Oakeley Arms Blog

History of Wales

2012-02-20T11:23:00.000Z

History is our story......

If you've ever wanted to delve a little deeper into the history of our fascinating nation, then you're in for a treat!

The BBC claims that its new series, The Story of Wales presented by Huw Edwards and broadcast later this month is one of its most ambitious yet.

The series promises to uncover some of the lesser known secrets of Welsh history, while exploring the important historical moments of the last 30,000 years.

And there will also be a series of events across the country to coincide with the series. For example, The People's Collection Wales - a website where anyone in Wales can share their own photographs and stories - will be looking for memories, pictures and materials for the site, so do pop over and have a look at the site if you'd like to share your story, or indeed read other fascinating tales.

It starts on Monday 27 February on BBC One Wales at 9pm. Don't miss it!

Be My Valentine

2012-02-14T07:10:00.000Z

Happy Valentine's Day!

So, how many red envelopes dropped through the letter-box this morning? Any chocolates waiting patiently on the breakfast table? Did a huge bunch of flowers appear on the door-step?

Worry not if you can't answer a hearty "YES" to any of the above..... there's still time to surprise your loved one with the delicious Valentine's menu at the Oakeley Arms. Click here for a sneaky peek......

and in the meantime, you can impress and awe your valentine with some of these fascinating Valentine's Day facts....

It's thought that there was more than one St Valentine (14 of them in fact) - all of them were martyred saints in Ancient Rome; but not very much is known about the Saint whose feast is celebrated on the 14th February, other than that he was buried in Rome.
Valentine's Day was first linked to romantic love by the poet Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century.
But it wasn't until the 19th century that the tradition of sending Valentine's cards really took off. In Victorian times, the cards were surprisingly racy!
It is an ancient tradition that a young girl should marry the first eligible man she sees on Valentine's Day... be careful who you bump into ladies!
Don't forget your pampered pooch or spoilt moggy - about 3% of pet owners will send their pet a card or present on Valentine's day. Woof
Encountering different birds on Valentine's Day can apparently predict your future... spot a goldfinch and you'll marry a millionaire; spot a robin and you'll marry a crime-fighter, and spot a dove and your marriage is sure to be a happy one. Dust off those binoculars girls!
To be awoken with a kiss on Valentine's Day is considered to be extremely fortuitous. Pucker up!
In a recent survey, the wild and rugged Welsh coastline was voted as one of the most romantic locations in the country, so why not surprise your loved one with a trip to the beach, and you'll have to snuggle close together to stay warm.

Whatever you get up to, we'd like to wish all our customer and friends a very happy Valentine's Day, from all of us at the Oakeley Arms!

Valentine's Menu

2012-02-07T17:41:00.000Z

Dinner Date

There's less than a week to go now until Valentine's Day, so don't get caught out and end up with your dinner in the dog - treat your loved one to a fabulous meal at the Oakeley Arms.

Here's the menu to tickle your taste buds....

You can call or e-mail us to book a table. We're serving the menu all week (13th-19th Feb)

Cost is £22.50 per person; call or e-mail us to book

01766 590 346 or info@oakeleyarms.co.uk

Happy romancing!! xx

Oakeley Arms History - Part 2

2012-02-06T09:18:00.001Z

Slate Fortunes

In a recent Oakeley Arms blog post, we delved into the history of one of the area's most influential families - the Oakeleys of Tan y Bwlch. The Oakeley family's fortunes were built on the lucrative slate trade in the early nineteenth century.

In today's blog post, we explore the end of the Oakeley story, and the sad demise of their good fortune........

They became one of the wealthiest families in Wales in the early 1800's, thanks to William Griffith Oakeley's canny foresight - he rented his land in Rhywbryfdir to a slate dealer from Liverpool, who opened a quarry. The Oakeley quarries eventually became the largest subterranean quarry in the world.

However, the Oakeley family’s fortunes were soon on a downward spiral. William Griffith died in 1835 without heirs, and his wife Louisa Jane managed the estate for over 40 years. She improved much of the town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, where the quarries were situated. In 1848, she built a hospital in the town for all the miners at the Oakeley quarries.

But gradually her interest ebbed away and in 1879 the estate passed to the eldest son of her late husband's cousin. William Edward Oakeley continued to expand the mines and built much of the village of Maentwrog to house his workers. It is thought he was a benevolent employer, often providing day trips and small luxuries for his workers. However, a series of bad decisions and tragic accidents at the quarries led to their demise.

Slate Quarry

Picture by: Dan Crow

William Edward was soon deeply in debt and the land that had once provided vast fortunes and a lavish lifestyle for the Oakeleys was now the cause of their near bankruptcy.

When William Edward died in 1912, the estate was split between his son Edward de Clifford and his daughter Mary. Apparently Edward had no interest in running the estate and reputedly spent the last of the Oakeley fortune on gambling.

Edward sold his part of the estate to his niece, Mary's daughter Margaret, who sadly soon died and so Mary's other daughter Hilda took over. She died a spinster, and her part of the estate was left again to her mother Mary, who now owned it in it's entirety. Mary lived at Plas Tan-y-Bwlch until her death in 1961, but much of the once vast estate had already been sold over the years to raise money.

In 1969, the house and grounds at Plas Tan y Bwlch were bought by a local council, and by the 1970’s was run by the Snowdonia National Park Authority. Today, the grand house is home to a study and eco-centre. It underwent a vast and exciting renovation project in 2005 so that the grand house could be opened up to the public.

You can find more information about Plas Tan-y-Bwlch at www.eryri-npa.gov.uk

Did you know?? Plas Tan-y-Bwlch is thought to have been the first house in North Wales to be lit by electricity, produced from a hydro-electric source at the lake (Llyn Mair) above the house.

Llyn Mair

Do you know anything of the Oakeley family history, or indeed anything of the Oakeley Arms history? We'd love to hear your memories! Leave a comment in the boxes below.....

Six Nations Rugby

2012-02-01T08:59:00.000Z

One in Six!

It's that time of year again......

Here at the Oakeley, we LOVE the Six Nations Rugby Championship - any excuse to cheer on the Wales team!

This year we'll be wishing them lots of luck, as they battle it out against the other teams to bring home the prestigious title; and perhaps settle a few scores against World Cup rivals, France....

The first game kicks off on the 4th February, and the first Wales game (against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium) is on the 5th Feb at 15:00.

Here's some facts about the Six Nations Championship, that you might not know!....

The Five Nations Championship (the Six Nations' predecessor before Italy joined) was the first international rugby union tournament in the Northern Hemisphere.
The 'Grand Slam' is awarded to a team that wins all its games. Wales won the Grand Slam in 1908 and 1909, and a further 8 times after that. England is the current record holder - with 12 grand slams in total.
Wales has a total of 20 'Triple Crowns' - when a home nation team beats any of the other three home nations (Scotland, Wales, England and Ireland).
The Calcutta Cup is the game that takes place during the Six Nations between England and Scotland. It is so called because the cup is made of melted down Indian rupees.
The Six Nations trophy is estimated to be worth over £50,000. It was originally made from silver but the inside got so corroded from being filled with all that champagne, that it is now lined with a gold coating to protect it.
Twickenham Stadium is the venue with the largest capacity - at 82,000. The Aviva Stadium in Dublin is the smallest, with just 51,700.
The first Women's Six Nations Championship was held in 2002. It runs to the same schedule as the men's contest.
Eifion Lewis-Roberts is the heaviest ever Wales player - weighing in at a whopping 132kg, that's almost 21 stone!
And Derwyn Jones is the tallest - at almost 6'10"
England are the current title holders - come on Wales! You can do it in 2012!

And best of all - at the Oakeley Arms, there'll be a free bowl of home-made chilli or curry for everyone at the bar during any of Wales' Six Nations games.

See you soon!

Valentine's Menu

2012-01-30T08:01:00.000Z

Love is in the Air.....

Is your love "like a red, red, rose....." as our old friend Mr Burns proclaimed, or is it more like an onion "that will blind you with tears" as our current poet laureate Carole Ann Duffy grimly declares?

Well, whatever form your love takes, what better way to show someone you lurrrrve them than with a fabulous dinner at the Oakeley Arms restaurant?

We've got a delicious menu lined up for all the love-birds who stumble over our romantic threshold, and here's a sneaky peak just for our lovely blog readers......

We're serving this lovely menu all of Valentine's week (13th - 19th February), so come on - earn those brownie points!

Cost is £22.50 per person; call or e-mail us to book

01766 590 346 or info@oakeleyarms.co.uk

National Breakfast Week

2012-01-25T08:13:00.000Z

Rise and Shine!

What did you have for breakfast this morning? The full-works fry up, or a banana on the go?

This week is Farmhouse Breakfast Week - the perfect excuse to make it a week of hearty, healthy breakfasts! As the old saying goes, you should always "breakfast like a king!"

The event is run by the Home Grown Cereals Authority but also supported by the Farmers Union of Wales, and it aims to highlight the importance of a good breakfast to set you up for that day.

image by friedandy on sxc.hu

Of course, the healthier the better, and don't forget to add lots of local Welsh produce on your breakfast plate too.

There are loads of reasons why eating breakfast is a good idea; here are just a few:

people who eat breakfast are usually slimmer than those who don't.
people who eat breakfast have been shown to be less prone to depression and stress than those who skip it.
eating breakfast helps keep you mentally alert and focused all morning.
and a balance, healthy breakfast can help to provide more essential nutrients and vitamins.

You needn't tell us twice! We're off for breakfast now - the Oakeley Arms Welsh breakfast is one of the best, yum!

We're open to non-residents too. Breakfast is served every day between 7am and 11am.

Find out more about Farmhouse Breakfast Week here

Oakeley Arms History

2012-01-22T18:19:00.003Z

Slate Expectations

We've been the proud owners at the Oakeley Arms now since 2003, but we've often wondered about the history of this magnificent Grade II listed building.

After doing some research we've found, of course, that the Oakeley's story is inextricably linked with that of the renowned Oakeley family of nearby Tan-y-Bwlch estate.

So, in the first of our series about the story of the Oakeley Arms, here's a short history about the Oakeleys, and the rise, and fall, of their fortunes.......

From a distance, the quiet mountains that surround the Oakeley Arms stand calm, proud and magnificent, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a noisy industrial and destructive history; one that was defined by Wales’ grey gold – the valuable Welsh slate that was dug from the quarries around Blaenau Ffestiniog in thousands of tonnes and exported all over the world.

The story of slate holds the key to how a local family became one of the wealthiest families in the country; all thanks to an underground treasure trove. The family would remain one of the most important and influential in the area for almost 200 years.

Towards the end of the eighteenth century, the daughter of wealthy local landowners and heiress to the estate of Plas Tan-y-Bwlch (which had originally been built by her predecessors around 1630) married a business man from Staffordshire named William Oakeley.

Plas Tan-y-Bwlch

Photo: David Medcalf

William Oakeley, known as “Oakeley Fawr” (Great Oakeley) was popular and soon became well-loved by local residents and the tenants on his land. As farming provided the main sources of income for local people, he made important improvements to the pastures below Plas Tan-y-Bwlch. He built embankments to save the land from the tidal waters, and created much more land for the farmers and their families.

Although this work was appreciated by local communities, it wasn't until the estate was passed to Oakeley Fawr's son, William Griffith Oakeley in 1811, that the fortunes of the family were cemented.

William Griffith spotted the potential of farmland he owned at nearby Rhiwbryfdir. In 1819 he rented it to a slate dealer from Liverpool and within three years the land had been transformed from a small hole that employed three men, to the largest subterranean slate quarry in the world.

The hungry demand for the best slate in the world was growing quickly as the industrial revolution gathered speed and vast quantities of building materials were required across the world. By the end of the 19^th century the Oakeley quarries were producing 60,000 tonnes of slate a year; each tonne transported from the hills down to Porthmadog by the Ffestiniog Railway and shipped across the globe.

Come back later in the week for the end of the story.... What happened to the Oakeley family? And did their good fortune survive the dawn of the 20th century? And what of the fate of the famous Oakeley Arms?

Seeing Stars

2012-01-16T14:24:00.000Z

Stargazing in the Forest

Callling all budding stargazers and astronomers; don't miss this star-tacular event in North Wales this month.

As part of the BBC's Stargazing Live events, this forest spectacular is not to be missed! If you have an interest in astronomy and the night sky, or simply if you want an informative evening with a difference, you'll love this event at the Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre.

You'll have the opportunity to stargaze from the balcony, with guest speakers from the North Wales Astronomy Society, and then there's the indoor planetarium to explore.

Thursday 26th January
17:00 to 21:00
suitable for any age; cost is £5 (includes a bowl of soup). Tickets essential.
Weather dependant.......

The event is run by the Forestry Commission Wales. For more details and tickets contact the Visitor Centre - 01341 440 74
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/coedybrenin
coedybrenin@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Coed Y Brenin Forestry Commission Visitor Centre, Dolgyfeiliau, Dolgellau. LL40 2HZ

photo by bradimarte on sxc.hu

If you go down to the woods today....

2012-01-11T08:28:00.000Z

Haw-Haw to History

Did you know that the Oakeley Arms' little patch of Snowdonia is packed full of history, folk-lore and local legends? The Oakeley Arms itself lies at the edge of one of the oldest forests in Wales. The ancient Coed y Bleiddiau (or Forest of the Wolves) is named after the fearsome wolves that made their home among the dense, dark trees. It's said to be one of the last places in the country where wolves roamed free.

But, there's some slightly more recent history that has intrigued and surprised many of our guests and customers. Any of our readers who enjoyed our walk last week will have walked past a very special little cottage, deep in the forest.

It was built in the 1860's by the Ffestiniog Railway for use by the Superintendent of the line; at the time a Mr Hovenden, so the cottage became known locally as Ty Hovenden (Hovenden's House). No-one knows why such a remote location was chosen; there's no road access here so a railway halt was built here especially to serve the cottage.

During the 1920's the cottage took the name of the eerie forest that surrounded it and became known as "Coed-y-Bleiddiau". It was rented by Sir Granville Bantock, the famous composer and conductor, where he lived with his family until 1937. Memoirs written by Sir Granville's family recall the brilliant method of acquiring groceries and shopping - as the morning train approached, Lady Bantock would hold out a large wicker basket with a shopping list and money for the train guard to grab as he passed on the moving carriage. The afternoon train would return with a full basket of groceries, which would be heaved out of the carriage as it passed the cottage.

After the Bantock family left the cottage, it was rented to the well known British Fascist, Harry Philby, and it is these connections that are thought to have led William Joyce, otherwise known as Lord Haw Haw, to stay at the cottage during the war.

William Joyce became an infamous fascist, known for his broadcasts that promoted Nazi propaganda and beliefs in the 1940's after he fled to Germany to escape from the British authorities. It is claimed that he often mentioned the little cottage and the local area and residents during his radio broadcasts. After the war, Joyce was captured for his crimes and tried for treason; he was executed in 1946.

As for the remote little cottage, it was rented in 1951 by Mr & Mrs Johnson who lived there for over 50 years. When the Ffestiniog Railway re-opened in the 1980's, the couple were often spotted in their garden waving to passengers as the train shuffled by.

Today, sadly, this fascinating little cottage is in desperate need of restoration and a little TLC, but it's certainly worth a walk into the forest for a glimpse of this enchanting house in a bewitching location. And keep your eyes peeled for wolves!!

Russell's Academy Plans

2012-01-09T08:52:00.001Z

"There's no business like Show-Business"

All of us at the Oakeley Arms have absolutely loved watching Russell and his fancy footwork and brilliant dance moves every Saturday on Strictly, but even though the fabulous journey has sadly now come to an end, Russell certainly isn't giving up on the business of "showbiz", which is where he first started his career.

It has recently been revealed that Russell is involved with plans to unveil a new Showbusiness Academy in association with nearby Coleg Harlech. Russell, who lives close by, is a loyal advocate of Snowdonia and our beautiful area, and it is hoped that the new academy will bring plenty of opportunities for prospective students.

“Plans for the academy are in the early stages", says Russell, "but the intention is that it would cater for people of all ages. It’s not true that theatre workshops are for young people as everyone, whatever their age, should fulfil their creative potential.”

Although the precise details and curriculum are still being discussed, the proposed academy would be an enormous boost for the area, and will hopefully encourage people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to learn skills or further their careers in the world of entertainment.

Russell has revealed that the course will offer a variety of musical theatre, drama and even broadcasting. He wants the proposed academy to bring something "which has never been done anywhere else - we don't want to cut across anything which is already being offered".

The plan promises to be a great boost for the undiscovered talent of the local area, and what better mentor and specialist than our very own brilliant Strictly star!

We wish Russell heaps of good luck with the plans, and we'll be excited to hear all about it when everything is finalised. You never know, we might even enroll ourselves..... (dig out your ear-plugs....hehe).

Image: ChIandra4U

Oakeley Winter Walk

2012-01-03T08:07:00.000Z

Ffestiniog Valley Walk

We love a bracing winter walk here at the Oakeley Arms, and we don't need much of an excuse to drag the walking boots from the cupboard, fill up the thermos and head out for an amble.

The forecast's pretty good this weekend, so what are you waiting for? Try our brilliant walk along the Ffestiniog Valley - there are some cracking views and stunning scenery.

This walk leaves straight from the Oakeley. See you in the bar afterwards for a well-earned drink!

Distance: approx 5 ½ miles

Start: Oakeley Arms, Maentwrog

Maps: OL Explorer 18: Harlech, Porthmadog and Y Bala

Directions:

1: Leave the pub and turn left onto the main road; follow pavement round corner towards bridge. Just before bridge over Dwyryd, turn left through gate (at a footpath sign) and walk along top of grassy mound. Ahead are stunning views of the Ffestiniog valley.

2: When you get close to the river, the path swings left. Go through gate, turn right and stay on the quiet lane for over a mile. The river is parallel to the lane at first, then it veers away from it. Finally you will reach a small bridge, cross it and continue ahead to follow lane to a road.

3: Turn right to soon reach a junction, then turn left and very soon cross over for footpath sign turning right over stone stile. Follow path up through trees and over stile. Walk besides wall for short distance and at a corner of wall where the stones have fallen go through gap and turn left (the wall should now be on your left) towards road.

4: Over stile, turn right on road and walk for almost 200metres. At a footpath sign turn left, through gate and along path. Go through gate then steeply downhill to gate at bottom.

5: Go through small boggy land and head to right, walking along field edge towards the corner. Here head upwards along right edge of field, passing way-marker. At top of field go through gap and stay straight ahead, keeping wall on left. Cross stile and turn left along a track heading downhill.

6: At the road turn sharp right and at end of parking area on the right cross road and turn left down narrow path. Go through gate and soon track will veer to left, but as it ends stay ahead on path through trees which curves left to gate.

7: Through gate and into nature reserve and follow path uphill by river. Turn left to cross bridge and climb steeply. Walk past another information board and follow main path. Go over small stream and through gap in broken wall.

8: At top of woods go over stile and continue straight on to walk alongside wall then through ferns. Over stile then turn left and soon head right up track following edge of trees. At a fork, stay left.

9: You’ll soon reach the old railway track (look for the ruined bridge ahead. Turn left here and walk along the old track; you should be able to see wooden sleepers to mark the track.

10: At Dduallt station go through gate and cross railway line to pass railway buildings. Just after old house on right look for stile over fence on the other side of the track. Opposite the stile, cross the track again and over stile, turning left.

11: After going under bridge follow path through more ferns and go through two gaps in the broken stone walls to stile. Over stile, cross railway, over another stile and turn right. Follow path that heads downhill.

12: At a track by a house, continue ahead and the track will start to go steeply downhill. At a very sharp bend to left keep straight on over stile at footpath sign. Go downhill and cross stream, then carry on descending through woods to gate.

13: Through gate, turn left to follow steeply path down to track. Turn uphill to right, passing house and cross bridge. Go half left along path then through gate to follow windy path through trees. When you reach lane, turn right and then at main road turn right again to reach Oakeley Arms.

**Please note that appropriate clothing and shoes should be worn for this walk, and it should not be attempted in bad weather. It is also recommended that you take a map with you, as well as adequate food and drink supplies.

All directions are correct at the time of writing but the Oakeley Arms cannot accept responsibility for errors, omissions or changes or any damages caused as a result of following these walk directions. Please notify us if you find any errors and we will do our best to rectify them.

Ask a member of staff if you'd like help with directions or advice on the route.

It's never too late....

2011-12-30T11:33:00.000Z

you've still got time.....

to get your hands on some tickets for the Oakeley Arms New Year's extravaganza!

There are still a few tickets available, so don't miss out! Contact us to reserve some for you, and come and join us for a fabulous party to welcome in the New Year. It's set to be a stonker!

image by vhujer on sxc.hu

We've even got a mini-bus running between Blaenau and Port, so you don't even have to worry about wobbling home!!

£20 advance or £25 on the door.

Contact us if you need more information about times, fancy dress or any other details.

See you there!!

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-24T10:31:00.000Z

To quote one of our favourite festive tunes........

"it's Chriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiistmas!"

Yes, it's finally arrived! Happy Christmas everyone!!

image: johnnyberg on sxc

We hope that the turkey's stuffed, the sherry bottle's on its way to empty and the stockings are ready and waiting; all that remains to be seen is just who's been good and who's been naughty this year - or is it that Santa has just misplaced your wish-list???

To all our lovely customers, friends and family, we wish you a very merry Christmas indeed, and we look forward to welcoming you at the Oakeley in 2012.

See you soon, from all of us at the Oakeley Arms.

Community Spirit

2011-12-21T08:53:00.000Z

The John Williams Cambrian Lodge

Here at the Oakeley Arms, we're lucky to be the meeting point for several community groups and organisations, and this week we'd like to pay a big blog tribute to one of our favourite local community groups, the John Williams Cambrian Lodge RAOB.

The John Williams Cambrian Lodge are the local arm of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) or Buffs, as they are sometimes fondly known.

The charitable organisation was founded at the turn of the nineteenth century. Its intruigning name comes from the fact that tradtionally at every meeting, the popular song of the time "Hunt the Buffalo" was sang, and so the Buffs were born!

The organisation's origins are believed to have been on the stages and in the theatres of London, when a group of theatre hands and technicians formed their own brotherhood after being denied membership to an order for actors and artists. The earliest known meeting of the RAOB took place in 1822 in London, but as the theatre workers travelled all over the country, and indeed the commonwealth, for their work, RAOB groups, or lodges as they are known, popped up all over the world. They now have branches as far afield as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India.

The Buffs are a non political, non religious and benevolant organisation, which is open to men over 18. Groups meet every week to discuss issues, converse and raise money for many different charitable causes, both within and outside the organisation. The RAOB very much believe that all men are equal; and in the power of charity, caring for others and helping those that are less fortunate or less able.

At a recent meeting, the John Williams Cambrian Lodge made donations to several local good causes, such as Portmadoc Scouts, St Twrog's Church, Macmillan Nurses and the Glaslyn Mountain Rescue Team.

Photo of the WP John Wall R.O.H of the John Williams Cambrian Lodge 10505 presenting a cheque of £100.00 to the Porthmadoc scout treasurer Mr M. Vellacott

Picture by Geraint Jones

The lodge is active every Thursday evening at 8.00pm at the Oakeley Arms, and anyone interested in enrolling with the RAOB please call in, you'd be most welcome.

For more details about the work of the RAOB, see www.raob.org.uk

Strictly Final

2011-12-19T09:09:00.000Z

Goodbye Strictly!

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear! It's strictly the end of Strictly! What on earth will we do with our Saturday nights now?

In his final blog, our favourite Strictly dancer Russell waves goodbye to his friends, co-stars and his spectacular Strictly journey.

We'd like to say a big, big thank you to Russell for sharing his blog with us; we've absolutely loved reading it!

And so we come to the Grand Final in bonny, breezy Blackpool the capital of showbiz where I lived for many years!

Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom, the palace of showbiz is probably the only place in the country for such a fabulous entertainment extravaganza to be held. The huge ballroom has always been the people’s ballroom and it holds so many happy memories for millions of people who have danced to the melodies of famous bands and orchestras over the years, not to mention Reginald Dixon at the legendary Wurlitzer.

But, I’m getting ahead of myself.

What about the countdown to the final?

First of all we had to gather in London for group rehearsals early in the week and what fun it was to meet up with Nancy, Lulu, Audley, Edwina, Dan, Robbie, Holly, Alex, Anita and of course the remaining stars of the show Harry, Jason and Chelsee. We have all been on a wonderful 99 day long “Strictly” journey together and we have loved every nerve jangling, muscle straining, footsore minute.

Thursday brought a few more last minute practice sessions.

On Friday we all had to clamber on the coach for a marathon eight hour journey from London through rain, hail, snow and mist to Blackpool to meet up for a laugh and a giggle with Zoe on “Strictly It Takes Two” and a short burst of “We do love to be beside the seaside”. The rigours of the journey were soon forgotten when we all settled down in the magnificent ballroom to drink in the atmosphere of the place and for one or two sneak previews of what Saturday night holds for us all.

And what a spectacular it was - Harry and Aliona get the full forty points for their Quickstep and 37 for their show dance. Jason and Kristina with a terrific Tango earning them 38 points and a full forty for their scintillating show dance. While Chelsee and Pasha won 39 pints for a jumping Jive and 36 for their superb show dance.

Then we all had to bite our nails while the phones rang and the votes were cast ready for the final of the final!

The “Strictly” results show saw Jason and Kristina bow out with cheers ringing in their ears. They have both done so well and pulled off some remarkable and memorable performances, but as I’ve said before – it’s the nature of the show, someone has to win and it can only be one couple. Jason’s grace, generosity and emotion are always and have always been apparent to us all since September. Well done Jason – you are a Star!

It was great to dance with Flavia again when all the competitors got together on the floor for one last dance together. Robbie and Rory swinging me to and fro and then getting hoisted high by the dancers was a very special experience for me. But then the music, the lights, the crowd and all of us friends together made it a memorable moment for me.

Chelsee and Pasha, Harry and Aliona both treated us to marvellous, magical magnificent performance. They were stunning, spectacular, stupendous and it was hard to choose between them, but once again there can only be one winner and it was Harry who had captured all our hearts that finally held the triumphant trophy aloft.

I know I will miss everyone involved, of course my fellow competitors, but also Alisha, Bruno, Len and even Craig.

Tess, Zoe and our very own national institution, icon and treasure, one of nature’s true gentlemen and a wonderful entertainer our very own Sir Bruce.

Well that’s it from me – the end of the “2011 Strictly Come Dancing” Blog I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it for you.

Thanks for being there on our journey.

And

KEEP DANCING!

Christmas Pantomimes come to Gwynedd

2011-12-16T11:21:00.000Z

He's behiiiiiiiiiiind you!

Here at the Oakeley, we think that one of the BEST things about this time of year is the promise of a brilliant panto performance! Pantomimes are to Christmas what hearts are to Valentine's day or a gin and tonic is to a holiday. The two just go together.

No-one's really sure exactly when the pantomime in the form we now know and love first burst onto the stage, but around the mid 17^thcentury theatres in London began to bill high energy performances, packed with dancing, music, colourful characters, acrobatics, comedy and tomfoolery to delight and amuse the audience.

But, pantos fell out of favour in the mid twentieth century and were often seen as amateur performances by local am-dram groups. These days however, the tradition is enjoying a huge revival. It is thought that a staggering 11 million people will rush to see a panto in Britain this year; and of course, no night at the panto is complete without booing, hissing and screeching so much that your throat is sore the next day.

What's your favourite pantomime tale? The story of poor Cinderella, her terrifying sisters and a giant pumpkin? Or the comedy caper of Aladdin and his adventures with the lamp? Or what about the old classic Dick Whittington or the sad tale of the Babes in the Wood?

There are brilliant pantomimes playing at theatres across North Wales this festive season, so don't miss out.

Catch Aladdin at the North Wales Theatre in Llandudno, Sleeping Beauty at Theatre Clwyd in Mold and Snow White at the Pavilion Theatre in Rhyl.

And don't forget to practice your "booooooooooooooooooooooooo" before you go!

Have fun!

Image: Scott Liddell

Strictly Semi- Final

2011-12-13T08:41:00.000Z

Strictly Fantastic!

The competition on Strictly is reaching fever pitch! Here's Russell with an update on Saturday's show.

Remember, don't miss Russell's special guest appearance for the final next week. It'll be one to remember!!

It was Semi Final Night on “Strictly” and didn’t we know it?!

Saturday night’s show was a sheer tour de force from all five couples and that was reflected in the fact that we saw ten fabulous performances and TEN standing ovations. It truly was a night to remember.

Harry and Aliona gave us the Charleston and the Viennese Waltz and they continue to stun and surprise us all with their wonderful performances. “Exquisite”, “Perfect”, “Beautifully executed”, “Dancing Royalty” and “Take him to the Tower – Blackpool Tower” are just a few of the well deserved accolades that so deservedly came their way and to get 78 points out of a possible 80 is just fantastic.

Alex and James offered us the Waltz and the Salsa and were rightfully proclaimed “Totally brilliant”, “Full of gusto and personality”, “Top notch”, “The Belle of the Ball”, they should be proud of their achievement. They have given everything to “Strictly” and we loved them for it.

Chelsee and Pasha entranced the audience at home and in the studio with the Paso Doble and the American Smooth. Chelsee “Glowed like a pearl”, they were “Gobsmackingly good”, “Fantastic”, “Superb”, their performance left Alisha “Speechless”. Len likened her blossoming performances over recent weeks to the Chelsea Flower Show full of colour and truly beautiful. And from now on the Paso Doble will forever be the Pasha Doble!

Holly and Artem gave us a scintillating Argentine Tang and a totally new take on an old favourite – the Charleston which won them deserved praise from the judges. ”Beautiful”, “Stunning”, “Bad, dangerous and coiled to strike”, “Gorgeous” and “Seductive”. I was enchanted by their Argentine Tango and have watched it time and time and again on Saturday Night. 70 points out of a possible 80 is a score I would have loved to have, but it doesn’t seem to have been good enough.

Jason and Kristina gave us a tantalising Tango and a stunning Samba and the accolades flew thick and fast. The Samba was fabulous but the Argentine Tango was truly memorable and must go down in the annals of "Strictly" as something that may be matched but never beaten. It was as the judges say “Wonderful”, “Brilliant”, “Seductive”, “Incredible”, “Superb” and the “Best dance of the series”.

But….. and here comes the BIG BUT….. We have to wave goodbye to not one couple but two this weekend. Sadly it was Holly and Artem along with Alex and James that we have to bid a fond farewell to this week. Let’s not forget this is the nature of the show. Each week couples have been eliminated and to get to the semi final in a competition that has reached such extraordinary standards of performance is no mean feat and is a testimony to the dedicated devotion they have all shown to this competition. I can only stand back in admiration and respect. I know what long hours of exhausting and often painful training and practising lie behind each week’s show and as the tension mounts for the remaining three couples in the countdown to Blackpool I can only imagine how nervous and excited they will be.

We are all meeting up this week to practice for the big final show next Saturday. All the couples will be together again for what is sure to be truly a night to remember.

Finally, if you saw me denying all knowledge of the missing glitterball on Saturday’s show I can tell you that they’ll have to keep a close eye on me and a tight guard on the glitterball after Saturday night’s final.

And so the dance goes on….

Thanks for being there

And

KEEP DANCING!

2012 is on the way

2011-12-12T09:13:00.002Z

Hot-cakes

image by Billy F Alexander on sxc.hu

Don't miss out on the Oakeley's best New Year's Eve party yet! Tickets are selling like the proverbial little hot-cakes, so come and get yours now before they all sell out!

It's a fancy dress theme (back to the 80s!) and there'll be music, dancing, fun, games and a delicious buffet, as well as a late bar and plenty of fizz.

Tickets available from the hotel.

£20 (advance) or £25 (on the door)

See you there!!

Welcome to 2012!!

2011-12-07T09:25:00.000Z

New Year's Eve at the Oakeley Arms

All together now!

"Shouuuuuuld aaaauld aquaintance be forgot aaaaaaand, dah, dih, dum dum dum, dum dum dum dum, dah, dih, dum, dum aaaaaaaand auld laaaang syne......"

Hope you've got your vocal chords stretched, exercised and raring to go for the Oakeley's New Year's Eve party!

We will forgive you for not knowing all the words to Auld Lang Syne (let's face it, who does?) but we won't forgive you for not coming along to the best Oakeley Arms New Year's Eve bash yet!

We've got entertainment!

We've got fireworks!

We've got a delicious hot & cold buffet!

We've got a rockin' disco!

And there'll be plenty of fun, games and dancing along with a late bar and bubbles to see in the New Year with.

We know a party isn't a party if it isn't FANCY DRESS. So what's the theme, I hear you cry?! It's the good ole' 80s!

It is a ticket only event. You can purchase tickets in advance from the hotel or on the door (subject to availability).

Prices: £20 (advance) and £25 on the door.

Be there or be very square indeed....

See you there!

Strictly Update - Week 10

2011-12-05T08:25:00.000Z

Quick Step to Christmas

We're all thrilled to hear that Russell and Flavia will be back for a fabulous Strictly Christmas Special!! We can't wait for that!

Here's Russell with another busy week........

Although I am no longer part of the Saturday night fun and games this has still been a very busy week for me and all the competitors, past and Present in the “Strictly” line up.

IT was wonderful to be invited back for The “Strictly Christmas Special” and for Flavia and me to be announced as ‘special guest stars’ was just so amazing. It is going to be an essential “Don’t Miss” in the festive Christmas TV schedule. There is so much skill and dexterity to admire mingled with a few laughs along the way. So don’t miss it – you’ll love it.

Once again I cannot write the blog without mentioning all the drawings that are flooding in from the four corners of the country. I am surprised and touched by all the youngsters who are taking the time to draw pictures of Flavia and me and then send them to the BBC.

I don’t know if this sneezy, chill and coldy-fluey thing is down your way, but I think I might have picked up something nasty while I was down in London. I got home to Wales in the middle of the week, headed for the Lemsip, lit the fire and put the telly on.

One thing is certain the cool, clear, mountain air of Snowdonia will do me a power of good.

Now, what did you think of Saturday’s show? It was full of surprise and, of course, the expected. I think many people could have predicted that Harry and Aliona’s Paso Doble would be top of the leader board after that sizzling, sexy performance, but maybe quite a few folk were surprised that Jason and Kristina came so far down the board after they produced such a special moment to entrance and enchant us.

Chelsee continues to go from strength to strength although I much prefer Pasha without the green tinge.

With so few couples left in the contest the scoreboard gets shorter and shorter each week so even the very best that any couple can produce means it has to find its place on the board.

And so Robbie and Ola’s Quickstep after having reached such a high standard of energetic, entertaining performance and winning so many new friends and fans bow out of Strictly. Of course we shall all be meeting up for the final on December 17^th in Blackpool and there’s the “Strictly Christmas Special to look forward too.

I don’t know about you, but I think the standard of dancing and performance is getting stratospheric. I know firsthand just how much time, effort, energy, concentration and stamina goes into each of the week’s training and performance. I take my hat off to everyone who is pulling all the stops out to make our Saturday night’s viewing complete.

And so the dance goes on….Thanks for being there

And

KEEP DANCING!

St Twrog's Church

2011-12-01T11:53:00.002Z

Church Life

As you may have noticed by now, we have covered a million and one different things on the Oakeley Arms blog, and we didn't want another week to go by without a mention of the fabulous community spirit here in Maentwrog.

Traditionally, the church would have been at the heart of village life, and we're lucky that this is still very much true in Maentwrog.

There is thought to have been a church here since the 6th century, when St Twrog built a place of worship on the lands that would have been marshy and boggy back then. The legend goes that St Twrog climbed to the top of the Moelwyn mountains, grabbed an enormous boulder and hurled it down on top of the site of a pagan altar, and so physically, and metaphorically, crushing the pagans that were there.

The legendary stone still stands outside the church, complete with the imprint of Twrog's hands, and is indeed what the village is named after. Maen is the welsh word for stone, so Maentwrog literally translates to Twrog's Stone. Legend has it that if you rub the stone, then fate will certainly draw you back to the village sometime in the future!

The church that stands today was built in 1814, with a new chancel and stained windows added in 1896. One of the vestry windows is in memory of William Edward Oakeley, of Plas Tan-y-Bwlch. He was a local businessman, land owner and benefactor to the village and church. Celtic crosses in the graveyard are further memorials to other members of the Oakeley family.

Maentwrog Church certainly has a fascinating history, but it is still used today as a place of worship and for village events, and is open most days for visitors. Pauline Richardson is a village resident who helps to care for and maintain the church grounds and surroundings, and we think she does a fabulous job! As well as editing the church magazine, she can often be found planting flowers nearby and weeding the cenotaph.

Pauline has filled us in on some great events at the church this coming month, so don't miss out! It'd be great for us all to show our support for our brilliant local church.

Thursday 1st December: 6.30pm

Carols & Cheese & Wine Evening at Cors y Gedol Hall, Dyffryn Ardudwy, to raise funds for Shelter Cymru, Hospis yn y Cartref and Christian Aid Famine Appeal.

Tickets are available from Pauline or at the door on the night for £5.00.

Friday 16th December: 8:00pm

Carolau a Cwrw and Christmas raffle.

There is no charge, but donations will go towards church funds.

Sunday the 18th December

Church Carol service, and the Royal Oakeley Band will be playing as well

Strictly Update - Week 9

2011-11-29T08:13:00.000Z

Happy Memories

Russell may have sadly been evicted from Strictly Come Dancing, but that doesn't mean he has time to kick back and relax!

Although he's busier than ever, Russell still finds time to write up his fabulous blog, and here's what he's been up to this week.....

Although I am no longer dancing the light fantastic with the rest of my friends this has been a far from quiet week.

Monday evening saw me once again on the couch with Zoe for “It Takes Two” and a chance to talk about Saturday night’s show. The Golden Shot from the big cannon and my flight through the air on what felt like a very small tea tray! Big hugs, big kisses. I love Zoe and I enjoyed every minute of our time together on the show.

Later in the week I was signing the new “Strictly Come Dancing” book in a West End bookshop and we were all amazed by the sheer numbers of people who turned out to snap up a signed copy.

More interviews, more photo-shoots and I think you’ll be amazed by some of the stuff the glossy celebrity magazines had in store for me.

I spent time with the Daily Mail who wanted to talk to me about my career and all the wonderful things I have done in the theatre over the years. It really is amazing when I pause for breath and look back over the years and think of all the wonderful people I have met, the places I have seen and the things I have been up to.

One of the wonderful things I simply have to mention is the number of children who have sent me their drawings of Flavia and I strutting our stuff. It’s so kind of everyone to send those lovely drawings in especially as they all show Flavia and me getting 10 points from all the judges! They are all on my fridge (I have a very big fridge!)

Lots of texts and calls from the gang on Saturday afternoon. Everyone is being very nice and saying how much they miss me, but “Strictly” is a competition and the standard is soaring to stratospheric levels that only the very best can hope to achieve and maintain.

So what did you think of Saturday’s show? Just as good as ever, in fact it just gets better and better doesn’t it?

I loved Alex’s cheeky Charleston and thought Holly was just mesmerising. Robbie and Ola pulled off an exciting Samba in more than one way while Chelsee delighted us all with a wonderful performance. What can I say about Harry and Jason? They are just so good, such great energy and movement, such entertainment. Just marvellous.

I thought Anita and Brendan’s cha-cha-cha was simply spectacular. Anita is such a lovely person her exit from the show will leave heart-shaped hole in the “Strictly” line up. Nevertheless, it is the nature of the show that one couple must leave the competition every week.

I am meeting all the gang again next week because we are all starting our rehearsals for the “Strictly Christmas Special” It will be fabulous to see everyone again and it will definitely be a “Must See” in everyone’s Christmas viewing schedule.

Thanks for being there

And

KEEP DANCING!

A Coliseum Wrestle!

2011-11-24T14:59:00.000Z

A Wrestling night to remember!

The Oakeley Blog has already shown its support for the brilliant Save The Coliseum campaign and it's most recent fundraising venture, the fabulous Halloween party (which was a huge success by all accounts - more on that later!); and now we want to help spread the word about their latest mega event.

The Friends of the Coliseum are going bigger, better and burlier than ever before with their Fight for the Coliseum live wrestling extravaganza.

If you think you're tough enough to handle it, the night promises to be action packed and full of boisterous fun and games. The main event is a massive Rumble, and there's also the World Championship title at stake, in what promises to be a belter of a match.

You won't want to miss appearances from top wrestling stars, as this brilliant event comes back to Porthmadog. We all remember that this is where WWE legend Mason Ryan began his career - so don't miss out on this amazing night where heroes will be made!

This Saturday 26th November at The Ganolfan is the place to be. Be there, or be very square indeed.....

Prices: Adults £7; Children £5 and Family (2 adults + 2 children) £22

Doors open 18:30; event starts 19:30

Tickets available online at www.savethecoliseum.com or from Cob Records, Porthmadog.

Strictly Update - Week 8 Show

2011-11-21T18:30:00.000Z

Strictly Come Cannon!

What a show it was on Saturday! Russell, we really thought that was the best yet - what an entrance, and we agreed with Alisha!

We're so so sad to see you leaving the show, but thank you, thank you, thank you for entertaining us and lighting up our Saturday evenings. It's been a joy, and it seems you feel the same. Please pop into the Oakeley soon and teach us some moves!

Over to you to say Strictly, farewell.....

Well…. There we are - all good things must come to an end.

Saturday’s Wembley show was an exhilarating, exciting exit for me and I couldn't have asked for a better send off.

The Big Bang theory saw me flying through the air with maybe not the greatest of ease and then landing to jive with the fabulous Flavia. It was all great fun, but you know and I know that each week one couple flies through the air and lands with a bump!

Even so the audience gave us a standing ovation. Sir Bruce claimed I had “Done it again!” Alisha said “Just when you think you’ve seen it all – that was the best ever entrance on Strictly” Bruno claimed it as an “Incredible or bit of madness” and he “Loved it!”

Craig was reduced to a “Revolutionary!”

Len added that whenever people talk about the history of “Strictly” they will always say “Do you remember when Russell Grant flew out of that cannon at Wembley?”

In many ways it is sad to go; I will miss the other dancers and all the wonderful people who have helped me backstage and away from the camera’s lens in production, wardrobe and make up. In other ways it will be nice to catch my breath before the final show and spend more time at home in the mountains of Wales and of course in the Oakeley. I must also start learning the lines for my pantomime season in Milton Keynes.

We have waved goodbye to some lovely people and there will be more sad moments before the final in Blackpool but that’s what the show is all about.

Well Good Luck to all those still on the floor. They are all fabulous dancers. Each one of them deserves to win. I will miss you all, but I won’t miss those long practice sessions or those nerve racking results shows!

Finally I have to say a sort of goodbye to all you faithful followers of this blog from now on the blog will have to be once a week just after the show. It has been a joy to write for you and I know by the many messages you have sent in that you have enjoyed reading it.

I shall end where I started – All good things come to an end! See you soon my friends

And

KEEP DANCING!

Strictly Update - Week 8

2011-11-18T11:14:00.002Z

Wales at Wembley!

Well, the big day has very nearly arrived! As we speak, we're sure Russell is super busy with some last minute preparations and practices!

We think it's brilliant that Russell is flying the Welsh flag for all of us, and we wish him ALL the luck in the world for Saturday evening.

We'll be watching, and cheering, as always. Have a ball Russell, or should that be, a jive?

Over to you for an update on your hectic week.......

This week I have spent all my time down in the Big City rehearsing for the Wonderful Wembley Whizz Bang! Of course every silver lining has a cloud and my cloud this week has been not being able to go home again to Wales and catch up with all the local news.

Now, I must start the blog with a big thanks to Billy and Ezra. Who are Billy and Ezra you might ask? Well they are the guys who were waiting behind the screen on last Saturday’s show with the golden glittery “Ferrero Roche” suit. That quick change was a real show stopper! Thanks guys.

As you might expect its been another busy week practising for what looks like being a real blast. Flavia and I have been getting into jive mode and the Wembley show needs a much bigger performance to fill that huge space.

The press interest has been phenomenal so there have been loads of interviews and photo shoots for Flavia and I to get along to in between our jive sessions and the most wonderful news of the week for me was that Radio 2 are putting together a special “Strictly on the Radio” show I will be presenting the show and you can hear it at 10.00pm on December 30^th so reach for your diaries now and make a note.

Wednesday night Flavia and I were off to catch up with Zoe on “Strictly It Takes Two”. We always love dropping in on Zoe because we have such a good time.

I listened to Ian Waite and took on what he said about my head and kicks. I know I can sometimes have a bit of a nodding dog look when I am on the floor so I appreciate what he had to say and I aim to get a thumbs up from Ian for Saturdays show.

The real high spot of the show was the wonderful message from the fabulous Kylie. I have been a fan of hers for years and now, it seems, she is one of mine! Simply stunning and such a surprise I found myself welling up. Thanks Kylie.

Thanks too to Alex from Surrey for her lovely message of support and encouragement. It’s great to know the next generation are enjoying “Strictly” and that I am putting a lovely smile on their faces. Another very BIG thank you to James from Stockport and Madeleine from Retford who both sent me their drawings of me and Flavia. James seems to think all the judges are about to give me 10 points. Let’s hope that’s an omen for this week’s show.

More from me on Monday about how the Wembley show went.

Thanks again for all your wonderful messages and the encouragement you send. It means so much.

If you are one of those who have sent me a message I must ask for your patience. Usually I deal with them all straight away, but the BBC have sent all the messages to my home and because this week has been so busy I have had to stay in London so I won’t be able to deal with the post until I get home again hopefully next Monday.

“Thanks for being there!” and Keep Dancing!

Sunday Treats

2011-11-16T09:39:00.000Z

What are you up to on Sunday?

As regulars to the Oakeley Arms will know, Sunday is one of our favourite days. And that's because Sunday is CARVERY DAY!

We've been told by many of our regular diners that the Oakeley Arms carvery is one of the best in Gwynedd. A bold statement we know, but we thought we'd let our happy, and full, customers speak out for us!

As well as piling your plate with delicious local meats, vegetables and all the trimmings from the carvery, we also let you in on another secret and a fabulous Sunday treat. Special guest singer Mared Emlyn charms Oakeley diners every Sunday with her selection of chilled out modern and classical songs. From show tunes to folk songs to classical ballads, at the tender age of 15, Mared has mastered them all.

Mared, who's a pupil at nearby Ysgol y Gader in Dolgellau, has been singing since she was five years old. She's won numerous national Eisteddfod prizes as well as countless local recital and musical competitions. In a few weeks time, she'll be trying the Grade 7 Singing exam at the prestigious Royal College of Music. And not only does she sing, but she plays the piano, harp, guitar and drums.

She certainly is a talented young lady. So what are you waiting for? Come along on Sunday for Gwynedd's best carvery and a magical musical treat.

See you there!

As well as appearing at the Oakeley every Sunday, Gwynedd based singer Mared performs at private functions, parties and weddings. For more information, you can contact her at parry4py@btinternet.com

Strictly Update - Week 7 show

2011-11-14T07:47:00.000Z

Way to Wembley!

Well, Russell has only gone and done it! He's made it to the fantastic Wembley show next Saturday, and we are thrilled to bits for him.

He totally deserved it after his excellent performance on Saturday. Over to you Russell for a glimpse into your busy week..... and good luck with the rehearsals for this week's coming extravaganza. When you've a spare minute, you'll have to pop to the Oakeley Arms to teach us some moves!

It’s been a busy time since I last had a chance on Thursday to update my blog. A busy, but an exciting and even exhilarating time.

The days have passed in a melee of press interviews, practice sessions and preparations for the big show on Saturday. I have even had a couple of photo shoots for the glossy, celebrity magazines so I hope you’ll have as much fun seeing the photos as I had during the shoot.

Saturday night was a real high. Great dancing and great scores for Harry and Aliona and don’t they deserve their place at the top of the scoreboard. They are just so fantastic on the floor the rest of us just look on in admiration.

Chelsee and Pasha’s Foxtrot was “Elegant, graceful, gorgeous and sophisticated” and it earned them a well deserved second place with only one point behind Harry and Aliona. Holly and Brendan shared third place Jason and Kristina and once again they bring that special starry something to the evening.

It fell to me to bring the show to an end with one of my favourite songs “I am what I am” from the hit show - La Cage aux Folles. Well I was what I was and I had the greatest time dancing the American Smooth with Flavia and I think I did pretty well all things considered. Did you like the quick change? I have never been in and out of my clothes quicker! A standing ovation thrilled me to bits. The audience loved it. I loved it and I hope you loved it too.

Len dubbed me “The Giant Ferrero Roche” and followed it up with a “Well Done!”

I took Alisha to a “Fun Place” and Bruno thought I “Couldn’t wait to get out of the closet”

A single “Immortal” from Craig crowned my night.

Did you like the video before the dance with multiple me’s coming out of the woods to serenade the fabulous Flavia. We had some real fun and laughs doing that with the BBC crew up in the beautiful hills of my home in Wales.

Sunday brought us together for the results show and we had to say good bye to the Big Man with the Big Heart. Audley and Natalie bowed out with their usual grace. We will all be sad to see them go, but that’s the way the show goes and sooner or later we will all go except for the wonderful winner of this year’s show.

Now I have a very busy week ahead of me. The Wembley show looks like being a true extravaganza. There are extra practice sessions built into the schedule. In between rehearsals there are more interviews and photo shoots to keep me busy. Whatever you do don’t miss Saturday’s show I can promise you it will be something special and you’ll see things you never thought you’d see and I can promise you, you’ll never see again! Intrigued? Tune in and watch!

More from me on Thursday about how the week has gone.

Thanks to everyone at The Oakeley Arms, sorry not to see you this week - The BBC film crew will miss the special ribs that are the talk of the BBC.

If you are one of those who have sent me a message I must ask for your patience. Usually I deal with them all promptly and reply straight away, but the BBC have sent all the messages to my home and because this week is so busy I have to stay in London so I won’t be able to deal with the post until I get home again next Monday.

Just one special mention – thank you to young James in Stockport for his drawing of Flavia and I getting 10 points from each of the judges and thanks to Madeleine and Violet Karczewski for her drawing and her kind words. They are both up on the fridge!

“Thanks for being there!” and Keep Dancing!

Strictly Update - Week 7

2011-11-10T16:26:00.000Z

Ribs O'Clock!

Goodness me, it's been another busy week for our dancer Russell. It's the American Smooth dance this weekend, and we too are hoping that Russell and Flavia will storm the score boards and make it through to next week's show from Wembley!

As always Russell, we'll be cheering you on. Over to you for an update, while we get busy making some more stocks of our famous ribs! They are certainly proving a BIG hit........

This week has been rather different and difficult.

Poor Flavia was due to travel from London to North Wales for our usual practice sessions, but with one thing and another the whole day was lost. Delayed leaving London Flavia travelled with the BBC film crew and got tangled up in traffic so she didn’t reach North Wales until 9.30 at night.

Not only that but because we had lost so much time the film crew decided to do some interview sessions straight away so filming began about 10.00 at night at The Oakeley where the crew are staying. After such a long day Flavia was her usual cheerful, charming self but I am sure she must have been tired out. We left the crew tucking into The Oakeley’s famous ribs that are rapidly becoming a legend amongst BBC film crews!

So a whole day was lost and so was our first practice session for the American Smooth. One thing it did give me a chance to do was to reply to all the kind and thoughtful messages, letters and emails people have sent. There were so many it took me most of Monday, but it’s always good to hear from everybody.

Wednesday was another busy filming day with some unusual shots that I am sure you will really enjoy on Saturday night’s show. You won’t want to miss it.

The American Smooth belies its name; it’s really quite demanding being a blend of Foxtrot and Quickstep but Flavia has made it all go as smooth as possible and I hope you will enjoy our interpretation and our dance to one of the big show stopping songs of all time.

Thursday was an early start. Down to London for a series of press interviews, photo-shoots and preparing for TV appearances on “It Takes Too” with the lovely Zoe and “This Morning” on Friday.

For those of you who don’t know I am an avid football fan. Mostly non-league club football. I have regularly been on Radio 5 Live and Talksport. Coming up soon is the first round of the FA Cup and so I am adding my thoughts on who might be the clubs to watch on Football Focus. If you’re a footy fan like me be sure to tune in.

Then it will be heads down and dancing shoes on for some last minute practice sessions ready for Saturday’s show. I am hoping to make it through to the following week’s big show from Wembley. That will be something well worth watching. From what I hear it will be a real spectacular!

More from me on Monday about the Saturday’s show and what the next dance will be.

Thanks again for all your wonderful messages and the encouragement and generous support you send me.

“Thanks for being there!” and Keep Dancing!

Christmas Cheer at the Oakeley Arms

2011-11-09T09:27:00.001Z

Haaaaaapy Christmas!!

Just joking..... we know it's a little early. But, it'll soon be here, in all it's festive glory.
Have you decided where to celebrate yet? Well, we can help you out; come and join us for some festive fun and frolics at the Oakeley Arms!

Here's a sneak preview of our brilliant Christmas Menu - you saw it here first.

We can cater for office parties, family parties, Saturday parties, buffets and carveries - there are loads of options.
Just contact us for more details, or to make bookings. We'll happily send you a copy of the menu by e-mail or post.
Happy Christmas!!

Strictly Come Dancing News - Week 6

2011-11-07T16:43:00.000Z

Pase Doble Success!

This week was another success for Russell and Flavia - they Pasa Doble-d all the way into next week's show, hurrah!

We were watching Russell, and cheering you on as always! We loved the radical interpration - what a great surprise!

Over to you for an update - hope the nail varnish remover did the trick!

So…… The Paso Doble was my passport to another week in “Strictly Come Dancing” I hope you enjoyed the comic interpretation of this dramatic dance that Flavia and I produced on Saturday night.

From Anita’s Charleston to Chelsee’s Charleston we were treated to a spectacular evening of ever rising standards and styles. As the weeks fly by I am sure you’ve noticed the work levels rising and the performances becoming more and more exacting and exhausting.

We are all hoping Artem’s painful injury will ease over the weekend. I feel sure his determination to carry on will carry him through, but we all have to be careful and it just goes to show that even the fittest of and even the most highly trained can sometimes be taken by surprise by our bodies. Nevertheless Artem danced his way through the pain barrier and carried on to produce a “Cool and sophisticated” jive that captivated us all with its energy and intensity. Holly and Artem deserved every one of their 34 points.

Topping the score board were Chelsee and Pasha with a “Pleasing, teasing” brilliant performance that our Craig proclaimed “FAB-U-LOUS” and so it was!

So far as points are concerned it wasn’t Jason’s week and it wasn’t Robbie’s either but we all know that there are some dances that bring out our best and some we find more difficult and challenging. Even so both gave us wonderful performances and both were receptive to the advice and guidance of the judges.

Flavia and I were the eighth couple to take the floor in a light hearted interpretation of the Paso Doble. Last Thursday I blogged “our version will be very, very different” and I am sure you agree now you’ve seen it. Once again Craig was reduced to a single “ASTONISHING!”. Jennifer, standing in for Len thought it “Entertaining” Alesha “Loved it”. Bruno caught the essence proclaiming: “It was a Benny Hill version of a Paso Doble – demented and fabulous.”

Sadly, each week we have to say goodbye to one of our company. This week it was my friend Lulu and her partner Brendan. We will all miss them and we will remember her stunning Halloween performance.

Back to Wales for a short rest. Tomorrow I shall be catching up with Flavia in the afternoon, that will give me a little time to write some horoscopes, catch up with the fan mail and, I believe, there are one or two newspapers who want to speak to me about Saturday’s show.

It’s a long journey each week from north Wales to London and back again, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. There really is “No place like home” and the mountain air of Snowdonia, the company of friends and neighbours and the chance to chat with people at our local shops make the trip worthwhile.

Thanks to everyone at our local Porthmadog supermarket who turned the store upside down searching for nail varnish remover! My wonderful make-up department gave me black fingernails for the Pasodoble. Rushing for the car I forgot to take it off before leaving Television Centre. Amazingly I had none at home. My god-daughter Lucy came to the rescue in the end – you can always rely on her!

More from me on Thursday about the week’s practice session - the next dance? American Smooth to I Am What I Am - rather me don't you think! Thanks again for all your wonderful messages and the encouragement and generous support you send me.

“Thanks for being there!”

Strictly Update

2011-11-03T14:00:00.000Z

Strictly Saturday

What would our Saturday evenings be now, without Russell and Flavia to cheer on, and cheer us up? We're wishing you lots of luck this week with the tricky moves Russell.
Over to you to find out what you've been up to this week.......

It’s been an interesting and inspiring week so far.

First of all, Monday morning brought a flood of emails to be dealt with and later that morning the postman arrived with a bundle of fan mail. On top of all that there are all the wonderful messages on Twitter and Facebook. I am totally bowled over by all these messages. Many of them tell me a little about people’s own history and how “Strictly” cheers them up at the weekend and how much they love to see Flavia and I take to the floor.

Talking about Flavia - we have been working on the Pasa Doble and practicing hard each and every day. Flavia really is a joy to be with. At once uplifting, motivating, inventive and with a total focus on what needs to be achieved each week.

I am finding the Pasa Doble is quite a difficult dance, it has its roots in the intense colour and drama of the Spanish bullfighting arena and is based on the type of music played at the entrance of the matadors. The bullfighter’s role is played by the man and traditionally the woman takes the part of the matador’s cape. But our version will be very, very different. I won’t say too much now but watch us on Saturdays show and I am sure you will be surprised, even amazed!

Wednesday evening saw me down at the local rugby club and if you think you will be surprised by our Pasa Doble wait to see what the rugby club get up to! As you can imagine there will be some hilarious moments.

Something a little different is in the offing! You may not know it but I am often on BBC Radio 5 Live talking about non-league football and sometimes cricket. I take a deep interest in all sorts of sport but especially non-league football and always have done, so it comes as a surprise to a lot of people to hear me talking footy. 5Live and Talksport are two stations who interview me regularly to get my thoughts on various matches and clubs. This time around I will be chatting about next weekend’s FA Cup 1^st round and what surprises it might hold.

I shall be joining Zoe again on “Strictly It Takes Two”. It’s always great to see Zoe, she is such fun and the show is one of my favourites.

I am looking forward to Saturday’s show so much. It’s great to be dancing to the wonderful music and genuine joy to meet the rest of the gang. They are really wonderful people. Isn’t it a pity that at the end of each weekend we have to say goodbye to a couple. That’s “Strictly”!

More from me on Monday about how Saturday’s show went. Thanks again for all your wonderful messages and the affection and generous support you are giving me. You’ll never know how much it means to me.

“Thanks for being there!”

Cemetery Junction

2011-11-01T14:34:00.000Z

Some "grave" goins-on at the Oakeley

Ok, so Halloween has been and gone, but we're staying with the Halloween theme for this blog post as we venture into the spooky cemetery in the Oakeley Arms garden. Yes, you read right - a cemetery at the Oakeley..... a dog cemetary, of course!!

The little dog graves in the far corner of the garden often attract quite a lot of attention from visitors and passers by, but they've been part of the Oakeley for as long as we can remember.

None of our faithful hounds are here yet, thank goodness, but some of the graves are more than 100 years old!

There's a similar Dog Cemetery at nearby Portmeirion, though of course it's much larger than our small patch. It was started by Adelaide Haigh, the eccentric tenant of Aber Ia (the manor house that became Portmeirion's Hotel building).

She absolutely adored her dogs, and they all slept in luxury in one of the manor house bedrooms. Apparently she read sermons to them in the belief that they were as religious as she was. When her beloved dogs died (and she had lots of them because she took in any stray that happened to pass), she buried them in the grounds of the estate, erecting grave stones with gushing epitaphs for her loyal companions.

We've yet to spot any spooky canine sightings, but who knows what these days after halloween will bring? Come along to the Oakeley and keep your eyes peeled for some four-legged ghosts!

More Strictly Come Dancing News!

2011-10-31T17:12:00.001Z

Of course, we all tuned in on Saturday to see Russell storm through the show! What a success! And Russell and Kylie - we think that's a winning combo!

Here's more from Russell himself......

Down to London from our energising practice sessions in North Wales more fun and games with Zoe on Thursday night in "It Takes Two". Friday morning found me swapping tales, choosing the music with Chris Evans on Radio 2 and it ranks as one of the most exciting and enjoyable radio experiences ever. I always enjoy dropping in to Radio 2 and whether it’s with Chris or my regular spot with Steve Wright we always share a little gentle banter and a few laughs.

Friday and Saturday were fabulous in more than one way. Of course there were the practice sessions with my magical Muse Flavia – now that’s always a delight and I thought the show and the backstage build up to it was one of the best, but you’ve probably heard I’ve been getting a bit of a twinge in my knee every now and again. It doesn’t stop me walking, exercising or dancing so no worries there – the show must go on – so on with the show!

Saturday’s show was a hoot! Kitted out as ghouls, vampires and in all kinds of “shriek and scream” outfits. A bright red devil emerging from the flames I Sambad my way onto the dance floor to the strains of Kylie’s “Better The Devil You Know” theme. Eleven million people got a chance to see my tail – I hope you’ve recovered!

Len said I gave everyone the “Feel good factor”. Alesha asked “Kylie and Russell what more do we want?” Bruno claimed I had “Turned Hell into a camp heaven!”. Although everything didn’t quite go as Flavia and I had planned we still had a great time and judging by the cheers from the audience they did too.

Chelsee wasn’t happy with her Tango with Pasha but still got a wonderful 32 points. If that’s the sort of score they get when they think they haven’t performed to perfection what wonderful things are we about to see in the weeks ahead?

Alex and James treated us to a perfect Paso Doble and were rightfully cheered to the rafters. Getting 31 points and comments like “Erotic”, “Intense”, “Dramatic” and “Atmospheric”. It was exciting and energising to watch and a brilliant performance.

What can I add to what has already been said about Holly and Artem’s American Smooth. 35 well deserved and well earned points and a standing ovation! To echo the judges: “Stylish”, Exquisite”, “Incredible”, “Beautiful”, “Terrific”, “Artistic”. What will they produce for us next week? All I know is that it’s going to be great!

Harry and Aliona earned yet another standing ovation with their tantalising Tango, the judges raved, the crowd cheered and so they should. It was “Intense, hypnotic and erotic” and above all “Beautiful”. They have to be the ones to watch. They are a great couple and lovely people.

Robbie and Ola after his brush with the camera gave us a great Paso Doble. Bruno was “Lost for words” but he although he was tongue tied he kept his eyes open. Len saw some “Wobbly bits” and Craig was “Amazed”. Need I say more?

The amazing flying Lulu and her Paso Doble was great entertainment with a flying entrance and heart stopping exit. Truly “Great”.

Can anything be added to the judges’ comments about Jason and Kristina’s Quickstep? Bewitching, beguiling and bewildering. Brilliant and perfect. Once again they danced elegantly to the top of the night’s score.

We were all sad to see Nancy and Anton bow out. Nancy has been such fun and has always had an encouraging word for those of us who don’t have her lovely long legs!

Now I am back in Wales and looking forward to seeing Flavia later today and getting to grips with “Team Flavant’s” unique twist on the Paso Doble! I might nip down to The Oakeley Arms for one of their great Sunday carveries.

More from me on Thursday about how the practice sessions are going. Thanks again for all your wonderful messages and the affection and generous support you are giving me. You’ll never know how much it means to me.

“Thanks for being there!”

Strictly Come Dancing Update!

2011-10-27T18:40:00.000+01:00

Strictly Samba!

What's Russell been up to this week then?

Another tough week of training, but hopefully some fun and smiles along the way!

We're rooting for you Russell and keeping everything crossed for the knee healing sharpish!! Good luck on Saturday, and over to you....

Monday was a strange day. First of all there was a breakdown of communication somewhere along the line and Flavia missed her connecting train up to North Wales. By the time she arrived Monday was almost over and done with. On top of that I had to schedule time in the afternoon to visit our local hospital. The knee has continued to play me up so the doctors thought it would be a good idea to have an MRI scan to see what’s going on.

It is rather painful and I will have to watch what I get up to, but luckily this week’s dance is the Samba and that means a little less wear and tear on the knee.

The BBC film crew have been staying at the Oakeley again. This is the fourth week a crew have stayed there. Every week it is a different team, but they all enjoy their stay and say the same thing, "The food is great!" and so it is.

As we approach Halloween we shouldn't have been surprised to encounter one or two inexplicable happenings in our rehearsal rooms which are over 100 years old. First of all I heard some call “Russell”, but there was no-one to be seen. Then Flavia heard someone cry out, but again there was no-one to be seen. To top it all I saw a figure run along the back of the balcony and apparently this is not the first time that people have seen this strange apparition in the hall! It’s all very spooky!

Although the practice sessions have been shortened by Monday’s events everything has gone very smoothly. Flavia and I both love the Samba. It has its origins in Brazil and it is THE dance of the carnival season so that should be fun for everyone! Flavia says many people find it one of the more tricky steps to master, but I feel quite at home with this rhythmical, exciting dance. And Flavia agrees!

There’s a whole host of the kindest and most thoughtful letters and cards to read through and answer and that’s always a priority. Thank you to everyone who has written in – your encouragement and support means so much to me.

Thank goodness for an early night Wednesday. I was wacked out after a totally taxing, tiring time over the last couple of days. A lovely bit of smoked haddock for tea and in bed for ten o’clock because Thursday is an early start.

Up before 6.00 and off we go leaving our lovely Wales and heading south to London. Today’s schedule has a lot of press interviews and joining Zoe for “It Takes Two” in the evening and somewhere along the line Flavia and I need to find time to practice our Samba.

Friday morning I shall be dropping in on Chris Evans to join him for his breakfast show and then back to the ballroom for some last minute rehearsals.

It certainly is a demanding time. The days fly by and there is hardly a spare moment to rest and relax. But I am loving every minute of it. This is definitely THE time of my life and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I know the rest of the gang will have been working just as long and as hard as I have and I am sure we are all feeling the pace one way or another.

I think you’ll enjoy Saturday’s show and although we will all be having a great time it will be tinged with sadness as we will have to say goodbye to one our small band.

See you Saturday

“Thanks for being there!”

Welsh Mountain Adventures

2011-10-25T17:03:00.000+01:00

Outdoor Life

What are you up to this weekend? Having a lie-in? Watching a film? Painting the kitchen? Taking the kids shopping? Coming to see us at the Oakeley Arms?

It's true that the sun has truly set on summer, but that doesn't mean the outdoor fun has to stop. Ok, so we know you don't want to go and sit on the beach in the snow (although it has been known!) but how about a trip out to explore some of the breathtaking Snowdonian scenery that's right on our doorstep.

Alwen Williams is a local mountain leader, who has been working with our customers and guests since she set up her mountain leading venture last year, and she's been a great hit so far.

From a quiet local walk, to tackling our highest peaks, Alwen will make sure you have the best experience possible. If you want to brush up on your navigational skills, learn some new route-finding proficiencies or discover a prowess for map reading that you didn't know you had, then Alwen is on hand to help.

Alwen can suggest routes (and she knows all the best, quietest ones) and take you to new places. Having grown up among the hills of Ffestiniog, there isn't a valley or nook she doesn't know about.

A qualified mountain leader with over seven years experience, Alwen's passion and enthusiasm shines through in every aspect of her work in the mountains. You can book her for half day, whole day or even overnight expeditions. And if walking's not your thing, then get on 'yer bike and into the famous woods of Coed-y-Brenin because Alwen also offers guided biking tours and trips.

You can check out Alwen's profile, find out more information or contact her at the Welsh Mountain Adventure website.

Get out there and explore! And after all that, we promise you've deserved a pint of Oakeley Dokeley! See you at the bar :)

Strictly Come Dancing News!

2011-10-24T08:37:00.002+01:00

Strictly Come Dancing enjoyed record viewing figures this weekend, so it seems the nation has finally got the dancing bug. And of course, we're all tuning in to see how Russell's getting on!
Here's another update from our dancing star! Over to you Russell......

Well… it was touch and go Saturday night especially for me. During a punishing practice week of not only dancing but scrambling up and down the majestic hills and valleys of North Wales with a BBC film crew in tow my leg and ankle was playing up even more than usual. So much so that at one point there was a question as to whether or not I would be able to dance on Saturday!

But “The Show Must Go On! So with the knee supported and with an ice pack strapped to the inside of it we and the remaining eleven took to the floor.

Wasn’t it lovely to see Edwina in the audience? She is so kind, generous, supportive and always encouraging.

But, there I go again getting ahead of myself… lets go back to frantic Friday when I dropped in on “Loose Women” at lunchtime and then rushed round to the Beeb where we had great fun with Zoe on “It Takes Two”. Lots of people love this show as much as Saturday’s performances and if you haven’t tuned in yet you mustn’t miss it this week.

Saturday is a busy practice day, but we still have time to have a chat here and there. Lulu and Anita are great fun and we spend lots of time chatting and chunnering over the week’s events and what lies ahead. Anita was very nervous, but she needn’t have been she produced a truly elegant performance packed with glamour and sophistication. Even our dear Craig “Loved it” calling Anita’s dance “Classy, sophisticated and a consummate pro”. Anita wowed the audience and pulled off a wonderful 32 points! Great Stuff!

Another energising and entertaining show from Robbie and Ola got a standing ovation but only 27 points. I loved it all and enjoyed seeing them at the football ground and what a wonderful response they had from the thousands of fans.

What can I say about Chelsee and Pasha’s Quickstep except to echo the judges? Craig: “1^st Class”. Len: “Fantastic”. Alesha “Ended too soon”. Bruno's “Pocket Rocket”. They were fabulous and pulled off one of the most deserved highest scores so far. A wonderful well-earned 36 points!!!

So from the top of the score board to pretty near the bottom. 24 points for Flavia and I. Are we downcast? Are we downhearted? Not one bit of it. We produced an imaginative and creative dream sequence which flowed on naturally from those shots from atop the mountains of Wales. My partners were Teddy and Flavia and both were about to perform to perfection.

The huge cheers that greeted us and Bruce’s gag about “The huge R’s” got us off to a great start and the standing ovation at the end brought a tear to my eye.

It was lovely of Bruno to call me a “Brilliant Sleeping Beauty” and an “Entertaining” from Craig was pretty good. Len pronounced it a “Whimsical and endearing performance, full of charm” and Alesha was kind enough to proclaim me a “Strictly Legend!”.

Sir Bruce threw in an “Amazing” and a “Marvellous” and suddenly it was all over.

It certainly was all over for big hearted Rory and Erin who also scored 24 points. It was oh so sad to wave them the fondest of farewells on Sunday evening. Their kindness, encouragement and support will be missed by us all. The show will miss them but the show must go on!

Next week Flavia and I are dancing the Samba! Let’s hope the knee holds up, it certainly will be a test. I am aiming for more than 24 points next week so we will be hoping to pull all the stops out.

Thanks again for all the support coming through the post and via email, Facebook and Twitter. So many friends, so many well wishers – Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

See you Saturday

“Thanks for being there!”

Strictly Keep Dancing Russell!

2011-10-20T19:02:00.002+01:00

This post comes from a very special guest blogger; ladies and gentlemen put your hands together for Mr Russell Grant, as he fills us in on some fabulous Strictly goss!

It takes two to Tango and that’s what I'm finding out this week with Flavia to guide me through the steps of this passion packed ballroom dance.

It was a late night journey back to Wales, but it went quickly as I was over the moon to have made it through another week.

There really is no place like home. But then I was up bright and early to deal with the pile of fan mail that has started to flood in. Then down to the practice rooms to let Flavia put me through my paces.

This week the BBC have also done some filming around my house and the fabulous scenic Snowdonia. I think you’ll enjoy seeing the house and the mountains. The BBC film crew are staying at the Oakeley and they give the special “Oakeley” ribs a big thumbs up!

It’s a precise, non-smiley, aggressive dance to get a handle on but Flavia makes everything seem so simple and straightforward. She is a great teacher and a wonderful charismatic partner as you’ll see on Saturday.

Monday saw me doing my regular slot with Steve Wright in the Afternoon and Flavia came along with me to the BBC studios to make a very special guest appearance that everyone loved. Steve was delighted to hear Flavia and I am sure it made his day – well it would wouldn’t it! Praise indeed from Mr. Wright when he told Flavia that it was my “infectious enthusiasm that made me so watchable”.

A blustery, showery Wednesday with a definite nip in the air saw more outdoor filming and a gruelling practice session that left me wearily wacked out but all fired up for what I hope will be a scintillating Saturday.

Lamb chops for dinner! The waning waistline keeps on shrinking. I feel on top of the world and hoping and praying to make it successfully through the weekend.

The fabulous support and affection that have come my way since the show began have been wonderful from Facebook and Twitter to email and snail mail so many messages of encouragement have come flooding in it takes my breath away. Thank you all so much.

See you Saturday

“Thanks for being there!”

We know who we're rooting for, and we can't wait till Saturday. You can do it Russell; big cheers from all at the Oakeley! xx

We'll be hearing more from the Strictly camp next week so check back for an update soon!

A Halloween Hoot

2011-10-18T12:37:00.001+01:00

Support the campaign to save Porthmadog's cinema

If walls could whisper their secrets, then Porthmadog's Coliseum Cinema would have a lot to share. Standing proud since 1931, the distinctive cinema building has been the centre of social occasions, town events, childhood memories, teenage dreams and even film premiers for eight happy decades, and now it needs our help.

Last year, the treasured Coliseum Cinema was facing complete closure, until a group of ambitious, hard-working and dedicated volunteers decided to tackle the closure head on, and launched a campaign to save the cinema.

Phil Creamer is a voluntary Director of the Friends of the Coliseum and a member of the campaign committee, and he was thrilled to tell the Oakeley Arms all about the committee's latest fund-raising .

"We're really excited about our fabulous Halloween event" says Phil. "The 'Spirit Of The Coliseum' Halloween fancy dress party is at the Hercules Hall, Portmeirion on Friday, 28th October at 7.30 p.m."

As well as a well-known local DJ Y Bwgan (aka Carwyn Jones, ex-member of Genod Droog) there'll be a late bar, plenty of spooky surprises and an opportunity to see the premier of a Coliseum themed film by local film-maker Stuart Murray.

"Of course, fancy dress is strongly encouraged" laughs Phil. "There's an additional £2 fine for those in civilian dress!"

Entrance fee is £5 (or £7 without fancy dress). There's also a shuttle taxi service from The Ship Inn in Porthmadog every half an hour from 7.30 p.m up until 10 p.m, costing just £1, half of which will be going to the SavetheColiseum fund.

Phil has been involved with the campaign since it's inception, and believes it's hugely important for the local area.

"The Coliseum in the right hands can once again be a focal point for the local community, and can also provide a source of entertainment throughout the day for local people and visitor alike. Not only is the beautiful art deco, 1930's building a very important and historic centrepiece for the town but a sympathetically restored and renovated Coliseum will provide jobs and boost the local economy".

What more of an excuse to do you need to party? Have a fantastic Halloween hoot and help a very worthy local cause at the same time. See you there!

Find out more about the campaign and buy party tickets online at the Save the Coliseum's official website.

Chocolate Heaven

2011-10-14T11:23:00.001+01:00

Chocolate Week!

Did you know that this week is National Chocolate Week? No, we didn't either, but now that we do know, we'll be celebrating in the best way - by trying out lots and lots of lovely CHOCOLATE!

We like to think that we know a thing or two about chocolate here at the Oakeley Arms, after achieving many collective decades of consumption, testing and critiquing.....

But what we didn't know a lot about is the history of chocolate, so after some chocolatey inspiration and a bit of research, read on for what we know now!

The lovely stuff has been consumed by humans for over 4,000 years, but originally it was drank rather than made into a food, and in fact, the chocolate we know today would have been nothing like the bitter "cocoa water" that the Mayans and Aztecs would have quaffed.

Cocoa Bean (by Glorgana, Flickr)

When the cacao pod was brought to Britain in the 17th century it was taxed so highly, that only the very rich could afford the fatty, bitter drink that was said to revitalise, refresh and invigorate. It wasn't until the 18th century that a revolutionary process was discovered that separated the cocoa butter from the powder, so creating the first varieties of solid chocolate.

It didn't take long for industry giants to get involved in the chocolate making process, and by the end of the nineteenth century, the British chocolate industry, and indeed the global market was pretty much controlled by the well known chocolate men, George Cadbury, Joseph Rowntree and Joseph Storrs-Fry.

They would have been very proud to know that today, the chocolate industry in the UK is worth a whopping £3.5 billion a year (with the Oakeley Arms contributing just over half of that, haha, just joking, although it does seem that way sometimes!)

But our absolute favourite chocolate here at the Oakeley Arms has to be anything by our local chocolatier Cathryn Cariad Chocolate. Based just up the road, Cathryn makes some of the best chocolates and sweet things we have ever tasted.

They are all home-made and some are so delicious they have been awarded Great Taste Gold Awards. You can find the full range on the website or you can catch Cathryn at the Porthmadog Local Produce Market on the last Saturday of every month (9:30am - 2pm). Mmmmmm, we'll meet you there!!

You can read more about National Chocolate Week and all the chocolatey-events here

Are you a choc-a-holic? What's your favourite chocolate? Or do you have a favourite chocolate recipe? Let us know by commenting below!

by Ambrozjo

Come on Wales!

2011-10-11T15:21:00.001+01:00

We'll be cheering for Wales this weekend in their semi-final World Cup Clash with France!

Of course, we couldn't let this momentous occasion slip past without a shout out on the blog! After an outstanding performance last Saturday against Ireland, the Welsh Internationals are all set to face their European rivals, France, at the Eden Stadium in Auckland.

Photo by "Unofficial England Rugby's photos", Flickr.

Predictions are positive for a win against Les Bleus, which would take the Welsh team to the finals, to fight against the winners of Sunday's match between hosts The All Blacks and their Tri-Nations rivals, Australia.

During the team's glory days of the late 1960's and early 70's, the Welsh team were considered one of the finest rugby squads in the world, but more recently the Welsh team has sometimes been troubled. But, to celebrate the fact that our fantastic national team are on the up again, here are some fabulous Welsh Rugby facts!

Wales are ranked 6th in the world by the IRB (International Rugby Board)
Wales first played The All Blacks in 1905, where they beat them 3-0
Wales hosted the Rugby World Cup in 1999, although many matches were played outside of the country. Sadly Wales were knocked out in the quarterfinals by Australia.
Ten players from the Welsh team have been inaugurated into the International Rugby Hall of Fame.
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) was formed in Neath in 1881
Wales were the first team to win three consecutive Triple Crowns in the Five Nations Championships (now the Six Nations) during the 1970s.
Current sponsors of the team Admiral Insurance are the only Welsh company on the FTSE 100.
The Prince of Wales Feathers logo that adorns the shirt was chosen over 100 years ago by the WRU over a leek emblem. It was to show Wales' loyalty to Britain.
The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff is the team's home ground, and it regularly sells all of the 74,500 seats on international match days.
If Wales are successful on Saturday, then it will be the first time they have ever played in a World Cup final.

Good Luck boys! Just play with your usual grace, patriotism and charm and you'll do us all proud.

We'll be cheering so loud you'll be able to hear us in New Zealand!

Don't miss it! 9am Saturday morning, ITV

Picture by Al-Green, Flickr

Back to your Roots

2011-10-10T08:28:00.001+01:00

It was reggae-a-g0-go at the Oakeley last weekend as we welcomed members of one of Britain's best loved Reggae bands, Misty In Roots.

The band, who have been playing together since 1975, were in the area to head up a new festival held at nearby Blaenau Ffestiniog. The DrumHouse Ffest filled the area with a sunny Carribbean vibe last weekend, all held in the atmospheric surroundings of the Llechwedd Slate Caverns. By all accounts the festival was a huge success, with next year's line-up already in the planning stages.

Other acts included great performances from Zion Train, Nucleus Roots and Babyhead, as well as a stunning display by one of the best Mountain Bike Display teams in the country.

We were delighted that Misty in Roots chose to stay at here with us, and we had a great time hearing all about their current projects and how much they enjoyed the festival. We hope they come back soon!

Keep an eye on the festival website for details of next year's events.

Oakeley Dokeley

2011-10-06T14:20:00.001+01:00

There's a new regular at the Oakeley Bar!

Are you a real beer lover? Do you go ape for a new real ale? Are you always on the hunt for a fab real ale in Wales?

Then pop down to the Oakeley Arms to sample our very own new brew!

Oakeley Dokeley is a fabulous new ale, made especially for us by the fantastic chaps at the Great Orme Brewery, and, even if we do say so ourselves, it is rather delicious. Of course, it took days of mixing, sampling, tasting and testing (well, someone had to do it....) but we think we've stumbled on the perfect blend of genuine Welsh Real Ale.

At 4.5%ABV, its hoppy, fruity and fresh with a subtle hint of autumn spices and yet is light and temptingly mysterious (ooo move over Jilly Goolden). We know you're going to love the Oakeley Arms' great new addition.

So come and try it, ask us for a little taster, and see if you can work out who are the "faces" of Oakeley Dokeley!
See you at the bar!!

What do you think? Let us know what you think of Oakeley Dokeley - any suggestions, improvements or comments gratefully received.

Bag It!

2011-09-30T09:09:00.001+01:00

5p bag charge begins tomorrow in Wales!

Have you got your bags at the ready?!

So, The Carrier Bag Charge Wales Project will be introduced tomorrow. This means a new law that requires all retailers in Wales to charge customers 5p to purchase a carrier bag, which includes all bags made from plastic, paper and even bio-degradable materials.

Wales is the first nation in the UK to introduce the law, but the Welsh Assembly hopes that the new rules will be as successful here as they are in Ireland, which has seen a whopping 90% reduction in the use of carrier bags since a similar law was introduced there.

But, according to reports from the BBC, the Federation of Small Businesses in Wales is concerned that not all retailers fully understand the new rules. There are different rules for different products and circumstances - for example loose fruit and veg are exempt from the charges.

Retailers are also being asked to keep a record of bags sold and revenue taken, as some of the proceeds will be donated to charity, and all businesses will need to account for this. And there could be steep penalties for businesses that don't comply, with fines of up to £5,000.

But, the main aim of the whole campaign is to encourage shoppers to re-use and recycle their own bags, which will have a hugely positive impact on the environment and litter.

So far at the Oakeley Arms, we haven't had any requests for a pint of our Oakeley Dokeley beer in a plastic bag, but you never know!

So what do you think?

Are you a retailer who thinks it's a great thing, or will it affect your business in a negative way?

Are you a shopper who always forgets to take bags with you? Or have you got any tips for bag recycling!

Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below!

For more information, have a peek at the Carrier Bag Charge Wales website.

Image by Katerha (Flickr)

Llyn Mair Walk

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Why not make the most of this fabulous Indian Summer we're having here in Wales this week, and enjoy a walk straight from the Oakeley Arms Hotel?
You could combine it with a trip on the Ffestiniog Railway or enjoy a refreshing drink and a well-deserved meal back at the hotel when you've finished!

Leave the hotel and turn right, heading up the hill. Follow this (sorry it's steep!) as it eventually reaches the lake side. Contine along the side of the lake, until you come to a car parking area on the right, and on the left you'll see a wooden gate leading to a lake-side picnic area. Go through the gate and follow the path as it bends round to the right.
Shortly, go through the next gate to continue along the path. At way-marker #26, bear left downhill and continue, to cross a footbridge. Go through gap in the wall and bear left to follow the path. Go over two small footbridges and stay on the path as it winds around the lake edge.
Eventually, at a fork, and way-marker #10, turn right here and head up the track. At a sharp left corner, stay ahead and go through/pass by a wooden gate. At way-marker #8, bear right.
At the top of a small hill and way-marker #28, turn right. At the next junction (with way-marker #27 on your right) turn left. Go through/past a wooden gate, and then another to return to the lakeside picnic area. Turn right to re-trace your steps back down the hill.
To explore the railway station, go back to the road, cross it and into the car parking area. Cross the footbridge and follow the steep slate-gravel path uphill. This will take you through the woods to the station.
An alternative walk - at point 3 above (way-marker #10) go straight ahead. At way-marker #11 turn right and follow the path. At way-marker #12, keep ahead again, and the path will eventually bring you out on the drive for Plas Tan-y-Bwlch. Some of the house is open to the public - check with our staff and they will be able to give you more details. Turn left at the drive and follow it all the way back to the Oakeley.

Now you deserve a drink!!
Happy walking

Llyn Mair in Autumn

Go Vintage

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Don't miss the 2011 Ffestiniog Railway Vintage Weekend
The 15th and 16th of October is the date for this year's annual Vintage Weekend at the Ffestiniog Railway.

There are loads of fabulous events planned to celebrate one of the world's most famous, and historic, narrow gauge railways. Organisers hope that Porthmadog will be transported back to the glory days of its slate export and shipping heritage, and visitors can admire different trains and engines from distinctive historic eras.

There'll be the chance to see the gravity trains in action, witness a reconstruction of slate carts pass across the newly built Britannia Bridge and a whole host of other vintage railway quirks and curiosities. And of course, you'll be able to spot the railway staff, volunteers and supporters in their fantastic period dress.

For more details click here for the Ffestiniog Railway website.

Why not jump on the train to Tan-y-Bwlch and come down and join us at the Oakeley Arms? This historic hotel was once owned by the wealthy Oakeley Family, who were responsible for much of the slate mining and export trade in the area. Without the hard work and investment of this renowned local family, the Ffestiniog Railway would perhaps never have been built.

Find out more about the Oakeley Family and their Estate here

Team Findlay

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The Oakeley Arms were delighted to be part of one group's charity challenge back in May this year.

5 members of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service Fire Investigation Team attempted the 'Three Peaks' Challenge to raise funds for the Daniel Findlay Appeal.

The 'Three Peaks' is one of the toughest physical challenges for mountain hikers in the UK. A team must complete the ascent of all three of the highest peaks (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon) in less than 24 hours!

The team stormed through the challenge, and raised over £2,000 for the appeal.

We welcomed them back at the Oakeley Arms for some well deserved R&R!

You can read the full story here

The team outside the Oakeley

The Sleeping Giant Wakes Up!

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The Oakeley Arms Hotel has been reborn, redeveloped and totally transformed!

This much loved local landmark was nicknamed the “Sleeping Giant” by its owners and patrons due to its rundown appearance, and because the rambling historic building seemed to have a stubborn mindset of its own!

But finally, this beautiful hotel has finally been shaken up, woken up and allowed to realise its potential.

The Oakeley Arms has recently undergone a schedule of total renovation. It's owners Ann-Marie and Chris Vanstone are delighted to announce that the works are now nearing completion.

The historic grade II listed building has seen its fortunes rise and fall over the centuries. It was once part of the vast Oakeley Estate, owned by the Oakeley family of nearby Plas Tan y Bwlch, who were responsible for the large scale slate mining that revolutionised the fortunes of the area in the 19^th century.

Some of the building dates back to the 1600’s and over the years it has been used as a coaching inn, meeting house, courthouse and police station. In 1954 was given a Grade II listing because of its historical importance to the area.

Ann-Marie and Chris Vanstone acquired the building in 2003 when it was in a sorry state of repair. The near crumbling buildings suffered with problems from damp, decay and rot and had not been renovated for almost 50 years.

Over the past eight years Ann-Marie and Chris have dedicated their working lives to restoring and refurbishing the grand hotel to its former glory. The programme of works have included complete renovation of the 12 guests bedrooms to include modern and en-suite facilities and total restoration and redecoration of the bar, restaurant and toilets. All the renovations at the Oakeley Arms have been completed in a manner in-keeping with the hotel’s traditional style and history; there’s no flat-pack furniture to be found here!

The works have also included completely transforming the derelict buildings at the rear of the hotel, which are thought to have been barns and stables. These have now been converted into six charming self-catering holiday cottages, all of which boast traditional features alongside modern fixtures and fittings to give a highly desirable country cottage style.

The final stages of the project include further renovation of the guest rooms in a bid to achieve 4* rating, as well as completion of the last derelict barn building, which Ann-Marie and Chris are currently remodelling into further cottage accommodation with a gym and facilities block.

“It has involved a lot of hard work and dedication over the years” says Ann-Marie, “not just from us, but from the whole team. We have had some fantastic staff and trades-people that have helped us to make it happen.”

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve all achieved so far, and we’re delighted that the Oakeley Arms has been given a new lease of life. It’s time for this fabulous historic building to shine”.

Welcome!

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Hello Oakeley followers!
Welcome to our brand new blog.
Here you can find out all you need to know about the Oakeley Arms, including news, events, gossip and exciting developments!
Don't forget to follow us and check back regularly for updates.

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