December 25 2016

Nadolig Llawen / Happy Christmas
Wishing all visitors to Abersoch.co.uk a very merry Christmas.

December 20 2016

The Circus Is Coming!
This year the fancy dress theme for the RNLI New Year’s Day Dip is ‘The Circus’, so you can look forward to seeing clowns, acrobats, circus animals and trainers dashing across the Abersoch main beach at 12 noon.
We hope that everybody will make an heroic effort to raise as much money as possible, as all money raised will go directly to the RNLI to help ensure that our local crew can be equipped with the best equipment, clothing and training when they go out to sea in any weather.
It is expected that if you join the Dip you will raise some money for the crew, who will be on and in the water at the event to look after everybody’s safety, so to take part a sponsorship form is needed. Sponsorship forms are available in the village at Abersoch Boatyard and Abersoch Watersports shop or can be downloaded by clicking here, and will be available at the tent on the beach on the day.
If you intend to join in the fun, or to watch and support, it is essential that you allow sufficient time to get through the traffic to get onto the beach before 12 o’clock. Each year we have seen disappointed people who didn’t manage to arrive in time for the Dip; we cannot delay the event as it would leave people waiting in the cold.

December 15 2016
The Christmas Weather
With Christmas now only a short time away, and with stories in the news ranging from the prospects of record mild according to one broadsheet, to one tabloids prediction of a “wall of snow”, we’ll be keeping a close eye on the situation over on the daily weather page. At the moment, the models are leaning towards a generally rather unsettled period perhaps coinciding with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with the chart here from the European ECMWF showing the potential for low pressure to bring some very windy weather, perhaps stormy – though such individual charts at this range should be taken with a very large pinch of salt. What there is no sign of at all at the moment is the “wall of snow” suggested by a tabloid this week, with the professionals at the Met Office highlighting the uncertainty for the Christmas period with unsettled conditions possible in the north and west. So, at the moment, it looks as though the Christmas weekend might be changeable and perhaps very unsettled for a time with nothing extreme in terms of temperatures or the potential for snow, with wind perhaps being the most noticeable feature.
We’ll keep you updated on the weather page where our hand written forecast goes online every morning, normally before 8am.

December 15 2016
Nat West Bank Building
The Daily Post have a story on the change of use for the Nat West Bank building, which closed in 2016. It was not that many years ago that Nat West used to boast about keeping branches open! The photo opposite is an indication as to how long there has been a bank in the building.

You can read the Daily Post story by clicking here.

December 12 2016
Llywelyn 5th In The World!

Abersoch's eyes were glued to the live feed from California yesterday to watch Llywelyn Williams compete in the semi final of the World Adaptive Surfing Championships. In an amazingly tight heat, Llywelyn was perhaps just one wave away from winning the heat and progressing through to the final.

In his own words from his Facebook page, Llywelyn says... "Placed 3rd in the semi finals missed out by 1 point now rated 5th place in the world! A great and tough heat in a great competition! what a experience it has been. Met some amazing people from all over the world the positive vibes here have been incredible! Roll on next year! thank you all for the support now lets get training ready for the next competition!.."

Huge congratulations to Llywelyn on an amazing achievement.

December 11 2016
Llywelyn Through To The Semis!

Fantastic news from California where Abersoch's Llywelyn Williams is competing in the AS2 Stand/Keel category of the World Adaptive Surfing Championships at La Jolla and has made the semi finals!

You can follow his progress at the event website and even watch the heats later today (from about 5pm UK tine) by clicking here.

Llywelyn is part of the Welsh team, one of over 20 countries taking part.

December 10 2016
Follow Llywelyn - At The World Adaptive Surfing Champs

Llywelyn Williams is competing in the AS2 Stand/Keel category of the World Adaptive Surfing Championships at La Jolla, California and you can follow his progress at the event website by clicking here.

Llywelyn is part of the Welsh team, one of over 20 countries taking part.

November 20 2016
Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival

Don;t forget it is the Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival this weekend (Friday 25th & Saturday 26th November). The festival is now in its fifth year and is very much a fixture on the Abersoch events calendar and is always a great fun-filled family friendly weekend.

There'll be lots going on throughout the village; a fabulous festive atmosphere, a Christmas craft fair, the much loved lantern parade and of course a visit from Sion Corn / Father Christmas!

Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival What's On:
Friday evening:
5.30pm - Father Christmas arrives on the Abersoch fire engine to greet children in the centre of the village
6pm - Carol service
6.30pm - Brass Band (venue tbc)
Late night trading
Saturday:
10am-4pm - Christmas Craft Fair in Abersoch Village Hall
11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm - Visit Father Christmas in his grotto
12-4pm - Face painting
2.30pm-3.30pm & 4.30pm-5.30pm - Brass band (venue tbc)
6pm - Lantern parade from Abersoch harbour to the Village Hall
6.30pm - Children's disco in the Village Hall

November 15 2016
Max Bladon - A Rising Star Of The Motorsport World

19 year old Max Bladon, who spends much of the year in Llanbedog, is well on the way to the top in the competitive world of motorsport racing by winning the 2016 Mini Challenge UK Cooper championship. Of 17 races entered in 2016, Max won and incredible 14 and only missed out on the podium once!

In Max's own words...
"After time to reflect on my 2016 season since the last round 2 weeks ago at Snetterton. I have to say it has been a long season from testing at the start of the year to the final round at Snetterton, with loads of massive highs along the way!"

"Going into the season I said would be a dream to get a few wins across the season and hopefully have the chance to battle out for the championship at the final round of the season, but little did I know I would go onto winning 11 races in a row and win the MINI CHALLENGE UK Cooper championship a meeting early at Cadwell Park!"

But while I was concentrating on my Cooper Championship throughout the year, I was also entered into the Sunoco UK 200 Challenge. This is a separate championship to the MINI CHALLENGE UK, where multiple classes across the country who use Sunoco UK race fuels can enter into the championship. The championship works off a points system where the person with the most fastest laps, wins and pole positions across a season wins a prize of a drive in Daytona International Speedway for the Daytona 24 Hours support race in January. Amazingly I have the pleasure of saying I have won the prize after a really successful season and that I am counting down the days until January! I still have a few advertising spaces left on my race overalls, helmet and car for Daytona! There a viewing audience of over 20 million people so it could be a massive marketing opportunity for any company!"

" I will be able to announce something soon! If anyone would like to join me on my journey please get in contact!"

Max has a facebook page at: www.facebook.com/maxbladonracing and we wish him all the best for 2017

November 13 2016
Update - No Beach Huts To Be Built!

An update to the item below - we have been sent a message this morning from one of the families involved with the pre-planning application stating that there will be NO beach huts built.

November 12 2016
Campaign Against Quarry Beach Planning Application.

A campaign has been launched following the news that a pre-planning application has been submitted to Gwynedd Council regarding the proposed building of beach huts on the "Quarry beach, Llanbedrog Headland (click here to see the application).

The company submitting the planning application also involves TV personality Bear Grylls, resulting in some widespread media coverage this week including on the BBC, which you can read by clicking here.

There is an online petition that is registering peoples opposition to the plan which has already been signed by 447 people at the time of posting this news item.

Update 7.25am Sunday 13th: Now up to 552 people!

The online petition can be found at Change.org by clicking here.

Note: If you oppose this plan, you can should make your comments on the planning application at the Gwynedd Council website, as petition objections do not carry much weight with planning authorities.

November 09 2016
Update On Llywelyn - Taking Part In World Champs In December

Llywelyn Williams has been accepted into the ISA World Adaptive Surf Championships in La Jolla, California this December, which is another step on his journey to the Paralympics in 2020. He has been getting a fair bit of local media attention recently and also had an interview published in Daily Post, which you can read by clicking here.

You can also follow his progress and help him on his journey by visiting his website at : www.surfersponge.com and he also has a Just giving Crowdfunding Page, which can be reached by clicking here.

November 05 2016
Pre-Planning Application For Beach Huts On Quarry Beach

A Pre-Planning application has been submitted to Gwynedd Council for the construction of beach huts on the Quarry beach (at the end of the Warren on the side of Llanbedrog Headland).

The proposal is requesting a pre-application meeting with the council "to discuss proposals for beach huts and potential tourism related schemes at Mynydd Tir-y-Cwmwd".

You can view the pre-application at the Gwynedd Council planning website by visiting the following link here.

October 28 2016
2017 Abersoch Calendar Now Available

The 2017 Abersoch Calendar featuring stunning photos from hugely talented local photographers Martin Turtle, John Wormald and Nock Sandy is now available online and in local shops next week.

In large high quality A3 format the calendar has a simple design which enables it to be hung up and each page turns with ease on the wiro binding. It showcases 12 exquisite photos that capture the seasons in and around Abersoch perfectly. The calendar has a month view layout and space for notes next to each day. It includes all the important dates for events in Abersoch as well as key Holidays and Notable Dates for the UK.

The calendar also has a prime business listing to help locate your favourite restaurant or choose your ideal Abersoch holiday. There is a full Abersoch Events Schedule for the year with the relevant website address to find out more information. There's even moon phases included for those that like their astronomy and new for 2017 we've now included Tide Times & Heights so you can effectively plan your time on the water.

October 28 2016
Update On Siop Y Plas, Llanbedrog

Following on from the article below regarding Sue's retirement from Sip Y Plas on the way to the beach in Llanbedrog, Sue is now staying on for a few weeks longer until January. The sale continues and the shop will be open through November on Friday' to Monday's frpm 11am until 4.30pm.

October 26 2016
Abersoch's Llywelyn Aiming For Paralympics

5 years ago, Llywelyn Williams lost his right leg in a horrific road accident in Abersoch, which was a truly life changing injury for the active local surfer. However, with some amazing detemination and the help of friends, Llywelyn continued to surf and improve and has surfed in Australia, Indonesia, France and on many other great waves around the world!

With surfing set to be included in the 2020 Olympics, and hopefully also in the Paralympics, Llywelyn has set his sights on competing at the highest levels in the sport.

Llywelyn is asking people to share his recent Instagram post about his goals on social media. So, in order to help - have a look at his post and photos by clicking here ... and spread the word!

October 19 2016 (updated 26/10)
The Second Home Council Tax Debate - Your Views

Following on from the article below regarding the consultation recently launched by Gwynedd Council on whether or not they should raise the council tax levied on second homes in the area, we asked several people for their opinion and we have been sent articles from 3 people, with differing views on the subject.
Firstly many thanks to those who took the time to write these eloquent and well reasoned articles, two are from local residents, born in the area and the other a 2nd home owner who lives in England for most of the year.

If you would like to add to the debate, please email us and we will treat your response confidentially and post it anonymously.

For the article in favour of the 2nd home council tax rises - click here.

For 2 articles against 2nd home council tax rises - click here.

To have your say in the public consultation - click here.

To read more on the background to this story - click here.

October 19 2016
Abersoch RNLI Testing New Tractor

The crew have recently had their annual inspection and have also been testing a new launching tractor, to deal with the bigger and heavier Atlantic 85 lifeboat that is now in operation at the station.

The tractor being tested is a tracked Talus model, which has different capabilities to the current tractor.

Photos from the testing and inspection can be found at the Abersoch RNLI Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI

October 17 2016
Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival

The Christmas countdown is on! Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival will take place on Friday 25th & Saturday 26th November. The festival is now in its fifth year and is very much a fixture on the Abersoch events calendar and is always a great fun-filled family friendly weekend.

There'll be lots going on throughout the village; a fabulous festive atmosphere, a Christmas craft fair, the much loved lantern parade and of course a visit from Sion Corn / Father Christmas!

Gwyl Nadolig Abersoch/ Abersoch Christmas Festival What's On:
Friday evening:
5.30pm - Father Christmas arrives on the Abersoch fire engine to greet children in the centre of the village
6pm - Carol service
6.30pm - Brass Band (venue tbc)
Late night trading
Saturday:
10am-4pm - Christmas Craft Fair in Abersoch Village Hall
11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm - Visit Father Christmas in his grotto
12-4pm - Face painting
2.30pm-3.30pm & 4.30pm-5.30pm - Brass band (venue tbc)
6pm - Lantern parade from Abersoch harbour to the Village Hall
6.30pm - Children's disco in the Village Hall

October 17 2016
Spring Tides This Week Bring Photo Opportunities

Abersoch is seeing some big tides this week, as captured today by the 2 professional photographers who live in the village - the first photo was taken by Martin Turtle of Turtle Photography (www.turtlephotography.co.uk) and the second by John Wormald of Totally Abersoch (www.totallyabersoch.co.uk).

You can find some wonderful images at their respective galleries, with Martin's to be found at Aberuchaf, just up and behind the Coconut Kitchen / Crust restaurants, with John's in a unit on the outskirts of the village on the road towards Sarn Bach. Martin has been capturing lots of new images over the past couple of months and has been making the most of some wonderful periods of light.

Back to the spring tides and although those tides will be big ones for a time this week, it does look as though there should be little in the way of enhancement in terms of local wind, air pressure and swell, so fingers crossed, they shouldn't cause too many problems.

October 14 2016
Consultation On The Raising Of Second Home Council Tax.

From the Cyngor Gwynedd website...

"Gwynedd Council has launched a public consultation on whether the authority should introduce a higher rate of Council Tax on second homes and empty properties in the county.

The Welsh Government has given councils the power to raise an additional charge of up to 100% over and above the normal council tax rate on such properties. So far, Welsh councils including Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Ynys Môn and Conwy have opted to introduce higher premiums for such properties.

It is expected that Gwynedd Council will decide on its policy in the coming months, but before the matter is considered by the full Council, members of the public now have an opportunity to present their views by filling in a short questionnaire.

Dafydd Edwards, Gwynedd Council Head of Finance said:

“Gwynedd has the highest number of second homes in Wales and England. In total, there are almost 5,000 second homes in the county – that is homes that are not a person’s sole or main home – and more than 1,000 long-term empty properties.

“If Gwynedd Council decided to introduce a council tax premium on such properties, it is estimated that the change would generate a significant sum of money. This sum could then for example be used to help meet local housing needs and protect local services at a time when budgets are being dramatically reduced.

“Before considering this matter, the Council is eager for members of the public to share their views on the various options by completing the questionnaire.”

The consultation period is open until 7 November. To take part, visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/CouncilTaxPremium or pick-up a paper copy of the questionnaire at your local library or Siop Gwynedd (Caernarfon, Dolgellau, Pwllheli)."

To read more on the background to this story - click here.

To have your say - click here.

October 12 2016
Photos From Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride

A total of 49 riders enjoyed perfect conditions for the second Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride. Entrants ranged from keen cyclists clad in their lycra to family groups enjoying a day out. The four routes allowed everybody to choose what suited them best and several people are already thinking of moving up a route next year. Everybody raised some sponsorship money for the RNLI and the organisers are most grateful for the efforts that people made in this regard. Thanks are also due to the landlords of The Vaynol in Abersoch, The Lion in Tudweiliog, The Ship in Aberdaron and The Sun in Llanengan for allowing their premises to be allowed as check points.

For a full set of photos, which can be downloaded, click here.

The next ride will again be on the first Sunday in October when it is hoped that many more will have a day out enjoying the exercise and wonderful scenery while raising money for a local and very worthy cause.

October 06 2016
Holiday Booking Scam Emails Still Being Received

A follow up to our news item from a few weeks ago and emails are still being received from scammers - so if you are letting your property - be very wary of emails such as the following...

"Hello,
I will like to know if your accommodation will be available for my wife and i from 10th December to 17th of December for a period of one week

Please Kindly get back to me with the availability of the accommodation and the total fee of the booking for a couple for the period, Am waiting to read back from you soon.
Kind Regards
James Peterson "

These messages (which are often worded a bit weirdly), if replied to - result in a request for unusual payment terms, sometimes suggesting the use of a third party. Do not go down that road!!!

September 29 2016
Weather Looking Good For Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride

The weather forecast is good for the RNLI sponsored bike ride this Sunday, so why not come along to The Vaynol to join in and help this worthy cause. There are four alternative routes of 9.5, 15, 30 and 40 miles, all starting and finishing at The Vaynol, so there is something to suite all abilities. Entry is £10, with a requirement to also raise sponsorship for the RNLI, and entries will be taken from 8:45 onwards, but will close at 11:00. Entrants will be started from 9:00 onwards and will have to check in at one of the pubs on the route. All money raised will go to the RNLI.

September 27 2016

Photos From The Abersoch 2K and Half Marathon Races
The Chaparral Abersoch Half Marathon and Abersoch Holiday Homes 2K Blast took place on Saturday 24th September, in testing conditions, due to the southerly gale that was blowing.

A large selection of photos of the event were taken by John Wormald of Totallyabersoch.co.uk and uploaded to his website.

All the photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

September 26 2016
AQH Property Sales Looking For New Properties

Abersoch Quality Homes ventured into property sales over a year ago and have enjoyed a very successful first year, including selling a couple of large properties in Abersoch and they also sold a property that was on the market with two other agents over the space of 2 years. They are now looking for more properties to sell.

Rhys Elvins from AQH says, " Due to the success, we urgently require more properties, the demand is high and we now have people waiting for new properties."

AQH describe themselves as, "A well established, local, family business with a personal touch, viewings 7 days a week."

Their website can be viewed at www.aqhomes.co.uk

September 26 2016
Couch To 5K - Course Starting In October

Local running club, Llyn Striders are organising a couch to 5K course starting on October 3rd at the old sailing club in Pwllheli. To take part in the 9 weeks of gentle introductions to running and fitness, is to provide a £30 deposit which is then returned to you after the last session.

As the second episode of the current BBC TV series "Alfies Angels" shows, pretty much anyone can get enough fitness to run a 5K - so why not give it a try! For more info on the sessions, you can contact Alice or Huw at the club via their Facebook page - which can be found by clicking here.

September 26 2016
Abersoch Webcam On BBC Breakfast Weather

The webcam at SCYC that shows various views from the beach and bay and is provided by SCYC, West Coast Surf and us here at abersoch.co.uk, was featured on the BBC Breakfat weather forecast this morning - as highlighted by Spout at West Coast Surf on his Facebook surf report this morning!

The webcam uploads a static image every couple of minutes and the view changes from time to time. The image is viewable on PC's, tablets and mobile devices and can be found here.

September 23 2016
Sue Retiring From Siop Y Plas - Sale In The Shop

After 15 years running Siop Y Plas on the way to the beach in Llanbedrog, Sue is retiring and would like to thank all her customers and those who have supported her over the years. She is currently having a sale and will be open every day (except Tuesday's) from 11am until 5pm until October half term, and then every day during the holiday. So it could be a good time to pop in and get a bargain for Christmas!
Abersoch.co.uk wishes Sue a very happy retirement!

September 21 2016
Ras y Brenin Ynys Enlli / The King's Race On Bardsey Island

Ras y Brenin / The King's Race was completed on Ynys Enlli / Bardsey Island last Saturday 17 September.

This unique event was the island's first ever Marathon, Ultra Marathon ( longer than a marathon), half marathon, 10k and 5k!
The three challengers were Huw Williams, Gordon Hughes and Jeremy Collins and they completed a total of 27 miles in 6 hours just in time to catch the last ferry back off the island.

The 27 miles were completed in glorious Welsh weather on the mythical island of Enlli / Bardsey and similar to the 20,000 saints buried on Enlli, Huw whose brainchild this challenge was commented, "Our experience felt we had some mythical, almost God like force, behind us in truly heavenly and inspirational surroundings. As three boys from Llyn we felt all felt closer to our spiritual forefathers with every stride we took."

2016 is the year of adventure in Wales and you are encouraged to find your own epic. The Ras y Brenin / The King's Race truly was an epic for these three amigos .

Their 2017 epics take them out of Wales with Huw and Jeremy taking part in the Marathon des Sables Sahara desert marathon and Gordon having entered the Afghanistan Ultra .

Thanks must go to Bardsey Trust for permitting this one off event on such a special place, Cwrw Llyn for supplying their liquid nectar of Brenin Enlli / King of Bardsey and Lester Hughes for filming and photography.
And yes there genuinely was a King of Bardsey / Brenin Enlli ( just google it )

Huw and Gordon are raising money for charity and their pages are as follows and you may see them running all day on a running machine in the Scope shop window this Saturday (24th)!

- Huw's Page.

- Gordon's Page

September 21 2016
Dave Does it Again!

Endurance athlete, regular visitor to Pen Llyn and serial RNLI fundraiser, Dave Hursthouse has been at it again, this time raising over £1500 for the RNLI on Pen Llyn. Dave was rescued by Abersoch Lifeboat some years ago after sustaining a serious head injury whist sailing in the waters off Abersoch and has since raised thousands of pounds for local lifeboat stations. On this occasion, Dave completed an Ironman in Weymouth, where he had to swim for 3.8km, cycle for 180km and then run a marathon (42km) and his finishing time was an incredible 14hrs 53 minutes. Dave has chosen the new inshore lifeboat appeal at Pwllheli Lifeboat Station in memory of ex cox Bob Wright, as the destination for the £1500.

September 17 2016
The First Bardsey Island / Ynys Enlli Marathon Taking Place Today!

3 Local ultra runners are today embarking on a unique and historic challenge today by running a marathon on Ynys Enlli! Bardsey Island Trust have kindly granted consent for Huw Williams, Gordon Hughes and Jeremy Collins to run the first ever marathon on Enlli and it will mean 27 laps of the island. The runners will be raising money for the Scope charity and if all goes well, they might extend the distance beyond marathon distance and into Ultra marathon territory. 2 of the runners completed a 58mile race last week, so legs may be still a little tired!
You can help make this event more memorable by donating to those less fortunate and helping the Scope charity ...by texting anything from as little as £1 ... by texting MDSW88 to 70070 with your amount of contribution

Local brewery Cwrw Llyn are providing some local nectar of Brenin Enlli / King of Bardsey ale to (hopefully) celebrate the runners achievement.

Huw is running the epic Ultra, the Marathon des Sables in 2017 and has a fundraising page with Just Giving - which can be accessed by clicking here.

September 17 2016

A Tribute To Dr John - Abersoch Main Beach September 24th
Dr John, a well loved local windsurfer, artist and former doctor, who passed away in August, will be remembered at an event to be held on Abersoch main beach on Saturday 24th September. John had lived at Bwlchtocyn for many years, since his retirement as an NHS doctor and was often to be seen windsurfing for hours on end out in the bay off Abersoch, when the wind was blowing. In his spare time, John was a talented potter, writer and artist as well as a kind, thoughtful and quiet gentleman, who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dr John's family would like to invite his friends and anyone who knew him to pay tribute and celebrate John's life with them. His sister Helen will say a few words at 2pm and invites others to join her in paying tribute and sharing their memories. Dr John's artwork and sculptures will be on display.
Should you be able, feel free to bring a donation of food for the event and disposable plate, fork, picnic blanket etc, soft drinks and some alcohol will be available and you are able to bring your own. Non alcoholic hot and cold drinks will also be available for sale from the cafe. Please RSVP to this event notice on the Facebook link below, if you are able to attend, in order the family have an idea of numbers.

Further details at www.facebook.com/events/889337531200144/
photo: Totally Abersoch

September 15 2016

RNLI Abersoch New Year's Dip 2017 - Circus Theme
Abersoch main beach will again be the place to be on New Year’s Day to get rid of your hangover by rushing into the sea for the annual Abersoch RNLI New Year’s Day dip. This year the fancy dress theme is ‘The Circus’. We are looking forward to seeing the usual imaginative interpretations of the theme, with clowns, acrobats, circus animals and trainers dashing across the beach.
Let’s make an heroic effort to raise as much money as possible, as all money raised will go directly to the RNLI to help ensure that our local crew can be equipped with the best equipment, clothing and training when they go out to sea in any weather.
It is expected that if you join the Dip you will raise some money for the crew, who will be on and in the water at the event to look after everybody’s safety, so to take part a sponsorship form is needed. Forms are available in the village at Abersoch Boatyard and Abersoch Watersports shop or can be downloaded by clicking here.
As usual the Dip will take place on the main beach at 12 noon prompt, and children will go in a couple of minutes before the adults. Hot drinks will be given to all dippers, in the beach café after the Dip.
Last year around 500 brave souls went into the sea, supported by around 2,000 spectators, so it is essential that you allow sufficient time to get through these crowds and the resultant traffic to get onto the beach before 12 o’clock. Each year we have seen disappointed people who didn’t manage to arrive in time for the Dip; we cannot delay the event as it would leave people waiting in the cold.

September 08 2016
Date Confirmed For Second Edition Of Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon

Can you run / hike / jog 75miles in 24 hours around the stunning coastal paths of the Llyn Peninsula? That is the gruelling challenge set by the second edition of the Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon, that is scheduled to take place on Saturday July 29th, 2017, starting and finishing in Pwllheli.

Here are some of the testimonials from the 2016 event...
- "... that was hard , some might call it epic ? What was epic was Huw and Dan's sterling organisation and ably assisted by a huge team of unpaid volunteers and Marshalls suffering in the heat and then later in the autumnal conditions of driving rain, fog and winds. I take my rain soaked, hat off to you all. Brilliant, brilliantly tough, event. Llongyfyrchiadau / Congrats to all competitors. And most of all to organisers and volunteers." ...
- "It has been one of the best weekends ever and loved it all even if didn't finish I feel proud to get to where I did. I AM coming back next year to nail this..."
- " Wow what a weekend, thanks for everyone's support and time that was put into this! It wasn't just a race! It was an unbelievable experience , one that I'll never forget! Thank you so much for everyone involved in this. See you all next year."

To learn more about the event - visit www.penllynultra.co.uk

September 02 2016
Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride

Details are now finalised for this year’s Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride and you may have seen the banner on coming into the village. As last year, this is a non-competitive cycling event starting and finishing in the centre of Abersoch at The Vaynol. All money raised from the event will go towards Abersoch RNLI fundraising.

The ride will be on Sunday 2nd October and riders will be able to start at any time, of their choosing, between 9:00 and 11:00am.

There are four routes: a 40 mile route, with 3,067 feet of climbing, for experienced cyclists; a shorter 30 mile route based on last year’s route, with 2,342 feet of climbing, for those seeking less of a challenge; and two shorter routes of 15 or 9½ miles, for families and those looking for an easier ride.
All routes are tried and tested by local riders and designed around our beautiful North West Wales Llyn peninsula and were planned to accommodate the riding abilities of all participants.

There is be an individual entry fee of £10 with a requirement to raise at least £15 in sponsorship, or for families (2 adults and 2 children) an entry fee of £15 with a requirement to raise a minimum of £25 in sponsorship. We hope that all entrants will raise as much money as possible to support the wonderful volunteers who man our lifeboat in all weathers. All those who finish the course will receive a commemorative t-shirt and slate coaster.

To enter click here, or, for further information email: guy_tewley@rnli.org.uk

August 29 2016

Photos From The Abersoch WarrenStock 2016
The end of summer, family party held each year at the Warren, Abersoch, known as "Warrrenstock", took place on Saturday evening.

A large selection of photos of the event were taken by John Wormald of Totallyabersoch.co.uk and uploaded to his website.

All the photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

August 27 2016

Photos From The Abersoch Regatta Raft Race 2016
The annual raft race had to be re-scheduled this year due to bad weather, however, the weather was near perfect for the racers on the new date.

A large selection of photos of the event were taken by John Wormald of Totallyabersoch.co.uk and uploaded to his website.

All the photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

August 27 2016

Photos From Abersoch Mirror Week

The recent popular Abersoch Mirror Dinghy Week, run by SCYC, was captured by Andy Green and has uploaded hundreds of photos of the event to his website.
The photos can be viewed at: http://greensea.zenfolio.com/f109902503

August 17 2016

Abersoch Annual Duck Race In Aid Of Local Schools

The annual Duck Race is set to take place on Monday 29th August in the inner harbour of Abersoch, with all proceeds from the event going towards the cost of new equipment for the 2 local schools. Ducks are available at £2 each from various outlets in the village. The numbered plastic ducks are released from the bridge over the Soch in the inner harbour and then collected opposite the Lifeboat Station by RNLI crew members.

Prizes this year are as follows: 1st Prize: £100 / 2nd Prize: £50 / 3rd Prize: £25

August 08 2015

First Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon
The first Round Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon took place on Saturday 6th August and started at Plas Heli at 5am under clear skies and windless conditions. The 49 competitors who started, were treated to glorious views of the area as they made their way around the coastal path, before the weather deteriorated later in the day. Of the 49 competitors who started the race, 22 finished, with the gruelling course and hot daytime conditions taking a heavy toll of the entrants, including one of the pre-race favourites, TV presenter Lowri Morgan. The gruelling 75 mile race was won by Gwyn Owen, in an amazing time of 15 hours and 42 minutes, with the last of the competitors coming in just before the 24 hour cut off in 23 hours 10 minutes!
This was a really well organised event, with incredibly enthusiastic, volunteer support staff at the aid stations and a wonderful cameraderie amongst the competitors and it looks like this event may become a major feature of the UK ultra running calendar in years to come.

For more details and info on the event and photos, visit their Facebook page by clicking here.

<< photo: www.totallyabersoch.co.uk

August 05 2016

Photos Of Pwllheli Lifeboat During Wednesday's Gale

Wednesday's gale whipped up some rough seas in the area and Andy Green captured some photos of Pwllheli lifeboat in action.
The images can be viewed at: http://greensea.zenfolio.com/p12322184

August 04 2016

Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon
Saturday August 6th, sees the first Pen Llyn Ultra marathon, starting at Plas Heli at 5am and going around the coastal path for 75 miles. Ultra runners from around Britain are taking part in the race and the entry list currently stands at 49. The race is the brain child of local runners Dan Sutton and Huw Williams. Competitors will face 3000m of ascending over the 75 miles along the wonderfully scenic and undulating Wales Coastal Path with a final brutal trek across the heart of the peninsula in the closing stages.

Chas of Abersoch.co.uk will be taking part in the race and we hope to post updates on our twitter feed during the day!

Live tracking of each competitor can be found at:
www.penllyn.niftyentries.com/Results/Round-Pen-Llyn-Ultra-2016

For more info on the event, visit www.penllynultra.co.uk

August 04 2016

Photos From Abersoch Dinghy Week 2016

Photos from the recent annual Abersoch Dinghy Week taken by Andy Green of GreenSea Photography are now online.
The images can be viewed at: http://greensea.zenfolio.com/f995417459

August 04 2015

Abersoch Regatta Raft Race Re-Scheduled
The annual raft race on Abersoch main beach was cancelled this week due to the weather and sea conditions, however, it has been re-scheduled to take place on Monday August 15th.

For more details and further info on the various family orientated Abersoch Regatta events, see their website at: www.abersochregatta.co.uk

July 29 2016

Help Si & His Family As Illness Forces Closure Of Restaurant.

Money is being raised by friends of local chef and owner of the Dining Room restaurant in Abersoch, that has been forced to close due to a recent sudden and serious illness. The appeal on the fundraising page is as follows and already a large amount of money has been raised, after a fantastic initial response...

"Si is a fantastic chef in a lovely part of Wales. He runs a local bistro, The Dining Room specialising in fish. Unfortunately due to illness it has been rather difficult for the family. The aim of this appeal is to help cover their loses and make things a little easier whist he recovers."

For further information and donations, check out the JustGiving page by clicking on this link here.

July 29 2016

Yoga Sessions For Charity On Abersoch Main Beach

Freddie from Simply Yoga is offering yoga classes on Abersoch main beach on a donation basis, to raise money for the Wales Air Ambulance.

Click on the image to see the poster for details.

July 29 2016

Specatacular Dolphin Photo

Check out this rather wonderful photo of the local dolphins taken in July by Paul Fleming on "Dignity".

July 29 2016

Bob Valentine Shooting School Open Day - Sat 27th August

Entry's begin from 10am in the shoot room, open until 4pm.

Varied sporting targets to test all abilities. £50 - 50 shots.
Please bring your own guns where possible.

For the complete beginner there will be stands for novices to try their hand at clay shooting under professional instruction. 14 shots £20

Price included clays, cartridges and gun hire.

BBQ and refreshments will be available to buy all afternoon.

For further information please see the facebook page by clicking here.

July 14 2016
Fantastic BBC Coverage Of Rescues By Abersoch Lifeboat Crew

Saving Lives at Sea, a new BBC programme hit the screens last night with members of Abersoch Lifeboat playing a prominent role.

Helms Fritz Williams and Andy Gunby, along with crew member Paul Collins are interviewed about a dramatic rescue at Porth Ceiriad several years ago and Elissa Thursfield, who is also Fritz's fiancee, is shown taking part in flood rescue work in Cumbria last year. Footage from both incidents is remarkable.

The programme is very well made and is highly recommended viewing and it once again shows the bravery, dedication and hard work carried out by the RNLI volunteers in Abersoch and countrywide. Truly inspirational and very well done to all involved.

Fritz and Elissa also appeared on last nights The One Show and links to these shows are as follows...

One Show:
www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07k0smz

Saving Lives At Sea:

www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07l11lw/saving-lives-at-sea-episode-1

July 14 2016

Venu Lounge & Dance Bar In Its First Full Summer In Operation

As the go to destination for those wanting a touch of waterfront glamour and luxury are introducing live music to its busy summer events programme.
When Venu Lounge, Dance Bar and Restaurant first opened its doors back in August 2015 it was clear that the seaside town was entering a new era in terms of what it had to offer both the local community and those visiting.
The cutting edge design and attention to detail that Venu offers has meant that since the launch, Venu has become the go to destination for those wanting that little bit extra from their day or night out. Whether you want to dine on the water’s edge, enjoy a cocktail or afternoon tea on the VIP terrace or dance the night away, Venu is the place to see and be seen and continues to grow in terms of what it can offer.
Owner Victoria Morris says of Venu “since opening our doors in August we have been totally overwhelmed by the feedback we have received. Our locals and those from further afield seem to love what Venu has to offer and have been incredibly supportive. As we enter our first full summer we are confident that we have a great team in place that can provide the level of customer service that our clientele have come to expect, from the bar staff to the waiting on staff, from management right through to the glass washers. Everyone works closely together to second guess what the all-important customer might want.”
Victoria has maintained a hands-on approach to owning and running Venu and has been there day and night to ensure the smooth running of the business. “I wanted to know and understand the business, down to the smallest detail. With a business of this size, the responsibility that goes along with it is immense. I had to know it inside out and now I do. It has been hard work but totally worth it. For Venu to grow and evolve all the time, an in depth knowledge of the day to day running of it is essential.”
Following a nomination from industry insiders, Venu and Brereton Pinnington Design went on to win the Northern Design Award for Best Commercial Interior Design Project.
Venu is the perfect live music destination and as part of its busy summer events programme it is introducing live music on a Thursday and Friday evening. Thursday is set to become “Band Night” with a wide range of music on offer and the team are on the look out for local bands who might fit the bill. If you think your band would be perfect for Venu then please e-mail info@venuclub.com with a submission and to find out more information. Friday evening’s will see live music and acoustic sets out on the terrace. Once again, if you are solo artist or an acoustic group, then don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Following on from hugely successful events such as launch parties and “An evening with Wales Football Manager Chris Coleman” Venu has a packed summer diary including DJs, Bands, sporting events, festival warm up nights, and MOET parties, culminating in the all-important first birthday celebration the first weekend of September.
One the 29th July, Venu will open up the VIP area to a ladies only event “Summer Pamper Evening.” Tickets are now on sale for £10 which includes VIP entry from 7pm and a glass of fizz on arrival. Come along and indulge in an evening of demonstrations, fashion, makeovers, manicures and girly treats. There will be experts on hand for advice on nutrition, hair, beauty, tanning and much more.
There is no doubt that the A-Level Results Party Night on Thursday 18th August will be hugely popular. There will be free entry all night in to Venu for what is sure to be a night to remember.
They are delighted to announce that Scotty T, the winner of Celebrity Big Brother and MTV Geordie Shore, X on the Beach will be making a guest appearance on Saturday 3rd September. To reserve your ticket please call Venu on 01758 701571.
There is something on offer for everyone and all of it to be enjoyed in the wonderful surroundings of Venu. There will be more announcements over the coming weeks, more information and to keep up to date with the ever evolving events calendar, go to www.venuclub.com or follow the social media pages Venu_Club.

July 14 2016
Coconut Kitchen On BBC Radio 2 from 5.30pm 14/7/2016
Nigel Barden is cooking one of Preechaya's from the Coconut Kitchen in Abersoch, recipes and using their Easy Thai Massaman paste to make a really easy and tasty satay sauce to go with Monkfish! Might be worth a listen...

If you miss it you can listen again...
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07jck4f

July 14 2016
Beach Clean Up At Porth Ceiriad
A beach clean up organised by Keep Wales Tidy is taking place on Wednesday 20th July. Meet up at Nant y Big car parking at 12.30pm and call at reception to get a parking token (explain that you are taking part).

Equipment provided adn all volunteers welcome.

Contact details can be found by clicking on the image to the left.

June 24 2016
Glass Butter Beach 2nd Tier Tickets Nearly Sold Out

With 8 weeks to go till the much anticipated Wakeboard, Surfing & Music Festival takes place, tier 2 priced tickets have nearly all gone.

Glass Butter Beach is set for big things this year. Already ticket sales are significantly up on last year and demand is high as the festival takes a big step up in what it has to offer with big acts like Wolf Alice, Kodaline, Katy B, Andy C, Naughty Boy and loads more confirmed to perform and a world level wakeboard event included in the festival.

Glass Butter Beach is operating a tiered ticket system which means to get the best price you need to buy early. Tier 2 tickets are expected to sell out within the next week, which means the more expensive Tier 3 tickets then go on sale.

You can buy tickets locally at Coastal Culture & Offaxis in Abersoch or Red 1 & News Plus in Pwllheli or just buy online via the official festival website at: www.glassbutterbeach.com/tickets

The festival takes place for 3 days from Friday 19th – Sunday 21st August and you can camp at the festival from Thursday 18th through till Monday 22nd. VIP options are also available including Boutique Camping with pre-erected tents, Bell Tents & Yurts.

There are well over a hundred acts booked to perform across 5 stages and for all the information including the full line-up go to:

www.glassbutterbeach.com

June 23 2016
Holiday Booking Scam Affects Abersoch Property

We have been alerted this evening of a scam that has affected at least one self catering property in the Abersoch area.
The scam works by you receiving what appears to be a genuine email enquiry for availability. In this case it was from a Mr and Mrs Brown, with the wording of the email perhaps not reading quite right...

"Hi,
How much would it cost for a week from 23 to 30 July, 2016. I hope to read back from you with the availability of the dates and the total price for two guest.

Best wishes
Mr & Mrs Brown"

In this case those dates were full, but Mr and Mrs Brown were very flexible in their holiday dates and could reschedule almost anytime.

What then transpires is that Mr and Mrs Brown are American, stating that a european company is paying for a holiday for him and his wife and that a european cheque will arrive for more than the cost of the holiday. The property owner are then to take out their fee and forward an amount to cover his travelling expenses. The scam is, that on your bank statement it looks like the money has cleared and you forward fee for the travelling expenses, however, the cheque then bounces. They also try and cancel the holiday and ask for a refund to make it a potential double rip off.

So, the message is that if you receive any enquiry that raises suspicions and the potential customer is suggesting a third party is paying, or if the form of potential payment raises suspicions, with some unusual transaction requeste, then the safest way is not to proceed with the booking and to take advice from local trading standards officials.

June 23 2016
RIP Eddie

A wonderful young man from Abersoch, tragically lost his 5 year battle with leukaemia last week. Eddie Fletcher-Brewer will be greatly missed by all who knew him. RIP Eddie.

The Daily Post have a nice tribute article, which can be viewed by clicking here.
A celebration of Eddie's life will be held at 2.30pm on 1st July in Hendy field above the Porth Tocyn Hotel, for everyone who knew him.

June 23 2016
Drone Footage Of Dolphins & How To Behave Around Them

Wildlife and landscape photographer, Graham Eaton, has taken some wonderful drone footage of the local dolphins and he also provides an excellent commentary on how boat and jet ski users should behave if they encounter them.

It really is worth a watch!

The video can ve viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlcQRUbFD70

June 23 2016
A Busy Year For Abersoch RNLI
2016 is proving to be a busy year for Abersoch’s lifeboat crew. So far this year they have been called out twelve times to assist people in difficulties around the coast from Pwllheli to Aberdaron. The new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Peter and Ann Setten, which was delivered to the station last October, is proving to be well up to all the tasks set her and gives the crew great satisfaction in having such a wonderful piece of equipment to work with.
To support the crew and ensure that they are always able to set out with the best training, clothing and equipment the local fundraising team have arranged for a number of significant fundraising events over the summer and autumn:
- Saturday 16th July Barbeque with band at the Lifeboat House
- Saturday 30th July Flag Day with volunteers holding collection buckets around the village
- Saturday 20th August Hog Roast with disco at the Lifeboat House
- Sunday 2nd October Sponsored Cycle Ride from village, with 4 alternative routes
- Saturday 22nd October Coffee Morning in the Village Hall
For further details of any of these events, watch out for posters in the village or speak to one of the fundraising committee members. Remember that the lifeboat station is open every Thursday evening, when the crew have their practice night and the gifts and souvenirs shop is open.

The station has a Facebook page - which can be viewed by clicking here.

June 20 2016

Photos From The Abersoch Triathlon 2016
The weather was kind for this year's Abersoch Sprint Triathlon.
Well done to the winners and all who took part in this gruelling challenge.

A large selection of photos of the event were taken by John Wormald of Totallyabersoch.co.uk and uploaded to his website.

All the photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

Results can be found here.

June 17 2016
50 Mile Salty Sea Walk Setting Off Tonight

Jonty and friends are embarking on a 24 hour, 50 mile walk from Nefyn to Abersoch tonight to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis research...

... "Last June saw the arrival of Grace Edie Storey, our beautiful little daughter. 17 days later she was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis and our peachy little world was shattered.

CF is a life shortening genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. 10,000 people suffer from CF in Britain, and we’d really like your help to make their life a little easier, and maybe even find a cure for this shitty disease.

Some very good and inspiring friends and I are embarking on a big old walk around North Wales. From Nefyn to Abersoch on Wales stunning coastal path. 50 miles in 24hrs... We’re starting at the Ty Coch at lasties on Friday 17th June and ending up in Abersoch for a pint at the Vaynol before they close on Saturday 18th.

Please head over to our just giving page to donate. www.justgiving.com/Sea-walk and help us support the @cftrustuk in their fight for a life unlimited by CF for Grace and other children with the disease.

Thanks and wish us luck! "

June 08 2016

Photos From The Abersoch 10K and 3K Races
This years Henri Lloyd Abersoch 10K and Abersoch Holiday Homes 3K races took place in glorious weather. Congratulations to Russel Bentley and Jane Evans for winning this years 10K races in times of 33.44 and 38.08 respectively!

A large selection of photos of the event were taken by John Wormald of Totallyabersoch.co.uk and uploaded to his website.

All the photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

Results can be found here.

May 19 2016

Abersoch Main Beach Retains Blue Flag Award

Abersoch has retained its Blue Flag Award for 2016 it was confirmed today meaning it has passed criteria such as bathing water quality, beach cleanliess and beach management. To learn more about the awards, visit the Keep Wales Tidy website at www.keepwalestidy.org and there is also a news article with a list of the local beaches that have passed the award at the Wales Online website at www.walesonline.co.uk

< photo: John Wormald

May 19 2016
RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride

Abersoch RNLI will be holding a Sponsored Bike Ride on Sunday 2nd October. This will be a non-competitive cycling event that starts and finishes at The Vaynol in the centre of Abersoch village. All money raised from the event will go towards Abersoch RNLI fundraising.

This will be the second time that Abersoch RNL has run a sponsored bike ride and they have taken on board comments and feedback received from the first event to make the event more attractive to keen cyclists as well as those just looking for an enjoyable ride in the countryside..

They will now offer four routes: Route 1 us a 40 mile route, with 3,067 feet of climbing, for experienced cyclists, passing through Tudweiliog, Aberdaron and Llanengan; Route 2 is a shorter 30 mile route based on last year’s route, with 2,342 feet of climbing, for those seeking less of a challenge, passing through Tudweiliog and Llanengan; Routes 3 and 4 are two shorter routes of 15 or 9½ miles, for families and those looking for an easier ride, passing through Llangian and Llanengan. All routes are tried and tested by local riders and designed around the beautiful North West Wales Llyn peninsula.

More details of how to enter and the sponsorship requirements will be available shortly, but get the date, 2nd October, in your diaries now.

May 18 2016
Elizabeth's Footprint Walk - Beach Hut Required

Natalia Spencer is walking the coast of Britain in memory of her 5-year old daughter Elizabeth, who tragically passed away from a rare condition called HLH. The Whitsun bank holiday weekend sees Natalia and her team in the Abersoch area, at a time when it would have been Elizabeth's 6th birthday and the team are holding a fundraising event over the weekend. To help this, they are looking to borrow the use of a beach hut near to the Golf Slipway during the period - so if anyone can help - please contact Debs at Abersoch Quality Homes.

More info on the walk and the charity can be found at:

www.elizabethsfootprint.com

April 25 2016
Hell's Mouth Surf School Re-Opens For The Season

Although there is still a chill in the air, summer can't be too far away and one sign of it coming closer, is the re-opening of the Hell's Mouth Surf School later this week. The school is run by Abersoch based, West Coast Surf and offers instruction under the guidance of a well qualified instructor/lifeguard.

This year they have a dedicated Facebook page - which can be viewed at:

www.facebook.com/hellsmouthsurfschool

Or you can visit the main West Coast Surf Website which has a large range of wetsuits and watersports equipment for all ages and sizes, along with daily surf reports and forecasts at:
www.westcoastsurf.co.uk

April 25 2016
Abersoch’s Thai Restaurant wins “Best Oriental Restaurant in Wales” for the second year running!
After scooping a win at the inaugural Food Awards Wales last year in The Coconut Kitchen Thai restaurant in Abersoch has won the accolade of “Best Oriental Establishment” yet again at Monday’s glitzy award dinner held at the Mercure Holland House Hotel in Cardiff.
A tremendous effort was made from the Welsh public, as thousands of nominations were received for the second Food Awards Wales after the event was launched last year..
The awards aim to recognise the hard work and efforts of the Welsh food industry. Accolades include restaurants, takeaways, gastro pubs, hotel restaurants, cafes and bistros, as well as shine the spotlight on the wonderful local producers who supply their delicious ingredients.
The Coconut Kitchen had been shortlisted for their category and faced some stiff competition from top Japanese, Thai and Chinese restaurants in the Capital and throughout Wales.

Preechaya Phetprasert, head chef and co-owner of The Coconut Kitchen commented, “We are so thrilled to win this award yet again! We started the restaurant 9 years ago and this award recognises hard work put in by us and our amazing team both in the kitchen cooking fresh Thai food and the front of house staff that give our customers such great service.”

Paul Withington co-owner and general manger also commented “Its coming up to 10 years since we started the original Coconut Kitchen in a catering trailer in Tyn Y Mur caravan site in Abersoch where we focused on serving the freshest Thai food using local produce and ingredients where possible. Preechaya continued to innovate the menu when we moved into our restaurant the following year and we aimed to complement her food with a great atmosphere and great service. I think winning the award for a second time shows that we have been spurred on to do even better and it’s a great testament to the team we have that keep delivering a fantastic experience for our customers. A big thanks also to all our customers who voted for us too and we look forward to welcoming our regulars and new customers alike in the future.

www.thecoconutkitchen.co.uk

April 25 2016
Festival N0.6 Invests In Glass Butter Beach Festival

The Daily Post are reporting that the company behind the highly regarded and popular Festival No.6 festival which is held at Portmeirion eacvh year, have bought a controlling stake in the Glass Butter Beach festival which is held each August in Llanbedrog and Abersoch. They have big plans for the festival and you can read further details at:
The Daily Post Website by clicking here.

April 25 2016
Abersoch Themed Don't Drink & Drive Video

12 year old's George and Harry recently made this little video in Abersoch and posted it on Youtube with the theme of don't drink and drive...

The video can be viewed at... www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic2_pDMB_kw&feature=youtu.be

April 21 2016
Llanbedrog.Info Website & Facebook Page

Over in Llanbedrog, you can keep up to date on all the latest news and events from this nearby village, by visiting the Llanbedrog.info website and Facebook pages. The pages are run by Alan Harper-Smith from the popular Wern Fawr B&B and selfcatering cottages and he posts regular updates and photos on the Facebook page.

You can visit Llanbedrog.info, by clicking here.

You can visit their Facebook Page, by clicking here.

April 21 2016
Investment Planned For Warren Facilities

The owners of the Warren in Abersoch are planning on improving the quality and range of facilities at the park, according to a news item this week by the Daily Post. The investment includes an expansion of the indoor pool to allow it to be merged at times with the outdoor area, more water flumes, swimming lanes for adults and an upgrade to the spa facilities. There are also plans for a new restaurant.

You can read the full story at the Daily Post Website, by clicking here.

April 21 2016
Glass Butter Beach Release Second Wave Of Artists

More than 50 new acts revealed including Naughty Boy, Julio Bashmore, Redlight, Waze & Odyssey, Huxley, Anne-Marie, General Levy, DJ Zinc, Bodhi, Icarus, and many more

Glass Butter Beach – the renowned wake, surf, music and beach lifestyle festival – has today announced the second wave of artists to join an already impressive line-up including Naughty Boy, Julio Bashmore, Redlight, Waze & Odyssey, Huxley, Anne-Marie, General Levy, and many, many more.

The new acts join headliners Wolf Alice, Kodaline, Katy B, Mystery Jets, Jamie Lawson, Andy C & Patrick Topping at the fourth Glass Butter Beach festival taking place 19–21 August 2016 in Llanbedrog & Abersoch.

Fresh from a string of critically acclaimed collaborations and his number 1 hit ‘La La La’ is DJ, songwriter and record producer Naughty Boy who will join Katy B in co-headlining the main stage. His upbeat blend of UK garage, R&B and breakbeat is guaranteed to be a highlight of the festival.

Other live acts announced today include Rudimental associate Anne-Marie, Manchester Indie sensations The Reveurs and fast rising local band A Thousand Years.

Glass Butter Beach also welcomes a host of additions to its stellar DJ line-up including house DJ and producer Julio Bashmore, genre-bending re-mixer Redlight, deep house duo Waze & Odyssey, underground house hero Huxley, Bodhi, drum & bass jazz fusionist Icarus, electro-house DJ and producer DJ Zinc and many more.

Joining the bill at the Surf Shack are rising indie four-piece Youth Club, acoustic singer-songwriter Matt Wills, Australian indie-rockers Modern Strangers, Rory Butler, Sody, The Jackobins, Barron and many more.

The Hidden Roots stage is proud to announce raga royalty, the inimitable General Levy, who never fails to get a party started, dubwise Bristolian Gardna, Big.Bad.Soundsystem, V.E.N.O.M and Sinewave joining the previously announced Aries, Dark Angel & Count Skylarkin.

Evolving out of an underground wakeboard event on Abersoch Beach, Glass Butter Beach has rapidly become the world’s largest wakeboard, music & surfing festival fusing an exhilarating mix of live acts and DJs with world class wakeboarding & surfing and an alluring beach lifestyle.

Tickets are currently on sale online, but will be available in local shops by the end of the month. Ticket purchasers and festival attendees must be 16+ this year to attend Glass Butter Beach festival although some of the wakeboard competitions are free to watch and available to all ages.

For full details go to www.glassbutterbeach.com

April 21 2016
Pirate Festival Cancelled

The Pirate Festival that was planned to take place in early June has been cancelled by the Abersoch Tourist Office due to "unforeseen circumstances."

April 21 2016

Abersoch Beach Hut Sells For £153K...

The Daily Post is reporting this week that an beach hut on Abersoch main beach has sold for £153,000 at auction, almost double its guide price.

You can read the full story at the Daily Post Website, by clicking here.

April 21 2016

Photos From Abersoch Lifeboat Naming Ceremony...

A selection of photos from last weekends naming of the new Abersoch Lifeboat can be viewed on the RNLI Abersoch Facebook page - by clicking here.

< photo: John Wormald

April 14 2016
Big Day Ahead For Abersoch Lifeboat Station

RNLI volunteers at Abersoch are looking forward to an exciting day in the station’s history as their new Atlantic 85 lifeboat is named on Saturday afternoon.

The Atlantic 85, which arrived on station in October last year, is powered by two 115hp engines and has a stronger hull and greater top speed. The lifeboat has been funded by a bequest from Mrs Ann Constance Setten from Shropshire, who was an RNLI supporter during her lifetime, and is named after her and her husband Peter.

During the ceremony the lifeboat will be named Peter and Ann Setten by two of Mrs Setten’s relatives - her niece Liz Badman and her great niece Sarah Flook.

Liz Badman said she is looking forward to travelling to Abersoch for the ceremony.

‘My aunt always loved anything to do with boats, the sea and the Navy and she also had an interest in the lifeboats from her childhood holidays in Teignmouth in 1920s and early 30s,’ she said.

The arrival of the lifeboat last year was a momentous occasion for the station, after she was given the seal of approval by HRH The Duke of Kent. His Royal Highness was touring the area and had the opportunity to view the newly arrived Atlantic 85.

The lifeboat, which will replace the station’s outgoing Atlantic 75 lifeboat, is able to carry a fourth crew member, whilst also having improved space for kit.

Lee Firman, RNLI Divisional Operations Manager for the RNLI in north Wales says:

‘The Atlantic 85 has some impressive features such as the added radar, which allows the crew to operate more effectively in poor visibility and she also has VHF direction-finding equipment. The lifeboat has already been called out to a number of rescue missions and we are confident it will help the volunteer crew to save lives at sea.’

The Atlantic 85 carries a full suite of communication and electronic navigation aids, including VHF radio, VHF direction finding, intercom, DGPS and electronic chart, radar and hand-held VHF, as well as a searchlight, night-vision equipment and illuminating paraflares for night-time operations.

Charlie Jones, RNLI Council Member, will officially accept the boat on behalf of the RNLI.

A selection of photos of the Lifeboat can be viewed on the RNLI Abersoch Facebook page - by clicking here.

March 31 2016
Abersoch Lifeboat Crew Member In New TV Series

An RNLI volunteer from Abersoch will be flying the flag for Wales when a brand new TV series about the charity hits the screens.

Elissa Thursfield, 28, will feature in the show called Saving Lives at Sea, which is set to air soon on BBC One and is all about the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s volunteer lifeboat crew.

Filmed over the course of several months the series portrays what life is like for those volunteers who must be ready at any time of day or night to help someone in trouble at sea or on the River Thames.

Elissa has been a volunteer lifeboat crew member with Abersoch RNLI for 10 years and is in training to become a Helm. She is also a member of the RNLI’s Flood Rescue Team and was selected to be involved in the series after her involvement in high profile rescues during the team’s deployment to the Cumbria floods in December caught the attention of producers.

Since then Elissa has been filmed at Abersoch lifeboat station with fellow volunteer crew, in St Asaph with fellow Flood Rescue Team members, at work in Rhyl, at home with fiancé and Abersoch RNLI Senior Helm David Wyn Williams and for an interview at the Rhyl Little Theatre.

Then last week she travelled to Blackpool to meet up with other RNLI volunteers involved in the series for a promotional photoshoot in full lifeboat kit.

Now she said she cannot wait to see the show broadcast.

She said: ‘It’s great to have been involved in this project and I’m really proud that Abersoch station is included. I hope that people who watch it will get a little more understanding about what RNLI volunteers do and why they do it.

‘Of course I am only one part of a team with both the Abersoch lifeboat and the RNLI’s Flood Rescue Team and I am no different from other volunteers – I love my part of the world and I wanted to give something back through volunteering.

‘The whole Abersoch crew and the Welsh members of the Flood Rescue Team are looking forward to watching the series and giving viewers a small insight into what we do.’

The series is a moving, real-life snapshot of the work that over 4,700 RNLI volunteers are prepared to do 24-hours a day at over 230 lifeboat stations around the waters of the UK and Ireland. The audience will follow real-life rescue situations from the perspective of a lifeboat crew member, understand the importance of community and family support to lifeboat volunteers and the poignant reasons behind why people from all walks of life volunteer to put their lives on the line to save others.

Saving Lives at Sea will be shown on BBC One later this spring.

March 24 2016

Recent Surf Photos...
Pen Llyn has seen some excellent surf conditions at times this spring as reported by Spout from West Coast Surf Shop on their website and also on their Facebook page (click here).

There is also a great set of photos online of one of the recent local sessions over at John Wormald's Totally Abersoch website, which can be found by visiting http://john53.zenfolio.com/p727850593

< photo: John Wormald

March 24 2016
Glass Butter Beach Festival Announces First Acts

Wolf Alice, Kodaline, Katy B and Andy C all confirmed for the beach based action sports festival this summer. Taking place in Llanbedrog between Friday 19 – Sunday 21 August has just announced a huge line-up of high profile talent from across the live and DJ spectrums.

Heading the bill are multi-award winning indie rockers Wolf Alice. Renowned for their incredible live performances, their nu-grunge set is guaranteed to be a highlight. Said Wolf Alice: “Happy to be playing the festival with the greatest name ever, see you at Glass Butter Beach!” Also headlining the main stage are Irish pop-rockers Kodaline. Following critical acclaim for last year’s album Coming Up For Air which went top-ten in half a dozen countries and number one in Ireland, festival goers can expect a serious party atmosphere when they top the bill on Sunday night. The third headline artist is singer/songwriter and UK garage pioneer Katy B. With her much-anticipated third album Honey out in late April, Friday’s opening night is sure to set the weekend off in great style with new material and plenty of surprises Other main stage acts include post-punk heroes Mystery Jets - currently playing out their energetic sixth studio album Curve of the Earth - and Ed Sheeran’s first signing to his Gingerbread Man Records label, English singer/songwriter Jamie Lawson.

Glass Butter Beach has also announced its initial DJ line-up featuring pioneering turntablist and UK drum and bass legend Andy C and award-winning house DJ and producer Patrick Topping with many more promised to be added to the line-up. Other stages at Glass Butter Beach include The Hidden Roots, showcasing the best of reggae & dub, ska, funk & soul, world music, jungle & drum ‘n’ bass. Delving into some of the best record collections in the country here you’ll find a celebration of all things retro and rootikal.

This year Glass Butter Beach will launch and host a world first, the inaugural ‘Quadra Crown’ of wakeboarding. A truly international competition, the best riders from around the world will compete for the first global title that covers all four disciplines within the sport: boat, wake park, big air and pool gap. It is expected to attract riders from all over the globe to compete in this unique event with the winners claiming an impressive £10K prize pot.

Early bird tickets are on now on sale. Ticket purchasers and festival attendees must be 16+ to attend Glass Butter Beach festival although some of the wakeboard competitions are free to watch and available to all ages.

For full details go to www.glassbutterbeach.com

March 24 2016

Easter Weekend Weather Forecast
With another Easter weekend about to begin, the daily weather forecast on this site is suggesting that it is going to be a very changeable few days with some decent weather (eg Good Friday) and some not so good periods (eg Saturday) and some very windy weather is to be expected through the holiday. Our forecast is issued daily, normally before 8am and is hand produced each morning using the latest charts and model data from the Met Office, GFS and ECMWF. We believe that this type of hand produced daily forecast is a unique service in North Wales and it has been on the site for the last 15 years.

The forecast can be viewed on the weather page by clicking here.

March 24 2016

Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon
A fantastic new event is on the way to the area this summer in the shape of a 75mile ultra marathon around the coastline of Pen Llyn. The event takes place on August 6th, starting at Plas Heli at 5am and ultra runners from around Britain are expected to take part. The race is not one for the faint hearted, with a total ascent of a touch under 2800m incorporating the wonderfully scenic, undulating Wales Coastal Path with a final brutal trek across the heart of the peninsula in the closing stages. The event has recently also received support than none other than Sir Ranulph Fiennes!

Abersoch .co.uk site owner Chas is hoping take part in this exciting new event, after first taking part in 3 mountain marathons in the early part of the summer, including the world famous Mont Blanc marathon. It is hoped that live updates from the race will be posted to our twitter feed as we head around the majestic coastline of Pen Llyn!

For more info on the event, visit www.penllynultra.co.uk

March 24 2016

7th Annual Beicwyr Llyn Bikers Fundraising Day
The 7th Annual Beicwyr Llyn Bikers Fundraising Day will be taking place on the 10th April 2016. In recent years the bikers have supported various local causes including the Wales Air Ambulance, Special Care Baby Unit in Bangor and Breast Cancer care and also helped support an Abersoch teeneager who lost a leg in an accident, with a total raised to date of £33,351:69.

Here are the details from the team...
!This years ride out is in aid of “The Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team”
The signing in for the ride out will be taking place from 9.00am at Y Maes Pwllheli. We will again be asking for a £5 donation per bike to join the run.
The Beicwyr Llyn Bikers Fundraising Ride Out will be leaving Y Maes at 11am. We intend to lunch at 1.30pm at The Snowdonia Parc Inn Waunfawr. The run is to conclude at The Glyn Garth Country Club in Llanbedrog at approximately 4.30pm.
Mileage is expected to be 100 miles with regular stops along the way.
There will also be a fuel stop halfway round at the Clynnog Fawr petrol station.
Our booking in Ladies and Beicwyr Llyn Bikers Marshals will also gratefully accept any further donations during the morning on Y Maes or en route.
Beicwyr Llyn Bikers are very kindly being sponsored this year by “SecAnim”
SecAnim provides a unique fully integrated collection and processing service to the UK farming sector.
For more info on the event - see “Llyn Bikers” on Facebook.
or contact... Ken Griffith:07771534066 / Dafydd Jones:07974246106 / Eifion Roberts: 07814992459 Email: robertsboys@btinternet.com

March 01 2016

A Message From The Abersoch Jazz Festival Organisers...
"The organisers of Abersoch Jazz have, with great regret, decided to ‘bow out’ on a high. The 2015 weekend in September was musically excellent, great fun and enjoyed with lots of friends and good humour – and the sun shone yet again! We were concerned that we might not be able to guarantee good weather again, after 14 years of sunny weekends!!!!
Seriously, we have tried very hard to find younger people to take over from us but to no avail. But, apart from our ages, the biggest drawback to carrying on is the desperate lack of accommodation and venues in Abersoch – all the hotels are disappearing fast, two are being knocked down as we write.
We are incredibly sad to lose Jazz in Abersoch, but nothing can take away the great memories of 14 Festivals/weekends thanks to all the wonderful and extremely talented musicians who have played for us and given us great joy and happiness, also the supportive volunteers, funding providers, and especially our visiting Jazzy friends. Abersoch will miss you all but we console ourselves with the knowledge that we will all meet up regularly on the Jazz circuit and that our friendships will continue".

February 26 2016

Porth Neigwl Clean Up
Every year, tons and tons of sea borne waste ends up on the beach at Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth) and not only on the beach, but it also gets blown into the dunes and neighbouring fields. Keep Wales Tidy have been organising clean ups at the beach, in conjunction with the local surf shops, for many years and the first big one of the season is this coming Sunday (28th Feb) at 10am. All equipment is provided, so if you would like to lend a hand, please meet at the car park at 10am.

<< Click for full size image

February 20 2016

Abersoch Welsh Spring Festival
The Abersoch Welsh Spring Festival will take place just after St. David’s Day, over the weekend of 4th - 6th March and will celebrate the start of Spring and all things Welsh.
Planned events include a village fête with traditional stalls such as a tombola, hook-a-duck, cake stall, guess the number of sweets in the jar etc. There will be an evening of Welsh influenced music at Abersoch Golf Club on Saturday 5th with John ac Alun performing at the Clubhouse - tickets are £10 in advance direct from Abersoch Golf Club (01758 712622).
There will also be a mini food festival including a local artisan food and craft market, cookery demonstrations from local chefs such as Hugh Bracegirdle (formally of Plas Bodegroes, now head chef at Plas Heli), Nigel Skinner (from the highly regarded Tremfan Hall), Si Toft (from Abersoch’s AA Rossette restaurant The Dining Room) and Steve Williams (food development manager at Harlech). There will also be a fun cocktail masterclass from the team at Fresh Bar & Grill.
Throughout the weekend there will be activities for children including face painting, hair braiding and various village fête style games and activities. Fabio the parrot will return following his popularity at October’s Pirate Festival; Fabio and friends are very friendly and will be available for children (and parents) to meet and pet. There will be a Welsh themed Spring parade with a competition for the best Welsh bonnet or hat and if that wasn’t enough we’re also holding the inaugural North Wales Welly Wanging Competition!
The Welly Wanging, sponsored by Joules and Abersoch Boatyard will take place on Abersoch Main Beach at midday on Saturday and looks set to be a lot of fun. The aim of the competition is simply to ‘wang’ your welly as far as you can - the competition is open to adults and children, entry costs just £2 for adults, £1 for children or £5 for a family (two adults and up to 3 children). The winner of each category (ladies, gents, kids under 14 and kids under 8) will receive some very generous Joules gift vouchers.

February 16 2016

Work Starts On Whitehouse Development
The Whitehouse Abersoch was delighted this week to welcome its first contractors onsite to begin the demolition process that will remove the old derelict building in preparation for the new hotel development.

The 40 bedroom luxury hotel will also contain 2 restaurants, bars, outside seating on sea-view terraces and a dramatic spa, complete with swimming pool, treatment rooms and thermal suite. Apartments by the Whitehouse will be situated within the hotel building and commanding potentially some of the finest views in the UK. There will be 18, 2 to 3 bed apartments for sale.

Planning permission for the 11.7 million pound development was granted in March 2015. The work was delayed due to the discovery of a rare species of bat that had taken up residence in the derelict hotel. Earlier this year, the developers, Broomco, alongside Cambrian Ecology, took great care and expense to rehome these tiny Lesser Horshoe bats, in a custom made bat house situated within the grounds. Now that the bats are happily rehomed, the demolition and development can begin.

Jane McLean of Broomco said today, "The beginning of the development process is a monumental and a very proud moment for us. Many of our supporters will know that it took a great amount of time and effort to achieve planning permission and without the wonderful backing of the community, we may not have been in this position today. We have worked tirelessly to get to where we are and can't wait to deliver a hotel development that will not only compete nationally in terms of luxury and style, but also give back to the community in terms of bringing 1.5 million pounds into the local economy."

Once demolition is complete, the build is expected to take in the region of 18 months.

<< Photo showing design of one of the apartments.

February 14 2016

Pwllheli Boat Show 2016 To Be Run By Plas Heli
Plas Heli is organising a Boat Show on the 10th to 12th June 2016, that will be using the facilities of the Welsh National Sailing Academy and Events Centre.

Plas Heli in Pwllheli is considered to be an ideal venue for a Boat Show with fantastic facilities close to some of this country’s best coastline and sailing waters.

Pwllheli harbour and marina provides easy access to the superb local sailing waters, which provide some of best sailing and leisure boat waters in the UK.

The Boat Show is seen as being an ideal opportunity for local businesses to show their products and services in a comfortable and friendly indoor environment and by using the dedicated events pontoons for displaying boats on the water.

The weekend show will start on Friday 10th June and end on Sunday 12th June.

Foir more info on the event, whether you are a potential visitor or exhibitor, then visit the event website at: www.pwllheliboatshow.wales

February 14 2016

Spectacular Photos Of Abersoch's New Lifeboat
Abersoch Lifeboat was out on exercise on a sparking Valentine's Day and local photographer Martin Turtle of www.turtlephotography.co.uk was there to capture the action. A selection of photos can be viewed on the RNLI Abersoch Facebook page - by clicking here.

As well as being a professional photographer, Martin is also one of the DLA's at the station, or Deputy Launch Authority, whose responsibility it is to launch the lifeboat and to help in the day to day running of the station.

February 10 2016

Haulfryn Are Recruiting - Open Day
Haulfryn Group, who are the owners of the Warren and other parks on the Llyn Peninsula, are holding a careers / jobs open day on Saturday 20th February, from 12pm to 3pm.

They are currently recruiting for the following:

- Food & Beverage Assistants
- Commis Chefs
- Kitchen Porters
- Reception & Adminstration Staff
- NPLQ Qualified Lifeguards

The open day will take place at the Warren and will include a tour of the facilities. For further info, call reception on 01758 714100

<< click on the image for a larger version with event details.

February 03 2016

Have You Received A Letter From The Crown Estate?
Letters have been sent to over 1000 households in the Pwllheli and Nefyn areas of Gwynedd, registering the ownership of mining and mineral rights beneath their houses! This has caused concern to those who have received the letter and you can read more about why these letters have been sent at the Daily Post Wesbite by clicking here.

January 10 2016

RNLI New Year's Dip Report - Update From The Organisers
The Abersoch RNLI Fundraising Committee was delighted that the ninth annual RNLI New Year's Day dip was successfully held this year. A cold easterly wind brought some waves onto the beach, but even so around 500 brave dippers rushed into the sea, with many imaginative costumes on the theme of Pirates of Penrhyn Llyn. Many thanks are due to them for making the effort to turn out and raise sponsorship for this great cause, and to those who came to watch and support. A total of £6,391 has been raised to date, with further sponsorship money anticipated. All money raised goes to the RNLI to help fund the provision of the best possible equipment for the crews who are prepared to go out to sea in all conditions.
Grateful thanks are also due to the crew for their invaluable and energetic support in preparing the beach and providing safety cover in the water; to the many helpers who stood with the collection buckets; to the ladies in the café who served hot drinks to the dippers; to the team on the beach who dealt with sponsorship and donations; to Abersoch Golf Club for the use of their car park; and to the Williams family for the use of their cafe and car park which gave a base for running the event.

Photos of the event can be viewed - by clicking here.

January 01 2016

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda - Happy New Year!
Large Turnout For Annual RNLI Sponsored Dip
The annual Abersoch RNLI dip on the main beach, went ahead as planned this morning with sea conditions very choppy due to the strong winds. A large crowd watched the brave dippers, with the Abersoch Lifeboat and crew on hand to provide saftey cover.

Local photographer John Wormald was there to cover the event, with Abersoch Holiday Homes sponsoring the photography meaning 100% of the proceeds would be going directly to Abersoch RNLI. The photos can be viewed on John's website - by clicking here.

Well done to all dippers and the organising team for putting on another well organised and safe event.

December 10 2015

RIP Emyr "Ems" Jones

Some very sad news to report, as former Abersoch Lifeboat helm and Deputy Launch Authority, Ems, passed away last weekend, after a long and brave fight against a serious illness at the age of 63. Ems spent a large part of his life as part of the RNLI family in North Wales and particularly in Abersoch. Ems loved being on the sea, or under it, as he was also a very keen diver and was also a supporter and regular at Pwllheli Rugby Club and often made the long trip to Cardiff to watch the national team play.

Ems fought his illness with incredible dignity and many people who met him through his work, the RNLI or socially in the Vaynol or Zinc, probably would not have even known he was ill.

Ems was never happier than when he was with his loving wife, Linda, talented sons Tom and Will and dog Sam.

A celebration of Ems' life will take place this Sunday (13th) at Abersoch Village Hall at 2pm. All those who knew Ems are welcome to attend to celebrate the life of a true friend of Abersoch and if you can attend, please wear cheerful attire.

RIP Ems.

< photo: Ems (centre) with wife Linda, being presented with an RNLI long service award.