboat Rescues 3 From Sailing Dinghy

The volunteer crew at Abersoch RNLI were paged by HM Coastguard on Wednesday (26 May) at 13.02pm following reports of people in difficulty in a small sailing dinghy.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched at 13.16pm and headed out towards St. Tudwal’s Islands. The vessel, with three adults on board, had got into difficulty following a change in weather conditions and was struggling to return to the beach.

The lifeboat arrived on scene at 13.21pm and the three casualties were taken aboard. A tow was established to return the dinghy to the main beach.

Two of the three casualties were equipped with lifejackets and also carried a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.

Andy Vowell, Lifeboat Operations Manager, said ‘Weather conditions can change quickly and anyone heading out on the water should ensure they are adequately prepared’.

The lifeboat returned to the station at 14.05 where it was thoroughly cleaned down, refuelled and left ready for service.

May 18 2021

Three Nuns to Three Runners & Over £60,000 Raised For Abersoch RNLI.

Peadar O’Reilly, Jon Raven and Tom Cropper completed the gruelling 4x4x48 Challenge on Saturday (15 May) and smashed their 50k fundraising target.

The three friends, who have previously appeared as three nuns for the black and white themed Abersoch RNLI New Year’s Day dip, have trained hard for this event all year. With the dip being cancelled due to Covid restrictions and being inspired by the fundraising efforts of their children over the years, Jon, fondly referred to as ‘the Skipper’ enlisted Peadar and Tom bright and early on New Year’s Day morning via a WhatsApp message and ‘Team Challenge’ was born.

Inspired by ex-Navy Seal and ultrarunning guru David Goggins, the 4x4x48 Challenge is said to be one of most gruelling running challenges in the world and Jon, Peadar and Tom set themselves on initial target of £10,000 which then grew to £50,000 following their hard work securing donations but on Saturday as they crossed the finish line their exhaustion was quickly replaced with beaming smiles as they learned the donations had shot up to £60,000 and is still growing.

Andy Gunby, Abersoch RNLI Helm, joined the team on Saturday morning to offer his support with a socially distanced four mile run.

Sarah Leather, Abersoch RNLI Press Officer, chatted to them about their most memorable moments and Team Challenge said, ‘The final run coming along the beach and seeing friends and family gathered and the lifeboat out on the sand made us pick up speed on the home straight and running with our families on run #11 was brilliant, all the children and wives involved and even Andy from the RNLI crew, was a really great surprise’.

They added that their worst moments were ‘The alarm clock ringing at 1.45am to get us up for the 2.00am runs was never a pleasant experience and the 6.00am run on day two was pretty unpleasant as the rain was hammering down’.

Phill Brown, Abersoch RNLI Chair, said, ‘We are overwhelmed and of course delighted with the significant sum raised by Peadar, Jon and Tom’. He added, ‘Their hard work and commitment has been truly exceptional and it’s a huge thank you from all of us at Abersoch RNLI’.

Sue McCann, who is Chair of the fundraising committee, was there to present the lads with their well deserved medals and commented, ‘Due to the Covid pandemic all our fundraising activities were cancelled last year and also this year too, which has had a significant impact on the local lifeboat station. The effort made by these three friends in raising such a huge amount of money for us truly is exceptional and very much appreciated’.

Catherine Tudor Jones, RNLI Community Manager for North and Mid Wales, has also been involved in supporting the event and she passed on this message this morning, ‘Massive congratulations to the three of you on the twelve runs and your fundraising efforts. It’s clear that people have really become inspired by your challenge.

We are overwhelmed seeing the money rolling in to support such a crazy running challenge and your support for Abersoch Lifeboat Station is very much appreciated’.

You can still show your support for this epic event by following the link and making a donation at:

https://praetura.enthuse.com/pf/team-challenge.

May 07 2021

4 x 4 x 48 Challenge To Raise Funds For Abersoch RNLI

Next week (13/15 May) Peadar O’Reilly, Jon Raven and Tom Cropper will run 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours, come rain or shine, starting and finishing at The Warren, Abersoch all in support of Abersoch Lifeboat Station.

The three friends, who all have close ties with Abersoch built over many years, have been training hard all year after Jon, fondly referred to as ‘the Skipper’ enlisted Peadar and Tom bright and early on New Year’s Day morning via a WhatsApp message and ‘Team Challenge’ was born.

Inspired by ex-Navy Seal and ultrarunning guru David Goggins, the 4x4x48 Challenge is a gruelling running challenge and with an equally challenging fundraising target of £50,000.00, Team Challenge need your support.

Congratulations are already in order as the team have raised nearly £30,000.00 of their target and they will continue to be busy fundraising as well as training this coming week as they work towards their final goal.

They plan to start 6.00pm Thursday evening (13 May) from the Warren beach and some 44 hours later, their final run is scheduled for 2.00pm Saturday (15 May), starting and finishing at the Sandbar when they hope to have one of two of their younger Team Challenge members join them for their last 4 miles stretch.

Phill Brown, Abersoch RNLI Chair, said, ‘We are delighted to hear that Peadar, Jon and Tom want to support Abersoch RNLI and truly admire their grit and determination in taking on such a tough challenge’. He added, ‘Due to the Covid pandemic all our local fundraising acitivites came to an abrupt halt in 2020 and this has had a significant impact on the our local lifeboat station and the RNLI in general’.

You can show your support for the team by following the link and making a donation at: https://praetura.enthuse.com/pf/team-challenge.

Updated May 05 2021
Abersoch Dinghy Week Cancelled
Abersoch Dinghy Week, which is normally held towards the end of July each year, has been cancelled for the second year running. The organisers posted a statement on their Facebook page, which states...

"We have spent the last five weeks trying to get to a position where we would be able to open up ADW Lite 2021 for entries. I’m afraid that during this period it has been very much a case of two steps forward and one step back (or in some cases three steps back).

We are grateful to RYA Cymru Wales, the members of the Abersoch Community Council and to our Local Elected Members for their support in trying to find a way to make the event happen. However, Gwynedd Council (whose permission is required because the event requires access to land owned / managed by the Council) have expressed “grave concerns” in relation to the use by competitors of Abersoch main beach and the Lon Golff slip, as they expect the end of July to be an exceptionally busy period. They have concerns regarding the storage of boats and launching trolleys on the beach, and the impact that storage requirements would have in terms of a reduction in the area of the beach which would be available for public use. They have concerns in relation to the safety of beach users, and adherence to Covid guidance and regulations. They predict record numbers of visitors, and as such they are not encouraging activities which are likely to result in additional pressures on local infrastructure.

We have engaged extensively with representatives of Gwynedd Council, and have spent a great deal of time and effort in producing policies and risk assessments which we had hoped would enable them to give the event their support. Unfortunately we have not been able to reach a position where Gwynedd Council are comfortable in giving us permission to proceed, and we see little prospect of doing so any time soon. Those who have studied the Welsh Covid guidance and regulations will understand that there are some material differences from the English equivalents. In many respects the Welsh regime is significantly more restrictive than the English one, and unlike England there is no “roadmap” for Wales.

We have reached the point at which we must make a decision. Reluctantly, therefore, we have decided that we cannot hold the event. We know this will come as a disappointment, but we can assure you that we have given it our best shot.

We must all hope that the summer of 2022 looks rather different, and that we can return to business as usual.”

April 29 2021

Abersoch RNLI & Pwllheli RNLI In Man Overboard Rescue

Abersoch RNLI & Pwllheli RNLI lifeboats were called-out on the afternoon of Tuesday 27th April, following the report of a person in the water at Carreg y Defaid, between Llanbedrog headland and Pwllheli. Both the Abersoch RNLI Atlantic 85 and Pwllheli RNLI D-class lifeboats were launched.

On arrival at the scene one of the two casualties had managed to right the capsized 21 foot sailing boat, which had been hit by a squall, and both he and the pet dog were safely back on board. The second casualty had drifted towards the headland and was standing on a sandbank chest deep in water. Due to the limited depth of the water the crew of the D-class lifeboat retrieved the casualty from the sandbank and returned him to Pwllheli Marina where he was handed over to the waiting ambulance crew.

The crew of the Abersoch RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat then escorted the vessel back to Pwllheli where the D-class lifeboat met them at the harbour entrance and continued with the escort to the safety of the marina where the second casualty was also checked over by paramedics. Both casualties were treated for cold water shock. They, and the pet dog, sustained no injuries.

The sailing boat was equipped with appropriate safety equipment and both casualties were wearing lifejackets.

An RNLI spokesperson said, ‘This was excellent teamwork by the crews of both lifeboat stations in co-ordinating the safe rescue of the two gentlemen’.

If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit their Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli. Your donations allow them to continue saving lives at sea.

Updated April 24 2021
Latest Timetable As Restrictions Ease In Wales
The Welsh government has announced some changes to its roadmap, if cases remain low, with the 17th May now a key date for the reopening of indoor hospitality and all tourist accommodation.

Saturday, 24 April:

- 6 people from 6 households can meet up outdoors
Monday, 26 April:

- Outdoor hospitality, including cafes, pubs and restaurants
- Outdoor attractions, including funfairs and theme parks

- Organised outdoor activities foup to 30 people

- Outdoor wedding receptions attended by no more than 30 people
Monday, 3 May:
- Extended households can reform and meet indoors

- Gyms, leisure centres and fitness facilities can reopen.

- Organised indoor activities for adults, limited to a maximum of 15 people. This includes exercise classes and swimming lessons.

- Children's indoor activities
- Community centres can reopen
Monday, 17 May:
- Indoor hospitality such as pubs, cafes and restaurants can reopen

- All tourist accommodation can reopen

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

The BBC has a report today here...

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-56844189

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations in Wales- visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

April 19 2021

New Slipway Under Construction On St. Tudwal's West Island

A new slipway is under construction on St. Tudwal's West Island, which is owned by Bear Grylls. The Gwynedd Council maritime department have issued a notice to mariners regarding the works...

"CONSTRUCTION WORKS ST TUDWALS ISLAND WEST 52- 48.012'N 004-28.62' W Location: Details: Works on the construction of a new slipway on the privately owned St Tudwals Island West are due to commence on the 6th April 2021, with an anticipated completion date around the middle of July 2021. The slipway is to be constructed at the Northern point of the island at the position indicated. The presence of vessel traffic involved in the project around the construction site and additionally between the Island and the Harbour of Pwllheli will be increased during the period of construction. The slipway will extend a distance of 42 metres into the sea, from an existing landing stage which is to be raised by a metre. The works to install the slipway will involve rock excavation and the use of a jack-up' barge mobilised with a crawler crane to move materials into position. Once completed the seaward extremity of the slipway will be marked by a lit yellow special mark flashing a yellow light every 2.5 seconds. All works and vessels involved in the operation will be lit from sunset to sunrise in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. Mariners are advised to keep well clear of the construction area and exercise extreme caution when navigating between St Tudwals Island West and Pwllheli Harbour."

< photo: John Wormald

April 12 2021

Second Shout In 7 days For Abersoch RNLI

Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew were paged at 1.47pm on Saturday 10th April, to assist a motor cruiser with engine failure.

The 16 foot Quicksilver motor cruiser contacted UK Coastguard for assistance after experiencing engine failure. The vessel broke down south east of St Tudwal’s Island East with one person on board.

With a keen northerly wind and a moderate sea state the lifeboat crew towed the vessel back to Pwllheli Marina and then returned to the RNLI lifeboat station at 3.50pm where the lifeboat was thoroughly cleaned, refuelled and left ready for service.

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said ‘It is essential to ensure boat engines are regularly serviced and maintained to reduce the risk of problems’. He added ‘It is advisable to consider having a smaller auxiliary engine on board which can be used in the event of main engine failure’.

If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit their Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli. Your donations allow them to continue saving lives at sea.

April 04 2021

Abersoch RNLI First Call-Out Of The Season

The volunteer crew at Abersoch RNLI were paged at 2.38pm on April 2nd, to assist a broken down rib.

The rib experienced engine failure between St. Tudwal's West and Cilan Headland and the Coastguard was contacted. There were 4 people on board, all wearing lifejackets and carrying a means of calling for help.

The lifeboat crew towed the vessel back to it’s marina berth in Pwllheli and returned to the lifeboat station at 4.25pm. The lifeboat was thoroughly cleaned, refuelled and left ready for service.

Andy Vowell, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat, says: ‘It is vital that people always have a means of calling for help as unfortunately engine failure can occur. People should always ensure boat engines are regularly serviced and maintained to reduce the risk of problems’.

If you wish to make a donation to Abersoch Lifeboat please visit their Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abersoch-rnli. Your donations allow them to continue saving lives at sea.

Updated April 01 2021
Travel From Rest Of UK To Re-Start On 12th April
The Welsh government has announced that travel into Wales from the rest of the UK can re-start from the 12th April. Hospitality could open outdoors from the 26th April, though the date for the re-opening of indoor hospitality is yet to be announced, with speculation that it could re-open before the bank holiday at the end of May (including serviced accomodation such as hotels).

If cases remain low, then the dates are as follows...

Monday, 12 April:

- Travel in and out of Wales from the rest of the UK
- All remaining non-essential retail and close contact services, like beauty salons, allowed to reopen
Monday, 26 April:

- Outdoor hospitality, including cafes, pubs and restaurants
- Outdoor attractions, including funfairs and theme parks
Monday, 3 May:

- Organised outdoor activities for up to 30 people
- Outdoor wedding receptions attended by no more than 30 people
Monday, 10 May

- People will be allowed to form extended households again, allowing two households to meet and have contact indoors
- Gyms, leisure centres and fitness facilities can reopen. Individual and one-to-one training will be allowed, but not exercise classes
Monday, 17 May:

- Children's indoor activities
- Community centres
- Organised indoor activities for adults, limited to a maximum of 15 people. This includes exercise classes

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

The BBC has a report today here...

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-56594315

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations in Wales- visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

March 27 2021

Update On The Campaign To Save Ysgol Abersoch / Abersoch School

Message from the school governors...

"We are delighted to understand that over 150 responses to the Statutory Consultation were sent in. The Education Department were due to publish their report during April ahead of a Cabinet decision being made in May, but this process has been delayed as a result of the upcoming Welsh Assembly elections. Given the large number of responses that were received, and since each response requires consideration and addressing, we believe that this may also be a contributing factor.

The delay puts into question the proposed date for the closure of the school, since it seems unlikely the new timetable will allow completion of the whole process before the beginning of the new school year.

We are waiting to hear when the Cabinet will be meeting to decide the outcome, but if the decision is not in our favour, there is a 28 day objection period, as well as the opportunity to refer any decision to the Welsh Ministers.
So as you can see the situation still remains far from certain one way or the other!

We have requested clarity on the implications of the delayed timetable, and will let you know any developments in due course.

See extract from the Modernising Education email below:

"As is known, between 12 January 2021 and 23 February 2021, a statutory consultation period was held on the proposal to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 August 2021, and offer pupils a place at Ysgol Sarn Bach from 1 September 2021.
As a next step, in accordance with the requirements of the School Organisation Code 011/2018, a report on the consultation responses will be submitted to the Cabinet, and the Cabinet will discuss the report and decide whether or not to proceed with the proposal.
Due to the Election Period rules, it will not be possible to submit a report to Gwynedd Council's Cabinet on Ysgol Abersoch's consultation between 22 March 2021 when the official election notice is issued, and the election day on 6 May 2021. As a result, the outline timetable set out in the consultation document has been modified, with a view of presenting the report to the Cabinet during May 2021, as soon as possible after the Election Period ends, and the report will be published on the Council’s website in advance of the meeting, in accordance with the usual timetable.”

Updated March 26 2021
Stay Local Restrictions End Tomorrow - Saturday 27th March.
Unrestricted travel within the borders of Wales will be allowed from tomorrow (Saturday 27th March), with self contained tourist accommodation also able to re-open. As travel to Wales from other UK nations is not allowed until the 12th April, at the moment, only those in Wales will be able to use the tourist accommodation. Non-essentail retail should re-open on the 12th April. The decision on when pubs, cafes and restaurants will be allowed to re-open, is due to be taken on the 22nd April.

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations in Wales- visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

Updated March 12 2021
Self Contained Accommodation To Re-Open
The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, is today setting out the Welsh Government's plans for the lifting of restrictions in Wales. This morning, it looks as though self contained accommodation will be allowed to re-open from the 29th March (note this is now 27th), but current restrictions in England would mean that people from there would not be able visit, so only those in Wales would be able to use caravans, second homes and holiday rentals. Most non-essential shops will remain closed until 12th April.

More details can be found on the BBC news website at:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-56363367

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations in Wales- visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

March 06 2021

Council Confirms Doubling Of Council Tax For Holiday Homes

As expected, a meeting of the full council voted this week to double the rate of council tax on holiday homes and empty properties across Gwynedd. The vote was 38 to 16, despite a public consultation which found that 55% of respondents said that second homes brought "positive benefits." However, the consultation also found that the majority of local respondents were concerned about their impact. The Daily Post has an article on the vote and the issue.

The article can be read at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-council-decides-double-council-19969848

February 23 2021

Second Home Council Tax Rise Appears A Foregone Conclusion

A report in the Daily Post suggests that Gwynedd Council are set to go ahead with another rise in council tax on second homes, due to the housing crisis in the county. This will result in second homes seeing the premium rise from an additional 50% to 100%, ie double the rate of other houses.

The consultation process launched by the council (see news item Dec below, which was pinned to the top of this news page for some time) - saw a majority suggesting that second homes brought positive benefits to local communities. The Daily Post reports, "But with most respondents being second home owners themselves (58.6%) and locals generally against holiday homes, cabinet members concluded that the consultation was “not a referendum” and pressed on with increasing the premium to the maximum currently allowed by the Welsh Government."

The article can be read at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/second-home-owners-complain-theyre-19873079

Updated February 20 2021
The Path Out Of Lockdown
The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, yesterday announced details of the potential path out of lockdown in Wales. In terms of the tourism industry, the Easter period is the target date for re-opening businesses, with a focus on self-contained accommodation and tourism attractions with social distancing. The next review of restrictions will be on March 12th.

The BBC have a news article here:

www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-56111548

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations in Wales- visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

January 22 2021

Letter From Ysgol Abersoch - Help Save The School

Dear Friend

We are writing to ask for your support for our unique village school, Ysgol Abersoch.
The future of the school is under review by Gwynedd Council, who, on the 12th January commenced a Statutory Consultation on the proposal to close Ysgol Abersoch on the 31st August 2021.
The Council are ploughing ahead with the consultation despite the Covid 19 restrictions and Lockdown which mean that all the County’s schools are currently closed.

As society reels from the effects of the pandemic, the Council’s review process poses a serious threat to the school’s survival, and casts an additional shadow over initiatives underway to encourage an increase in pupil numbers, such as:
- Cylch Meithrin Abersoch, early years childcare, in a dedicated room in the school
- Cylch Ti&Fi, parent and toddler group, weekly social event also in the school
- Registration as a “Beach School” akin to a "Forest School”

It is clearly extremely difficult under these extraordinary circumstances for any kind of coordinated community challenge to be organised as a response to the threat to this dearly loved school in the heart of Abersoch.

However, we are determined to fight this proposal, which, if confirmed, would deliver a devastating blow to our community, especially in terms of the survival of the Welsh language and culture...

click here to read the full letter, where there is a link to the online petition to save the school and where you can also take part in the consultation...

Updated January 15 2021
Abersoch RNLI Rescue On Saving Lives At Sea

The Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat team were on the BBC "Saving Lives At Sea" series yesterday evening, following the rescue of a young paddleboarder off Aberdaron back in the summer. The dramatic account of the rescue, including footage from the crew cams, highlights the professionalism of all involved, which undoubtedly saved a young man's life. It should be remembered, that the lifeboat crew, including the shore and management team, are all volunteers, who give up countless hours of their own time in order to train and have the ability to carry out rescues such as this one. Well done all!

If you have not seen the episode - catch up with it as soon as you can on BBC I Player.

Updated January 15 2021
Good News From Llanbedrog
Llanbedrog pharmacy will become the first in Wales to bring vaccines for Covid into the Pen Llyn community. 50 people are expected to be vaccinated today. Read more at the BBC article on this at:

Covid vaccine: Gwynedd pharmacy 'first in Wales to offer jab'

January 14 2021

Ysgol Abersoch Closure Consultation Extended

The BBC are reporting today that the time to object to the proposed closure of Ysgol Abersoch (Abersoch School), has been extended by a week. However, some feel that this extension does not go far enough.

The BBC reports that, "The original consultation was launched on January 5 to run until February 16, but has been extended to February 23.

Campaigners who fear closure will threaten the Welsh-speaking nature of the village claim the original deadline did not allow enough time to respond.

A Gwynedd Council spokesman said last week the authority was "confident" the process was being conducted according to a code covering consultation on rural school closures, particularly amendments announced in July in response to the pandemic."

"However, Welsh language campaigners from Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg are still unhappy.

"It's completely unfair to consult on the future of schools such as Abersoch while schools are closed as a result of a health crisis," said chairwoman Mabli Siriol.

"This is an additional concern and burden on parents, governors and the children themselves.

"The odds are stacked against these village communities, and we call on everyone to support them."

The BBC article can be found by clicking here.

Updated January 08 2021
Abersoch RNLI bid a fond farewell by Zoom to long serving RNLI volunteer.

In keeping with much of the last 12 months, Abersoch RNLI turned to technology to celebrate Steve Fox’s retirement. Steve, more fondly known as Foxy, first joined the volunteer crew at Abersoch RNILI in 1988 following his move to the area from the Wirral. He started as a crew member and after completing his training in Cowes he became a helmsman on the station’s Atlantic 21 lifeboat ‘Wolverhampton’ and later the ‘Borough of Solihull’, also an Atlantic 21. At that time the RNLI retirement age was just 45 and Steve soon realised retirement wasn’t for him! After a chat over coffee with Abersoch RNLI volunteer Phill Brown, who is now Chairman, Steve decided to put the time on his hands to good use and he continued with his volunteering as shore crew and then Deputy Launch Authority until retiring gracefully at the tender age of 70. Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, commenting on Steve’s retirement said ‘Steve has always been a valuable member of the team here at Abersoch RNLI and he was always the person who would lift everyone’s spirits even after a difficult shout. He was a real character and will be missed by us all. We wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.’ Steve said of his many years with the RNLI, that he ‘has never enjoyed anything so much in his life’. When asked about any memorable moments he said, ‘there have been so many but my claim to fame is being upside in a boat with George Rawlinson’. Steve completed his training in Cowes with George who is now head of Lifeboat Operations at the RNLI. Steve and his wife Chris have three sons and their youngest son, Ioan, is following in his dad’s footsteps and now serves on the crew at Abersoch. Steve was presented with a framed photograph of the crew with the lifeboat.

Updated December 23 2020
Haulfryn Team Delivers Festive Donations To Pwllheli Food Bank

Team members from the Haulfryn Group, which operates five holiday parks across North Wales, have delivered donations to the Pwllheli Food Bank in time for the festive period.

Nick McCann and Helen Thomas from Gimblet Rock in Pwllheli, along with Jessie Jones and Jo Sapsford-Williams from The Warren in Abersoch, delivered a car-load of not only essentials, but also Christmas treats including food, mince pies, chocolate selection boxes and toys following collections from staff at both sites.

Pwllheli foodbank offers much needed support to local families and individuals in need of food and daily essentials, and the team from Haulfryn have been making weekly donations to show their support.

Karen Cooper, Chair of the Pwllheli Food Bank, has said that the rise in donations from the public this year had been ‘heartwarming’ to see particularly in light of the additional struggle’s families are facing due to the pandemic.

Jessie Jones from the Haulfryn Group said, “The vital work the Pwllheli Food Bank do for local people and the community is fantastic and Haulfryn team members have been delighted to get involved and co-ordinate donations. It is a cause close to our hearts.”

For further information or to make donations people can contact Pwllheli Food Bank at pwllhelifoodbank@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page.

Photos of the Pen Llyn Haulfryn teams members delivery to the foodbank.

December 2020

Gwynedd Council Survey For Second Home Council Tax Increase

Second homes have been charged a 50% premium on the annual council tax bill in the last year, however, Gwynedd Council are now considering raising the premium to the maximum allowed, which is 100%, which would mean a doubling of council tax. This would also apply to long term empty dwellings.

The council are carrying out a survey, "...in order to gather the views of Gwynedd taxpayers, homeowners and others on how the Council should implement these powers."

To take part in the survey, which is anonymous, follow the link here.

Updated December 20 2020
Another Lockdown
The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, yesterday brought forward restrictions which were planned to come into force after Christmas...

The BBC have a news article here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-55128305

Remember... the rules in Wales are often different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations - visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Updated December 18 2020
Abersoch RNLI Delighted To Receive A Generous Donation From Lost At Sea Brewery.

Abersoch RNLI said a big thank you to brothers and business owners, Ollie and Mike, of Lost At Sea Brewery following their generous ‘milestone’ donation. The two brothers, who have a long family connection with Pen Llyn, have pledged to donate 5p from the sale of every can of Lost At Sea ale to the RNLI and today, in celebration of reaching a milestone 20,000 sales, they presented Abersoch RNLI with their donation. Abersoch RNLI Chairman, Phill Brown and Fundraising Chair, Sue McCann accepted the donation on behalf of the Lifeboat Station at a pre-arranged, socially distanced meeting held outdoors where they thanked the brothers for their continued and ongoing support of the RNLI. Phill said '2020 has been an unprecedented year which has meant the majority of our fundraising activities have had to be cancelled, including the New Year's Day Dip, and this has had a considerable financial impact on the RNLI and our local station in what has also been one of the busiest years for call-outs'. Lost At Sea Brewery commented ‘We’re proud to be such local supporters of the RNLI and pledge to give them 5p for every beer we sell.’

Updated December 07 2020
New Plans For Abersoch White House
The Daily Post is reporting today that there are new plans for the development of the site which was formerly occupied by the White House Hotel. The old hotel was knocked down in 2016 after many years of standing derelict and it is reported that a new developer, Providence Gate, are aiming to increase the number of rooms available to 60, in what will be a £24 million development.

You can read more at: The Daily Post Website

- photo showing a previous version of the development (not the new development project)

Updated December 01 2020
Pubs, Cafes & Restaurants See New Restrictions From Friday
The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, announced yesterday that all pubs, cafes and restaurants will be banned from serving any alcohol from Friday and will have to close to customers each day at 6pm. It already looks as though many of the affected businesses in the area have decided to shut completley until restrictions have eased.

The BBC have a news article here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-55128305

Remember... the rules in Wales are different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the latest regulations - visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Updated November 13 2020
Local Businesses Make A Generous Donation To Abersoch RNLI.
Abersoch RNLI have said a big thank you to the The Little Tea Rooms and
Mickey’s Boatyard for their generous donations...
Business owners Carron Wright, The Little Tea Rooms and Lisa Griffiths, Mickeys Boatyard, wanted to help after hearing that the Abersoch RNLI Annual New Year’s Day Dip for January 2021 had been cancelled due to the current pandemic. Knowing how big the event always is in the village, with hundreds of RNLI supporters taking part in the dip or watching from the beach, they decided to each make a generous donation in support of the lifeboat station.
Abersoch RNLI Chairman, Phill Brown, said ‘Following on from the wholehearted
support previously given to Abersoch RNLI by Mickey’s Boatyard, it is most welcome to now receive support form The Little Tea Rooms and we thank both of these local businesses for their generous donation.’ He further added, ‘With the New Year’s Day Dip being cancelled such donations are really important.’
Carron and Lisa presented the donations to Phill outside the lifeboat station in
accordance with Government guidelines.

Updated November 10 2020
Abersoch RNLI Virtual Challenge Raises £791

From Abersoch Lifeboat... "Well Done to everyone who participated in our Abersoch RNLI Virtual Challenge during October. You all raised a huge £791, that’s 169 miles run, 278miles walked, 12miles hiked, 1079miles cycled and 6miles on a cross trainer. Your medals will be posted out to you all shortly.
Huge Thanks goes to Louise (pictured) for all her hard work organising this successful virtual fundraising event and as always Thanks to everyone for all your continued support to Abersoch RNLI, it’s hugely appreciated for the running of our station."

https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI

Updated November 08 2020
After Lockdown - Rules From Monday 9th November
With the "firebreak lockdown about to come to an end, the Welsh Government has released the details of the rules and regulations which will be in place from the 9th November. In relation to the tourism industry, travel into Wales from other countries including England, will currently not be allowed for holiday purposes, however, the rules state that under the rules, a caravan owner from elsewhere in the UK may return to collect their belongings and secure their caravan for the winter - however, they are not permitted to stay overnight while travel restrictions are in operation. For those who live in Wales, holidays within Wales are allowed.

Remember... the rules in Wales will be different to those in England.

For detailed info regarding the regulations from 9th November - visit:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

November 06 2020

Statement From The Governors Of Ysgol Abersoch

"As governors of Ysgol Abersoch we would like to make it clear that a decision to close Ysgol Abersoch has not been made.
Any implication otherwise is highly damaging to the school’s prospects of remaining open, since misleading reports can severely undermine the confidence of prospective parents.

We are very disappointed that the Cabinet voted to give permission to begin a statutory consultation on the proposal despite our concerns that this cannot be satisfactorily arranged under the current Covid restrictions, which prevent face to face meetings and significant social interaction.
We do not agree that this proposal will be effectively subject to public scrutiny, comment, challenge and community engagement during this period, yet the Cabinet will be presented with the results of this public consultation to consider before coming to a decision.

Prospective parents are encouraged to contact the school for further information and to arrange a visit.
Places are also available for children between the ages of 2 to 4 years old in the Cylch Meithrin Abersoch, based in the school, which is also registered with the 30 hour free childcare scheme.

It has never been more important in the 97 years of Ysgol Abersoch than it is now to enrol your child in this wonderful school, since an increase in pupil numbers not only demonstrates support and sustainability for the future the school, but also for the Welsh language, culture and community of Abersoch."

Updated November 02 2020
Abersoch RNLI Pumpkin Carving Competition

From Abersoch Lifeboat... "As chosen by our Abersoch RNLI volunteer crew, here’s the WINNER of our Pumpkin Competition!!
Well Done to Crystal, the crew thought your pumpkin was brilliant and so well themed, we’ll be intouch about your prize.
Thank you to everyone who sent us your pumpkin photos, the crew had great fun looking at them all, pictured are a few more of their favourites.
Although Halloween is anything but normal this year, we want to wish all our supporters a happy and safe Halloween from all the crew and everyone at Abersoch RNLI."

October 30 2020

RIP Rob Smith

Some very sad news, with the passing of Rob Smith.

Many visitors to Abersoch will have known Rob as the manager of Abersoch Boatyard. Rob was a talented musician, passionate cricket and rugby follower, dedicated and enthusiastic shop manager and someone who made an impression on all who knew him.

The Boatyard announced the news on their Facebook page yesterday...

"It is with much sadness that we wish to share the news that our friend , manager and rock star Rob Smith has died.
He finally lost his battle.
His humour , clever wit and annoying encyclopaedic knowledge of everything , especially music will be greatly missed. RIP Rob".

https://www.facebook.com/abersochboatyardltd

Updated October 24 2020
Lockdown Part 2

The "firebreak" lockdown has begun across Wales.

FAQ's regarding the lockdown in terms of what you can and can't do and details of which businesses can remain open, can be found at:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-circuit-break-frequently-asked-questions

October 24 2020

Abersoch RNLI New Year Dip Cancelled Due To Covid

Abersoch RNLI and Coastguard regret that the annual New Year’s Day Dip on Abersoch beach cannot be held this next New Year’s Day. They know that the many of people who regularly support this fun event will be disappointed, but for the safety of everyone and to comply with local Covid restrictions they have no option but to cancel the Dip this time. The RNLI asks that nobody ventures in for a dip themselves on New Year’s Day as there will not be the usual first responder presence on the beach.
It is hoped that it may be possible to hold a similar event later in the year, but if not........ See you all on January 1st 2022!!

October 24 2020

Ysgol Abersoch Governors Appeal To Cabinet For Decison Reversal

The fight to save Ysgol Abersoch continues and here are extracts from a recent letter sent to the council cabinet, from the school governors...

"Further to the Scrutiny Committee meeting on the 8th October, we understand this matter will be considered by the Cabinet once again, and so we write to emphasise our opinion of the present situation. We would like to draw your attention to the fact that the Scrutiny Committee unanimously opposed the continuation of the consultation. It is also important to note that many members of this committee have a background in education and are therefore well aware of the implications of the proposal in question.

"The proposed Statutory Consultation cannot be conducted on a level playing field as long as we are under ever increasing Covid restrictions.

We feel very strongly that to continue with a consultation at this time would be an infringement of our democratic rights, and that any decision taken as a result of a statutory consultation at this time would undermine the process."

"We also kindly request that you consider the importance of allowing the newly established Cylch Meithrin to develop and flourish before making any decisions on the future of the school. We firmly believe that the Cylch Meithrin is the key to ensuring the sustainability of the school in the future."

"We are of course appreciative that for the purposes of this process Ysgol Abersoch is being treated as a “ Rural School”, yet we remain vulnerable due to the fact that it is not formally classified as such. Whilst the Education Department believes and insists that the omission of Ysgol Abersoch from the Rural School list is out of their hands and cannot be changed, we do not believe that the situation is as clear cut as this and will challenge this categorisation since our research would suggest that the exclusion of the school is an oversight."

Updated October 19 2020 12.50pm)
Wales To Go Into Lockdown For 17 Days From Friday 23rd
A 17 day "firebreak" lockdown will start for the whole of Wales on Friday 23rd October at 6pm.

Details are as follows:

- people must stay at home, except for very limited purposes
- people must not visit other households or meet other people they do not live with
- certain businesses and venues, including bars, restaurants and most shops must close
- secondary schools will provide learning online only for the week after half-term, other than for children in years seven and eight. Primary schools and childcare settings will remain open.
- face coverings continue to be mandatory in the indoor public spaces that remain open (subject to certain exemptions and exceptions), including on public transport and in taxis

If you break these new laws:

-You may be told to go home or removed from where you are and returned home.
You could have to pay a fixed penalty notice of £60. This will rise to £120 for the second breach,
Or you could have criminal proceedings brought against you, and if found guilty, you will have to pay a fine.
Even where something may be allowed, we ask you not to think about whether it is permitted but whether it is truly necessary and sensible. The purpose of this short lockdown is to create a concerted national effort to do everything we can to stop the spread of corononavirus, and every individual contribution to that counts.

FAQ's regarding the lockdown can be found at:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-circuit-break-frequently-asked-questions

Updated October 15 2020 (6.20am)
Wales To Ban Visitors From UK Covid Hotspots
The First Minister has announced that a ban on visitors to Wales from Covid hotspots will come into force from 6pm on Friday (16th October).
Further details are awaited and will be posted here.

BBC Article on the proposed ban here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-54540764

Update 5.20pm:

Current understanding is that those from areas under Tier 3 and Tier 2 restrictions in England, will be unable to travel into Wales.

Updated October 11 2020 (8.25am)
Bangor In Lockdown But No Further Restrictions For Rest Of Gwynedd
Bangor went into lockdown yesterday evening, however, further restrictions were not imposed on the rest of the county. However, it looks as though the situation will be looked at again early this week.

According to the BBC, a Welsh Government spokeswoman said: "We will continue to closely monitor the situation in Gwynedd and will meet with the local authority and with neighbouring local authority leaders at the start of the week to discuss the developing situation further."

BBC Article here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-54491199

October 11 2020 (8.20am)

Hope For Abersoch School As Scrutiny Committee Asks Cabinet To Reconsider

From BBC Cymru... "A decision to close a primary school in Llŷn may be delayed - at least for a time - after concerns have been raised about consultation arrangements during the pandemic.

Last month, Gwynedd Council's cabinet voted unanimously in favor of proceeding with a period of statutory consultation leading to the closure of Abersoch Primary School in the summer of 2021.

But the local member and school governors have urged members of the council's Education and Economy Committee to reconsider, arguing that the pandemic impedes the ability to conduct a fair consultation.

The Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee argued that Ysgol Abersoch should be regarded as a "rural school" under the Welsh Government's definition, meaning there was a presumption against closure."

Full article here at BBC Cymru ... https://www.bbc.com/cymrufyw/54477959

Updated October 04 2020 (8.30am)
Gwynedd Residents Urged To Follow Covid-19 Rules To Avoid Local Restrictions
With local restrictions introduced in four north Wales counties on 1st October 2020, Gwynedd Council has issued a press release urging residents to follow Covid-19 rules to the letter to avoid a similar local lockdown. Over recent days, the number of confirmed cases in Gwynedd has been rising and the Council together with partner organisations are reminding residents of the need to follow all the Covid-19 guidelines to prevent these concerning figures from taking-off.

To see the press release in full, go to:

https://bit.ly/PressReleaseGwynedd02Oct2020

Updated October 04 2020 (8.15am)

RNLI Abesoch Virtual Bike Ride Challenge
We should be currently finalising details for our 2020 6th annual Abersoch RNLI Bike ride, but due to COVID-19 all our traditional fundraising events have been cancelled, but with our lifeboat being launched more than ever this summer we still need to focus on raising much needed funds for the running costs of our station.
So veering away from our usual Bike Ride event in these challenging times we’re organising a virtual challenge!
It’s all quite simple, you set yourself a target distance eg. 40, 30, 15 or 9.5 miles that can be completed in 1 session or as many times as you wish, over the whole month of October by any form of movement such as bike, walk, run, treadmill, wheelchair, swim, skateboard, skip, roller skate, paddleboard, the choice is yours, no sponsorship required just a minimum £10 donation via our Just Giving page and with proof of completion and Thanks for money raised a medal will be sent to celebrate your achievement.
For further information please follow the link below to the event page or
email: bikeride@abersochrnli.org
https://facebook.com/events/s/abersoch-rnli-virtual-challeng/389376025394478/?ti=icl

October 04 2020 (8.00am)

Abersoch School Closure To Go To Scrutiny Committee

The recent decision taken by the Gwynedd Council cabinet to begin the process to close Ysgol Abersoch school in 2021 is to be discussed by the Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee on 8th October.
Further updates will appear here...

Updated September 30 2020 (6.55am)
Is Travel To Abersoch & Pen Llyn Still Allowed?

With local lockdowns across parts of the north of England and now about to begin in some North Wales counties such as Conwy, we have been asked whether it is still OK to travel to the Abersoch area.

The best explantation we have seen so far comes from an article in the Daily Post, written by their business correspondent Owen Hughes...

"New coronavirus restrictions are being introduced in four local authority areas in North Wales - Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham.
It will mean no one is allowed to enter or leave each of these areas without a reasonable excuse, such as travel for work or education.

The new measures will come into force at 6pm on Thursday 1 October.

Anglesey and Gwynedd remain out of lockdown but a large proportion of visitors to the counties come from the North West of England.
This has seen questions asked about whether visitors can travel along the A55 and other A-roads through the lockdown counties to reach hotels or holiday cottages in north west Wales - or want to climb Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa).

The answer from Welsh Government is 'yes' - travel through the counties is allowed.

This would apply to those coming from lockdown areas in England that don't currently have travel restrictions.

But a source said travellers would be expected to travel straight through the lockdown counties - so that means no stopping for a picnic or trip to a cafe.

Essential stops for items like fuel are allowed.

It means the strange situation of a person from England being able to travel to climb Snowdon, but someone from Capel Curig in Conwy county not being allowed to do the same."
Full article at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/can-visitors-travel-through-lockdown-19020391

Updated September 23 2020 (7.00am)
Pubs & Restaurants To Close At 10pm From Thursday

The latest restrictions were announced yesterday by First Minister, Mark Drakeford...

"At the last review of the coronavirus restrictions, we introduced new Wales-wide measures to help control the spread of the virus – these included the requirement for everyone over 11 to wear a face covering in an indoor public place and a new limit on the number of people who can meet indoors at any one time. In Wales, only six people from the same exclusive extended household group can meet indoors – extended households are currently suspended in the areas subject to local restrictions.

Each of the four UK governments today agreed about the need to take further coordinated, preventative action to control the spread of virus.

Some of these actions, such as the need for people to work from home wherever possible, are already in force in Wales and have been since late March. We also continue to encourage people to think very carefully about who they meet and whether they need to travel.

We will, however, be introducing some new measures in Wales, which will come into force at the same time as the rest of the UK and which are designed to help prevent a fresh coronavirus crisis

From Thursday at 6pm, hospitality businesses in Wales – including pubs, cafes, restaurants and casinos – will have to close at 10pm. They will also have to provide table service only.

Off-licences, such as supermarkets, will also have to stop selling alcohol at 10pm".

All details at: https://gov.wales/coronavirus

September 20 2020

Parents & Governors To Fight Abersoch School Closure

There is anger from those involved with the running of Abersoch school and from parents regarding the news that the Gwynedd Council cabinet had voted to embark on a process which would result in the school closing next year.
No one from Ysgol Abersoch School, whether they are staff, governors or parents, have been notified of the cabinet's decision, which was made on Tuesday 15th September - with the news of the vote coming via media outlets such as the BBC.
There is also growing concern as to how the decision was made at the cabinet meeting, with what is reported to be a lack of discussion of the matter, before the vote was taken.
According to sources at the school, the publication of the video and minutes of the meeting on the Gwynedd Council website will bring some much needed clarity, however, those sources also say that the battle to save Abersoch school has only just begun.

Here is a press release from the school governors...

"We are highly disappointed with the decision made by Gwynedd Council Cabinet on 15th September 2020 to progress with the statutory consultation with a view to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 August 2021. Despite presenting our concerns that the process is not being carried out fairly, and our objections to the misleading context contained within the Education Department report on Ysgol Abersoch, it is highly concerning that the Council continue to progress despite the undemocratic situation we find ourselves in. We will continue with our objections and strive to do our best to keep this wonderful little school at the heart of our community, celebrating and supporting our unique culture and ensuring the survival of Welsh as a living language in Abersoch.

Rydym yn siomedig iawn â phenderfyniad Cabinet Cyngor Gwynedd ar Fedi 15fed, 2020 i symud ymlaen ag ymgynghoriad statudol gyda’r bwriad o gau Ysgol Abersoch ar Awst 31ain, 2021. Er gwaethaf cyflwyno ein pryderon na chynhelir y broses yn deg a'n gwrthwynebiadau i'r cyd-destun camarweiniol a gynhwysir yn adroddiad yr Adran Addysg ar Ysgol Abersoch, mae'n destun pryder mawr fod y Cyngor am barhau, er gwaethaf y sefyllfa annemocrataidd yr ydym ynddi. Byddwn yn parhau â'n gwrthwynebiad a gwneud ein gorau i gadw ein hysgol fach, fendigedig yng nghalon ein cymuned, sy’n dathlu a chefnogi ein diwylliant unigryw a sicrhau goroesiad y Gymraeg fel iaith fyw yn Abersoch".

Further updates will appear here...

September 16 2020

Gwynedd Council Cabinet Votes For Abersoch School Closure
Abersoch village school is set to close in the summer of next year (2021). This follows a vote taken by the cabinet of Gwynedd Council, who decided to continue with the process which will eventually lead to the school's closure.

The BBC Cymru website have a news item on this at:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/newyddion/54165075

BBC Wales News also has the item in English at:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-54176273

Update: As of 20/09/2020, the governors of the school have yet to be informed of the decision of the council cabinet.

Updated September 11 2020 (7.30am)
Tightening Of Restrictions Expected

The First Minister of Wales has said this morning that from Monday (14th September), the limit on the number of people who can meet indoors at any one time will be reduced to 6... of which all must be from the same extended household group. Also, the wearing of facemasks will become compulsory in all shops and indoor public spaces from the same day - including pubs and restaurants. The rules will not apply to those under the age of 11 and up to 30 people will still be able to meet outside.

Further details expected during the day at:
https://gov.wales/coronavirus

Updated August 31 2020 (8.45am)
A Thought From John Gosling Chair of ADTTA

(Abersoch and District Trade & Tourism Association (and TIC)

"I would like to thank all who have visited Abersoch and this wonderful area since Covid 19 restrictions were lifted. The summer period is always very busy for us as we welcome back visitors many of whom come back year on year. 2020 will be remembered by many of us for different reasons, none more than Covid 19. We who live in Abersoch all year round will remember it for rediscovering our village, beaches and wonderful countryside.

It was a shock when on the 6th July restrictions started to be lifted and we could start to travel more than 5 miles, this allowed us to visit family and friends we had not seen for so long. Then on the 11th we could start welcoming visitors back and with more restrictions being lifted as time moved on we have been able to welcome more of you to visit our beaches, countryside and all we have to offer.

In general, thanks go out to everyone who has followed all the new rules including social distancing and accepted new ways of how things are having to work in accommodation providers, pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, shops etc. We are sorry we have not been able to open our Tourist Office (TIC) in Abersoch village so allowing you to obtain information on our members businesses, and on what the area and North Wales has to offer.

To everyone who visited the beaches and took their rubbish off the beaches with them a BIG thank you. As with all things you always have a few who do not follow rules or requests made of them. 2020 will be remembered by many for rubbish left on our great beaches, if only those who went to the beach at night time had taken the rubbish with them, local people would not have had to go out early in the mornings to clean up the mess left by the inconsiderate unthinking people young and old alike. It is not a hard thing to do is it? (Thank you to the people who took their rubbish with them and those who helped to clean up rubbish and glass left on the beaches).

We who live in the area will remember 2020 as a time of rediscovery and when the time came welcoming back visitors and friends to this unbelievable part of the world we call heaven.

Let's make the rest of 2020 one that we all look to the future, looking forward to 2021 when we can all spend time in the heaven that is Abersoch and this wonderful area.

Updated August 19 2020 (8.25am)
Strong Winds & High Tides Over The Coming Days

As mentioned on this morning's weather forecast page, there are some gales and severe gales in the forecast for the coming days. As well as the gales, the combination of low pressure, increasing amounts of swell, wind strength and some spring tides, could easily result in the high tides becoming enhanced. This is one to keep an eye on if you have a boat on places such as the main beach as the sea may come further up the beach than would normally be expected.

Updated August 16 2020 (9.30am)
Another Paddleboarder Rescued

Abersoch Lifeboat were launched again last week, following a report of a paddleboarder approximately 1 mile off Porth Neigwl struggling against the wind and tide. The volunteer crew at Abersoch RNLI were tasked by HM Coastguard at 4.06pm.
The Lifeboat was launched at 4.22pm and on arrival the crew found one adult male, wearing a wetsuit, sitting on his paddleboard trying to paddle back to shore. The casualty was picked up, along with his equipment, and returned safely to the beach.
Commenting on the incident Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Andy Vowell said, ‘We need to put an important safety message out there that all paddleboarders need to carry safety equipment such as a life jacket and a form of communication in addition to wearing the safety leash’. He further added, ‘Although the sea may look calm and flat they should take extra care with offshore winds and states of the tide and be aware of their own capabilities as they are not designed to go far out to sea. The local retailers in the area can assist and are happy to provide suitable safety advice.’

Updated August 12 2020 (9.30am)
Abersoch Lifeboat Saves Paddleboarder

A well equipped paddleboarer was pulled from the water last weekend, after being swept out to sea from Aberdaron Bay. Details of the incident from Abersoch RNLI are as follows...

"Our volunteer crew were tasked by HM Coastguard at 3.45pm following reports of a teenage paddleboarder being swept out in Aberdaron bay. Our Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat was launched and arrived on the scene within 20 minutes.
.
On arrival the crew were informed that the casualty was no longer on his paddleboard and was now in the water. It was believed he had left his board in an attempt to swim ashore but was now being swept out to sea
.
An immediate search commenced to locate him. Aberdaron Coastguard assisted from the cliff tops, however due to a significant swell, an outgoing tide and offshore wind, visibility was extremely difficult
.
The casualty was carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch and was talking to the police in an attempt to describe his exact location. The Coastguard helicopter was tasked to assist with the search. Approx 20 minutes later the casualty was located in the water with the assistance of the Coastguard team on the headland. RNLI team recovered the casualty from the water into the lifeboat.

The casualty, who was wearing his lifejacket, was extremely cold and confused and appeared to have swallowed a significant amount of sea water and with indications of hypothermia. His condition was assessed as serious and he was given immediate first aid by the crew before being airlifted from the lifeboat to the waiting Coastguard helicopter who then took him to Ysbyty Gwynedd Hospital. Once the casualty was safely in the helicopter the crew returned to the lifeboat station where both the crew kit and lifeboat were thoroughly cleaned in accordance with current guidelines and left ready for service.

The following day, following his release from hospital, the boy and his father attended the lifeboat station to collect his belongings and express their gratitude to all of our volunteer Crew

RNLI helm Fritz Williams said ‘This call-out shows just how crucial a lifejacket is and having a means of calling for help. A lifejacket can buy you valuable time in a time-critical situation whilst you wait for help to arrive. Staying with your vessel/flotation device can help keep warm out of the water and making you easier to find’ https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI/

Note: It is important to emphasise the importance of staying with your board if you get into difficulties - preferably attached to it by a leash. Staying with your board can save your life. The water is always cold off the coast of Pen Llyn, so entering the water from the relatively safety of a board in an attempt to reach shore is not advised.

Updated August 03 2020 (1.55pm)

Abersoch Lifeboat Call Out To Porth Neigwl

The Abersoch Inshore Lifeboat was called out yesterday after a 999 call reported a young person in difficulty in the sea at Porth Neigwl. The lifeboat was launched quickly. On arrival, the person/persons in difficulty were ashore and safe. Two Abersoch lifeboat volunteer crew members landed on the beach to provide casualty care advice, along with help from the Abersoch Coastguard team.

It is reported that 2 people were in difficutly, and were surfing and were carried out to sea by a rip current, before being helped ashore by others.

This incident comes on the same day as a person died in the water at Barmouth.

Porth Neigwl often has surf conditions which can result in rip currents - which is the case on any beach with waves. These rips have caught people out in the past, resulting in the call out of the lifeboat and coastguard and on some occasions, members of the surfing public have intervened to help people in trouble.

In 2004, a young person drowned at the beach after getting into difficulty in the waves, despite a heroic intervention by local surf instructor Jonny Robinson, who managed to locate the person in the water with help of the RAF 122 rescue helicopter and attempt to revive him. On this occasion, the Abersoch Lifeboat had only just rounded Cilan headland by the time the casualty was in the helicopter, which gives an indication of the time it takes Abersoch lifeboat to get round to Porth Neigwl. So, with no official lifeguard presence on the beach at Porth Neigwl, remember these tips from the RNLI...

If you do find yourself caught in a rip:
•Don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted
•If you can stand, Wade don’t swim
•If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore
•Ifyou are surfing or bodyboarding do not let go of your board
If you see anyone in trouble, CALL 999 and ask for the COASTGUARD

Here is an RNLI article with more info on rips...
https://rnli.org/magazine/magazine-featured-list/2017/july/how-to-get-out-of-a-rip-current

Updated July 31 2020 (8.20am)
Indoor Areas Of Restaurants & Pubs To Re-Open On Monday...

The Welsh Government has confirmed that indoor dining at restaurants, pubs and cafes can resume from Monday 3rd August.

Further details at:
https://gov.wales/coronavirus

Note that in Abersoch, many venues are taking advanced booking only for indoor dining, with some venues such as the hugely popular Manana restaurant already full for indoor dining slots for August (see their facebook page for details).

Updated July 23 2020 (8.20am)
Abersoch Lifeboat Call Out 21/07/2020
The Abersoch Lifeboat Volunteer Crew were paged by HM Coastguard and tasked to assist a cruiser with mechanical difficulties anchored off South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club...

"Our Atlantic 85 Lifeboat safely took the vessel under tow back to a berth in Pwllheli Marina. It was confirmed the vessel was equipped with both VHF and a mobile phone to call for assistance

Andy Vowell, Lifeboat Operations Manager said “If you find yourself in difficulty, or see someone else in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. By carrying a VHF radio you can call the Coastguard direct on Channel 16, should there be limited mobile signal”.
.
This is our second shout within two days, all crew kit and the lifeboat are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised after every callout and ready for service."

https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI/posts/3479471428753673

Updated July 22 2020 (9.25am)
Abersoch Lifeboat Call Out 19/07/2020
Abersoch Lifeboat were tasked on Sunday by HM Coastguard following a report of a stranded Kayaker on Gwylan Island off the coast of Aberdaron, who’d got into difficulty with a strong tide running.
The casualty was safely retrieved, safely assessed and returned ashore for handover to Aberdaron Coastguard.
Volunteer Helm Elissa Thursfield-Williams said ‘It's Vital you familiarise yourself with local tides and if you head out, you have means of calling for help and wear appropriate clothing and a life jacket’.

For a video of the call out visit the Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI/posts/3475598985807584

Updated July 19 2020 (3.40pm)
Starting To Look Normal!

The sunshine has returned to Abersoch today, with the main beach looking much more like a normal, sunny, July Weekend day. Those on the beach report that most groups were carrying out social distancing, which is great to hear!

Photo from www.totallyabersoch.co.uk

Updated July 11 2020 (8.40am)
The Start Of The 2020 Season Arrives...

Finally, the 2020 summer season can start to begin today, with self contained, self catering properties and caravan / chalet parks able to re-open.

Further easing of restrictions were announced yesterday by the Welsh Governement... Outdoor areas of pubs cafes and restaurants can re-open from Monday, with campsites able to re-open from 25th July and it looks that indoor dining and drinking may resume from the 3rd August.

Further details at:

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-restrictions-relaxed-further-support-tourism-and-leisure-sectors-wales

Updated July 06 2020 (6.15pm)
Extended Households...

The extended household rules are causing a little bit of confusion in terms of the potential impact on holiday accommodation... The Welsh Gov has said that...

"From 6 July, two households will be able to join together to form an extended household. This means all the people living in these two separate households will become part of one extended household.

They will enjoy the same legal freedoms people living in individual households currently have – such as being able to meet indoors, have physical contact and stay in each other’s homes."

https://gov.wales/extended-households-frequently-asked-questions

https://gov.wales/guidance-extended-households-coronavirus

Updated July 06 2020 (7.25am)
Visitors Are Able To Return From Today...

The 5 mile travel restriction across Wales has been lifted today, meaning that Abersoch is once again open to visitors. Those wishing to stay in rented self catering accommodation will have a few more days to wait, as that sector re-opens on the 11th July, which is also the date when the caravan parks are expected to re-open.

Updated July 03 2020 (1.40pm - updated 3.20pm)
Local Services Set To Resume Next Week...

News from the council today regarding the resumption of some of the tourism related services. We'll post more info as we receive it over the coming days... but here is the latest info...

- the beach patrol is expected to re-commence from Tuesday 7th July.

- Lon Golff slipway barrier opened Wed 8th July (open 10am to 8pm)

- launching permitted - all craft must be registered prior to launching. Payments taken by card preferably at the beach office next to Lon Golff toilets (not on slipway as in previous years).

- public toilets will re-open on Monday 6th July.

- bins should be in place from Wed 8th July, though visitors are requested to take rubbish home to help to keep the area litter free.

- new signs regarding social distancing are expected in the village.

- the 5 mile travel restriction is still expected to be lifted on 6th July.

Updated July 02 2020 (1.55pm)
Self Contained Holiday Accomm Opening Brought Forward To 11th...

The Latest update from the Welsh Government brings forward the date when self contained holiday accommodation can open, to the 11th July. This means the Saturday to Saturday booking week can be maintained for that first week of opening. Details as follows...

"The Minister signalled the first phase of a planned reopening for bars, restaurants and cafes with outdoor spaces following a rapid review of the sector.  

A final decision about outdoor re-opening will be made at the next review of the coronavirus regulations on 9 July and will depend on whether rates of coronavirus are continuing to fall. 

Future decisions about indoor re-opening will be made later and will depend on the success of the first phase of outdoor opening.

The Minister will today also confirm the timetable for re-opening outdoor visitor attractions and the partial opening of the tourism industry in Wales for the remainder of the summer season.

If the requirement to stay local is lifted in Wales on 6 July, outdoor visitor attractions will be able to reopen from Monday.

And, subject to the forthcoming review of coronavirus regulations on 9 July, the tourism sector is preparing to re-open self-contained accommodation.

The Minister will today confirm the date that owners of self-contained accommodation can accept bookings is being brought forward to 11 July from 13 July, to help with the pattern of Saturday-to-Saturday bookings."

https://gov.wales/timetable-phased-reopening-tourism-sector

Updated July 02 2020 (6.30am)
Outdoor Areas Of Pubs, Cafes & Restaurants Opening 13th July?...

The BBC are reporting this morning...

"Some pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants in Wales will be able to reopen outdoors from 13 July, under new Welsh Government plans.

Venues will be able to open in spaces they own and have licences for - as long as coronavirus cases continue to fall.

But indoor services will remain closed for now, despite industry pressure.

Wales is the only part of the UK without a restart date for indoor hospitality.

A group of restaurant owners has warned thousands of jobs are at risk in the sector in Wales."

Further details are expected during the day.

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-53247660

Updated June 30 2020 (6.35am)
Further Guidance Issued By Welsh Government...

The Welsh Government issued further guidance yesterday, the key points being...

"6th July 2020 Outdoor visitor attractions: Lifting of current requirement to stay local will mean people are able to travel around Wales and will allow outdoor visitor attractions to open again, subject to strict social distancing and hand hygiene guidelines.

13th July 2020 Reopening self-contained holiday accommodation:
Bookings can be made for stays after 13 July, but this is at people’s own risk and they should check with the accommodation provider before they book.

This includes:

- Hotels and other serviced accommodation (e.g. B&Bs, hostels, etc.) that do provide en-suite rooms and can provide room service meals. This does not include private facilities that are access via a corridor
- Other accommodation that is entirely self-contained (e.g. self-catering cottages, apartments, etc.)
- Glamping or any other accommodation with en-suite shower/bath, WC and kitchen facilities
- Holiday caravans (statics and twins, including those marketed as lodges but constructed to the statutory definition of a caravan) where they have their own on-board shower/bath, WC and kitchen facilities
- Seasonal touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans (with agreement to remain on pitch) where they have their own on-board shower, WC and kitchen facilities
- Touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans where they have their own on-board shower, WC and kitchen facilities
- Caravan and touring sites will need to ensure the strict application of industry guidance on shared waste disposal and water points.

- All shared facilities, aside from water and disposal points will remain closed including toilets, shower blocks, laundry, restaurants, nightclubs, swimming pools, children’s play areas, bars, cafes, etc.

- Caravan parks are closed by law so holiday caravan owners will not be able to access their caravans until 13th July, not even for day visits.

- Accommodation can only be let to members of the same household.

To Be Confirmed: Indoor visitor attractions; pubs, bars and restaurants; other accommodation types; and other businesses in the visitor economy.

Note the point which says... -"Caravan parks are closed by law so holiday caravan owners will not be able to access their caravans until 13th July, not even for day visits".

For full details see the guidelines at: https://gov.wales/tourism-and-hospitality-businesses-guidance-phased-reopening-html

FAQ's at...

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Updated June 28 2020 (8.10am)
Abersoch Waiting For Clarity On Guidelines...

There remains a lack of clarity regarding the re-opening / partial re-opening of the local tourism industry. Local tourism officials suggest that further guidelines from the Welsh Government regarding self catering properties, B&B's, holiday parks and campsites are expected early in the coming week. Also Gwynedd Council have yet to publish info regarding the decisions on bins, public toilets, car parks, slip ways and the beach patrol, but this is also expected in the very near future.

The latest guidelines regarding current restrictions can be found at...

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Hopefully, this will be updated in the next few days.

Updated June 25 2020 (6.25am)
Latest Guidelines...

The latest guidelines regarding current restrictions can be found at...

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Further clarifications are still awaited and these will be posted as soon as they have been received.

Updated June 19 2020 (3.35pm)
Announcements Today... Limited Tourism To Resume 6th July

Update 8am: The First Minister of Wales has said this morning that non-essential shops will re-open from Monday 22nd, schools from the 29th and the travel restrictions will be lifted from July 6th.

Update 9am: It looks as though bookings for campsites, caravan parks and holiday cottages, along with hotels which have been adjusted to allow "self containment", can be taken from 13th July.

Update 3.35pm: There are still some questions regarding what will be allowed from the 6th and 13th July.

The Welsh Gov statement today says:

"Ministers have decided to lift the requirement to stay local on 6 July, provided the conditions allow. With the requirement lifted, people will be able to travel to tourist attractions across Wales.

The First Minister will today signal to some businesses and the visitor and tourism industry to use this period to begin to make preparations for reopening.

At the next review on 9 July, the Welsh Government will consider a range of specific options for opening:
Self-contained holiday accommodation
Personal care services, such as hairdressing and beauty, by appointment.

Discussions will also be held with the hospitality sector about the potential phased reopening of pubs, cafes and restaurants while maintaining strict social distancing.

The First Minister added:

“I know the wider tourism industry is keen to reopen and to salvage some of this summer’s season. I am therefore signalling owners of self-contained accommodation should use the next three weeks to prepare to re-open, working with their local communities."

In summary, some very positive news today for those in the tourism sector however, further clarifications will be welcomed over the coming days.

Further info can be found at: https://gov.wales/first-minister-announces-further-steps-to-unlock-wales

Updated June 09 2020 (8.45am)
The Wait Goes On...

The next announcement on the lockdown in Wales is expected to be on the 19th June. Until then, the tourist industry remains on hold. The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, suggested yesterday that if the number of cases is favourable by the end of next week, "...we will have some headroom to go on in that careful and cautious way of lifting the restrictions in Wales."

In summary - all eyes will be on next Friday's announcement.

Updated May 29 2020 (8.15am then updated 5.20pm)
More News Today?

Changes to the lockdown measures are expected to be announced today... whether there will be any related to the tourism industry remains to be seen. Updates will appear here.

Update 5.20pm:

Small changes in the lockdown rules for Wales were announced today, though these do not involve any easing on the restrictions on tourism. The next review of the lockdown rules is scheduled to be on 18th June.

Full details can be found at: https://gov.wales/guidance-changes-coronavirus-regulations-1-june

... and the press release can be found at: https://gov.wales/stay-local-to-keep-wales-safe

Updated May 23 2020 (8.25am)
The Situation Remains The Same Regarding Tourism

Today would normally be the start of a very, very busy Whitsun half term week in Abersoch, however, the current situation means that tourism remains on hold. Hopefully, we will see further guidance from the Welsh government this week on a timetable for easing restrictions.

Updated May 19 2020 (7.25am)
Abersoch Dinghy Week 2020 Cancelled

Some sad news to report as another event falls victim to the Covid 19 crisis... a statement released on the dinghy week Facebook page says:

"The Abersoch Dinghy Week team and SCYC - South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club Abersoch have been monitoring the RYA, Welsh Assembly and UK Governments' guidance and policies with regard to Covid 19.
So it is with great regret that we are cancelling this years event.
We will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Abersoch Dinghy Week kindly sponsored by Abersoch Boatyard from 24th July till 30th July 2021.
Get the dates into your diary...
Planning has already started for it be a week to be remembered and will include happier Happy Hours, a 50th anniversary party for competitors and their families as well as the usual Band Night and other social events."

Info on dinghy week can be found at www.scyc.co.uk

Updated May 16 2020 (8.10am)
Wales' Roadmap Published

Information on Wales potential route out of the coronavirus crisis was released by the Welsh government yesterday. It looks as though the next key date regarding changes to the current restrictions will be in approximately 2 weeks time, but in the meantime, the restrictions remain in place.

Mark Drakeford, the First Minister of Wales said:

"The challenges we face are shared with all parts of the United Kingdom. For that reason, we have always strongly supported a 4-nation approach to the lifting of the lockdown.

But this has to respect the responsibilities of each government to determine the speed at which it is safe to move and the balance to be struck between different forms of ‘easement’ – how to prioritise between allowing people to meet up with close family, to go shopping or to the hairdresser, to get back to work or visit the seaside.

With limited ‘headroom’ to ease the current restrictions, choices need to be made and we want to make those choices in consultation with our partners and the people of Wales.

That is why we are publishing this document, not as the final word, but as part of the continuing conversation.

But for the next 2 weeks, at least, I urge everyone in Wales to stick to the advice, Stay Home, Protect our NHS and Save Lives."

Details can be found at:

https://gov.wales/unlocking-our-society-and-economy-wales-roadmap-published

Updated May 15 2020 (8.30am)
Update From Welsh Government Expected Today

Today, the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, is set to provide further details regarding how Wales will exit from the current Lockdown.

This item will be updated when the "road map" is released.

Updated May 11 2020 (8.15am)
No Major Change In Lockdown Rules In Wales

After a weekend of statements from the Welsh and UK leaders, the guidance for Wales remains very similar, with the only changes to to the lockdown related to being able to exercise more than once per day and some garden centres can open.

Tourism remains on hold.

The First Minister Wales, Mark Drakeford, said yesterday evening:

"I set out the modest changes to the stay-at-home regulations we are making in Wales on Friday. These will come into force tomorrow afternoon.

Here in Wales, we will change the regulations so people can exercise more often and allow garden centres to open, if they can comply with social distancing.

Our advice has not changed in Wales.

Wherever you can you should stay at home.
If you need to leave home for work, exercise or shopping, you should stay local and stay alert.
Coronavirus has not gone away
The way we behave over the weeks ahead will continue to have a profound impact on our NHS and our ability to save lives.
If you go out, stay local and stay safe.
The Prime Minister also set out his roadmap for the future. This is at an early stage because it depends on how the virus behaves over the coming weeks and months.

Two weeks ago, I published a framework to lead Wales out of the pandemic.

This has helped us decide that schools will not return to normal on June 1.

We will continue to make decisions, which are right for Wales, using information and expert advice about how coronavirus is circulating here to keep us safe.

The health of the public is paramount. It will inform our decisions and we will continue to inform you as we plan for our future in the weeks ahead."

https://gov.wales/first-minister-wales-message-people-wales

Updated May 08 2020 (8.35am)
No Further Guidance On Any Potential Easing Of Restrictions

We await updated information from the Welsh government later today and the UK government announcement on Sunday evening.

Updated May 01 2020 (9.05am)
No Further Guidance On Any Potential Easing Of Restrictions

Following on from the item below, regarding whether there are any signs of when the tourism sector might be allowed to resume in some form, no further guidance is currently available.

Updates will appear as soon as they are available. In the meantime, thankyou to all those who are staying away and complying with the lockdown rules.

Updated April 26 2020 (9.10am)
Looking For Signs When Tourism Might Resume

As May approaches, many will be keeping a close eye on the announcements from the UK and Welsh governments and whether there are any hints on the timing of a possible return of tourism. At the moment, it is impossible to be able to provide any guidance on a potential date when tourism might be able to resume. On Friday, the Welsh Government released a document, "Leading Wales out of the coronavirus pandemic: A framework for recovery." This document provides some information on what the Welsh government will be looking for, in order for it to make changes to the current lockdown, though tourism is not mentioned specifically.

The document can be read at:

https://gov.wales/leading-wales-out-coronavirus-pandemic

On Friday, some changes to the guidance on exercise were also released and these can be read at: https://gov.wales/leaving-home-exercise-guidance

Updated April 23 2020 (8.50am)
Loophole For £10K Grant Closed

An update on the news item below (17th April). Press release from Gwynedd Council...

"Gwynedd Council has welcomed the fact that the Welsh Government has changed the national guidelines for the provision of grants to support small businesses that are suffering as a result of the Coronavirus emergency.

Some weeks ago, Gwynedd Council had identified the fact that the original Welsh Government guidelines would have allowed second home owners who had changed the status of their property from a second home to a business to avoid taxes to claim a grant of £10,000. This would have cost the public purse between £15million and £20 million in Gwynedd alone.

Gwynedd Council Leader, Councillor Dyfrig Siencyn said: “As a Council we did not consider the original guidelines issued by the Welsh Government to be acceptable as they would have enabled second home owners in the county to claim a grant of £10,000.

“As the Council Leader, I raised this matter with the Government’s Local Government Minister, Julie James in writing and in various discussions. In response, the Minister has amended the guidelines for the administration of the scheme.

“Whilst we did not agree with the exact wording of the changes to the guidelines that has been forthcoming from the Government, we are confident that the changes will mean that no second home owner will be able to claim this grant money without presenting evidence that the majority of their income derives from the property.”

“As a Council we are pleased that the Minister has listened to the arguments that we presented to her. As a result, the public purse will not now be used to enrich those who are already using the Welsh Government’s rules to avoid paying taxes on their second homes.”

“Of course, unlike second homes, genuine holiday let businesses remain eligible to receive this money, and I would urge them to present an application to the Council if they have not already done so.”

The press realease can be read at:

https://www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/en/Council/News/Press-releases/April-2020/Covid-19-Gwynedd-Council-welcomes-changes-to-business-grant-guidelines.aspx

Updated April 22 2020 (8.45am)
The Daughter Of Abersoch Man Who Died After Contracting Coronavirus Speaks About Her Nightmare

Abersoch has recently lost one of its well loved citizens, due to the Coronavirus. John Griffiths died in Ysbyty Gwynedd on the 9th April, just a few days after being admitted, after falling ill on the 2nd April. Many visitors to Abersoch will remember John as the man who ran the newspaper caravan in the village for many years, or they may have met him through the local golf club, where he was a former captain. John has been described by many as a "true gentleman", and his untimely death is a tragedy for the village.

His daughter, Linda Jones, who is the head teacher at Abersoch school,

has spoken with BBC Cymru of her nightmare after losing 2 loved ones in a matter of weeks. She also speaks of her anger, as her father did not travel and didn't go further than his local shop. "As a family we are asking 'why John?' - we haven't heard of anyone else on the Llŷn Peninsula sick with the virus". Linda is also urging people not to travel unnecessarily to prevent the spread of infection.

The BBC Cymru article can be read at:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/cymrufyw/52375108

Updated April 21 2020 (2.10pm)
"Stricter Second Home Lockdown Rules On The Way." Says Daily Post

Today's Daily Post is reporting that:

"The Welsh government looks set to implement stricter clamp downs on people visiting their second homes, the First Minister has confirmed, amid calls to maintain the current lockdown until at least mid-May.

While existing UK and Welsh government advice states that people should not travel to their second homes due to the added pressure placed on rural services, with Police also carrying out spot checks, concerns have been raised in some quarters that police are left powerless to act once they have arrived in Wales.

The Easter weekend saw calls from the leader of Plaid Cymru for fines of up to £1,000 to be slapped on those found breaking the current rules, with Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts also urging the UK Government to produce "explicit instructions" for second home owners to remain in their primary residence for the lockdown, as well as measures forcing those who have already arrived at their holiday homes to go back."

The article can be read at:

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tough-new-second-home-owner-18124962

Update: 17 April, 2020: (9.15am)

BBC Report On Grant Loophole For Second Home Owners

From the BBC news this morning:

"Some second-home owners are using a "loophole" to claim grants which are intended to help small businesses survive coronavirus, it is claimed.

Firms employing fewer than nine people can apply for £10,000 grants as part of a £1.1bn Welsh Government package.

Five councils are calling on Welsh ministers to change advice so second-home owners who pay business rates rather than council tax cannot claim.

The Welsh Government said councils can ask for more evidence from claimants.

Properties that are used as full-time holiday accommodation are often registered as businesses.

But a rising number of second-home owners have moved from paying council tax - which includes a second-home premium - to paying business rates..."

The full BBC article is at: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-52316003

Update: 17 April, 2020

Abersoch Lifeboat Crew Clap For NHS/Keyworkers Video

The lifeboat crew have posted a video of them showing support for the NHS and keyworkers.

You can view the facebook post and video by clicking here.

Lifeboat page: www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI

Update: 17 April, 2020

Indie Band The Cuza Release Video Shot At Porth Neigwl

The Cuza, an indie band with Abersoch connections, have released a video of their song "Underwater", which was filmed at Porth Neigl back in January.

You can listen to the tune at: https://youtu.be/op49V8mMme4

You can view their facebook page by clicking here.

Update: 13 April, 2020: (8.30am)

A Quiet Easter - But Local Emergency Services Have Been On Call

Abersoch Coastguard Rescue Team have been working all weekend, helping North Wales Police to ensure that government guidance is being followed. On Saturday they also assisted Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat, who were called out to reports of an upturned boat at Porth Ceiriad.

The Abersoch Lifeboat Facebook page reports the incident as follows:

"Abersoch Volunteer Crew were called at 07.50 this morning to reports from local farmer of a dinghy spotted floating upside down in Porth Ceiriad bay, no persons seen.
Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat arrived at scene at 08.22 where we discovered a well damaged sailing dinghy in a very poor state. It didn’t look as if it had been in the sea long so had probably gone adrift during the recent high tides.
Dinghy was recovered back to the boathouse to prevent further issues.
Lifeboat was back and in the station and ready for service by 09.30hrs

Thanks to all our volunteer Crew who attended this morning

The RNLI is advising the public that they should not take part in any water based activity on or in the sea, to reduce the risk to the lifesaving charity’s volunteer crews and other emergency services being exposed to COVID-19, and the pressure on their time, thanks for staying home and staying safe. "

Lifeboat page: www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI

Coastguard page: www.facebook.com/AbersochCoastguard

April 10 2020

Good Friday Photos Under The Lockdown

The overwhelming majority of people have played their part in helping to keep the local community safe, by staying away from the area on what would normally be the first day of a 4 day holiday weekend.

These were taken at lunchtime today by John at totallyabersoch.co.uk

Updated April 08 2020 (9.00am)
Thankyou For Helping To Keep The Community Safe This Easter

Under normal conditions, Abersoch would awaiting the huge number of visitors arriving for the first really big weekend of the season and those visitors would be excitedly counting down the days and hours until their arrival. Sadly, this year, that is not going to be possible, however, those feelings of anticipation and excitement will return, hopefully in the not too distant future.

With Abersoch currently very quiet under its period of confinement, it is obvious that the overwhelming majority of people have heeded the advice of health professionals, the governments of Wales and the UK, local authorities and the police, by postponing their visit to the area, thus helping to keep the community safe by reducing the chances of transmission of this horrible virus and any potential strain on local health services.

One simple way of helping to understand the importance of the measures in keeping everyone's communites safe, is to add up in your mind those people that you know who could really do without catching the virus. We did this very early in the crisis, hence the very forthright messages which have been posted on this site.

By staying away, you are helping to protect the elderly and the vulnerable, the little local girl who has a lung disorder, the local lady who has had a lung transplant, the local father who is undergoing treatment for cancer, the local father who has recently had heart surgery, the local mother fighting cancer, the local man who has recently had a stroke, grandfathers, grandmothers, nains and taids... the list could go on and on and on.

So, thankyou to all those who are staying away and are helping to keep these people safe.

Updated April 06 2020 (9.50am)
Abersoch Dinghy Week 2020 Uncertainty

The organisers of the famous Abersoch Dinghy Week, which is set to begin on the 25th July, have posted a message regarding the prospects for the event going ahead... "The ADW team and SCYC - South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club Abersoch are regularly discussing the implications of the Coronavirus outbreak for the 2020 event. Needless to say we all want it to go ahead... but only if we can do that safely. We know some people have booked accommodation already, rest assured we will make a decision in time for everyone to react and plan accordingly."

They finish the post by saying, "Looking on the brighter side - here is a reminder of next years dates where we will be celebrating 50 years of Abersoch Dinghy Week... 24th to 30th July 2021."

Info on dinghy week can be found at www.scyc.co.uk

Updated April 06 2020 (9.10am)
Websites For Checking The Number Of Cases

This one from the BBC:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-51768274

This one is run by a welsh student:

https://coronaviruscymru.wales

The Public Health Wales website:
https://phw.nhs.wales

Updated April 05 2020 (1.45pm)
Abersoch Life Comes Under Fire For Slow Response

The AbersochLife website (Sensation Magazine) has finally updated its homepage to reflect the important message that Abersoch is currently closed to visitors. Despite nearly 2 weeks of this crisis passing, a message was finally posted on the homepage of the site on the evening of the 4th April, seemingly, only after criticism was posted on social media from members of the local community.

It is the view of this site, and of many in the local community, that at this time, the promotion of tourism as a priority can wait, as the absolute number one priority is the protection of those most vulnerable in the community and the support of those key workers who are on the front line of the pandemic.

Whilst it is good to see that the AbersochLife website has finally woken up to the fact that the area is in the midst of its biggest crisis and threat to health in decades, its apparent reluctance to post a message is baffling. This was no time for pussy footing about - peoples lives are at stake.

Update: 04 April, 2020: (2.50pm)

The Message Remains The Same - Please Stay At Home

We have not received any reports of people deciding to ignore the instructions from the government, police and healthcare professionals, by making a trip to the coast, so far this weekend. We hope this remains the case!

How One Local Business Is Being Affected: Wern Fawr, Llanbedrog

One local B&B and self catering provider was recently interviewed by the Cambrian News. Alan Harper-Smith, who owns and runs Wern Fawr in Llanbedrog, spoke about how the Covid19 outbreak and subsequent shutdown of the tourism sector has affected his business.
In the interview , he also highights what he believes to be the very unfair business rates system in current operation.
"I am still so angry that business rates are such an unfair, over complicated tax that punishes the honest and rewards the dishonest. There are businesses offering the same as we do from an accommodation point of view that pay a fraction of what we pay".
He goes on to say that he hopes the current situation will help to highlight what he calls "pseudo-businesses", which are second homes which have flipped to business rates, thus avoiding paying council tax.
The article is not yet available on the Cambrian News website, however, you can read the article in full by clicking on the image opposite.

Alan's website is at www.wernfawr.co.uk and he also runs the info site for Llanbedrog at www.llanbedrog.info

Updated March 31 2020 (9.15am)
Most Second Home Visitors Return Home

Reports suggest that most visitors to second homes in the area have followed the instructions of the Welsh and UK governments and returned to their primary residences, for which the community is very grateful. However, some second homes are still being used, the reasons for which are unclear.

Updated March 28 2020 (9.30am)
Events Postponed

The Abersoch Triathlon events, which were due to be held in June have been postponed until October. Although the Abersoch 10K race, which is scheduled for 30th May, has not been officially postponed or cancelled, it appears inconceivable that this event will go ahead in May, given the current circumstances.

Updated March 26 2020 (9.35am)
Councillors Appeal To Holiday Home Visitors To Return Home

The 2 Gwynedd councillors who represent the populations of the Abersoch and Llanengan areas, have both issued appeals overnight for those who have arrived to stay in holiday homes, to return to their primary residence.

From Abersoch Councillor Dewi Wyn Roberts:

"I have received a lot of negative feedback from residents regarding visitors taking harbour in holiday homes in the area.
It is clear that some have disregarded the advice to STAY HOME, and now some are acting in an unlawful way and disregarding the law.
Many residents believe this is the responsibility of the Council.
It is essential that a lead is taken on this matter or we work together to stop this behaviour.
This seems to be the old story of creating a law and authority without and the means to enforce the law.
I appeal again to those who have travelled to second homes here to return home. Doing so will put them in a safer position re. their health and reflect their respect for our community which lacks the facilities and assets of care and health to deal with the resident population never mind a transient burden."

From Llanengan Councillor John Hughes:

"As the local Councillor for the Llanengan parish, I am in self isolation going out only when necessary and adhering to government LAW, which are also the guidelines given by Gwynedd Council.
PLEASE CAN ALL THAT HAVE SECOND HOMES IN LLYN STAY AT YOUR PRIMARY DWELLING (HOME).
Our Health Service is stretched to the limit. All our services are stretched to the limit.
For the sake of all our future, and to try and avoid SPREADING THIS VIRUS PLEASE PLEASE STAY AT HOME.
WHEN IT IS ALL OVER THERE WILL BE A WELCOME. BUT FOR NOW WE MUST ALL PLAY OUR PART.
KEEP SAFE AND ISOLATE."

Updated March 24 2020 (10.10am)
Lockdown

You cannot visit the area at this time.

"Essential travel does not include visits to second homes, camp sites, caravan parks or similar, whether for isolation purposes or holidays. People should remain in their primary residence. Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk."

https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/full-guidance-on-staying-at-home-and-away-from-others

Updated March 23 2020 (9.30am)

Council & Welsh Government Messages

- The latest council advice to visitors or those thinking of visiting - click here

- A letter from Gwynedd council to accommodation providers - click here

- The please do not visit Wales message from Welsh Government - click here

Updated March 22 2020 (5.05pm)

Update On Message Below...

Today most businesses in the village closed their doors until further notice, due to the Covid 19 outbreak. Caravan parks such as Fach Farm and the Warren are now closed until further notice. Advice from Gwynedd Council and Visit Wales is to not visit the area.

This information will be updated tomorrow.

Please read our message below regarding second homes and the reasons for not visiting the area.

Updated March 22 2020 (9am)

Now Is Not The Right Time To Visit.

The official UK government advice regarding unnecessary travel has been posted on this site for some days now, however, there appears to be confusion amongst some of the population as to what this means.

Abersoch and North Wales have seen an influx of visitors over recent days. Social media is awash with reports and photos of people ignoring the basic social distancing advice. Some businesses in the Abersoch and Pen Llyn area have fuelled the problem by either allowing their outside seating to be used by people to picnic, or, incredibly, to serve takeaway food and let them consume it on their premises.

Health professionals in North Wales are suggesting that a combination of tourists and second home visitors, some of whom have arrived in the area to self isolate, will result in extra pressure on local health services, which are expected to come under huge strain in the coming days and weeks.

Northern Italy has seen a catastrophe in the community, with distressing scenes coming from the overwhelmed provincial hospial in Bergamo.

Ysbyty Bangor is the North Wales equivalent of Bergamo.

Although official advice is not yet spelling it out at the moment, common sense advice is as follows.

If you are a visitor, or are thinking of visiting, please go home or don't travel. You will be welcomed warmly once the situation returns to normal.

If you are a second home owner, please stay at your primary residence and come back and enjoy the area when things return to normal.

Some people who are second home owners may think that this advice does not apply to them.

It does.

If in doubt, think about Bergamo and help protect the most vulnerable people in the community.

Updated March 22 2020

Coronavirus

Please read a message from the Partners of Pwllheli Doctors Surgery - see news item below dated 20th March...

The UK Official Government advice as of the 22nd March is for the public to avoid all unnecessary travel. All pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes are closed.

The Common sense advice is that NOW IS NOT THE RIGHT TIME TO VISIT ABERSOCH.

The latest info on the spread of the virus in Wales can be found at the Public Health Wales website at https://phw.nhs.wales/

This website will also bring you the latest info on the local situation and we will also post relevant info on the twitter feed.

All other news items will appear below...

Updated March 20 2020

Coronavirus - A Message From Local Doctors

Below is a message from the partners of Treflan surgery in Pwllheli.

Dear Manager

COVID19

Following government advice issued this week regarding the COVID19 outbreak we strongly urge you, as holiday park owners, to remind your customers about the necessity to stop all unnecessary travel. This includes travelling to a second home or visiting the area on holiday.

Our healthcare services are already stretched beyond their limits and it is highly unlikely that the healthcare infrastructure in the Dwyfor/Gwynedd locality will be able to cope with any additional demand during the outbreak. We also must inform you that the usual Temporary Resident Service that we normally commission will be non-existent. We have also been advised by our pharmacy colleagues that they will not be providing a minor ailments service to any patients with respiratory symptoms.

You should also make your customers aware that those who have travelled here on public transport may not be able to return home as services may be suspended due to staff shortages.

We cannot emphasise enough how concerned we are about this influx of visitors to the area over the past week and we are gravely concerned about their welfare and potential inability to access healthcare during this pandemic.

Yours sincerely

The Partners of Treflan Surgery

https://www.facebook.com/MeddygfaTreflan-1420562314903462

March 13 2020

POSTPONED - Abersoch RNLI New To You Sale
Unfortunately, due to the increasing concerns about possible transmission of the corona virus the RNLI has decided to postpone the New to You event to a later date. They very much regret disappointing people who had planned to support them at this event, but would not like to risk being the medium for passing the virus around and understand the concerns that some people have expressed to them about this possibility.

March 06 2020

POSTPONED - Pen LLyn Coastal Trail Series
The team behind the Pen Llyn Ultra races, Team Beautifully Brutal are organising a fun and easily accessible series of trail races in the area this May...

These shorter distances are a great way to have a day out with your friends on the coastal path and trails with a few drinks afterwards!

Here is more information on what we have in store for you!

RACE DATE 24th MAY 2020

3 Dragons for you and your friends to choose from 10K, Half and Marathon

The ‘Draig Bach’ 10km is suited to all abilities and is jam packed with a good mix of terrain

The ‘Draig Mawr’ Half Marathon will test its competitors with fast trail to soft beach then as a few of you will have already have experienced the lung busting climb up the Llanbedrog headland before the leg trashing return

The ‘Draig Hir’ Marathon completes the races with an undulating coastal hugging and vertically challenging Route with everything the Pen Llyn can and does throw at you. ITRA and UTMB point for the Marathon distance

International competitors please contact the team directly for assistance with travel, pick up and accommodation...

Sign up today:- at: www.penllyncoastaltrailseries.co.uk

March 06 2020

Abersoch RNLI New To You Sale
Abersoch RNLI will be holding a New to You sale for clothes and accessories in the Village Hall on Saturday 21st March from 10:00 to 12:30. This will be the time to clear you wardrobes to be able to buy for the new season, or to find the bargain buy to refresh your look. Tables to sell your unwanted items will be £10, and can be booked in advance by emailing abersochrnlifundraising@gmail.com

Entry on the day will be £2, to include coffee and biscuit.

March 06 2019

Update On The Warren Application For All Year Round Opening
This application has been approved.

February 27 2019

Latest On The Warren Application For All Year Round Opening
Following on from the news item back in November regarding Haulfryn Group's application to change the Warren to allow all year round use, the latest news is that Gwynedd Council planning officers have recommended the application to be approved by councillors. However, Llanengan Community Councillors suggest that approval would lead to what would effectively be a huge new estate of permenant homes in the village and it would also open the door for other parks to follow suit. Those in favour of the proposal say that it would have a positive effect on the local economy and that there are measures in place which restrict the holiday homes from being used as places to live all year round. The issue is expected to be decided at a planning meeting next week.

- A View From The Warren Photo from John at totallyabersoch.co.uk

January 01 2020

Photos From The 2020 RNLI Abersoch New Year's Day Sea Dip
121 photos from today's annual RNLI sponsored sea dip are available to view at John Wormald's website. This year's event drew a huge crowd and very large number of participants, braving the icy waters for a great cause. All the money raised helps the local lifeboat crew maintain their 24hr / 365 day rescue cover for an area that runs from near Pwllheli, all the way to Bardsey Island and out into Cardigan Bay. Without events such as these, there would probably not be a lifeboat, so well done to all involved in continuing to raise money for the RNLI... and to the volunteer crew and officials of the station who give up hundreds of hours of their time each year.

The photos can be viewed at...

https://john53.zenfolio.com/nyddip2020

The BBC also provided some coverage on their website at:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-50966203