Life’s a beach as weather fails to rain on pop parade

Aug 13 2008 by David Rutland, Rhyl Visitor

HUNDREDS of revellers defied poor weather at the weekend and turned out for a spectacular concert on the Ffrith festival gardens.

Taking inspiration from St Asaph’s Party in The Parc, the first ever Party on the Beach provided live music and fun for adults and children of all ages in Prestatyn.

The event was expected to attract thousands, but due to foul weather, actual numbers were only a fraction of that.

“It was fun and there was no trouble at all,” said organiser Glenn Mitchell. “We had the bands for the younger people earlier on and the ones to appeal to older people in the evening.

“There were lots of families with children and babies and there were people camping out with tents. It was quite a lovely little venue.

“The only problem was the rain, but we couldn’t do anything about that.”

Numbers peaked at around 550 and concerns raised by local residents and Cllr Mike German over the potential for trouble were allayed by tight security and policing at the event.

Harry Orenstein, part owner of the Ffrith site, said “The event was, as is usual at Ffrith Beach Fun Parc, peaceful, well-managed and without incident.”

Sgt Pete Roberts, who was responsible for policing the event, added: “I have spoken to a number of residents who had concerns prior to the party and they have all said they are very happy with how it was managed.”