Live event to unite community and support redevelopment of iconic North Wales landmark

A CELEBRATION of community togetherness and the resurgence of an iconic heritage site takes place next week.

Organised by Enbarr Foundation CIC and the ‘Guardians’ working to preserve the Grade II-listed John Summers Clock Tower site in Deeside, the event will be held from 12pm on Saturday August 21.

Supported by Art & Soul Tribe CIC (Community Interest Company) and Brooklyn Yard, the programme includes arts and craft workshops, wood carving, falconry displays, independent food and drink producers, stalls, retro fairground games and more.

And live music will take place throughout the afternoon into the evening at The Steelworks, a redeveloped garage space and acoustic stage where local bands and singers can perform.

Enbarr’s director Vicki Roskams – the visionary behind multi-million-pound plans to save the dilapidated site from ruin – wanted to pay tribute to the many volunteers, businesses and organisations who have given time, money, and materials to the campaign.

They include Tata Steel, Delta Rock and D&A Systems, who in past weeks have been working tirelessly to bring electricity to the site, and Wilsons Auctions, based in Queensferry.

“There are so many people to thank, so many members of the community we owe an eternal debt of gratitude,” said Vicki.

“And there are also the organisations that have struggled with the challenges of the pandemic and need something to look forward to.

“We hope this will be the first of many community events held at the clock tower site in the years ahead, bringing people together to celebrate our achievements and breathe new life into the area.”

Vicki added that Covid-19 health and safety measures will be in place, and technology used to bring the activities to life for a wider audience unable to be there in person.

“We want to live stream these hybrid events so more people can enjoy the music and entertainment, that’s something we are looking at as we have so many supporters across the UK,” she said.

“Our goal is to help those businesses and individuals that have suffered since the onset of the Coronavirus, those who have felt isolated or experienced health and social issues, by creating a safe and welcoming space with health and wellbeing objectives.

“To do that virtually and in person helps us reach more people and garner even more support for our appeal, to bring this place back to life.

“We are on our way, and this event is going to act as a launchpad to even more community interaction in the future.”

Among the other businesses to provide materials and labour for big day are UK Leisure Living, 1 Call Property Solutions and a team of designers, photographers and artists who have helped create installations and upcycling projects, as well as preparing workshops for this and upcoming activities, notably a Spooktacular Halloween and Winter Wonderland.

“There will also be movie nights, comedy evenings, a Night at the Proms and tribute gigs, with all proceeds being reinvested into community projects,” added Vicki.

“As always, the people will remain as the heartbeat of the site so it will continue to improve and grow sustainably, leaving a lasting legacy we hope John Summers himself would be proud of.”