'Lights Out' Moel Famau - WWI Centenary Walk in aid of the Royal British Legion

 On the evening of Monday 4^th August a group of people from local areas of North Wales and further afield met at Moel Famau Country Park near Ruthin to take part in the ‘Lights Out Moel Famau’ night time walk to commemorate the WWI Centenary, organised and led by Expedition Wise on behalf of the North Wales Poppy Appeal.

 

A fantastic turnout of over 40 people were greeted by a beautiful sunset before commencing the walk to the Jubilee Tower at the summit of Moel Famau just after 9.15pm, walking up the mountain with their head torches lighting the way.  With perfect weather conditions and an endless sky of stars the participants arrived at the summit of Moel Famau just after 10.15pm, where a special commemorative ceremony took place. 

Gathered around at the top of the Jubilee Tower, they watched as the candle of hope was lit and the WW1 Centenary Wreath was laid by Lesley Griffiths AM, Minister for Local Govt.

After wreath laying all torches were turned off for ‘LIGHTS OUT’, leaving the summit in complete darkness apart from the single lit candle and the stars above. Bugler Gareth Rogers of Rhyl Youth Marching Band played the Last Post followed by a reading and a 2min silence to reflect and remember all the brave men and women who gave the lives all those years ago. The silence was broken by Reveille, its haunting echo drifting across the mountain range.

Head torches were all turned back flooding the Jubilee Tower with light, signifying rebirth and new hope.

It was such a special event where people could share the experience together and take the time to reflect and remember. It was also great to see children taking part with their families.

Kevin Forbes with Lesley Griffiths AM, Minister for Local Govt.

Kevin Forbes, North Wales Community Fundraiser for The Royal British Legion said of the event

‘The Lights Out’ programme has been a huge success. People were given the opportunity to stop and reflect in a focussed way. It truly was a mass act of remembrance by the nation. I was particularly impressed by the large numbers of young people who participated. The huge number of participants across the nations ensures that ‘Lest we Forget’ is not just an empty phrase’

He added ‘As Poppy Appeal approaches we could all show further support by assisting the leading supporter of the armed service family so that those in need can ‘Live On’. Poppy Appeal volunteers just ring 0808 802 8080’

Our Director, Brian Jackson, who organised and led the walk said “This was truly a fantastic event that we are honoured and proud to have been a part of. It was great to see so many people take part and share this experience together whilst raising money for such an important charity.”

We would like to thank all those who participated for making it such a special and memorable event that saw hundreds of pounds raised for The Royal British Legion.

An Amazing Autumnal Erddig 10k!

What a fantastic way to spend a Sunday, running through autumnal woodland and stunning surroundings!

This is exactly what hundreds of people did this weekend as the took part in the Erddig 10k. Set in grounds of the beautiful National Trust’s Erddig Estate, the event saw people from all over the local area come to take part and though the weather was overcast, it didn't deter the runners. Nor did it stop the spectators providing words of encouragement, adding to the great atmosphere. 

The family friendly event began with a lively warm up provided by DW Sports Wrexham which ensured all the participants in the 10k, 5k and 2k fun run option were raring to go! 

As the countdown began the runners eagerly anticipated the starting claxon, before they set off with the 10k runners first, followed by the 5k and 2k fun runners. The route skirted around the house, before leading into the woods, at which point the 10k & 5k participants took the woodland trail, which was adorned with autumn leaves, and thankfully not too much mud!

 The route then continued taking in a road section before rejoining the woodland, only to be finished with a short, steep hill just before the finish point. 

Here the 5k runner celebrated their well deserved glory, but not forgetting to shout words of encouragement to the 10k runners who were to continue a second lap before they could celebrate their finish! For both the 5k & 10k, there were many runners who had surpassed their personal best times, which just added to the sheer joy of taking part!

The 2k Fun Run option had a brilliant turn out and it was great to see so many youngsters taking part with real enthusiasm and determination! What a great achievement for them as they proudly displayed their finisher's medals!

This was a great event with challenging but enjoyable running distances, and saw the participants raise over £300 for the Erddig Estate charity! A real family friendly event where everyone could get involved!

Thank you to everyone who participated, helped on the day and supported the event! More photos are available on our Flickr & Facebook page.