RHYL marked the coronation of King Charles III today (May 6) with a special event in the town, which included arts and crafts and a guest appearance.

The new British monarch was crowned at Westminster Abbey today, and to celebrate it, Rhyl BID (Business Improvement District) organised an event at Costigan’s, on Bodfor Street.

Rhyl Journal: Rosie, aged fourRosie, aged four (Image: Newsquest)

People could watch the BBC’s live coverage of the coronation, take part in arts and crafts sessions with Rhyl-based community project “Gobaith Galeri”, and meet “Bearjamin”, the fundraising bear wearing a special king’s outfit.

Lowri Kirkham, who runs Gobaith Galeri, held free craft workshops for children at Costigan’s throughout the day.

Rhyl Journal: Lowri Kirkham, of Gobaith GaleriLowri Kirkham, of Gobaith Galeri (Image: Newsquest)

A UV puppet show, entitled “Under the Sea”, was also presented by Magic Light Productions at Rhyl’s White Rose Centre.

Rhyl Journal: The UV puppet showThe UV puppet show (Image: Newsquest)

Abby Pilling, Rhyl BID manager, said: “This is a special occasion, so we just wanted to organise something to mark it, and to encourage people to come into town today.

“Gobaith Galeri and Magic Light Productions have been brilliant, too.

“I think it’s important that we have a celebration. If we can have something happy to celebrate, we should take advantage of that and make the most of it.”

Rhyl Journal: Richard Kendrick as BearjaminRichard Kendrick as Bearjamin (Image: Newsquest)

Dressing up as “Bearjamin” was Richard Kendrick, a prominent fundraiser who supports such charities as the Royal British Legion and North Wales Superkids.

“Today, King Bearjamin has been walking around town, supporting Rhyl BID.

“It’s worked really well; there’s lots of people coming in, with happy, smiling faces. It’s just to support the town, and to make people smile.

“The gown and the crown were both made this week by Abracafabric in Rhyl, especially for today.

“Abby is doing a brilliant job here in Rhyl. She’s trying to help all of the businesses through hard times as much as she can.

“The work she’s doing is fantastic. It’s bringing so many people back into town.

“I’m not a royalist, but I like that most of the royal family do charity work, and without them, parts of the country wouldn’t do as well.

“It brings in millions of pounds, and they makes millions for charities. Charities need royals to help them make lots of money; if they turn up at events, those events will make a fortune.”