THERE was plenty to celebrate in Llangollen this weekend.

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod was streamed across the world and MP for Clwyd South, Simon Baynes, praised the organisers, thanking them for the effort involved in coordinating a full digital programme of competitions and concerts.

During a series of visits around Llangollen, Mr Baynes also visited the patchwork fabric artwork currently covering Llangollen bridge.

Mr Baynes said: “As the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod began this weekend, I was pleased to pop along and see for myself the 60m patchwork fabric artwork covering Llangollen bridge which was designed by international artist Luke Jerram, fans of the Eisteddfod and the friends and families of people participating."

Also on his travels around the town, the Conservative MP paid a visit to the Llangollen Station – which saw its first train depart in 2021 on Friday, July 9.

The railway last ran trains on October 1, 2020 – a subsequent reopening was delayed by Llangollen Railway PLC going into receivership.

As part of the visit, Mr Baynes took a train from Llangollen to Berwyn and back again, during which he met with Phil Coles (Vice Chairman of the Llangollen Railway Trust), John Doyle (Train Guard) and Ben Jackson (the Station Master at Berwyn who has worked there for 22 years) and many other volunteers.

Mr Baynes said: “It was a great pleasure to visit Llangollen Railway today on the day that they have re-opened and started running their first trains since October.

“I had the opportunity to meet with many of the volunteers who work so hard and with such commitment to the railway.

“It’s wonderful to see the railway back in operation and it’s a great tribute to the board members and volunteers who have dedicated a huge amount of time to make this happen.

“I wish them a very successful summer season.”