January 01 2018

Abersoch RNLI Sponsored New Year's Day Dip - Photos

Photos from another very well attended and supported Abersoch RNLI New Year's Day Dip can be found on the Totally Abersoch website by clicking here.

December 23 2017

The 1st Abersoch "San Silvestre" 6K Run

A new event for Abersoch has been announced, which will take place on New Year's Eve on the main beach, where you can run your last run of 2017. The event is inspired by the famous "San Silvestre" runs in Spain and when our favourite Spaniard comes to Abersoch for the festivities and misses his NYE eve race and ends up running it on his own, it was decided to bring a little bit of Spain to Abersoch. So, why not come and join him for the last race of the year and help bring the San Silvestre race spirit to Abersoch.
This will be a fun event and participants are requested to meet at the yacht club end of Abersoch main beach at 12pm for a 6k run. The after race "debrief" will of course involve a pint in the pub.
Run starts and finishes at the slipway at SCYC end of the beach.
ALL WELCOME!

December 12 2017

Frosty View This Morning

Another photo from Martin Turtle this morning of a cold and frosty start to the day. The weather is set to become generally less cold at times this week, as discussed over on our weather forecast page.

Martin's work can be viewed at his gallery at Antur Aberuchaf and online via:

www.turtlephotography.co.uk

December 12 2017

Abersoch Surgery Closure - Update

Following on from the appalling news that Abersoch no longer has a doctors surgery, a decision that will affect the current and future generations and those most vulnerable in the community, we have today made a Freedom of Information request to the Betsi Cadwaladr Local Health Board, who made the decsion to allow this practice to close.

With reports in the press suggesting there was a lack of consultation with patients before the decision was made, we hope to find out the facts on how this shortsighted and damaging decision was made and we will of course keep you posted.

December 11 2017

Beautiful Winter Views Today

The snows that fell across some areas of Britain yesterday also affected parts of Pen Llyn and they have left a legacy of some stunning views across the bay today. Martin Turtle has sent us this wonderful image looking across the bay towards Snowdon.

Martin's work can be viewed at his gallery at Antur Aberuchaf and online via:

www.turtlephotography.co.uk.

We posted this on our daily update on our weather page this morning... "Abersoch was a whisker away from a significant snowfall yesterday, however, its location on the peninsula and proximity to the relatively warm sea, meant that the essential ingredients for snowfall, including the right dewpoints were not quite right and instead there was a wet mix of rain, sleet and snow, with accumulating snow mostly reserved for the higher ground of the interior of the peninsula, especially, towards the eastern end of Pen Llyn.

The wintry weather was due to an area of low pressure that slid across the UK, with colder air to the north and milder air to the south and this brings a rather snowy scenario where the moist and milder air engages the colder air. This snowy situation was potentially enhanced in heavier precipitation due to the evaporative cooling effect, which means that heavy rain can quite quickly turn to snow as colder air is effectively dragged down with the precipitation."

December 07 2017

Abersoch Surgery Closed - Decision & Process Of Closure Attacked

Some really bad news for the community of Abersoch and for those who enjoy visiting the village, as the doctors surgery has now been allowed to close, potentially forever.

The Daily Post has further information on this "misguided" move, which can be read by visiting this link here.

The news item implies the final decision was taken without adequate consultation with the community.

We will be returning to this story once we have further information, however, initial reactions suggest that this is especially bad news for the most vulnerable people in the community and that Abersoch, a first world tourist destination, now is only able to offer third world health provision.

December 04 2017

Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend- Photos

Catch up with the best of the photos from the Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend, which got off to a great start on Friday evening.

You can view a large selection of photos from John of Totally Abersoch by clicking here.

November 24 2017

Timetable For The Christmas Festival Weekend
The timetable for the 2017 Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend is now available to view online - click on the image to view a larger version.

November 23 2017

Horizon Walking Group Programme Winter/Spring 2017/18
Local walking group, Horizon, have released their programme of walks for Pen Llyn for this winter and next spring. All are welcome to attend with stout, comfortable footwear advised, as well as a waterproof coat.

 A voluntary contribution of 50p is appreciated, which is used to pay for postage and hire of the village hall, with any surplus going to charities. For further details and timings, click here for the walks page, or on the information sheet opposite.

November 22 2017

Coastguard Team Called To Reports Of Car Over Cliff

Abersoch Coastguard team received there 44th call out of 2017 yesterday... ...here is their report of the incident... "Callout to reports of a car gone over cliff in Uwchmynydd. Arrived on scene and Coastguard rescue helicopter 936 had already located debris on the cliff face but no sign of the main body of the car. We sent a team member down the cliff to see if they could locate anything or identify the car but nothing found. Porthdinllaen lifeboat also on scene and searched the area and back to their station but they also found nothing. It is believed the car had been stolen and pushed over the edge. Aberdaron and Porthdinllaen coastgurads also on scene. We would like to say a huge thank you to Gareth and Kim Williams for bringing us all a Tea and Coffee in the atrocious weather!"

You can follow news of Abersoch Coastguard call out's at their Facebook Page - by clicking here.

November 08 2017

Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend 2017 - Update Poster
The poster for the 2017 Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend is online - click on the image to view a larger version.

The timetable of events will be released very soon.

November 08 2017

Octopuses On Pen Llyn Beaches
Wildlife photographer Graham Eaton sent in this photo of an octopus "legging it" across the beach at Porth Ceiriad last week, which is a phenomenon that has been seen several times on local beaches since the October storms. Graham is more used to seeing these incredible creatures on his dives and says it is very unusual to see them on the beaches.
Octopuses in general, only live a couple of years and have relatively large brains to control their 8 legs, which contain millions of neurones that enable them to touch, smell and taste. Their eyes are also highly sophisticated with a camera style eye that focuses an image on a retina, rather like the human eye - so these are rather incredible creatures! Scientists have been baffled by them for years, as when in captivity they can exhibit extraordinary feats of escapology or simply refuse to co-operate in any shape or form, which leads to some scientists to believe that these are highly intelligent creatures.

So, why are these creatures walking along our beaches? Graham's theory is that they were displaced by the recent storms and ended up in rock pools, from which they move away from in relatively calm weather. After the recend strandings of Man o' War, it is another unusual sighting on local beaches.

October 24 2017

RNLI New Year’s Day Dip 2018
It is coming up to that time of year again.... You won’t hear the Sound of Music on Abersoch main beach on New Year’s Day, but you may think you are watching a Cabaret as the Guys and Dolls rush into the sea for the RNLI New Year’s Day Dip.  The sea at 12 noon won’t feel like the South Pacific, but even if it’s raining Cats and dogs only Les Miserables will not want to join the fun to raise money 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. The fancy dress theme this year is Musicals.
It is expected that if you join the Dip you will raise some money for the crew.  There won’t be a Showboat on the water, but the crew 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. 

October 24 2017

More Portuguese Man-o-War Being Washed Up
We have had a couple of reports today of lots more of the potentially rather nasty stinging jellyfish, the Portugues Man-o-War, being washed up on beaches at Pwllheli, Llanbedrog, Abersoch and also at Porth Neigwl and Porth Ceiriad. These are well worth avoiding as their sting can be very painful and in rare cases, quite dangerous. Dogs should be kept clear of them too.

Thanks to Dave Lamacraft for the photos.

October 21 2017

Storm Brian - 78 Mph Gusts - Images From Local Photographers
Storm Brian has brought strong winds and an enhanced high tide to the area today, with gusts recorded locally this afernoon of 78mph, which was a touch higher than expected.

The Abersoch photographers have been out today capturing some great images of the storm and the ones opposite are from John Wormald and Martin Turtle. Click on the image to go to their respective Facebook pages where you can see larger versions. John's has captured the waves that were heading intowards the harbour wall an Martin took a trip to Porth Ceiriad, where the scenes were rather spectacular!

Brian is a powerful Atlantic storm, however, it is nothing particularly unusual for this time of year in NW Wales.

October 21 2017

Storm Brian - Abersoch Lifeboat Rescues Local Windsurfer
Some of the local expert windsurfers were enjoying the high winds of Storm Brian in the bay today, however, unfortunately one of them suffered an equipment breakage, which resulted in a rescue by the Abersoch Lifeboat.

The rescue has been reported on the Abersoch Lifeboat Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/AbersochRNLI

October 19 2017

Ex-Hurricane Ophelia - Porth Ceiriad Photos
There have been lots of photos on social media of the swell that ex-hurricane Ophelia brough to the Pen Llyn coastline on Monday and these photos from Benita & Glyn Griffiths really sum up the massive scale of some of the waves. The shots were taken at Porth Ceiriad and the main photo opposite is perhaps one of the largest waves we have ever seen photographed in this bay.

Click on the images for a larger view.

October 17 2017

90 MPH Winds From Ex-Hurricane Ophelia
After an eerie morning of noticeable warmth and red skies caused by dust and smoke particles from North Africa and Iberia, along with a strange smell in the air, Ex-hurricane Ophelia arrived on Monday afternoon and brought gusts of wind in the area of 90mph. The winds did cause travel disruption with some trees down, however, it does appear that Abersoch has escaped any serious damage. One of the reasons for this is that the tides were not particularly big ones, so although there was a storm surge up into Cardigan Bay, the beach huts on the main beach were not seriously threatened, as was the case with the storms of February 2014, which coincided with big spring tides. However, 90mph gusts does make this a notable storm, but it was fortunately not in the same league as the February 2014 one that saw 108mph gusts or the infamous Christmas Eve storm of 1997, that reached 110mph on the peninsula!

Martin Turtle snapped this photo of the harbour beach showing the extent of the storm surge on Monday afternoon.

We have been talking about the storm over on our weather forecast page for most of the last week, where we will also be discussing the possiblity of another storm arriving on Friday night / Saturday.

October 13 2017

Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend 2017
Friday 1st December sees the start of this years Abersoch Christmas Festival, which has become a very popular, family orientated, village event. Preliminary details have been released, with the carol singing and lantern parade set to take place once more, with lots more to be confirmed over the coming weeks. A craft fair is also set to take place over the festival weekend in the village hall.

September 29 2017

Talhenbont Hall Wedding Venue Open Day For Couples
News from Talhenbont Hall... "Following the successful launch of Talhenbont Hall as the perfect, new, luxury wedding venue in North Wales, owners Paul and Alicia would like to open the house to couples looking to taste and experience exactly what Talhenbont Hall can offer you on your wedding day. Nestled in stunning grounds and acres of ancient woodland on the beautiful Llyn Peninsula, the hall and grounds are available for exclusive hire.
Visit Talhenbont Hall on Sunday 15th October 2017, between midday and 3pm, to sample a selection of culinary delights from award winning, caterers Cheeky Chilli Catering’s wedding menus.
It is an opportunity for you to view Talhenbont Hall and meet with the wedding team to discuss your requirements. A wine merchant will be on hand to offer advice and enable you to sample the extensive list of wines and champagne available. A selection of Talhenbont’s preferred suppliers will be present on the day, including Britain’s Top Designer, Matthew O’Brien. He will be showcasing some of his wedding dress designs and is on hand to discuss dressing you or your wedding party.
There will be hints of how your day could look and feel with floristry samples, music choices and much more. Couples are invited to register to attend and see for themselves why there is such a buzz surrounding Talhenbont. The venue must be seen to be believed and with so many options on offer to create a bespoke, unique wedding, the open day should not be missed by any couple who are looking for somewhere spectacular to celebrate one of the biggest days of their lives.
Places are limited to two per booking so please book early to avoid disappointment!
For any couple looking for the perfect wedding venue or for those wishing to book an exclusive location for a private party, hen or stag weekend, Talhenbont Hall should be at the top of your list."
                 
For more information and to confirm your attendance at this exclusive event, please contact:
Director Alicia Cox on 07966 050882 alicia@talhenbonthall.co.uk

www.talhenbonthall.co.uk

September 28 2017

Dwyfor Camera Club Starts New Season & Welcomes New Members

Interested members of the public will be more than welcome as Dwyfor Camera Club starts its new season with an Open Meeting next Tuesday, 3rd October at 7.30pm in the Village Hall, Abersoch.

There will be a display of photographs recently featured in the Summer Exhibition in Pwllheli and members will be on hand to chat to anyone interested in joining the Club.

The Club caters for people at all levels of experience – from absolute beginner to the very proficient – by running a variety of activities that reflect the various interests and needs of our members.

Examples of the topics and interests include: -
• Practical sessions on getting the best out of your camera
• Tutorials on Photoshop and Lightroom software
• Portraits and still life
• Competitions
• Guest speakers
• Trips and projects

Recent projects and trips have included photoshoots at Plas yn Rhiw, Criccieth and the Churches of Pen Llyn.

Members come in all shapes, sizes, levels of experience and interest, so if you’d like to find out more just come along to the first open night of the season on Tuesday, 3rd October at 7.30pm in Abersoch Village Hall or any Tuesday after that.

There is always room for new members and you will be very welcome.

Find out more on our website www.dwyforcameraclub.co.uk

and visit us on Facebook at Abersoch Dwyfor Camera Club

The Camera Club meets every Tuesday evening in the Abersoch Village Hall from October to April. We even have tea, coffee and sometimes chocolate biscuits!

September 22 2017

New Abersoch Webcam View Online

A new Abersoch webcam is up and running in the village, showing a view across part of the inner harbour. The view updates every few minutes and can be viewed by clicking here.

The view is provided by Abersoch Boatyard, who have their online shop selling their Abersoch branded clothing at: www.abersochboatyard.co.uk.

September 18 2017

Record Property / Beach Hut Prices In Abersoch

News from local estate agents, Beresford Adams, who recently held an auction...

"Beresford Adams held a successful auction sale at Clwb Golff Abersoch last Friday 15th September. The club house was packed out with potential buyers and the general public, who were interested in experiencing an Auction sale of three unique lots in the village. The first being Gorse Bank an iconic property perched above the outer harbour with a boat house, Bidding was very frenetic when reaching the guide price of £1.5 million and the gavel finally was knocked down at £2.02million. Second lot was a freehold beach hut on Abersoch main beach, demand for a beach hut is ever increasing and after keen bidding the hut reached a new record selling price of £160,000. The third and final lot was a freehold building plot off Lon Engan with planning for a detached 3 bed dwelling, again there was good interest and selling for £275,000. Beresford Adams are grateful to the golf club for allowing them to use their facilities for the event and helping to boost their bar sales for the afternoon!"

September 14 2017

Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride

Entries are now coming in for this year’s Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride.  As in previous years, 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 1st 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, 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 Llŷn 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, medal and slate coaster.

To enter click here

September 07 2017
Abersoch Christmas Festival

The annual Christmas Festival is set to take place from Friday 1st December to Sunday 3rd December (not the previous weekend as reported elsewhere!).
More details on the timetable of events to follow...

August 17 2017
Abersoch Raft Race Postoned

Friday's Abersoch Raft Race has been postponed until Tuesday 22nd August due to the strong winds that are forecast to affect the area on Friday evening. The times are the same - 6.15pm for juniors and 7pm for seniors.

More info at: www.abersochregatta.co.uk

August 16 2017

"The Perfect Travel Shoe" Pop Up Returns To Abersoch
"The most comfortable, lightweight machine washable shoe in your suitcase"!

Charleston Shoe Co. is back in Abersoch on Sunday August 20th and Monday August 21st 10am-7pm!

Drop by B & B's Hair Stylists, (Opposite The Vaynol), Abersoch where they will be show casing their most popular styles for you to try on and purchase.

Check out their great styles at www.charlestonshoeco.eu , send them an email with the style, colour and size and they will bring the shoes for you to try!

August 13 2017
Abersoch Regatta Events This Week

The Abersoch Regatta is in full swing with a week of family orientated events, that began with the sailing on Saturday and the best decorated beach hut competition. Today a, fun surf competition and BBQ is being held at Porth Neigwl, with a paddle boarding competition scheduled for Monday at 1.00pm. Thereafter, there is the Open Golf on Wednesday 16 August and the always popular Crab catching competition on Thursday 17 August at 5.00pm. The last day of events on Friday, sees the Raft Races taking place from 6.15pm.

More info at: www.abersochregatta.co.uk

August 09 2017

Emergency Services Called To Inebriated Pair

Abersoch Coastguards and paramedics were called out to Abersoch main beach late yesterday evening, to reports of two intoxicated casualties. Coastguards assisted in getting them off the beach and into the waiting ambulance using a stretcher, as the casualties were unable to walk. They were taken to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor for treatment.

August 01 2017

Councillors Newsletter - Important Info Regarding Abersoch Surgery

Abersoch's councillor, Dewi Wyn Roberts has posted his latest newsletter on his Facebook page, with both English and Welsh language versions available at:
https://www.facebook.com/DewiWynAbersoch

We urge people to read this as there is some very important information that some may not be aware of regarding the proposed change of use of the Abersoch doctors surgery to a residential dwelling. The result of this would be that all patients of this practice would have to travel to Botwnnog to see a doctor and would be a real backward step for the village of Abersoch - a village that sees a huge influx of visitors over the summer months and yet seemingly may not in the future be able to provide basic medical services. On a personal level, having a close relative come within hours of death some years ago due to the non-existent weekend provision of doctors in the area, this is an issue very close to our heart and we support Dewi in his efforts to prevent the closure of this essential service and we also urge people to sign the petition in the village against this closure.

July 28 2017

Pen Llyn Ultra - Live Tracking

This weekend's 75 mile race around Pen Llyn can be followed live at:

https://penllyn.niftyentries.com/Results

For more info on the event, whether to take part in the future, support or spectate, visit the race website at:
www.penllynultra.co.uk

July 26 2017
Whitehouse - Signs Of Progress!

The saga of the development of the Whitehouse has been going on for years, however, there are signs of progress today with new signs appearing outside of site and also a new website - so - we may be nearing a time when work commences...

Check out the new website at www.whitehouseabersoch.com

July 26 2017
Beach Yoga Charity Fundraiser

Simply Yoga are organising a beach yoga charity fundraiser next Sunday morning, 30th July, (weather permitting), with proceeds going to the Air Ambulance.

Details are available by clicking on the image opposite.

Classes are suitable for beginners and more experienced yoga goers. All you need to bring is a mat, towel or blanket that you are happy to get sand on and water to drink.

The event will be - from Abersoch Beach Café turn right, from Mickey’s Boat Yard turn left (we’ll meet in the middle)!

Cost: This is a donation only class (suggested minimum donation of £5 and £1 for under 18s)

Classes may change dependent on tides & weather so to keep up to date check out Facebook and Twitter pages or contact Freddie.

07833663717 Simply Yoga and Therapies
@SimplyYoga1 / SimplyYoga@btinternet.com

July 13 2017
Gareth Handing Over At Abersoch RNLI

Abersoch Lifeboat Station has a new Launch Operations Manager (LOM), who is the man in charge at the station, as Gareth Hughes-Jones is retiring and handing over to former local policeman Andy Vowell.

Gareth has had over 40 years of involvement with Abersoch lifeboat as a crew member, training officer and as the LOM for the last few years. He has given his thoughts in an interview on the RNLI website, which can be read by clicking on the following link.

https://rnli.org/news-and-media/2017/july/10/handing-over-the-helm-at-abersoch-rnli-after-40-years
< photo: Gareth (right) with Tommy Hookes & Seriol Thomas in a classic shot from the 1970's.

July 13 2017
Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth) On The BBC One Show

The surf beach of Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth) was featured on yesterday evening's BBC One Show programme, along with local business owner Kerry Phillips and some of the kids from the local surf club. The programme can be viewed by clicking here. (The brief feature is shown from 07:48 minutes into the programme).

July 13 2017
Venetia Gets A Great Review In The Daily Post

The restaurant at Venetia has recently received an excellent review in the Daily Post newspaper...

...you can read the Daily Post review by clicking here.

July 03 2017
Women Wine & Shoes - Pop Up Shop Coming To Abersoch

You will be able to find the "The Perfect Travel Shoe" in Abersoch this weekend, with a pop up shop opening in BB's hairstylists in Abersoch (next door to Abersoch Deli / Zinc). The Charleston Shoe Co describe themselves as, "...the most comfortable, lightweight machine washable shoe in your suitcase!... so drop by B B's Hair Stylists where we will be show casing our most popular styles for you to try on and purchase."

The pop up shop will be open on Friday 7th July 6.00-9.00pm, Saturday 8th July 5.00pm-9.00pm and Sunday 9th July 10.00am-4.00pm.

See the range of shoes at www.charlestonshoeco.eu

July 03 2017
Councillor Meets New Beach Control Team

Abersoch's councillor, Dewi Wyn Roberts has recently met up with the new beach control team, who will be patrolling the beaches of Abersoch and Pen Llyn this summer.

Councillor Roberts (pictured left), thanked the team and noted that, " They have a very difficult and important job. I would appeal to all who visit our beaches to treat them with respect and heed the advice and warnings they give! I intend to support them as much as possible. Part of their remit is to ensure the safety of all on the beach. Lets ensure that we try and have an enjoyable time this summer with little risk to everyone. It was also reassuring to see Police presence in the area throughout the weekend and I thank them for their support."

July 03 2017
Grand Summer Concert At Llanengan Church

A "Grand Summer Concert" is set to take place at Llanengan church on Sunday 30th July at 7pm with the Meibion Dwyfor Choir providing the amazing sound of the Welsh male voice choir.
Tickets for this unmissable event are available at Londis in Abersoch and also at the Sun Inn, Llanengan and are £10. Further information available by calling 01758 713893 / 07796 797062.

<click on the image to view details in a larger format.

June 30 2017
Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride 2017

Plans are now prepared for this year’s Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride.  As in previous years, 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 1st October and riders will be able to start at any time, of their choosing, between 9:00 and 11:00am, so put it in your diaries now.

There are four routes: a 40 mile route, with 3,067 feet of climbing, for experienced cyclists; a shorter 30 mile 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 Llŷn 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, medal and slate coaster.

To enter click here.

June 20 2017

Message In A Bottle From Abersoch Found

We received this email yesterday from the guys at hireacanoe.com, down in the Severn Estuary, related to a message in a bottle that had come from Abersoch...

"We have found a message in a bottle on the River Severn that was launched into the sea by an "Emma" at Abersoch. It's a bit of a mystery to us how it ended up in the River Severn 200 ft above sea level at Montford Bridge! Would it be possible for you to help us find the launcher of the bottle?  The message in the bottle seems to be in memory of Chloe Farrell who tragically passed away in a tractor incident earlier this year.
We would like to find emma and offer her a free canoe trip so she can relaunch the bottle and let Chloe's memory live on."

So, if anyone can help - please contact Kieran via their website at www.hireacanoe.com - or you can contact us and we'll forward the message.

June 13 2017

Dramatic Rescue At Porth Ceiraid As Frisbee Retrieval Goes Wrong!

Abersoch Coastguards were called out to Porth Ceiriad yesterday after a person got stuck on cliffs whilst trying to retrieve a frisbee! Due to the position of the casualty, the coastguard helicopter was tasked to the rescue and winched the person safely from the cliff.

Photos and details of the incident can be found at the Abersoch Coastguard Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/AbersochCoastguard

June 13 2017

Abersoch's Great British Menu Chef Returns

The current Great British Menu series on the BBC saw Abersoch's Paul Croasdale creating dishes inspired by memories of his childhood in Abersoch. Paul narrowly missed out on reaching the cooking for the judges stage of the programme and will surely go further in future series. Paul is cooking the 4 courses from his Great British Menu experience at Si Toft's The Dining Room in Abersoch on Sunday 25th June and Monday 26th June - with more details available on the poster opposite and at the Dining Room Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/The-Dining-Room-117628494937290/

June 13 2017

Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon Update

The second Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon is set to take place on Saturday 29th July with participants attempting to cover 75 miles of the coastal path in less than 24 hours. Sponsors for this year's event include Jenics, Abersoch Quality Homes and Tu Mewn. After the success of the first edition of the race, this year the entries have increased and so has the profile of the event, as the race has been awarded a UTMB (Ultra Trail Mont Blanc) qualifying point ranking of 5, which in the world of ultra, trail and mountain running is a recognition of the toughness of this event. For more info on the event, whether to take part, support or spectate, visit the race website at:
www.penllynultra.co.uk

June 05 2017

Abersoch 10K & 3K Photos Online

The annual Abersoch 10K and 3K races took place at the weekend, sponsored by Henri Lloyd and Abersoch Holiday Homes and the races were as popular and as well supported as ever.

John Wormald was there to capture the atmosphere and action and he has put a selection of shots on his gallery, which can be viewed by clicking here.

June 01 2017
Abersoch Regatta New Website

The Abersoch Regatta is an annual series of events run by "the Abersoch village community" each August for local people and of course for all the visitors to the area and is one of the only community run regatta type events in the UK. The events are designed to be fun for families and people of all ages and include the famous raft race, a golf competition, sand castle building, crab catching, surf and paddleboarding comps and the famous sailing regatta day at SCYC, where the first Abersoch regatta was held back in 1881!

Each year, the various events in the village raise money for local good causes So, check out the latest list of events for the 2017 regatta by visiting: www.abersochregatta.co.uk

June 01 2017
Dan Williams Photography

An addition to the wonderfully talented local photographers that inhabit Abersoch and Pen Llyn is Dan Williams, who has recently set up Dan J Wills photography. Dan has produced work for high profile clients such as Jaguar, Private White V.C., Shore Projects and Old Harry and has just launched his new website at danjwills.com.

You can also see other examples of his work over on his Instagram by clicking here.

May 31 2017
Charity Marathon Des Sables Pie & Pint Night

Pen Llyn locals Huw Williams and Jeremy Collins recently took part in the epic multi day Marathon Des Sables desert ultra marathon in the Sahara, with both managing to complete this incredibly tough endurance event, which combines large daily distances and searing heat. Huw will be giving an entertaining talk on his experiences of the event at Plas Heli on the 9th June, with all proceeds going to the Scope charity. As anyone who knows Huw will tell you, it is guaranteed to be a very entertaining evening.

Tickets are £8.50 which include a pie and a pint and details on how to obtain these are shown on the poster opposite.

May 25 2017
Abersoch RNLI Lifeboat Open Day - With Helicopter Exercise
The annual RNLI Open Day will be at the Boathouse, opposite Land & Sea, on Monday 29th May from 10:30 onwards.  There will be the chance to inspect the new Atlantic 85 class lifeboat and meet the crew.
Subject to there being no operational requirements and the weather, the boat will be launched for the crew to take part in an exercise with the Bristow/Coastguard  Search and Rescue helicopter from Caernarfon at 2:30pm.  There will be coffee, tea and biscuits, a cake stall, a barbeque, games and activities.  The RNLI shop will also be open for gifts and souvenirs. 

May 25 2017
Wedding Launch Event At Talhenbont Hall Estate

The stunning Talhenbont Hall Estate, nestled in the North Wales countryside on the Llyn Peninsula, is now available as one of the most exclusive, unique wedding venues in the whole of Wales.

Situated in 100 acres of private ancient woodland and gardens, Talhenbont and the team, led by Paul Good and wife to be Alicia Cox, are working with of the most influential and experienced names within the industry providing a bespoke, personal service to ensure that the most important day of your lives exceeds all expectations and delivers on every level. Paul and Alicia are opening the doors of the privately owned estate to the public and invited guests to experience all that Talhenbont has to offer a bride and groom on their special day.

Their Wedding Launch Event on June 4th will run from 10am – 5pm when the dedicated wedding team will be able to guide you through all that is available to those considering Talhenbont. Enjoy bubbly and canapés in the sumptuous surroundings of the Seventeenth Century Elizabethan hall and grounds steeped in history. Wedding director, Alicia Cox will be overseeing the open day, making sure you have all the information you need about your wedding at Talhenbont Hall. She will be available to take bookings on the day if you require, securing the entire estate for your special day. For any couple looking for the perfect wedding venue or for those wishing to book an exclusive location for a private party, hen or stag weekend, or combined “do” then the 4th June is a date to put in your diary and don’t miss out.

For more information and to confirm your attendance at this exclusive event, please contact director Alicia Cox on 07966 050882 - alicia@talhenbonthall.co.uk

May 18 2017

Website News & Facebook Page

The eagle eyed amongst our readers may have noticed the webcam image archive pages appearing on the website this week, as well as some automation during the daytimes of the SCYC webcam which now moves from one of its 7 views to another, every few minutes. The links to the 2 new pages can be found on the webcam index page or by clicking here and here. These are a number of projects that we are currently working on with the webcams, with various upgrades planned, so watch this space for updates.

Also - we have never used our Facebook page, however, this is set to change with our page coming out of mothballs, which will soon also be updated on a daily basis - so keep an eye on ... https://www.facebook.com/abersochcouk-191090030933507

May 15 2017

Gwynedd Business Week 2017

Gwynedd Business Week will be held between the 22 and 26 May.

The Business Week will celebrate and promote local business success and will offer a great opportunity for all kinds of local businesses to come together to network and exchange ideas.

The week will be based around a programme of various events to be held across Gwynedd.

The highlight of the Week will be the Gwynedd Business Gala Dinner, which will be held on 25 May at The Management Centre, Bangor.

During the Dinner, Gwynedd Business Network will present an award to the person nominated as the Gwynedd Business Person of the Year. The Gwynedd branch of the Federation of Small Businesses will present an award to the Young Entrepreneur that has successfully established in the current year and has positively contributed to the economy of Gwynedd.

- Click here for more info and the event calendar.

May 13 2017

Fatal Accident On Friday Evening

Emergency services were called to the Warren, Abersoch on Friday evening after a tractor reportedly overturned, trapping a person. Tragically the person trapped, a woman in her 20's, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident is being reported on the following sites:

- North Wales Police appeal for witnesses
- BBC News - Inquiry into woman's tractor death

- Daily Post - Woman dies in tractor incident.

May 08 2017

The Changing Faces Of Hell's Mouth By Graham Eaton

Award winning photographer and regular visitor to Abersoch, Graham Eaton, has undertaken a wonderful photography project, looking at the cliffs at Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth) and especially the faces that can be seen in them.

The images which are part of a larger portfolio of work, were taken over a 2 year period, and have not been manipulated beyond mono conversion, colour filter and toning.

Graham says, "Most photographers, me included, have taken many images of the sea, waves and sunsets etc down at Hells Mouth, but few have looked the other way!. I have produced a portfolio of images to look at the structure of the eroding cliffs, wildlife and sky. But there is another side to Hells Mouth, a mysterious side, revealed only occasionally to those who care to look….here today and gone tomorrow! This story is to be continued in image and storytelling as an illustrated book…watch this space."

The images can be viewed at Graham's website www.eatonnature.co.uk, under the landscape gallery and the portfolio is available for exhibition etc, and are also available as prints.

May 05 2017

Abersoch Has A New Councillor - Dewi Wyn Roberts Elected

The winner of the election to decide who will become the new Abersoch representative on Gwynedd council has been announced this morning, with Dewi Wyn Roberts coming out on top. Results are as follows:

Dewi Wyn Roberts (Ind): 206

John Gosling (Ind): 69

Bernard Arthur Ronald Gentry (Con): 15
Sally Jones, representing (Llais Gwynedd): 17

Dewi will be replacing long-standing councillor Wyn Williams, who stood down after over 20 years of serving the community of Abersoch.

In Llanengan, current Independent councillor John Brynmor Hughes (John Pent) was re-elected, defeating, challenger Owen Hefin Roberts, who was standing for Plaid Cymru.

April 26 2017

Kayakers & Paddleboarders Wanted For Swim Event Help

The annual U Swim open water swimming events in September, that are sponsored by local company Abersoch Quality Homes and run from Abersoch main beach, provide a fun atmosphere and a range of distances suited to all levels of swimmer. This year, U Swim are looking for kayakers and paddleboarders to help with their 5 mile swim event - and anyone able to help can contact Karen Smith at U Swim on 07813 095458 or at: sales@uswimopenwater.com - or via twitter... @UswimOpenwater

More info on the event can be found by clicking here.

April 19 2017

Election Candidates Manifestos

Here are the manifestos of 2 of the candidates for the Abersoch ward in the forthcoming Gwynedd Council elections (May 4th). Click on the images below to access the information. We will publish the other candidates info when they are available.

The other 2 candidates are - Bernard Arthur Ronald Gentry, Conservative
and Sally Jones, representing Llais Gwynedd.

April 10 2017

Huw & Jeremy In The Sahara At The Marathon Des sables.

2 local men are currently in the Sahara desert taking part in the iconic, multi day ultra marathon race, the Marathon des Sables. Jeremy Collins, who is from Abersoch and Huw Williams from near Pwllheli have been trainng all winter for this incredible challenge. Training for the daytime heat of the sahara has been a particular challenge during the UK winter, with Huw regularly seen in the area "over dressed" for running, in an attempt to replicate the heat effect of the Sahara desert on his body.
Huw is one of the race directors for the 125km , Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon, which took place for the first time last summer, with the second edition due to take place at the end of July and he is running for the Scope charity. Jeremy has already completed challenging events such as the Ring Of Fire and also the Pen Llyn Ultra.
You can follow the progress of both of these Pen Llyn ultra runners and their incredible journey, at the Marathon des Sables website, by clicking here - Jeremy is competitor 0718 and Huw is 1050.

Update: They did it!!!

April 04 2017

Local Government Elections: List Of Candidates Announced.

The local governement elections are set to take place on Thursday, 4th May, 2017 and today the list of candidates has been released for the various wards of Pen Llyn.
In Abersoch there are 4 candidates to replace retiring Councillor Wyn Williams, who has served the area for over 20 years.
The candidates are as follows:
- Bernard Arthur Ronald Gentry, Conservative
- John Bernard Gosling, Independent
- Sally Jones, Llais Gwynedd
- Dewi Wyn Roberts, Independent
Over in Llanengan, and it is a two horse race, with current councillor John Brynmor Hughes (John Pent) an Independent, up against Owen Hefin Roberts, who is standing for Plaid Cymru.
In Llanbedrog, Angela Russell, who is the current Independent, councillor, will be re-elected unopposed as there are no other candidates.

March 24 2017

New Website For The Warren Spa & A New Facility Being Built
The Spa on the Warren has a new website, showing the full range of treatments currently available and overseen and provided by fully qualified beauty therapist, Sarah Burr. Sarah has over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, including working with high profile brands and celebrities. You can view the new website at www.thewarrenspa.co.uk.

The team at the Warren are also excited by the news that work recently began on a brand new spa facility, that will comprise of "6 treatment rooms, 6 experience zones and also a spa experience pool." The facility is expected to open later in the year.

March 20 2017

Footage Of Controlled Explosions At Porth Neigwl
Abersoch Coastguard have posted on their Facebook page footage of the bomb squad (Royal Logistical Corps) carrying out 2 controlled explosions on the ordnance that was found washed up on Porth Neigwl yesterday.

You can view the footage and also follow the excellent work carried out throughout the year by the local Abersoch coastguards by clicking here.

March 20 2017

Explosive Device Washed Up At Porth Neigwl
Local coastguards and police cordoned off part of the beach at Porth Neigwl on Sunday after a local dog walker found what appeared to be an explosive device wadhed up on the shore. There are reports of the incident on the Daily Post website here and on the BBC News website here.

The local coastguard team, that is based in Abersoch, receives training on how to identify potentially explosive items, which can come from a variety of sources, including munitions that were dumped out at sea after the second world war. The recent discovery appears to be of more recent manufacture.

March 17 2017
Warning About Fraudulent Emails Asking For Accommodation

As we reported last year, we urge accommodation providers to be aware of scam emails that enquire about accommodation availability and then offer a rather odd way of paying for the dates, resulting in large sums of money being lost by the accommodation provider. This caught at least one property owner out last year and we have recently received reports of similar emails being received, including the following one received by abersoch.co.uk overnight. This one comes from a seemingly legitimate US email company address and reads as following...

"Hello,

I would like to inquire more about your place for me and my wife.
Please let me know how much it would cost for a week stay from 20th to 27th of May,2017. Waiting for your prompt reply with the availability of the dates and the total price for two guest.

Yours truly,
Mr and Mrs George"

This is rather similar to the emails received last year, such as...

"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"

What happened in the case of "Mr and Mrs Brown's" enquiry was that those dates were full, but Mr and Mrs Brown were (unsurprisingly) very flexible in their holiday dates and could reschedule almost anytime.

What then transpires is that Mr and Mrs Brown say they 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 requested, then the safest way is not to proceed with the booking and and ignore further emails and to take advice from local trading standards officials.

March 13 2017

Council Tax To Rise By 50% On Second Homes… In 2018

Back in October 2016 we posted some views on the proposed increase in council tax on second homes in Gwynedd (see October in 2016 news). Late in 2016, the council voted overwhlemingly in favour of an increase in council tax on second homes of 50%, to take effect in 2018. The aim of the increase is to increase the funds available for the council to help those who are unable to buy a house in Gwynedd and "to ensure second homes make a fair contribution”. You can read a Daily Post news article on the story on the following link and this story will be returned to during the year...
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-votes-50-rise-council-12294834

March 13 2017

Abersoch Voted As One Of The Best Places To Live In The UK
No real surprises here!…Daily Post article at ... http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/its-official-abersoch-one-best-12717302

March 13 2017

Porth Neigwl Beach Clean
Keep Wales Tidy, supported by Llyn AONB, are planning a beach clean of Porth Neigwl/ Hells Mouth beach on Sunday 19/3/17, starting at 11am.

All are welcome to come and lend a hand, with equipment provided.
Details on the poster opposite - click for a larger image.

February 16 2017

Venetia Refurb & New Italian Tapas Menu

Abersoch's popular Venetia restaurant and boutique accommodation have been working hard over the winter on a refurb and also on an exciting new Italian tapas style menu - Cicchetti, which are a delightful Venetian custom, and comprise of small plate dishes, to share or eat alone.
They are served alongside the main courses at Venetia and are an exciting new addition which can be enjoyed in the newly refurbished dining room or cosy bar with log burner.

Venetia is open for food on Friday 17th Feb and each night next week for half term from 6 pm.

Through March, April & May, they are open from Wednesday to Sunday lunch and for June, from Tuesday to Sunday lunch.
The rooms are always open.

Click on the menu for a larger version of the new menu and for more info on Venetia, go to www.venetiawales.com

February 13 2017

Abersoch 10K & Triathlon On Course To Sell-Out

Entries for the 2017 Abersoch 10K and Triathlons have been coming in thick and fast and currently on track to sell-out in advance of the races.

The Henri Lloyd Abersoch 10K comes into its 9th year and has increased in numbers each year with over 800 entering in 2016. The race has an entry limit of 1,000 runners and race organisers are giving a heads up that entries are up more than double on this time last year so well on course for a sell-out. The same is warned for the Triathlons in particular the Sprint Tri which sold out the last 2 years around the event date but again current entries are up more than double this time last year.

Dates for all races are as follows:
Saturday 3rd June: Henri Lloyd Abersoch 10K and Abersoch Holiday Homes 3K Beach Race
Saturday 17th June: Abersoch Olympic & Sprint Distance Triathlons + Abersoch Holiday Homes 1K Beach Sprint
Saturday 16th September: Chaparral Abersoch Half Marathon + Abersoch Holiday Homes 2K Beach Blast

For full details and to enter go to www.abersochtriplecrown.com

January 24 2017
Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride 2017

Plans are now being prepared for this year’s Abersoch RNLI Sponsored Bike Ride. As in previous years, 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 1st 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, 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, medal and slate coaster.

Entries will open on 1st July , but put it in your diaries now.

January 06 2017
Last Weekend For Sue At Siop Y Plas

It is Sue's last weekend in Siop y Plas, on the way to the beach in Llanbedrog, so there is still time to grab yourself a closing down bargain.

Sue would like to thanks all those who have supported her during her 15 years in the shop.

January 04 2017

RNLI Sponsored Sea Dip - Organisers Report
Once again, the Abersoch RNLI New Year’s Day Dip attracted large crowds to the main beach. Around 500 hardy souls braved the freezing waters and cold air temperatures to rush into the sea, with many wearing splendid costumes based on this year’s theme of ‘The Circus’. We saw clowns, acrobats, escape artists, lions and tigers with their trainers, penguins and even a couple of elephants. John Wormald was there again to capture the action and the amazing variety of fancy dress - to view a large selection of these images visit the Totally Abersoch website at: http://john53.zenfolio.com/nyd2017.

The dippers raised well-earned sponsorship money and the crowd of around 2,000 spectators gave generously to the collection buckets so that it is hoped that the final total raised will approach last year’s record amount. The organisers are most grateful of the support of all the dippers and spectators and to Steve Clayton for providing the music and commentary, Abersoch Golf Club for making their beach car park available, the Williams family for allowing the use of their café and car park, the Coastguard volunteers and to our wonderfully committed volunteeer lifeboat crew who turned out again early on New Year’s Day to set everything up on the beach and then go into the sea to watch over the dippers.

January 03 2017

Photos From The Annual RNLI Sponsored Sea Dip
Hundreds of people again braved the freezing waters and cold air temperatures on New Year's Day for the annual sponsored dip, organised by the Abersoch Lifeboat Station and hels on Abersoch main beach. John Wormald was there again to capture the action and the amazing variety of clircus themed fancy dress. To view a large selection of these images, visit the Totally Abersoch website at: http://john53.zenfolio.com/nyd2017

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.