The Christmas Tree reducing traffic speed to 30mph

GLASFRYN residents turned on a Christmas tree decorated with 30mph signs last night and claimed traffic passing through the village is already slowing in response.

Residents, children, and councillors took part in the event, enjoying Christmas carols and festive snacks, to mark the campaign to reduce the speed limit on the A5 from 60 mph to 30 mph through Glasfryn.

Those living in the Denbighshire village fear the current national speed limit is too high and could lead to a fatality.

Earlier this week the Welsh Government said speed-limit reviews had been paused but would begin again “once new guidance was available”.

Cllr Gwennol Ellis said the residents’ homemade signs placed beside the road – and now on the lit Christmas tree – were already helping to slow drivers.

Children living in the village have made special 30mph baubles.

“It went really well. All the community came out to support the switch on. The age range of people was newborn twins to the eldest 91-year-old who turned on the Christmas lights,” said Cllr Ellis.

“The support for this campaign has been great. The tree is a good size, and the man who lives in the bungalow just behind the tree has kindly allowed the cable from his house, and he’s gone all out this year to decorate too.

“There has been an uplift in the village. Everybody has made more of an effort, and some cars are slowing down. Of course, some don’t. But people were commenting last night that they had noticed a difference in the village that cars are beginning to drive in a more considerate manner.”

She added: “We had about 40 people turn out, and there was a strong community vibe. People welcomed the opportunity to come together, and the children sang carols, and there was mulled wine and mince pies.”

Story: Richard Evans