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.


New Paragraph

Colwyn Bay Pier News / Blog

Llandudno Pier repair work continues

By M Austin • January 18, 2025
Llandudno Pier repair work continues- this is when it could reopen, (This is great news) LLANDUDNO PIER could reopen in some capacity this coming weekend, with most of its businesses to remain closed until February. The famous Victorian-era landmark was devastated by Storm Darragh in early December, with Kelly's Ice Cream parlour "completely” swept away , while a 150-year-old unit was "ripped off its foundations", with storm damage totalling an estimated £250,000. Llandudno Pier, which is owned by Tir Prince Leisure Group, have given an update on the work which has already been undertaken at the site. The gentleman’s toilet block will have its roof replaced, as the footing for the Kelly’s unit now been cleared and made safe. The roof to the bar at the end of the pier is currently being repaired after several sections were blown o One hut remains on its side, with another impacted hut requiring surveying. “Several” benches and tables which were damaged are in the process of being repaired, and repairs will shortly start on the steel work supporting the structure – 10-12 pieces under the café, bar and deck arcade were “significantly” damaged and will need replacing or reattaching. “The weather hasn’t helped in any way with the progress of the repairs and we have faced several hurdles so far as a result,” said Paul Williams, Llandudno Pier general manager. “We are looking at opening up the Pier as far as the The Crystal Hut by next weekend. “The shops will remain closed until February 1 and then hopefully back fully trading for the upcoming season. “We are trying our hardest to get the Pier back open fully as quickly, but as safely, as possible. “On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank everyone for all their continued support, it’s greatly appreciated. I look forward to to welcoming everyone back in the coming weeks.” Thisarticle is from the North Wales Pioneer see HERE

A Model Of The Pier By TAPE.

By MD Austin • January 6, 2025
A big Thank you to TAPE who have created this fantastic model of the new Pier, which is now on display in a shop window, near the entrance to the Bay View Shopping Centre, Colwyn Bay, About TAPE (Priding itself on accessibility and inclusivity TAPE has been providing high-quality inclusive. supportive, person-led opportunities since 2008. From 1-hour taster sessions and film screenings to commercial contracts and feature film production TAPE’s delivery offers people the chance to explore and develop their creativity. TAPE’s delivery supports both individuals and groups, working with people of all ages and experience levels, ensuring that they are centrally involved in the creative process. From first time creatives through to graduates and professionals the charity can offer training, support and opportunities.) see their website HERE

Llandudno Pier Damaged By Storm

By M Austin • December 7, 2024
Heartbreaking news, as Llandudno Pier has been damaged by a 93mph gales! The owner of Llandudno's historic pier says it will be a "miracle" if it survives Storm Darragh. North Wales has been battered by fierce winds since the early hours of the morning - reaching 93mph in some areas. The famous pier has already suffered damage in the storms. One kiosk has been ripped from its foundations while others have suffered roof damage. But the biggest fear is once high tide is reached at the resort. If wind speeds remain very high this could see the whole structure swamped. High tide is at 2.42pm this afternoon. Wind speeds are expected to remain at close to 70mph in Llandudno for much of the afternoon, with gales blowing in from the north. Adam Williams, of Tir Prince, who has owned the site since 2015, said: "The weather is biblical. We have never known it so bad. The tide still has a long way to come in yet, if it survives it will be a miracle. "I am thankful we spent so much money over the summer reinforcing the underneath. It’s heart breaking to watch, so much good work can be undone in the space of a few hours.At 2,295 feet (700 m), the pier is the longest in Wales and the fifth longest in England and Wales. It attracts millions of visitors every year. Thank you to the Daily Post for this story. To read the article please see HERE

Clearance Sale At Pier Shop

By M D Austin • December 3, 2024
The Pier Trust Fundraising Shop. 18 Station Road are having a sale. Books 10p each, DVDs 10p each, Clothing from 10p each, Ceramics from 10p each, Bedding from 10p each and much more, We will be open this week, Tues, 10-3pm, Wed, Thurs Fri, am and Sat 9-4pm, pop down and grab a bargain. (Please do not worry we are not closing down!)
Show More