The year 1900 began with the approval given by the Railway Commissioners to the running of a light railway between Rhyl & Prestatyn.

Approval was given for a two-storey building in Nant Hall Road to house the fire brigade and the clerk and surveyor on the ground floor and a council chamber upstairs to hold fifty people.

The Council was pleaded with to get rid of the unsightly gutters and make footpaths in High Street, and it was agreed, although there were some objectors who did not want their land to be used for widening. Councillors were called "a lot of blockheads" for not doing anything. Yet a few stupid people prevented them getting on with the work. Bye-laws were adopted for new streets and buildings.

Complaints were made of grievious inconvenience because of the temporary Post Office which was described as "A damp, dirty and unsavoury den some 10 feet square". It had previously been used as a coster-greengrocer and also a cobbler and it was situated at the top of a steep pathless hill away from the centre of population.

In February 1900, a "Greenwich Gem" fire engine was ordered also uniforms for brigade of eight men. In March objections were made to the proposal for light railway to run on Sundays, or at least only two. The chairman said, "we shall get the scum of Rhyl" and other towns if we run it on a Sabbath day.

The School Board decided to levy a precept of £80 (equal to a 2d. rate). Mr. Parry, Meliden, was elected school attendance officer at a salary of £10 p.a.. The old British School was formally taken over.

Clrs. W.H. Coward, T. Price, and John Pritchard were re-elected to the Council.

The coming-of-age of Henry Duncan McLaren, son of Mr. & Mrs. C. B. McLaren, Golden Grove and Bodnant Hall, Eglwys- bach, where his grandfather, Mr. Pochin had spent thousands on the large gardens, was recorded with great celebrations. Guns and cannons reverberated over the hills at Golden Grove and Gwespyr Brass Band played at a fireworks display. Members of the Council were entertained at the Nant Hall Hotel and the streets and houses were decorated. Mr. Pochin had brought water and gas to Prestatyn as well as building the sea wall by which he was said to have re- claimed 400 acres from the sea. Mr. J. B. Linnell, agent, had made the arrangements for the festivities. The young man, who was a great nephew of John Bright, had a number of presentations made to him.

(This event warranted over 3 columns in the "Rhyl Journal").

The rates remained at 3/- in the £ and the rateable value was given as £6,800. The chairman of the Council, Mr. John Jones, Sefton, got married to Miss Kate Edwards of Brynhyfryd, Rhyl. 400 of the elderly and schoolchildren were entertained. After a lot of agitation, a Sunday delivery of letters was agreed by the P.O.

The Ecclesiastical Commissioners were asked on what terms the Council could purchase Bishops Wood.

In July the Town Hall (not really a town hall) was opened and there were great celebrations. The planners had called it "Manor Hall". Bricks from Prestatyn brickworks were used and it was faced with Ruabon bricks and strings of Gwespyr stone. Prestatyn Choral Society gave a concert afterwards.

The water supply was proving inadequate and a committee was appointed to investigate. It was later agreed to obtain compulsory powers to acquire the water works and for constructing a new reservoir.

In September the new fire engine arrived and in November the uniforms for the men. A public exhibition was given and the engine was named "Sefton" in honour of the chairman of the Council and it was christened by Mrs. J.B. Linnell by breaking a bottle of wine on the wheel. Horses were attached to it and it was driven around the town by Mr. Fenton of the Railway Hotel. Mr. Harrop & Mr. Williams lent the horses. Lieut. J. Hughes was in charge of the brigade.

Mr. J.W. Worfolk was appointed postmaster. Mr. Thomas, architect of Birkenhead was appointed surveyor and the Order was confirmed for the Rhyl-Prestatyn Light Railway.

In January 1901 the first ever widening of High Street began in the region of Victoria Avenue. The death of Queen Victoria occurred on January 22nd, and the Council sent their condolences. Approval was given for the promotion of a Bill in Parliament to enable the Council to purchase the old water undertaking and establish new works. Considerable opposition to this was filed by Mrs. McLaren, the owner.

Later on proceedings before a committee of the House of Lords were adjourned as a partial compromise had been made. Under terms of an agreement, Mrs. McLaren would sell her undertaking for the sum of £7,750. The amount of water taken from the Ffynnon Asaph spring was to be limited to 120,000 gallons a day. Also involved in the objections to the purchase were Lord Windsor, the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and Mrs. Conwy, Bodrhyddan.

Talacre Hall was severely damaged by fire which the Prestatyn brigade attended, but it was hampered by the fact that the men had to be called from "all over the show". The Council discussed the need for a fire alarm which would be heard by all and the Vicar offered the use of the church bell for the purpose. This offer was accepted.

Prestatyn Water Bill passed the committee stage of the House of Commons, in June and received the Royal assent in August, and the Council decided to borrow £15,000 for developing the undertaking.

In March 1902 plans were approved for a fire station and loan sanction sought for £1,200 over 30 years. Mr. J.B. Linnell was elected chairman of the council. The comment was made at the election "that no man can serve two masters" (A reference to his position as agent to Mrs. McLaren).

In May there were preparations for the Coronation and public collections were made so that no expenditure fell on the rates. A tender for £1,616 was accepted for the building of a Board School.

Peace was declared in South Africa in June, and Mr. C.B. McLaren was made a baronet in the King's Honours List. Unfortunately the Coronation revelries were marred by the King's illness but went on in a minor way with a tradesmen's demonstration, procession and sports.

In the Medical Officer's report in 1902 he recommended that part of Meliden should be included in the urban district and the number of councillors increased. The contractor on the work of laying water mains reported delay because the men were leaving. Eighteen to twenty had left in one week. Reason suggested was "haymaking for more money and more beer".

The tragic drowning of a little boy called Norman Richardson brought a rider from the jury that the Council ought to provide life-saving appliances on the shore or a boat. The Council failed to take immediate action so the townspeople got together under the chairmanship of Mr. W. Bulcock and started a fund. They raised £25 to buy a boat which was delivered in August and Mrs. McLaren promised a site for it on the shore. The Council took exception to all this but could do nothing about it. The life-saving boat was aunched on August 22nd by Lady McLaren and named "Lady Laura" after her. The council undertook its care and maintenance.

The new English Presbyterian Church in Nant Hall Road was opened by Sir Charles McLaren. it was built at a cost of £2,000 and the Pastor was Rev. Lewis Davies.

The Coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra was reported in some detail. Prestatyn had their celebration, but a bonfire was lit on Bowling Green Hill.

The Council decided not to proceed with the proposal to include part of Meliden in the urban district.

Mr. Edward T. Williams was appointed headmaster of the National School. He was a former pupil. The name of "E.T." later played a principal part in the Urban District Council.

Public houses were allowed to open until 11 p.m..

The same year saw the start of another church, and the foundation stone for the Roman Catholic Church in Plas Avenue was laid by the Bishop of Minervia, who was a brother of the donor of the site, Sir Piers Mostyn of Talacre Hall. The estimated cost was £1,800.

In September the Council made a formal protest on the Education Bill, amid some rancour.

The new Board School was opened in October by Mr. Legard, H.M. Inspector of Schools. There was accomodation for 150 cllildren. The salary of the headmaster was £120 per annum. It cost £1,485 to erect. The attendance record of children in Wales was said to be the worst in the U.K. and Flintshire was bottom of the league. Parents were blamed for this.

A Sunday house to house delivery of letters was requested by the Council in October and this was granted in November. The Council also sent a deputation to the London & North Western Railway Co., asking for a better service in summer.

The condition of High Street was a matter for regular complaint, and the advent of a steam roller "promenading up and down the street" was described as "greatly to its advantage" .

High Street surface water drainage was approved at a cost of £677 11s 3d in January 1903. The Surveyor was re-appointed Sanitary inspector at salary of £40 per annum.

In April a Local Government inquiry was held into U.D. council's wish to borrow £1,427 for works of sewerage and surface water drainage. Population said to be 1,261 and assessable value £7,645. No opposition. Sanction was given in October.

The new Waterworks were opened in April by Mr.H. McLaren, son of Lady McLaren. The total cost including the purchase money (£7,500) was about £18,000. It was a very big occasion and the works were favourably compared with any in the country. The contractors were Charles E. Carden of Staffs. A celebration dinner was held at the Nant Hall Hotel.

Mr. J. B. Linnell was re-elected chairman of the Council. A rate of 4/3 in £ was levied, an increase of 3d.

The company interested in the proposed Light Railway asked for an extension of time, but the council were not in favour and had little confidence in the company a B.O.T. enquiry was told.

The new Municipal Offices were opened in September, the ground floor being taken up by the Fire Station. The Council Chamber on the second floor was described as spacious and tastefully decorated. The building was designed by Mr. W.C. Bell and the builder was Mr. Joseph Williams, Prestatyn, under the supervision of Mr. W. Thomas, surveyor. Williams & Richards provided the furnishings. The event was reported over two columns in the "Rhyl Journal" and a celebration dinner was given in the Council Chamber.

In January 1904 "Trenchfield", High Street, was chosen by the National Telephone Company for the purpose of a call office for Prestatyn & District. Mr. Thomas was in charge and it was opened in August.

Suggested general rates were given as 4/6 in £, but at a special meeting of the Council in July this was changed to 5/- in £, an increase of 6d on the previous year. It was agreed to pay 8d an hour for team work for the removal of house refuse and 8d per hour for street watering.

New premises for a Post Office were opened in High Street, rented from Mr. J. T. Burrows.

A row blew up over a proposal to adopt the new road over the railway line, which was neither kerbed, channelled nor drained. This was said to be against the bye-laws, but the road was owned by Lady McLaren and it was passed.

On January 7th, 1905, Prestatyn had its own weekly paper and the first edilion of the "Prestatyn Weekly" was published by J.T. Burrows.

Approach had been made to Mr. Carnegie for a grant to build a public library and he promised £3,000. But it had to be in a separate building from any other. The Council adopted the Libraries Act.

Mr. John Brearley of Manchester, had purchased the land which became known as the Pendre Estate and proposed developing it. One large house there was already built and was to become "Pendre School" which functioned for many years under the direction of Miss Hickson.

Lady McLaren had fenced a portion of the sandhills on the north side of the railway near to the Nant railway crossing and this caused some heat at a council meeting, when Clr. T.B. Griffiths questioned her right to do this. Clr. J.B. Linnell contended they had bought the land and walked out of the meeting. Clr. Griffiths and the clerk were asked to investigate.

An award in October 1869 confirmed in 1870 stated that fencing of this land had to be done within 12 months. With this was a plan showing two public roads, 30 feet wide, one leading to the old quay and foreshore and the other to Gronant. The land com- prising about 400 acres was previously rated as a "sheep walk". In May the Council were successful in establishing their right over the roads. The land had been in the possession of a Mr. Dixon, and as 34 years had passed since the award was made, it was contended the Council could consider they had prescribed rights over the place. Lady McLaren asked the Council to provide a gate for which she would pay an acknowledgement of 1/- a year to avoid fencing both sides of the roadway to the sandhills, which she considered to be her property.

Plans were approved for a new Baptist Chapel in Bryneithin Avenue. Also extensions were started on building a new South aisle at the Parish Church, by J. Thornton & Son, Liverpool. In the annual speech of the chairman of the Council he referred to the fact that 1/- to 1/6 of the rates had been due to legal expenses in the past.

Lady McLaren offered to lend the Council £2,250 legal costs (re Water Undertaking) and the question remains "what prompted her to make this offer?" Was she sorry her actions in fighting the Council had cost them so much? The offer was accepted. (Our councillors of those days were no match for this astute lady).

A public meeting was called in April to urge the start of a passenger service to Dyserth and a deputation from the council went to London. Dyserth and Meliden Parish Councils supported the move.

By August the service was in commission. There were eight trains a day on the line which had previously only been used for mineral traffic. There were three stations, Rhuddlan Road Bridge (ld.), Meliden (2d.) and Dyserth (3d.). The first passengers included Mr. Herbert Lewis, M.P., the chairman of the Council, Mr. Thos Jones, and clerk, Mr. John Hughes, the chairman of Rhyl U.D.C., Mr. J .W. Jones, and Mr. Frank Ree, representing the General Manager of L. & N.W. Railway. This was the first motor train in North Wales. The daily average of passengers was recorded as 400 to 500. Maes-y-groes was later added as a stopping place.

Lady McLaren agreed to let the foreshore to the Council on a 10 years' lease, also land suitable for erection of lavatories at a nominal sum of 1/- per year. She also offered the tennis ground for 3 years at £3 p.a. She was to take half gross receipts from bathing vans, entertainments and refreshments.

Prestatyn Council decided not to licence the running of a service of motor cars between Rhyl and Prestatyn. A tennis Club was formed by forty members in Sandy Lane.

The Fire Service intimated to the Council that unless they were equipped with new uniforms and a certain amount of monthly pay, they would resign. It was decided to purchase ten uniforms at a cost of £18 10s and 150 feet of hose at £4.

Mr. Henry McLaren offered the free use of a large field near the shore for the purpose of a golf links and this was accepted by the Recreation Committee and the public were invited to co-operate. The land had already been laid out as a 9-hole private links. Later in July a committee was formed with such well-known names as T. Pennant Williams, Dr. Wimberley, Dr. Tudor Griffiths, Clement Hughes, the Linnell brothers, W. Inglefield, etc..

The town was en fete in July for the visit of Field Marshall Sir George White, V.C., the hero of Ladysmith. He received an enthusiastic reception and 37 chaplains in robes and cassocks were in the procession to the Church Lads Brigade camp. The chairman of the council welcomed him at the Town Hall.

The death rate was reported to be lower than the rate for England & Wales; 13.8 per 1,000 persons. The infant death rate was particularly low.

The Prestatyn Golf Club met the council regarding a site of 65 acres at Barkby Avenue, which had been recommended by Mr. Collins of Llandudno, a professional golfer. A ten years lease was secured. Fifty gentlemen from outside Prestatyn signified their intention to join.

The agent to Lady McLaren was asked to remove the gate to the pumping station forthwith.

The new bridge road was adopted and also Linden Walk. A public slaughter house was suggested. Mr. Thomas, the surveyor, resigned. Talk was going on about the extension of the Dyserth railway to Newmarket.

Prestatyn Golf Club was formed in 1906 with Mr. J. Holland Roberts as secretary, Mr. H.H. Hughes was treasurer, and Mr. C.H. McLaren first president. Later strong feelings were expressed by the Council against Sunday play.

The Railway Commission gave approval for the extension of the Dyserth railway to Newmarket, provided the safety factors of the level crossing at Dyserth were imposed.

Mr. C.L. Roberts was appointed surveyor and sanitary inspector. He had previously been articled and was metereologist at Colwyn Bay.

The death of Clr. W.H. Coward was recorded. He had lived in Prestatyn for 20 years. In the April election there were nine candidates for four seats and Joseph Banks, Henry Wright, John Pritchard and W. Inglefield were elected. The rates were 5/- in £. Clr. J.B. Linnell was made a J.P.. An application was made for an extra constable because of the growth of the town. A cricket club was mooted. A football club had been in operation for many years. Prestatyn had an excellent eisteddfod every Whit which was highly successful.

The Council was asked to adopt Bodnant Avenue, but this road did not comply with the bye-laws and there were some stormy arguments about it, and Lady McLaren was accused of ignoring the bye-laws. Later she closed the road for over five years until a settlement was arrived at. This was that the road be maintained at public expense until such time as property to the assessable value of £200 had been erected. On this being reached the owner undertakes to comply with the Act of Parliament and the byelaws respecting the road.

In October a proposal was put forward to purchase the gas undertaking from Lady McLaren, also the acquisition of the foreshore and extension of rights to take more water from the supply. There was considerable opposition from Lady McLaren to all these.

A great deal of property was sold during this year and the first Prestatyn Golf Clubhouse was opened by Mr. W. Bulcock. A number of roads were being opened by Lady McLaren without regard to bye-laws. Marine and Station roads were adopted.

The year 1908 brought a request to the Council to have a public cemetery. A new sub-post office was opened by Miss Skelton in Victoria Road. The rates remained at 4/6 in the £. A hockey club was formed. Mr. C.L. Roberts, the surveyor left, and Mr. Fred Wilkinson appointed in his place.

The Council promote a Bill in Parliament to purchase the gas undertaking, and were told "Beware of this millionaire owner".

The year 1909 brought protest about Sunday trams. An order was made for raising capital to purchase the gas works. Power to raise £10,000, also included water clauses which stated that Lady McLaren is paid full compensation for abrogating her rights regarding the supply from the spring.

A Town and Improvement and Advertising Association was formed. The Public Health Acts Amendment Act, 1907 was adopted.

ln 1910 the gas undertaking was valued at £14,170 by Sir Hugh Owen, umpire in arbitration proceedings, the Council having to pay £3,000 costs. New streets were planned for Penrhwylfa Road, Palmeira Gardens and Plastirion Avenue.

T. Parry Williams, chairman, was present at the historic taking over of the gas undertaking. Tributes paid to councillors and staff. Described as a "little gold mine" and "We will be proud of this step".

In May 1910 king Edward VII died. A new Guide to Prestatyn was published price 2d.. Mrs. Hunt left a bequest of £200 for laying out a recreation ground. Flintshire Historical Society was formed. The Cymrodorion were the sponsors. Council began collection for the purchase of land at Clawdd Coch for a recreation ground. The price was £120. They started with £14 from themselves and took books to collect from the public.

The Council agreed to a proposal to open the Post Office at 8 a.m. instead of 7 a.m. during the winter months.

In 1911 the last instalment was paid on the Fire Engine. The supply of gas was increased and this was the case each year afterwards. A flower show was arranged and proved highly successful. The Council purchased a tar spraying machine to counter dust nuisance caused by huge amount of motor traffic.

A Coronation tea party for 300 children was let to Mr. Hopwood. Lady Mostyn of Talacre presented each child with a Coronation mug. Each person over 60 got ½lb of tea. A Rose Queen was to be crowned on Coronation Day and Winnie Kelly was chosen. A peel of eight bells was purchased by the Parish Church to commemorate. The day was a huge success.

The Medical Officer was superseded by a County M.O.. Dr. A.E. Williams was appointed at £350 p.a., with an assistant at £200.

In the Coronation Honours list Sir Charles McLaren was given a barony. It was suggested that he took the title of Lord Prestatyn, but he chose "Lord Aberconway of Talycafn".

A programme of "magnificent pictures" began showing at the Town Hall. Also Kendrick's Animated Pictures at Victoria Hall.

Tenders invited for a bowling green at the Coronation Gardens which had been opened on Coronation Day by the chairman Clr. John Pritchard, and one for £242 was accepted from William Hughes.

Early in 1912 a conference of local authorities was held to try to push forward with the extension of the railway to Newmarket. Vivian Hewitt flew over Prestatyn to Rhyl. A contract for £65 for trees and shrubs for Coronation Gardens was accepted. The Coal Strike began and 500 were idle at Point of Ayr. Council want their own county councillor and press for town to be divided into two wards. They also talk about a water softening plant. The Coronation Gardens shelter, the gift of Mr. and Mrs. Swire, was opened. Another flower show highly successful, held in a marquee. Land was sold from Aberconway Estate near Gronant Road for 2/6 and 2/7 sq. yd.. In Beach Road for 4/1 and in Highbury Avenue for 2/6 sq. yd..

Steps were taken to acquire about 20 acres of Bishops Wood, also for the building of workmen's dwellings. The Council decided against taking a lease of Bishops Wood. A scavenging cart was purchased for £28. Gronant Road Tennis Courts were opened.

In April, 1913, Mr. Blizzard, an expert engineer, attended the council to explain a main sewerage scheme. The bowling green was opened and tenders for £2,331 accepted for building workmen's dwellings in Cement Road. There were seven three-bedroomed and eight two-bedroomed. Baths were provided in the large ones. Work started in October.

A penny rate produced about £50 and the Council had outstanding loans of £42,000.

Complaints were made about emptying privies on the hillside. A ladder was purchased at 9/- for lamp lighting purposes and 3 lamplighters asked for increase in wages. Offered 1/6 a week increase. An offer of £250 was made for the whole of Mr. Dawson's estate on the hillside.

Complaints were made of excessive charges for bathing from foreshore. Trustees of Prestatyn Estate written to. The bowling green was opened in July, 1913 by Clr. A. Caradoc Williams, chairman of the Council.

The Railway Company experimented with an express service from London, first stop Prestatyn. A non-stop train from Liverpool, via Rockferry to Prestatyn, was dubbed "Pretty Prestatyn Express". The journey took just under one hour!

A query was raised about widening Meliden Road bridge, which was considered extremely dangerous. A speed limit was fixed at 8 m.p.h. (Today that same bridge still constitutes a danger).

The Band of the 5th (Earl of Chester) Battalion Cheshire Regiment played at Prestatyn Flower Show and sports. Another great success.

Telephone poles in High Street to be removed and land on Plas Uchaf estate sold for £200. A suggestion was made in council that if the Trustees of Prestatyn Estate gave the land at Penisadre for widening the road and the manor house to the town it would "immortalise the name of Aberconway".

Plans were approved for new streets at Woodland Park, Plas Uchaf and Highbury Avenue.

In January 1914, Dr. J. Lloyd Roberts was appointed consulting M.O. with a salary of £30. Plans approved for three shops on Meliden Road for Mr. A.M. Ralli and Mr. T. Brooks, also a number of houses. Figures of expenditure to be undertaken on the main sewerage scheme were given as £20,000. Loaned over 30 years at 3½%. Extensions were made to gas and water mains. The Paragon buildings were opened and considered most modern. The death was reported of Dr. Lloyd Roberts and Dr. J. Tudor Griffiths was appointed in his place.

Mr. Saronie informed the Council that he was running an open air concert party at the top of High Street during the summer. The Gas Committee decided to reduce the price of coke by 2/6 a ton. The Council took over Highbury Avenue. The rates were still 4/9. The chairman of the Council entertained a party of British journalists. They also decided to increase the clerk's salary to £200 p.a.. The surveyor's was increased to £175, plus £10 as gas manager and £10 as sanitary inspector.

Nearly 1,000,000 cubic feet of gas was produced in March. Mr. S. Trevor Roberts completed his pupilage under the surveyor, and he was appointed assistant surveyor, at a salary of £60 p.a.. Mr. J. Lloyd Hughes was to be paid 5% on the rents he collected from the workmen's dwellings.

A big Territorial Camp was in Prestatyn in 1914, with 3,600 men of the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th East Lancashire Regiment. The demolition of Spring Bank cottages took place to make room for shops. Aiston's Pierrots and the Arcadian Gardens were in full swing. Rumours of possible war were heard in August and local reserves were called up.

Preparations began for the arrival of Belgian refugees and a fund started. A rifle club was formed and a War Relief Committee formed by the chairman of the council, Clr. G.W. Jones, in October. Belgian Refugees began to arrive in the district. A "Comrades" Battalion was billeted in Prestatyn. 510 men of the Rhondda Battalion arrive but after a week were sent to Rhyl.

A claim for the loss of one horse and injury to another was made after attending a fire call. £25 was paid.

Owing to the difficulty in obtaining horses for the fire engine, Mr. T. Brooks (Prestatyn Motor Co.) took the engine on a tour of the town with it attached to a powerful motor car. This was followed by a car with several councillors. It was later decided to make arrangements with Mr. Brooks for his method to be used for a trial period.

Tree planting started in January, 1915, in the main thoroughfare, and a contract was let for further workmen's dwellings in Caradoc Road. Sites for a slaughter house were inspected. A new Post Office was planned in King's Avenue. The first Prestatyn resident to become a victim of the war was Private Peter James Davies of the 2nd R.W.F.. Three companies of the R.A.M.C. arrive in town. The Council decide to dispense with street lighting.

In April, 1915, one of the largest contracts for buildings was approved. Eighteen houses in Highbury Avenue for Hardman & Jones and six bungalows in Bastion Road.

The war seemed to have had little impression, for the town was described as "Booming Prestatyn" in advertisements. The rates remained at 4/9. Mrs. Eleanor Evans initiates a Boy Scout Troop, which was housed in an outbuilding in Plas Ucha Farm. The first chairman of Prestatyn Council, Mr. Robert Davies died in Chester. Prestatyn Training Corps of the Flintshire Volunteer Regiment was formed. Mr. Benn, chairman of the council was the first president.

The council decided to charge for water hoses. Steps were taken to have a Roll of Honour in Council. In July the season was reported to be in full swing with J.H. Wakefield (Chocolate) and Jimmy Charters at the Victoria Hall.

A meeting was held in July to see whether a voluntary munitions factory could be set up in the town to assist the government. It was started in Mr. Adams' premises, Meliden Road, and it became a success. The council agreed to supply gas free.

The Railway Company intimated to the Council that they would only agree to the widening of Meliden Road bridge if the council paid all expenses.

Approval was recommended on the spending of £1,000 for a new retort house at the gas works. A Mr. A.M. Mansell presented an etching of the King of the Belgians to the council. Dr. J. Tudor Griffiths was granted leave of absence for 12 months as he had received a commission in the R.A.M.C..

Twenty houses in Highbury Avenue for Hands & Joyce were approved. The cleaning of cesspools was to be carried out at normal working hours instead of at night time.

The estimate for the main sewerage scheme was now set at £30,000. The notification of Measles and German Measles (Public Health Act) was registered, and the notification of Births (Extension) Act, 1915.

The Prestatyn Estates cannot agree with the council about their part in the main sewerage scheme, but the council consider they can go ahead without them when the war ended.

Coal was being purchased at £1 2s per ton. The council decided to write to the Prime Minister and Board of Trade to commandeer food supplies so that inflationary prices could be controlled.

On November 27, 1916, it was the twentieth anniversary of the U.D.C..

A War Savings Committee was set up. The council lost two members to the forces, Frank Jewell and Clement Hughes. Excellent work was being done by Prestatyn Y.M.C.A. Clr. J.B. Linnell celebrated 18 years unbroken service on the Council.

The year 1917 must be the saddest ever recorded in the history of the town. Not a week went by without a report of one soldier or sailor being killed from Prestatyn & District, and the impact of the war was really felt. The council allocated land near the Council Offices for allotments. There was an increase of £600 in the rateable value of the town. The council took up the question of voluntary rationing, and they arranged demonstrations of wartime cookery.

A Food Control Committee was set up with Clr. G.O. Williams as chairman. Maximum charges which retailers could charge were Butter 5½d a lb., Cheese 1/4 lb., Tea 2/4 lb. to 3/-, Meat and Butter 2½d lb. Milk was increased to 6d a quart.

The following year saw more casualities and also congratulations from the council for awards to Prestatyn men for bravery. The council made a request to the L.N.W. Railway Co., for a bridge over the Nant Crossing. They also decided to invite the Welsh National Eisteddfod to Prestatyn.

Mr. John Hughes, the Town Clerk, was seriously ill at this time, but returned to duty in October. After the Armistice in November, Clr . E.T. Williams paid tribute to the splendid manner in which all through the war the people had worked hard. He said their Roll of honour would stand comparison with any other in the Kingdom.

Forty one Prestatyn men made the supreme sacrifice, one was missing, and 205 had enlisted. It was proposed to have a Roll of Honour and preparations were begun for Peace Celebrations. A tribute was also paid to the Y.M.C.A. workers, led by Miss Briggs.

At this time it was the expressed wish of Lord Aberconway that Penisadre should belong to the town and that the council should acquire it. A suggestion was made that the Trustees make a gift of it and that it would be a fitting site for a war memorial. Later the Trustees submitted a plan for a road through this estate. Mr. Fred Wilkinson was the engineer and surveyor at this time.

A temporary employment exchange was set up at Prestatyn. Land on Penrhwylfa Road was purchased, subject to conditions, for £650. The Lord Lieutenent proposed forwarding war trophies, but at the end of the year only one gun came to hand. A speed limit of 10 m.p.h. was imposed in Gronant and Meliden roads. It was 5 m.p.h. in High Street, in 1919-20.

The first Town Clerk, Mr. John Hughes retired in 1920 and Mr. J. Lloyd Hughes was appointed in his place.

A painting of Prestatyn from the hillside was presented to the council by H. Moxon Cooke and accepted. This still hangs in the Council Chamber, after being renovated.

Three days holiday a year was granted to employees with not less than one year's service; 6 days for two years and twelve days for three years. Working hours were reduced to 47 hours per week.

Lamplighting was costing £78 per annum and was not considered satisfactory. it was decided to recommend clockwork lighters at a cost of £200. They would need winding only once a week.

A gift of three acres of land was donated by Mrs. Bishop and her brother, Mr. J.R. Dawson, on condition that one road at least was called Dawson Road.

A gift of a collection of birds for the museum was accepted. A siren was purchased for a fire alarm. Prestatyn Motor Company were asked to explain why their motor vehicle had been unable to negotiate Pendyffryn hill with the fire engine when called to a fire in Meliden.

After the peace celebrations in June 1921 it was decided to hold an annual carnival.

The seal of council was affixed in respect of land in Bastion Road for use as tennis courts.

Prestatyn Tontine Society was flourishing which was testimony to the immunity of the town from serious sickness.

A night telephone service was operated in 1922, after the post office was closed, by ringing the electric door bell of the exchange to attract the caretaker/operator. A charge of 1/- disturbance fee was charged.

It was reported in 1923 that inconvenience was caused to churches and chapels in the town through the water power being insufficient to blow the organs.

The council sanctioned the purchase of 10,000 pine trees for the hillside improvement. Tender of £9,216 accepted for 14 houses in Dawson Park. Many other plans approved and subsidies granted.

The new Gronant to Rhyl road was officially opened in 1924 and the gasworks extensions were completed at a cost of £2,121 (new gasholder). Stone-laying ceremony for new United Methodist Church in Gronant Road. New fire engine, costing £1,000 on view.

Road widening loans were sanctioned for £7,657, for Bastion Road, Meliden Road, Gronant Road and Hillside.

A canvass of the town showed that 50% were in favour of an electricity supply. Meliden think it "preposterous" for Prestatyn to think of taking them over.

Tenders for £9,216 were aceepted for the erection of fourteen houses in Dawson Park and roads. The Trustees of Prestatyn Estates agree terms and conditions in connection with a bathing pool on the foreshore. Numerous house plans were approved.

Negotiations were opened for a supply of electricity to the town from the North Wales Power Company. Approval given for transmission lines from Rhyl to Holywell, but this was held up because the Trustees of Prestatyn Estate withheld wayleaves, unless Council supplied electricity to Beach Cafe, etc.. A resolution was also approved to generate and supply electricity to Meliden, Dyserth and Gwaenysgor.

In May of that year the Ministry made an order for an electricity supply.

The No. 2 contract of the main sewerage scheme was reported complete, and in 1925 No. 1 contract was completed.

In the same year the Collector was instructed to make enquiries as to the number of baths which were in use within the water supply area. A letter was received regarding the dangerous state of Gronant Road for horse traffic.

One hundred and seven sycamore trees were planted in Bastion Road, and 500 on the hillside and 3,000 remained to be planted. In connection with the Land Charges Act, 1925, the clerk was paid for his services in this connection. He was also instructed to extinguish all tithes on council property.

Land for a cemetery was purchased near Gronant, comprising 12 acres. Application was made to borrow £1,200 for provision of additional plant at the gas works, and £900 for mains. The council agreed to pay £10,500 and more later as compensation for the sewerage scheme, due to alterations, etc. to the Unit Construction Co., Ltd. The work had been commenced in 1922.

The General Strike started in May 1926 and this caused difficulties. The miners were out at Point of Ayr Colliery and stayed out until October. Barnett & Soans installed a temporary wireless set in the council offices so that news could be posted up outside.

The clerk was awarded £100 honorarium for work carried out of normal hours in connection with arbitration proceedings, etc., over the sewerage scheme.

Mr. J.F. King purchased Portland House which jutted out into high Street (now "Circa 2000") and donated the portion needed for widening to the council for a much smaller amount than they would normally have had to pay. His gesture was much appreciated.

Plans were approved for 20 non-parlour houses in blocks of four in Dawson Park. Estimated to cost £10,465, including roads and sewers.

Council approach the Trustees of Prestatyn Estates to see if Penisadre could be donated to the town.

After many months of disagreement between the council and the North Wales Power Company, agreement was reached as to the terms on which electric current would be supplied.

The Prestatyn Coal Committee was dissolved in October, 1926, and in July 1927, approval was given to the borrowing of £25,000 for extensions to the Waterworks and trunk mains and filtering plant.

The formal inauguration of the electric power took place in May, switched on for the first time by Clr. Clement Hughes, chairman of the Electricity Committee. Mr. W. R. Kelley was appointed Electrical Engineer.

Mrs. McLaren promises to give consideration to suggestion by council that footwalks be provided behind the trees in Nant Hall Road in order to preserve the trees for all time. Sanction was received to borrow £1,352 for purchasing 12 acres of land in Dawson Park.

A mortuary was proposed to cost £150 in the area of the Power Station. Prestatyn was reckoned to be the second highest in rateable value in the county at £26,959, an increase of £20,000 since 1900. A suggestion was made in council that the gas works be removed away from the town centre. Thirty-seven bus licences were granted. Twenty-seven to Brookes Bros., and eight to Rhyl & Potteries Motors. A public inquiry into the proposed amalgamation of Meliden with Prestatyn took six hours.

Tender of £8,964 was accepted for the Towyn Sewerage Scheme. Other public inquiries were into the proposal for a cemetery at Meliden (Penrhwylfa area), and into the objections by the Prestatyn Estates to giving electricity wayleaves. A Special Electricity Order was made in August. Tenancies of houses in Dawson Park allocated. Former Town Clerk, Mr. John Hughes dies.

Consideration was given to a suggestion for a local floral emblem, and the Rose was suggested. On July 7th, 1927, the Council proclaimed Prestatyn's first "Rose Day" and an annual Rose Day be held, all townspeople invited to wear a rose on that day. Every endeavour was to be made for townspeople to foster the culture of roses in the town.

In May, 1927, the Home Office made an Order whereby the Urban District was divided into two new electoral divisions, to be known as Prestatyn No. 1 and Prestatyn No. 2.

Coed Bell Cemetery was opened for interments in January 1928. After a private viewing of a film, "Dangers of Innocence", by the Medical Officer and members of the Council, it was resolved that "such part of the film as appertained to the human anatomy be deleted; it should not be advertised without the approval of the Council; during the showing of the film the sexes were to be divided; males at one performance, females at another."

ln January, 1928, a contract was signed for an extension to the Waterworks for £24,571, including land, filter house and tanks, hydrants, chlorination plant, filter plant and alterations.

The Electrical Engineer's salary was increased to £325 p.a..

ln July Mr. G.W. Jones, headmaster of the Council School, died. He had been a member of the Prestatyn Council for eighteen years and was chairman in 1914-15.

Mr. J.F. King offered £500 for the Hillside Improvement Scheme.

Salford Children's holiday Camp was opened by Lord Colwyn.

Complaints made that the street light on "Trevor's Tower" was out. This was a tower which used to stand on the centre of Pendre Square. Designed by the Surveyor, Mr. S. Trevor Roberts.

In November the Waterworks extensions were officially opened by Clr. Caradoc Williams, in the absence of Mr. H.D. McLaren, who had been invited to perform the ceremony, 26 years after he, himself had inaugurated the waterworks, before being taken over by the council. Mr. Trevor Roberts, surveyor and engineer, was responsible for the scheme. A banquet was afterwards held at the Royal Victoria Hotel.

In January 1929, unemployment relief works were discussed and a deputation went to London to obtain grants for Meliden Road sewerage and main sewerage schemes, also Fforddisa improvements. The first Prestatyn Chamber of Trade was inaugurated. They attended a meeting of the council to protest at municipal trading and the council's proposals to build shops.

The Electrical Engineer was instructed to report on the provision of a more up-to-date fire alarm. Excavations started for the erection of a shelter on the hillside. Bishops Wood management committee were speeding up matters about the laying out of the Wood as a public park. In April of that year a smallpox victim was announced in Prestatyn and the necessary precautions were put in hand for vaccination within three hours of the report. The victim recovered.

A further portion of Bishops Wood was acquired for £350 from the estate of the late Mr. William Radcliffe. Complaints were made that the pony traps to the beach were losing money because of the toastrack not standing at its proper place.

A new telephone switchboard capable of dealing with 500 subscribers was opened and said to be the most up-to-date in the country.

Another Rose Show success was reported in July and in August the Local Government Act, 1929 came into being which saw the end of the Board of Guardians. The council decide to take two rooms at The Hayes, Nant Hall Road, for temporary offices for the Electrical Engineer's Department. They also decided to experiment with electrical street lighting.

in December the first Trade Week was held and Mr. J.F. King handed over the hillside Shelter which he had donated to the town. It was officially opened by Mr. Joseph Lloyd, an employee of the council. A stone sundial was given as a gift by Clr. and Mrs. T. Pennant Williams.

In January 1930 the Council considered a suggestion that Nant Hall Road be closed from its junction with Gronant Road to Bodnant Avenue, for use as a public walk. Gas mains were extended to Meliden. Rates were reduced to 15/3 in the £ (3d. reduction). Mr. Cardwell was elected chairman.

There was a big discussion as to whether the clerk's salary would be increased by £25 p.a. by two annual increments. The Electrical Engineer recommended premises over Hollindrake's Shop in High Street, for a showroom, which was considered essential.

A proposal was made that later posting could be accomplished by having post boxes on the circular buses and this was agreed by Crosville and the P.O..

The Council contributed £3 towards the cost of traffic control policeman in Beach Road. They also approved the acquiring of two acres in Dawson Park for a children's playground.

An extension scheme for the Municipal Offices was approved (under the Unemployment Grants Committee) estimated at £3,000 in respect of the building and £500 for furnishings; also £1,507 for a general stores.

A Health Week was proposed in September with lectures by V.A.D.. Attention was drawn to the overcrowding on the buses. A letter from Rhyl U.D.C. suggesting amalgamation was discussed and described as "preposterous".

Representations were made for the Labour Exchange to be opened at Prestatyn, and this was agreed on Tuesdays. The caravan nuisance starts and the Council advise bye-laws with respect to tents, vans, sheds and similar structures used for human habitation.

The year 1931 saw much distress in Prestatyn and the council had to issue fifteen distress warrants for non-payment of rates. This caused much public protest. The town's capital debt was said to be £142,502, plus £38,569 for public services. A penny rate produced £164, two-thirds of the rate of 15/3 went to the county council. The population was 6,000.

Public meetings were called and in view of the present depression no expenditure was to be incurred which could be avoided. A drop in the rates of 1/3 was agreed making them 14/- in the £.

The River Dee Embankment Scheme was discussed and approved. A man was killed at Penisadre Corner, where there had been several previous accidents and a plan for improving the corner was submitted to the Prestatyn Estates. The county council were also said to be taking an interest.

July saw the opening of the new Council Offices extensions. The furnishings cost £160 and the panelling £157. The Prestatyn Estates offered land at the rear of The Palladium as a free car park and this offer was accepted.

The death was reported of Councillor F.J. Duck, a former chairman, who first instituted the civic Sunday attendance at Church. The National Economy was discussed in October and a special meeting called to review expenditure. The Health Week was a great suecess and Prestatyn described as the "Pride of the Principality".

Another statement was made by Rhyl U.D.C. that Rhyl, Prestatyn, Rhuddlan, Meliden, Dyserth and Cwm be incorporated in one district. Sixty-two years later this became a fact.

A two-day conference on National Savings was held in the Council Offices. It was agreed to devote one room in the enlarged council offices for a public library, voluntary staff to run it. Previously books were loaned through the schools. There was talk of a superannuation scheme for the staff.

In April l932, Mrs. Eleanor Evans was the first woman to be elected to the Council and began a service to the town which was to take in two periods as chairman and cover 30 years. At this time the county council had directed Prestatyn U.D. Council to make representations to St. Asaph R.D.C. on the matter of taking in Meliden in the urban area. This raised a deal of opposition from St. Asaph councillors, and also some from Meliden. However, in July the county council confirmed the Order incorporating Meliden in the Prestatyn district, together with a part of the Llanasa Parish (Gronant beach).

Major Garratt of Aberconway Road, presented fifteen seats to the council, and they refused an application of aeroplane flights from the foreshore. It was decided to make a charge of 2/6 for the use of the Council Chamber for meetings by charitable organisations.

The senior officer in charge of the Library, Mr. Hamilton Williams, reported that the public were taking full advantage of the Library. Prestatyn Ambulance Association held their annual meeting and the Trustees of the Prestatyn Estates handed over the whole of the trees in Nant Hall Road and footpaths behind them to the council and the Seal was fixed to the dedication.

The Roads Committee was instructed to investigate one-way traffic at Penisadre. The council banned Sunday cinemas after an application by the manager of The Palladium. A sub-committee was appointed to explore the possibility of a Town Band and a public meeting was held. Although lukewarm enthusiasm was shown it was decided to go ahead and the top landing of the Council Offices was offered for practices (Boy Scouts were the most interested). In 1933 the Salvation Army established itself in the town with a band.

The hard times of this period continued and the Council administrative staff offered to continue their reduction in salary for a further period of six months, and the Council considered other schemes to help the unemployed, after they had received a deputation of unemployed men. Negotiations over a long period were completed for the purchase of the pumping station.

The Council acquired the Hillside mines and minerals for £600. The County Council asked the Council to establish a Clinic at Prestatyn, and a management committee was appointed. The Council had held Health Weeks for some years which had been organised by the V.A.D. with Mrs. Eleanor Evans as Commandant.

In May a Welfare Clinic was opened in the English Presbyterian Schoolroom. with Clr. Pennant Williams as chairman, Mrs. Eleanor Evans as secretary, and Mrs. Lloyd Hughes as treasurer.

Plans for foreshore improvements were estimated to cost £5,000, but a hitch occurred due to the Trustees of Prestatyn Estates. A Ministry inquiry was held into the proposed acquisition of a portion of the foreshore. New Valuation List showed an increase of about £5,000 in rateable value.

A new Hillside scheme was planned to provide voluntary work and The Goodfellows Fund set up. It was decided to build a shelter in Bishops Wood at an estimated cost of £10.

The first traffic lights were placed at Bromley Square. The Ministry Review of County Districts allow Prestatyn 20 councillors and four wards in 1934. Meliden's "pending execution" was referred to at a meeting of the Association of Parish Councils, and the Meliden Parish Council clerk, Mr. William Wainwright, was transferred to the employ of the P.U.D.C..

"The Ffrith" was adopted as the name for the land acquired from the Pulliene Estate. Clr. Mrs. Eleanor Evans had suggested "Traeth Gorllewinol" but this was considered too hard to pronounce.

The first elections under the new wards took place in April. There were six candidates for the new Meliden ward of four seats. Albert Nuttall, E.O. Jones, J.H. Parry and Pryce Wynne were elected.

Presentations made to Clr. Caradoc Williams who was retiring after 24 years on the Council. The death of Clr. J.M. Cardwell (58) was reported in May. He had been chairman for two successive years. The layout of the Bryn Newydd Estate was approved. The first A.G.M. of the Infant Welfare Clinic showed 217 babies on the books. Steps were taken to acquire a further area of land at Earlswood Avenue, adjoining the Ffrith.

An outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease oecurred at Nant Mill Farm. Forty-eight animals were slaughtered and also twenty- nine at the next farm.

The Council open a fund for the Gresford Colliery Disaster, £326 was raised. The local Chamber of Trade opposed the Council's Ffrith trading.

In September 1934, the Coroner held an inquest on a hoard (450) of old silver coins found by a workman in an old chimney, which were said to be 300 years old. The find was described as "treasure trove" and the property of His Majesty. The Council requested that some of the coins should go to Prestatyn Museum. Mr. Edward Jones, 7, Hafod Terrace, was the finder.

On August 1st, 1935, The Ffrith Beach and Boating Pool was formally opened by the chairman of the Council, Clr. G.A. Plimmer, and in November the Council were recommended to acquire Clive House School playing fields for the purposes of a public recreation ground. The lease of the Crown Foreshore was received from the Commissioners of Crown Lands for sealing by the Council.

The Goodfellows were still busy and 200 families were helped at Christmas and the voluntary scheme was still in progress. In March the Silver Jubilee of King George V and Queen Mary was discussed and a suggestion was made that the Prestatyn Estates might donate a parcel of land at the junction of Plas and Clwyd Avenues as a "Rose Garden". This came to nothing and was later built on. The Council arranged a carnival ball and chose the first "Miss Prestatyn", Miss Margaret Williams.

Street scavenging was criticised and it was said that "a little man with a box on wheels going around all day" was out of place in a progressive town like Prestatyn.

In June, Clr. Mrs. EIeanor Evans, presented a silver spoon for the first baby born after the Silver Jubilee and this was presented to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Davies, Church Walks.

The council agreed to propose to the county council that Chatsworth House be purchased for a maternity home.

In 1937 the Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth was celebrated with a procession, led by Prestatyn Town Band (without uniforms, which had not been purchased), also sports and entertainment. AlI children were presented with a Souvenir Coronation Programme given by Major G.H. Garratt. Mr. Pennant Williams was chairman. The new gas plant was completed. Ffrith car parking fees were reaffirmed at 6d per day for private cars.

A public inquiry was held into the proposal of the council to commence a sewerage scheme for the western area of Prestatyn, estimated to cost £27,000.

On offer by the trustees of the owner of the land forming part of Dawson Park Estate was accepted. This was £250 an acre for a proposed central or senior sehool.

The conveyance of land in King's Avenue was completed, and an increased charge for governess cars plying for hire between the railway station and Central Beach to 2d per adult and 1d for children, was agreed.

The clouds of war began to appear in 1939, and an Air Raid Precautions committee was set up. It was learned that Prestatyn would be allocated 1,500 evacuees. Prestatyn Holiday Camp was officially opened in June, and the outbreak of war on September 3rd, 1939, saw the camp requisitioned by the military for the duration. The Council set up an Emergency Committee, with Mrs. Eleanor Evans, who was chairman at the time, as leader. This committee served throughout the war with Mr. J. Lloyd Hughes as secretary, carrying out the multitude of Government instructions from the Home Office.

Evacuees began to arrive in the first few days and were distributed throughout the town from a temporary centre set up in a marquee in a field in Nant Hall Road. The W.V.S. and Civil Defence were organised under the direction of Mrs. Evans and Mr. S. Trevor Roberts, surveyor. Mr. C.H. Higgs was appointed chief billeting and welfare officer. Early arrivals were 400 expectant mothers and numerous children. Some of the mothers were housed for a time at the Prestatyn Golf House. There were a few problems with impetigo and scabies among the children, but these were soon overcome, as were cases of lice in the hair. Prestatyn housewives coped with the problems very well, and thousands of children and expectant mothers passed through the capable hands of Mr. Higgs, who gained a good reputation with the city councils involved. Mr. E.J. Ellis was appointed Local Fuel Overseer, and Mr. J.W. Evans, was again the Deputy Food Control Officer. The Beach Pavilion was taken over as accommodation for the Birchfield School, Liverpool, and St. Francis Xaviour College Liverpool and other schools, also came here.

The Billeting allowance was 10/6 for children of 10-14; 12/6 for 14-16; and 15/- for the over 16. A.R.P. and Civil Defence Units were created, emergency trenches dug and air raid shelters. Mr. Lees Hall, Deva Lodge, who owned the old Trinity Church, placed this at the disposal of the council for A.R.P. personnel, free of charge. Ration Books and gas masks were issued. In 1941 , Mr. F.E. Griffiths was made Fire Guard organising superintendent.

The council arranged a War Refugees Committee and instructions were given on the use of stirrup pumps. Indentity cards, ration cards, etc., gas masks and all the other regulations were dealt with speedily and efficiently. Allotments were dug and a committee set up to bulk purchase seeds, etc. In July 1943, Mr. H. Hunter was appointed Fire Guard Officer over a band of voluntary staff and wardens. By September 1943 the number of evacuees had dropped to 784, and dropped to 754 by 1944.

During this period Mr. J.G. Newey made a Deed of Gift of Bryn Newydd Bowling Club to the council, and there was a continual changing of staff as the men and women went to war service.

In May 1945 the town celebrated V.E. Day with thanksgiving services in the churches, illuminations and bonfires, fireworks and dances. A civic welcome was given in June to twelve returning prisoners of war, also supper and entertainment.

The council reject an amusement park project at the junction of Bastion Road and Beach Road West. Clrs. Ellis Evans and W.E. Roberts welcomed back to the council after war service. Prestatyn Civil Defence stand down with march past and farewell meeting at the Palladium, after six years service.

September saw the V.J. celebrations, with sports and victory ball, old people's tea, etc..

Mr. S. Trevor Roberts, engineer and surveyor, decides not to return to take up his duties as he was joining the Ministry of Town and Country Planning permanently. He had been seconded to them in 1942.

Mr. W.R. Kelley, electrical engineer returns after war service with R.A.F., also Clr. T.M. Dowell. Tributes paid to Mr. D.R. Stewart, who had acted as deputy electrical engineer in his absence.

Prestatyn heads "Thanksgiving Week" savings in Flintshire (£157,217). During the war £1,500,000 had been raised in the district.

Chairman of the council presents "Certificates of Merit" to children in a "Book Recovery Drive". A minimum of 250 books had to be collected to win a certificate. They were distributed to the forces.

The council take over more requisitioned houses - 19 had already been requisitioned. They also experiment with electrical street lighting.

In January, 1947, it was vesting day at Point of Ayr Colliery. 53,128 emergency rationcards were issued for the previous year and Food Control Committee re-elected G.O. Williams, chairman, Mrs. Lloyd Hughes, vice-chairman; John Lloyd Hughes, Food Executive Officer; J.W. Evans as deputy food officer.

W.R. Kelley reports good co-operation from the public over the fuel crisis. A proposal was made by G.O. Williams to acquire the Vicarage and Grounds for a civic centre. This idea was not appreciated by the Church Commissioners or some of the councillors.

Mr. R. Penning had been appointed engineer and surveyor, and plans made to lay a gas main to Meliden. A public meeting called to discuss a war memorial.

Seven tenancies were offered and taken of buildings on the ex-R.A.F. site on the hillside as temporary housing accommodation.

The first ever concrete houses were built in Sandy Lane by W.E. Roberts and opened by Admiral Rowley-Conwy.

The keys were handed to the tenants of Bryn Rhosyn houses, but there was a heated discussion at the council meeting as to the method of allocation.

Meliden Garden of Remembrance was opened and memorial stone unveiled by Mr. Richard Jones, Delfryn.

Approval in principle was given to the Crosville application to run a public service of amphibious vehicles between suitable points on the foreshore and suitable points on the shoreline at Hoylake and West Kirby, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, Bangor and Beaumaris.

A weighbridge was established at the gas works. The air raid warning sirens were to be used for the purpose of calling firemen in the event of a fire.

A sub-committee was appointed to consider the question of celebrating the Jubilee of the urban council, which was established in September 1896.

The Council Chamber was let as a Magistrates Court. £3 a sitting was paid. Special days nominated for the flag to be hoisted was listed as follows; St. David's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Empire Day, Civic Sunday, Birthday of H.M. Queen, Battle of Britain, Battle of El Alamein (October 23), and St. Andrews Day.

A Tree Preservation Order was fixed on Bluebell Woods, The Dingle, Top Nant Woods, Terfyn Covert, Nant Hall and surrounding grounds, North side of Nant Hall Road, Penisadre, Sandy Lane Covert, a small copse at the west boundary with main railway and The Dell, Fforddisa.

The seal of the council was fixed to a lease of a piece of land forming part of Bryn Newydd gardens.

In 1949 it was decided at the annual Licensing meeting that a certifieate of roadworthiness had to be produced before a hackney carriage licence was issued.

It was decided to provide an open stage, dressing room and limited seating at the Ffrith Beach for concert parties.

First approval was given for a council house tenant to instal a telephone.

Approval was given by Welsh Board of Health to the council's sea defence works from Ffrith to the Rhyl boundary. These were estimated to cost £234,000. The shortening of the groynes from 800 feet to 700 feet reduced the cost by £30,000.

This scheme came in for a deal of criticism by the County Surveyor, although the estimates were trimmed to a cost of £227,000. Prestatyn had been invited to go in with the Rhyl sea defence works, but had refused. The Rhyl scheme was costing £19 per lineal foot, whilst Prestatyn's seheme was costing £61 per lineal foot, which was deseribed as an unnecessary expense. However the seheme was too far advanced to alter. The County Surveyor said there should have been similarities - not disparities. The Board of Health gave approval for Council to acquire Manor Hill Quarry to obtain stone.

The Rhyl scheme was similar to the later Prestatyn scheme from the Ffrith to the Lido and Grand hotels and two years later when the Ffrith wall took a real battering from the gales and sea it was described as a "deplorable mess". The public were up-in-arms at the possible cost of repairs. With hindsight it must be admitted that if Prestatyn had gone in with Rhyl there would have been a much better scheme, which would have avoided the rocky path which is now left, and which is often complained about, and it would have saved much of the ratepayers money.

The Food Control Committee met for the last time after 11 years in 1950, as control was to come from Colwyn Bay. Mr. J.W. Evans had been Voluntary Food Executive Officer for ten years, a job which he had done in the first World War. Tributes were paid to him and the efficiency of the officers, Clr. G.O. Williams and J. Lloyd Hughes.

A one-way traffic scheme was advocated for High Street. Prestatyn's new museum was opened by Dr. J. Wilfred Jackson, a distinquished archeologist and former curator of Manchester University Museum. Mr. Ian Fleming was the hon. curator, and valuable collections of the late Mr. F. Gilbert Smith in 1940, and Col. Glen in 1949 were included in the exhibits.

In 1950 the nationalisation of the electricity and gas undertakings took place. It was recommended that public street lighting be changed from gas to electricity.

The 1951 Festival of Britain saw the opening of Pendre Gardens with a memory corner to the Fallen. Also the crowning of the Festival of Britain Queen, Miss Mary Thomas. A May Day and a Rose Day were arranged and the Welsh National Sheepdog Trials were held on St. Melyd Golf Links. Other celebrations were a shopping week and traders' exhibition. Clr. Owen Jones was chairman of the organising committee. It was all a great success.

The Parks and Amenities Committee were asked to explore the possibility of acquiring the whole or part of Central Beach. The first full-scale visit to the Waterworks took place since the beginning of the war. 1,800,000 gallons a day were being used.

Ration cards were still in use and Mr. J.W. Evans was concerned that the Food Control Office was to be closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the season. Visitors needed emergency cards.

Approval by the Welsh Board of Health was given to the purchase at £9,200 for the Warrington Camp as an extension to the Ffrith. In August the first Rose Day for twenty years was held. Clr. T. Pennant Williams passed away.

The council were disappointed with the response to the War Memorial Appeal, and it was decided to place plaques on the cenotaph in the Churchyard on which would be inscribed the names of the fallen of both wars. They were also to lay out a garden at Pendre Square.

In 1952 the year began with concern being expressed by the council about a proposal to close Chatsworth House as a maternity home. It had been opened in 1939 and 3,000 births had taken place there during the war years without loss of either mother or child. A petition against its closure was signed by 5,000.

The death of King George VI was recorded and a telegram of condolence sent in February. The Royal Proclamation of the Queen was made by Clr. Owen Jones, chairman of the Council, outside the Council Offices before a large crowd of residents and children. A dais was specially erected for this.

In March the news was announced that the rates would go up by 2/3 in the £. The largest increase ever in the town. In July the new shaft disaster took place at Point of Ayr Colliery. Six men lost their lives, two of them from Prestatyn. Thirty-six licences for private houses were allocated to Prestatyn by the Ministry of Housing. Prestatyn Hillside Camp was closed and the County Council opened Carr Holm for Aged Ladies.

Meliden held their first carnival in aid of the funds for a community hall.

Preparations for the Coronation were begun in 1953 and the Flintshire Education Committee decided to give each child a New Testament, but Prestatyn wished to have a souvenir, and through the generosity of Major G.H. Garratt they did receive a Coronation Beaker. Coronation Teas were arranged in the streets and shows and a chain of beacons.

Plans were approved for 106 houses at the new Maes Hendre Estate, Meliden, also shops (if necessary) and lock-up garages. New ration books were distributed from the Council Offices. The W.V.S. offered to be runners for the elderly who could not climb the stairs.

The War Memorial Fund reaches £1,494, and £300 needed to complete the shelter in Pendre Gardens. The W.V.S. provided this and the shelter was designed by Mr. T. Grant, and it was opened in Coronation Week.

The Council decide to declare a general holiday on the day the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visit Rhyl for the National Eisteddfod, but this raises some objections from the Chamber of Trade. There was also a debate as to whether the Council staff should have the day off with pay. By 12 votes to 5 it was decided to agree to this.

A layout of an improvement seheme for the Ffrith estimated to cost £7,060, was approved.

After the new rate assessments the P.U.D.C. decided not to charge 7/6 p.a. for each bath in houses. Deseribed as a "generous gesture".

In July Mr. Jack Patterson, Deputy Town Clerk of Tamworth Borough Council, was appointed Clerk of the Council. The first secondary school was opened in Prestatyn, named "Clawdd Offa", now known as Prestatyn High School. A public inquiry was opened over the proposal to site 600 caravans on "The Saltings".

Mr. J. Lloyd Hughes, Clerk of the Council, retired on 30th September, 1956, but stayed in office until December. He had joined the council as a junior clerk in 1909, and became Town Clerk in 1920 when the population numbered 2,000. It was over 9,000 at his retirement. A trio of local boys had headed the council, namely, Messrs. Lloyd Hughes, Cyril Wright (treasurer) and S. Trevor Roberts (surveyor). Many tributes were paid to him and presentations made.

In January, 1957, Mr. Jack Patterson commenced his duties as Clerk of the Council. Prestatyn Tennis Courts in Gronant Road were purchased by the council. Negotiations commenced to acquire land on the Central Beach area and undertake a coast protection scheme, etc. at a cost of £253,000 from Ffrith Beach to Central Beach and also government grant was sought for the Scheme. Negotiations were also pursued for acquisition of other land in the Central Beach area and East of Bastion Road.

A gyratory traffic scheme was put into operation in lower High Street, making Penisadre a traffic island.

The council undertook a major street lighting scheme at an estimated cost of £23,685. When completed this made Prestatyn one of the best lit towns in the country.

Planning permission was refused for an Amusement Arcade at the Savoy Cafe. The gift of a valuable collection of coins on behalf of the late Mr. Ernest Jones, was accepted for the museum.

The first aged persons bungalows in Ffordd Pendyffryn were officially opened by the Chairman of the Council.

The Flint and Denbigh Agricultural Show was held in Prestatyn in 1958 and for the following three years.

May, 1959, saw the opening of the Darby and Joan Hall in King's Avenue, by Lady Hillingdon. It was designed by Mr. Tom Grant, council surveyor, and came about through the diligent efforts of Clr. Mrs. Eleanor Evans, Mrs. Margaret Lloyd Hughes and Mrs. L.M. Massey, leaders of the W.V.S. movement.

In 1959 the civic opening of the Galleon Theatre at the Ffrith. This company stayed for some years and made a big impression with their first class professional productions under the direction of Mr. Derek Pollitt.

The 1960s saw a period of great activity begin under the aegis of the council and its Clerk, and saw the completion of the Royal Lido and car parks at a cost of £100,000. This, in conjunction with the coast protection scheme, from Ffrith to Central Beach brought the first visit of Royalty to the town.

It was a proud day for the Chairman of the Council, Clr. O.H. Williams, when he welcomed H.R.H. Duke and Duchess of Gloucester on Wednesday, June 8th, to the Royal Lido.

After the official formalities in the newly-constructed Royal Lido (with Ballroom, Swimming Pool, Licensed Bar and Restaurant/Cafe with shops), the party went on to the new 4,000 feet sea wall, where His Royal Highness cut the tape and unveiled the Commemorative Plaque. The Council's Engineer and Surveyor, Mr. T. Grant, with his assistants, Messrs. R. Newall and J.R. Mossop, carried out the design and supervision of the work of the Royal Lido.

The same year saw the retirement of Mr. C.W. Wright, treasurer. He had served the council for 41 years. He was made a presentation and was the recipient of several tributes. Mr. B.S. Taylor, who had joined the council as Deputy Treasurer in 1953, was appointed to fill the vacancy.

Councillor F. Allitt Chairman of the Council established the first Civic Ball at the T.A. Centre. In March the following year Clr. J.F. Jones as Chairman held the Ball at the Royal Lido, an event which has beeome firmly established, and which is now regarded as the social highlight of the year in North Wales. Each Council Chairman has undertaken the task of choosing what charity will benefit from this event, and in the fourteen years a considerable amount of money has been raised.

The next year Penmorfa C.P. School was opened in Dawson Park. A free and concessionary car parking policy for residents was introduced and Prestatyn's car parks are now the envy of many other towns.

An important move was the intricate acquisition of the 240 acres of land, including Prestatyn Golf Course which had fallen into disuse. This involved a deal of work. It is the only golf course compulsorily purchased by a Local Authority in Gt. Britain as a golf course. it is now once again recognised as a Championship Course.

In March 1961, the Council persuaded the Flintshire Constabulary to build their new Divisional headquarters on Council land in Victoria Road.

1963-4 saw the completion of the renewal of the trunk mains and the building of the storage reservoir for the Water Undertaking. There was the opening of the Night Trotting Stadium by Mr. Billy Butlin for a New Zealand Company. Later this came into the hands of Messrs. Gubay & Nicholson, the local supermarket owners.

The fate of Penisadre, which has been mentioned so often over the years in these notes, was sealed in 1963, when the Trustees of Prestatyn Estates disposed of the land and premises to a commercial development company. There was a tremendous outcry from the residents over this, but it was all to no avail. The farmhouse was demolished and the building of the Penisadre Precinct began.

The Scala Cinema was purchased and the new County Red Cross headquarters were opened by H.R.H. the Princess Royal.

In 1964, the one-way traffic system starts in high Street and Ffordd Pendyffryn. The new Ffordd Pendyffryn by-pass was opened by the chairman of the council, Clr. P.L. Roberts. Not everyone approved this seheme and there were public meetings and over 3,000 people signed a petition to have the traffic flow altered to go "down" instead of up. However, the council adhered to their decision, but agreed that Clwyd Avenue should become one-way.

The new Prestatyn bus station was opened later in the year by Clr. H.A. Crabtree, chairman.

Mr. Cyril Taylor was appointed the first Parks and Gardens Supervisor.

Mr. E.J. Miles, deputy engineer and surveyor, was appointed in succession to Mr. T. Grant, who retired due to ill health.

Prestatyn won the Welsh Tourist Board award (the Festival of Wales Trophy for the greatest contribution towards tourism) for the up-to-date attractions at Central Beach, etc. and the Ffrith, and the purchase of the 18-hole golf course and providing land for the Trotting Stadium. The Clerk of the Council had pioneered the council through all the negotiations. A celebration dinner was held at the Royal Lido when the Trophy was presented.

Outline plans were submitted for the Scala Cinema as an Arts Centre.

The municipal offices were enlarged and modernised and the offices and council suite were then regarded as some of the best in North Wales. Acquisition of land at the rear of the offices and more to follow, brought into being one of the finest free car parks in North Wales.

The county council decide on traffic wardens for the town, but the council were not convinced these would be necessary in the winter time. It was decided to go ahead with a scheme for heating the Lido open-air swimming pool.

On the 50th anniversary of the Prestatyn and District National Savings Committee, a Wedgwood plaque of H.M. the Queen was presented framed in gold and this hangs in the Council Chamber.

Of considerable importance in 1965 was the Grant of the Coat of Arms and the Chairman's New Insignia by Brigadier H.S.K. Mainwaring, Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire. The council chamber was packed. The insignia had been donated by Lord Aberconway but he was unable to attend. The Coat of Arms was designed by H. Ellis Tomlinson, M.A., F.H.S.. The motto was 'Cynyddaf a Llawenychaf' (I grow and I rejoice).

The Scala, now completely renovated, came into being as the first Arts Centre of an Urban District Council in England and Wales. This was aided by negotiated grants from the Arts Council (£10,000) and from the British Film Institute (£2,500).

The new Divisional Police Headquarters and Courthouse was opened in Victoria Road. It cost over £160,000. The first 16 flats for elderly citizens in Maes-y-Groes were opened by Clr. G.H. Barker, Chairman of the Council.

Another car park was established in Fern Avenue and the Chamber of Commerce congratulate the council on their car parking facilities. No-waiting Order was made for one side of High Street. Plans were approved for aged persons flats in Caradoc Road. They were 3-storey high in three blocks, but the top storey was for bachelors or spinsters.

in 1970 the first Dual-purpose Sports Hall in Wales was opened in the High School complex arising from an agreement between the County Council and the urban district council.

The Telephone Exchange was transferred to new buildings in Ffordd Pendyffryn, the site having been sold by the Council to the Post Office.

A public inquiry was held in 1966 into the council's case for more representation of county councillors. Population was 12,450, showing an increase of 112.3 % over the 1935 population. It was not until February 1967 that they were granted two extra seats, after a six-year struggle. The Home Office declared there was no justification for any further delay. The Secretary of State for Wales (Rt. Hon. Cledwyn Hughes, M.P.) opened the new county library in Nant Hall Road. Baroness Phillips visited the Scala Arts Centre and was given a civic welcome by the chairman, Clr. J.C. Ledsham.

Negotiations opened with Pontin's Ltd., to build a Holiday Village in the town.

Prestatyn Telephone Exchange goes automatic. The Secretary of State decided on Prestatyn for a new comprehensive school, later called the High School.

Prestatyn's coast defences to the east of the Royal Lido were badly battered in October, 1967, the tide breaching the sandhills. Emergency works carried out.

The wives of ex-chairmen of the council were presented with Heraldic Shields to commemorate their year of office, and a badge of office for the vice-chairman was inaugurated. Clr. R.J. Reynard was the first holder.

Following the serious breakthrough of the sandhills east of Bastion Road, in 1968 the council began their plans for further coast protection. These involved the extension of their scheme from the Central Beach to the Grand Hotel. This extensive coast protection scheme from Central to Barkby Beach work was completed in 1971. Thus Prestatyn has one of the finest stretches of flat walking space to be found anywhere, right on the water side, from Barkby Beach to the Ffrith (a Park and Walk Paradise).

The Penisadre Sculpture was unveiled in 1968, being the winning design of the £1,000 prize offered by Commercial and General Holdings Ltd., who had built the Penisadre Precinct. The winner was Mr. N. Makinson, and the unveiling was carried out by Clr . Norman Stewart.

The death was reported of Mrs. Eleanor Evans, who retired from the Council in 1962 after 48 years' service.

1969 saw the commencement of a major sewerage scheme at a cost of £1 million.

To commemorate 'Croeso '69' and the investiture of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales many seats were donated to the town. Clr. Reynard held an lnvestiture Ball at the Royal Lido after the Investiture Ceremony, which he and the Clerk had attended earlier in the Day.

In his first visit to Wales following his Investiture, The Prince of Wales flew into Prestatyn in a Helicopter (July). This landed at the Raceway. The Prince who was on a two-day visit to Flintshire, was received by the Lord Lieutenant, and the chairman of the Council, Clr. Reynard. He was presented to the chairman's wife, the Clerk of the Council, Mr. Patterson, and his wife, and also to the remainder of the councillors and their wives. The stadium was packed with about 5,000 ticket holders and thousands lined the route from Prestatyn to Rhyl.

Meliden's new C.P. School was officially opened in March 1970, and in the same year the first Nature Trail through the Bishops Wood was established. It was also the year for the opening of the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Early 1970 saw the Trotting Track lease surrendered and the land approved for Holiday Village purposes together with land already approved adjoining Barkby Avenue and negotiations concluded with Pontin's Ltd.. On 19th October Clr. Anderson, Chairman of the Council, and Mr. F.W. Pontin jointly cut the first sod for the building of the Holiday Village, which was opened in July 1971 at a cost of over one million pounds.

There was the official opening of the New Golf Club House on Prestatyn links, and also the opening of tHhe aged persons' dwellings at Yr Olchfa, Meliden, on a site which Had been transformed from an old mine tip.

1972 saw the introduction of a miniature railway reaching from tHe Ffrith Beach to the Central Beach, and redevelopment of the Eastern side of Ffrith Beach.

The development of the Barkby Beach followed as a natural sequence, and with the establishment of a Sailing Club there, the council co-operated with the erection of a slipway. The completion of this in 1973 has meant that this beach has also become a focal point for sailing enthusiasts, and with the establishment of Pontin's Holiday Village nearby, is a very busy stretch of beach in the summer season. A nine-hole miniature golf course and picnic area was established on land on the south side of the sandhills, and a car park provided in addition to one on the beach.

The year l973 was noted for slogan 'Plant a Tree in '73', and the council's Parks and Gardens Department were kept busy carrying out this promise on behalf of many organisations as well as themselves.

The later months of 1973 saw the council Chairman, Clr. G.R. Gray, in conjunction with Mr. G. Beardmore, president of the Rotary Club of Prestatyn, opening of the Prince of Wales playing field reclaimed from the Refuse Tip.

Clr. Gray also opened the Community Centre at the Ffrith which he hoped would be in regular use for the benefit of the elderly in the North-west area.

There are no doubt many events which we have not covered, and we are unable to mention the numerous voluntary organisations and associations which have helped to make Prestatyn the pleasant town it is. They themselves would take a volume. They have, however, contributed much to the town and have become known for the generous way in which they have supported the council whenever called upon.

In the 78 years of her existence Prestatyn U.D. Council has had only three 'Town Clerks' and I think this is something of a record to be proud of. All of them have played an important role in making Prestatyn what it is today.

I can only conclude by wishing the new Community Council every success with the hope that they will look after the interests of the town as diligently as their forebears.

		Translate into: Spanish - German - French - Italian - Portuguese This page has been accessed times since 1/1/99. Virtual Prestatyn Website Prestatyn Business Association, Tai Tywyn Business Centre, Sandy Lane, Prestatyn, LL19 7SF, UK. Tel. +44 (0)1745 887755     Fax +44 (0)1745 889704     E-mail mail@prestatyn.org.uk
		Last Updated:   Saturday, 15-Dec-2001 15:43:59 CET © 1998-2007