Ex-landlord loses licence over vodka scam

The perils of scamming drinkers with cheap spirits have been brought home to a former Anglesey landlord.

Harry Edward Bridge, of 54 High Street, Cemaes Bay, lost his licence to sell alcohol last week after being caught selling cheap spirits labeled as Smirnoff vodka.

During a routine visit to The Stag Inn in Cemaes Bay earlier this year, Trading Standards Officer found a bottle of Smirnoff vodka containing a cheap low strength spirit.

Mr Bridge, aged 62, who no longer runs the pub, pleaded guilty to two charges under the Food Safety Act, namely selling food (alcohol) not of the quality demanded and falsely describing the vodka on sale; and one charge of Trademark infringement, under the Trademarks Act.

Holyhead Magistrates ordered him to forfeit his personal licence to sell alcohol and pay a total of £450 in fines and costs.

Following the case brought by Anglesey Trading Standards, Principal Trading Standards Officer, Emma Jones, stressed, "Substituting branded spirits for cheaper alternatives is fraud, and will not be tolerated."

Environment portfolio holder, Councillor Bob Parry OBE, is responsible for trading standards matters. He added, "In the current economic climate, many people have a lot less disposable income and so the least they expect is to get what they pay for, and not to be charged full price for a cheap substitute. Our Trading Standards Officers will continue to visit premises on the Island to ensure that the public are not being ripped off and that they can buy with confidence."

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Councils' warning on council tax phone scam

Gwynedd and Anglesey Councils are warning Council tax payers to be vigilant against a phone scam which seems to be widespread throughout Wales.

It seems that council tax payers in both counties have been randomly contacted by a fraudster offering them help to claim a refund of overpaid council tax. Worryingly, however, they are asked for personal bank account details information during the call.

Gwynedd Council stresses that this is a despicable scam in an effort to get people to disclose their personal bank details. Should residents receive such a call they are firmly advised not to provide any personal details what so ever.

Anglesey Trading Standards' Martin Wyn Jones added, "Fraudsters are always inventing new ways to try to con people, and this seems to be the latest effort. Cold-callers can catch people off-guard, but our advice is to contact your local trading standards if unsure about any phone calls."

Anglesey Trading Standards can be contacted on (01248) 752840 or go to the Trading Standards page on our website.

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Collision in Amlwch

Two people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Amlwch this morning.

Shortly after 10:30am North Wales Police received a report of a single-vehicle collision on Lon Goch.

An ambulance was called and an elderly woman has been taken to hospital with what is believed to be minor injuries and an elderly man was airlifted by the Air Ambulance.

Both were taken to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.

The man who was airlifted to hospital following the single-vehicle collision remains in hospital but his condition has improved. His injuries are now being described as minor.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have been travelling along that particular stretch of road and who witnessed the collision, to contact officers at the Western Roads Policing Unit on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) or 0845 607 1002 (English line).

The road remains closed at this time but it is expected to re-open within the next hour.

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Impact Day: Latest

Today's operation across the North Wales Police force area has resulted in 84 people being arrested for a variety of offences.

Over 180 police officers were involved in the execution of warrants and searching of premises in a crack down on crime.

In the counties of Gwynedd and Anglesey the total number of arrests currently stands at 47, with 13 people remaining in custody.

Following the execution of a search warrant in one property in Merionnydd, numerous weapons, including large knives, and a quantity of what appears to be class A controlled drugs were seized. As a result a 24-year-old man from the Meirionnydd area was arrested for possession with intent to supply controlled drugs and other associated offences. He remains in police custody as enquiries continue.

Several other people remain in custody for possession of class A drugs, following the recovery of numerous cannabis plants and a hydroponics system.

In the Conwy and Denbighshire areas 22 arrests have been made for offences including possession of class A and B drugs, assault, burglary, race related offences and harassment.

In Wrexham and Flintshire 15 people were arrested and a large quantity of class A, B and C drugs were seized. A quantity of stolen goods were also recovered.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard said: "North Wales Police is committed to reducing crime and protecting people and today's coordinated force wide strike against crime and offenders demonstrates this.

After the success of today's operation we will be putting the evidence we have collated before the Crown Prosecution Service. Across North Wales we have disrupted criminal activity and we are now seeking to put these offenders before the courts."

The team is working to make your neighbourhood a safer place to live. If you have information about crime or anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood, you can contact your team directly on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line), 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Alternatively send a text message to 66767 or email - northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

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Drivers urged to respect the 'lollipop'

Drivers are being warned to respect school crossing patrols or face the consequences.

The call comes from the County Council's Road Safety Team after a motorist was prosecuted for failing to stop for a school 'lollipop lady'.

The man, who drove past the school crossing attendant as she helped a group of children cross the road, recently pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention.

Holyhead Magistrates gave him three penalty points on his licence, a £65 fine and also ordered him to pay £65 costs.

Anglesey's Road Safety Officer, William Hughes, stressed, "Motorists are committing a criminal offence if they fail to stop when a school crossing attendant is in the highway displaying a STOP sign."

"This particular incident left the attendant shaken and upset and we welcome the prosecution by North Wales Police. Unfortunately, this sort of incident is more common than you'd think with some motorists becoming irate and abusive if they have to stop for the crossing patrol."

The Isle of Anglesey County Council employs 19 school crossing attendants who all carry out a very important role in safeguarding our children's safety. School crossing attendants, with their instantly recognisable 'lollipop' STOP signs, help children cross many of the Island's busiest roads on their way to and from school.

Highways portfolio holder, Councillor Eurfryn Davies, urged drivers to show consideration and respect at all times, especially when approaching a school.

He added, "Incidents like these are a real concern. A driver's failure to stop when an attendant is in the middle of the road could lead to a serious road traffic accident involving young children. I hope this successful prosecution sends a clear message to all drivers that this sort of behaviour cannot and will not be tolerated on Anglesey."

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Enjoy Christmas at Oriel Ynys Môn

Christmas is once again just around the corner and Oriel Ynys Môn is offering customers a special experience.

This year, the Art Gallery provides a home for the Craft Fair which will exhibit works by established artists and those developing their talents. The Craft Fair begins this Saturday, November 14th, and will last until Christmas Eve, December 24th.

Principal Museum, Culture and Archives Officer, Pat West, explained, "We'll have original works and prints for sale, with something for everyone's taste as well as prices to suit every pocket. This will be a special way of buying that unique gift for a loved one or even spoiling yourself before Christmas."

She added, "To help people buy the craft works, Oriel Ynys Môn is also offering shoppers a chance to join the Principality Saving Scheme which is an interest free service."

The Oriel's shop, Jac Do, is also selling a range of crafts, including books, toys, greeting cards, gifts and special decorations. It also offers a wide variation of new and inventive craft work by some of the best craftspeople.

To end your visit in style, after all your shopping, why not relax and enjoy something from the tasty menu at our café, Blas Mwy.

So visit us for a unique shopping experience - and a day to remember!

Oriel Ynys Môn - Llangefni - Opening Hours: 10.30 am - 5.00 pm
Free entry
Phone: 01248 724444

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Anglesey supports White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day, held on the November 25th, is historically a day for men to show their support in ending violence against women.

The Ynys Môn Domestic Abuse Forum embraces this day, using it on a yearly basis as a means of raising awareness of domestic abuse and its effects on individuals and families.

Anglesey's Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator, Lowri Ann Roberts, explained, "Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women."

"In order to raise awareness this year, the Ynys Môn Domestic Abuse Forum will also be selling White Ribbon Day Christmas Cards, designed by Anglesey school pupils and White Ribbon Day Luxury Chocolates, especially made by 'Strawberry Farm' based in Llangefni. These products will be on sale from November 25th from members of the Ynys Môn Domestic Abuse Forum with the Christmas Cards available at Oriel Môn."

The Ynys Môn Domestic Abuse Forum will also have a stall in Llangefni Town Hall on market day, November 26th, with staff on hand to distribute leaflets and further information to the public.

Local businesses are also supporting White Ribbon Day by donating prizes for a special raffle. Tickets are available from Forum members and will be on sale on November 26th.

All monies raised will go to the Ynys Môn Domestic Abuse Forum in order to fund new projects and initiatives to help those who are victims of domestic abuse.

To purchase White Ribbon Day cards or chocolates, or for further information, please contact Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator, Lowri Ann Roberts, on (01248) 751881.

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Robbery in Holyhead: Update

Update regarding the robbery which occurred at the Travel Lodge in Holyhead on Thursday 12th November:

The 36-year-old man who was arrested has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnesses suspicious behaviour in or around the area of Kingsland Road, to contact officers at Holyhead CID on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line), 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Robbery in Holyhead: Man in custody

A man is currently in police custody after being arrested following an incident in Holyhead last night (Thursday, 12th November).

Shortly after 8pm police received a report that a robbery had occurred at the Travel Lodge on Kingsland Road, whereby a man entered the premises brandishing a knife and stole a small amount of cash.

A short while later officers arrested a 36-year-old man in the Holyhead area on suspicion of robbery. He remains in police custody at this time.

Nobody was injured during the incident.

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Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station volunteer official awarded for long service

Ken Bolton, Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station treasurer has been awarded for his long service and his valuable support to the RNLI.

Ken has been presented with a miniature statuette and framed certificate in recognition of over 10 years service to the charity.

RNLI Operations Director Michael Vlasto OBE recently awarded Ken, a retired mechanical engineer, with the detailed pewter model of a lifeboatman at the Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station.

Mr Vlasto was visiting the Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station to unveil two bronze panels outside the Moelfre Sea watch centre to commemorate the anniversary of the tragic loss of 479 lives when the Royal Charter was wrecked on the Moelfre rocks 150 years ago.

The detailed statuette of a lifeboatman is awarded to RNLI station officials once they have completed ten years of service to the charity and is manufactured by A E Williams of Birmingham, the countries oldest pewter making company.

Moelfre RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Rod Pace said "On behalf of everyone at the Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station I would like to thank Ken for all his dedication, commitment and hard work he has given to the RNLI over the past 13 years. He is a valuable member of the team and he thoroughly deserves this award."

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Beaumaris RNLI Lifeboat launches twice in one day

At 15.20 yesterday (Wednesday 11 November 2009), the volunteer crew at the RNLI’s lifeboat station at Beaumaris launched for its second incident in the afternoon.

While on its earlier mission at 14.02 to rescue two fishermen stranded by the tide at Menai Suspension Bridge, a radio traffic announcement was heard from a yacht on passage from Holyhead to Dickies in Bangor which had hit an underwater object.

Moelfre All Weather Lifeboat (ALB) was launched and located the vessel which was found to be taking on a small amount of water from the keel joint. Although the leak was minor, Moelfre ALB escorted the vessel to Puffin sound as a precautionary measure.

Following a discussion between the Moelfre Coxswain, Beaumaris LOM and Holyhead Coastguard it was decided to relaunch Beaumaris Inshore Lifeboat for it to take over the escort from Moelfre.

Beaumaris Inshore Lifeboat was launched with a salvage pump on board, took over the escort from Moelfre at 15.35 and escorted the vessel to a mooring between Gallows Point and the Gazelle. The owner was happy to remain on board and the Beaumaris Lifeboat returned to base.

The RNLI is a registered charity which relies solely on voluntary donations to provide its life saving service. To make a donation call the donation hotline on 0845 121 4999.

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Benllech Bottlewatch scheme

The first fixed penalty ticket has been issued to an individual who supplied alcohol to youngsters in Benllech on Anglesey.

Since the introduction of a scheme aimed at tackling under-age drinking was introduced in Benllech on Anglesey in July this year, a man has been issued with a fixed penalty ticket for supplying youngsters with alcohol.

The 21-year-old local man was fined £80 last week after being caught buying alcohol from the Spar store and supplying it to under-aged youths.

This is the first ticket to be issued in Benllech under ‘Bottlewatch’ - a partnership scheme that involves marking of bottles and cans, which are sold within local shops, with a unique tamper proof sticker. Officers who catch youths drinking in public places can then trace the items via the sticker to their point of sale and take appropriate action.

Bottlewatch was initially launched in Holyhead back in June 2008 as a pilot scheme, and because of its success it was rolled-out across the Island in July 2009.

PCSO Iona Beckmann said: “Because of the hard work and effort of the staff at the Spar store, who contacted police after witnessing the man supply the alcohol to the youngsters, we were able to issue him with a fixed penalty ticket.

“This is the first ticket that has been issued in Benllech since the introduction of the Bottlewatch scheme. We have excellent co-operation from the local stores and this should serve as a warning to those who buy alcohol for youngsters.

“When we seize bottles and cans from youngsters, we will know where they have come from and can then carry out the necessary enquiries to locate who is responsible for the purchase.”

She added: “North Wales Police are committed to tackling under age drinking and tackling anti-social behaviour or other type of crime associated with under age drinking.”

Anyone with information regarding the supply of alcohol to under-aged youngsters is asked to contact a member of their local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) or 0845 607 1002 (English line).

Alternatively send a text message to 66767 or email – northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

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Spate of thefts in South Anglesey

Police in South Anglesey are urging people to be vigilant following a spate of thefts in the Llanfairpwll and Menai Bridge areas.

Over the last few days officers have received reports of thefts of items such as adult bicycles, an outboard motor and lifejackets.

“We are urging people who live in the Menai Bridge / Llanfairpwll areas to ensure they lock their windows and doors and to also ensure they keep areas such as garden sheds and outbuildings under lock and key,” said PCSO Faith Allsop.

“People need to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to police.”

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact PC 2497 Steve Robins or PCSO 2329 Faith Allsop at Menai Bridge Police Station on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line), 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively send a text message to 66767 or email – northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

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Council leader backs Angelsey nuclear station

The announcement by Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Ed Miliband on the government's plans to fast-track a new generation of nuclear power reactors has been welcomed by the Leader of the Isle of Anglesey County Council.

Following the announcement, Councillor Clive McGregor said: This is an important step for Anglesey today, and we are pleased that Wylfa has been named as one of the ten sites which the UK Government believes will be suitable for nuclear new build.

The announcement will give the potential developers JV - Horizon and RWE npower/ e-onn confidence to progress with their schedule for the new nuclear development at Wylfa.

He added: We should not underestimate the significance of the potential investment, which could be in the region of £8 billion. This is comparable to the investment in London in preparation for the 2012 Olympics. We must make the most of this opportunity to safeguard long term employment on the island.

A fourteen week consultation period now follows and the Council and other organisations and communities across the island will have the opportunity to respond and make their views known.

Economic Development portfolio holder at the Isle of Anglesey County Council, Bryan Owen said: It is important that people have their say during the consultation - whatever their stance on potential nuclear new build.

Public consultation events on the content of todays national policy statement will take place on Anglesey in January 2010 - giving people an opportunity to make their views known to the UK Government.

He said: It is important for the regional economy and our communities that Wylfa is part of the first wave of new nuclear developments if we are to capitalise fully on the availability of transferable skills in the area.

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Grab your share of Anglesey community cash

Thanks to the Isle of Anglesey Community Chest fund, a total of 7 Anglesey sports clubs and organisations have been awarded between them a total of £5,053 for their proposed projects at a recent meeting.

The Community Chest Grant is funded by the Sports Council for Wales. Sian Mai Jones of Anglesey Council’s Sports Development Unit said ‘Anglesey clubs can apply for up to £1000 towards a project. It’s a great opportunity for new and existing club and we would urge clubs to come forward with applications’.

Ynys Môn Athletics Club has been awarded a grant for coach education for its coaches, athletes and team managers to utilize in the schools to deliver athletics sessions and attract new pupils to the club.

David Hughes Leisure Centre has been awarded a grant to introduce a new growing sport Futsal to the local community, working with youth clubs and community groups.

If you run a club or have an idea that you would like to develop then the closing date for the next Community Chest meeting is January 5. Get your application form by contacting Mandy Jones on 01248 752026 or visit the Community Chest website.

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Lib Dems go against nuclear option

Shadow Minister for the Environment, Mick Bates AM, has condemned the UK Government’s decision to build a new wave of nuclear power plants across England and Wales.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has approved 10 sites in England and Wales for new nuclear power stations. The 10 sites deemed suitable are: Bradwell in Essex, Braystones, Kirksanton and Sellafield in Cumbria, Hartlepool, Heysham in Lancashire, Hinkley Point in Somerset, Oldbury in Gloucestershire, Sizewell in Suffolk and Wylfa in North Wales.

Commenting on the news, Welsh Liberal Democrat AM Mick Bates stated:

“I am deeply disappointed that the UK Government continues to pursue a toxic nuclear agenda for new nuclear development in the UK. Not only is this diverting attention away from the development of renewable energy, but any new nuclear will not come online before 2020 so provides no solution to the ‘energy gap’ that we will be facing in 2016.

“Nuclear is not environmentally friendly, the nuclear cycle releases CO2, uranium mining is extremely CO2 intensive and therefore a nuclear programme will not help to substantially reduce our carbon emissions. We have no solution to deal with the toxic nuclear waste and no idea of the possible health problems, or the length of time taken to decommission a site as this has never been done.

“Even if Britain built ten new reactors, nuclear power would only deliver a 4% cut in carbon emissions, some time after 2025. Meanwhile the cost of cleaning up nuclear liabilities has risen to as much as £160billion, equivalent of a one-off “nuclear tax” of over £3,000 for everybody over 16 in the UK.

“This money would be better spent on solutions that are within our reach now. Reducing demand through energy efficiency, the cleaner use of fossil fuels, large scale investment in renewable energy and using state of the art decentralised power stations together have the potential to deliver reliable, quick and cheap low carbon energy and not leave behind a legacy of health issues and a toxic waste nightmare that nuclear will leave in its wake.”

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Deliberate fires on Anglesey: Update

Update regarding the deliberate fires at two properties on Anglesey on Saturday, 7th November whereby two men were arrested:

The 22 and 29-year-old have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Police are continuing to appeal to anybody who may have information regarding the fires to contact North Wales Police on 101, or 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Update - Deliberate fires at two properties on Anglesey

North Wales Police have arrested two men in connection with the deliberate fires which ocurred at two separate properties on Anglesey yesterday - Saturday 7th November 2009. The men in custody are from the area local to the offences.

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Deliberate fires on Anglesey prompt arson warning

North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to be vigilant against arson following two deliberate fires at separate properties on Anglesey earlier today (Saturday 7 November).

Firefighters from Holyhead and Rhosneigr were mobilised to attend to a tractor fire near Ty Croes at 06.34 hrs. The tractor was blocking the road and the fire was out on the arrival of firefighters but they were alerted to another fire at a nearby single storey property. They used two sets of breathing apparatus and a main jet to extinguish the fire in the ground floor bedroom which was completely gutted in the incident. The property suffered significant heat and smoke damage throughout.

Firefighters then discovered another fire at a two storey property just a few miles away in Pencarnisiog which was attended by crews from Rhosneigr, Llangefni and Holyhead at 07.11hrs. Four sets of breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and a main jet were used to extinguish the flames in the first floor and roof of the building which were well alight on arrival.

North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are now carrying out a joint investigation into the incidents which were caused deliberately and appear to be connected. Both properties were unoccupied holiday homes. Although keeping an open mind, there is nothing to suggest that this is related to any Welsh extremism and police are focussing their enquiry within the locality of the offences.

Anyone who knows anything about this incident should contact their local police station or crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Firefighters offered free Home Fire Safety Checks to residents in the Ty Croes and Pencarnisiog areas following these incidents.

Smoke alarms save lives. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offer free home fire safety checks where a member of the service will come to your home or premises to give fire safety hints and tips, help you to formulate a fire escape plan, and if necessary, fit new smoke alarms - totally free of charge. To register, please call their 24 hour hotline on 0800 1691234 or visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk.

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Romanian officers visit North Wales

Four new faces have been on patrol around Anglesey and Gwynedd this week, to help promote greater exchange of road safety.

Police officers from Romania have been out and about with officers from the Western Roads Policing Unit, arranged as part of an exchange visit by TISPOL’s (European Traffic Police Network) Project Lifesaver.

Project Lifesaver was launched in 2008 to promote greater exchange of road safety and enforcement practices to reduce road deaths in Europe. The project focuses on six TISPOL member countries, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia and Spain, to support and encourage their road traffic enforcement activities.

The aim of Lifesaver is the sharing of information and knowledge which includes seminars at the strategic, middle management and operational levels, with benefits for all TISPOL member countries. A key part of the project is also the exchange of officers from the six countries to other TISPOL member countries such as the UK, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands and Norway.

The four officers – who work around the Bucharest area, have spent the last three days shadowing PC Rob Owen and PC Roger Brazel who works in the Roads Policing Unit based in Llandygai.

Over the past four days they have spent their time looking at issues such as speed enforcement and seatbelt offences and have also spent time today at Dalar Hir, the VOSA weighbridge on the A55 on Anglesey where they have been looking at lorries brought in to be checked for tacograph offences.

Anghel Rareş has been a traffic officer with the Romanian Police for 10 years. He said: “This has been my first visit to North Wales. It has been very good experience to be able to see how different roads policing is over here compared to Romania.

“It’s also been interesting to see the investment that’s been made with the police vehicles and modern technology. We have seen lots of interesting things and have learnt so much.”

The four will return to Romania today (Friday).

PC Rob Owen said: “It’s been a pleasure to host this visit and I’m pleased the officers have found their time with us interesting. This is an excellent example of best practice of how European nations are working together to help improve road safety.

“This is the first time that Romanian officers have been to North Wales and we are proud to be part of this project. Casualty reduction and improving road safety is a European-wide priority and we look forward to working with TISPOL again in the near future.”

Further information regarding TISPOL can be obtained via their website – www.tispol.org

Photograph: (from left to right): Pîneariu Làcràmioara, Jipesou Sorin, Valentin Pănescu and Anghel Rareş

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