LIVING in Rhyl in 2023 means different things to different people.
When we asked the question, we were delighted with how many people stuck up for Rhyl as a great place to live and work.
For Lynne Williams, it's a place she loves and wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
She said: I love Rhyl, been here for 37 years and I wouldn’t live anywhere else, I have wonderful days on the beach with my grandchildren in the summer, we are blessed to have so much on our doorstep."
Nigel Hobdey agrees, saying it's great.
MORE NEWS: 'Rhyl remains major tourist destination attracting thousands of visitors'
Lynn Clarke, who chose to retire in Rhyl over ten years ago, believes it is her own little piece of heaven.
She said: "We chose to retire here over ten years ago. Our own little bit of heaven. Everywhere has their pockets of deprivation but Rhyl copes very well - have you seen Blackpool recently?
"I wanted to live there once but think I had a lucky escape. Rhyl has a lot going for it, location, weather and a great community. Always something going on.The town that's really a village."
Jilly Adamson said: "So much to me. I used to live just outside of Ruthin, I find it much easier to live here. We have good links to transport, shops, theatre, beach, bars and lots of social groups. I'm part of Music Dimensions now, that's what's happening for me in 2023 in Rhyl."
Angelina Lewis said: "Happy hot summer days and nights on the beach, lovely kind salt of the earth locals, amazing nights at the Pavilion and Little Theatre, the smell of the old market, hotdogs donuts and candyfloss, the noise from the arcades, Marine Lake...beautiful sunsets and mountains on every side."
MORE NEWS: Meet the 85-year-old ‘hero’ litter-picking at Rhyl’s Marine Lake every day!
Despite having a somewhat skewed opinion of the local media, Lee Hampshire also had positive things to say about the town.
He said: "We grew up in the 80s with all Rhyl had to offer and it really was paradise for us as kids. So much to do then, and now!
"People who live here that know people that also live here, know that it's a strong community and will soon thrive again."
The above responses, and more, proved Ellis Meredith-Owen wrong who thought simply asking the question was an invitation "for the usual moaners to speak negatively of the town".
He added that "it has problems like all towns, but is far from the cesspool that people would have you believe...and that when we had a Funfair, Sun Centre and indoor market, we STILL had problems."
MORE NEWS: Readers share their first pint stories and locations with us
However, it would be unfair to say all the responses were positive.
Some long for the Rhyl of the past, while for others life in Rhyl in 2023 presents various challenges.
Chris Kent simply describes Rhyl as a ghost town.
Rachael Blackborow notes that there are more takeaway shops in Rhyl than any other type of shop, reflecting the changing retail landscape.
Carole Jenkinson refers to Rhyl as a ghost town, with all the shops closed.
Andy Williams expresses a sense of hopelessness, saying there's no future.
Marlene Purnell simply states "depression," reflecting the challenges faced by some residents.
Peter Ashton, on the other hand, loves the place, highlighting beautiful sunrises he witnesses while riding his bike.
Manda Panda reminisces about the fond memories of her late mum and gran who lived in Rhyl.
They appreciate the people and the proximity to the seaside and the Clwydian range and mountains.
Terry Brown dismisses the complaining and emphasises the affordability of living in Rhyl.
He said: "We can afford to live here and enjoy the beach, some fantastic views and some affordable days out. I have lovely neighbours, a fair bit of sun and a garden. Happy."
Rachel Sian Roberts values the community spirit and events in Rhyl, noting the recent success of a free fun day that attracted more than 2,000 residents.
June Heath has always loved visiting Rhyl, while Phil Jones enjoys going to Belle Vue to see the football.
Suzanne M Dexter-Jones believes in creating adventures with what one has and enjoying the experiences with friends and family.
The comments continue, reflecting the diverse opinions and experiences of living in Rhyl.
Some express nostalgia for the past, while others highlight current challenges such as lack of affordable housing, the presence of overseas workers, and the greed of developers.
There are those who defend Rhyl, pointing out its potential and the kindness of its residents.
Overall, these comments paint a complex picture of life in Rhyl in 2023, with both positive and negative aspects.
It's clear that Rhyl, like any other town, has its own unique set of circumstances, challenges, and opportunities.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel