Who Remembers the Mechanical Elephant?

September 6, 2021

Who remembers the mechanical elephant on the prom? Many happy memories will be shared thanks to this brilliant app!

September 06, 2021

The clocks are to go back a little earlier for the launch of a new history app.

The first of its kind in North Wales, a free history app, called Imagine Trail, will shed light on some of the Bay of Colwyn and Mochdre’s old tales and bring them to life through augmented reality (AR) technology.

The app has been created as part of Imagine Colwyn Bay, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund with support from Conwy County Borough Council and the Bay of Colwyn Town Council.

Local arts charity TAPE Community Music & Film and tech experts Reality Boffins worked closely with local creatives, heritage groups and the wider community to develop it.

Animated videos, old footage and photos, sound recordings and interviews have been used to recall stories of note from monks in the Middle Ages through to the mod rallies of the 70s and 80s.

The app will be unveiled and ready for download on September 18th with launch events at Colwyn Bay Artisan’s market and the Welsh Mountain Zoo. Before then, history buffs and cinemagoers can enjoy a week of free, related activities starting on September 13th.

TAPE’s Neil Dunsire said: “The app is a real treasure trove of stories. We’ve been fortunate to unearth some terrific tales and memories from Dinosaur World to Medieval ambushes. 

 “It has been brilliant to work with 20 local creatives, who have adapted and overcome challenges brought about by the pandemic. In all, we’ve worked with 300 people, from school children to local historians to create the 52 pieces of video, sound, and animation included in the app, which will be free to download.

“We’re hugely grateful to everyone who has taken part and are very much looking forward to being able to share the Imagine Trail.”

The launch week includes heritage walks, app demos, pop-up cinema screenings, and arts and animation workshops. An additional event will take place on Tuesday, September 28th at Theatr Colwyn, launching a film documenting the Harlequin Puppet Theatre, Britain’s oldest permanent puppet theatre.

“David Masding, Chair of Colwyn Bay Heritage Group, said: “The new app will be a draw for locals and visitors alike, I am delighted that our heritage trails have been brought to life in a modern, engaging, fun way for everyone to enjoy.

“There is something for everyone throughout the week-long launch with the chance to see how the app works and get a taste of what to expect. The events are all free to attend. All we’d ask is people get in touch to book or for more information.”

To find out more and book your place, visit www.tapemusicandfilm.co.uk or call 01492 512109.

You can also hear more details about the daily launch events on Good Morning Colwyn Bay from 8am. Listen online. on smart speaker and on DAB Digital Radio across North West Wales.


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Colwyn Bay Pier News / Blog

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Fancy learning a little Welsh? There's never been a better time to learn Welsh. Whether you've always wanted to speak a few words of the language, understand more of Wales' rich culture, or simply challenge yourself to learn something new, our Welsh lessons offer a relaxed and enjoyable way to get started. At Colwyn Bay Pier Trust Ltd , we're passionate about celebrating the heritage, culture and identity of our local area. Learning Welsh is a wonderful way to connect more deeply with the community while helping to keep our language alive for future generations. A Friendly Welcome for Everyone Our classes are designed for complete beginners as well as those who already know a little Welsh but would like to build their confidence. There's no need to worry if you've never spoken a word of Welsh before. Our lessons are informal, supportive and taught at a pace that suits everyone. You'll be learning alongside others in exactly the same position, making it a fun and relaxed environment where questions are always encouraged. You'll discover that learning Welsh isn't just about vocabulary and grammar – it's about making friends, sharing experiences and becoming part of something special. Why Learn Welsh? There are so many reasons to give it a go: Connect more with your local community. Gain confidence using everyday Welsh phrases.. Meet new people in a welcoming environment. Keep your mind active while learning a valuable new skill. Even learning simple greetings and everyday conversations can make a real difference and help you feel more connected to life here in North Wales. Course Details Our 30-week course costs just £45 , which includes your course booklet, making it exceptional value for anyone wanting to learn a new language. You can choose from two evening classes: Monday Group - 7 September 2026 – 19 April 2027 (7.00pm – 9.00pm) Thursday Group - 10 September 2026 – 22 April 2027 (7.00pm – 9.00pm) Lessons are held at: 20 Station Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 8BE. Book Your Place Places are limited each year and our classes are always popular, so we recommend booking as early as possible to avoid disappointment. To register or find out more, simply email: 📧 gwersicymraeg@hotmail.com Alternatively, you can pick up a registration form from our Colwyn Bay Pier Trust Fundraising Shop , where our volunteers will be happy to answer any questions about the course. Colwyn Bay Pier Trust Fundraising Shop 30 Penrhyn Road Colwyn Bay Conwy LL29 8LG Whether your goal is to confidently say Bore da, understand conversations, connect with your local community or simply enjoy learning something new, we'd be delighted to welcome you. Come and join us! We look forward to welcoming you this September.
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