A NEW date has been set for the North Wales Education Awards after they were postponed due to adverse weather conditions.

The awards were due to be held at the Oriel Hotel in St Asaph on October 20.

They were postponed as Storm Babet causes torrential rainfall and flooding across the region.

Now, the awards will take place at the same venue on Friday, November 10.

The awards are held on behalf of the Denbighshire Free Press, Rhyl Journal and North Wales Pioneer, and aim to shine a light and to honour all those professionals who contribute to their schools and education initiatives within their communities.

We want to celebrate all those who have risen to the challenge over the past 12 months, who have overcome adversity, shown strength, have been innovative so that they can continue to encourage and mentor their pupils to help them achieve their full academic and social potential as well as developing parent engagement and support fellow members of staff.

Susan Perry, Group Editor for North Wales, said: "It was with profound disappointment, we found it necessary to cancel the North Wales Education Awards scheduled for last week. The venue was meticulously prepared, the food was ready, and our team was in place, eagerly anticipating the arrival of all our guests.

"We closely monitored the evolving weather conditions, and our concerns grew as the A525, the main road leading to the hotel, became flooded in two separate sections. By midday, it became evident that this road would soon become impassable. In addition to this, there were further significant road closures, and all train services had been cancelled leaving our host stranded. The overall situation was worsening rapidly.

"Regrettably, we had no alternative but to postpone the event. This decision was not taken lightly; it was a measure of last resort. Our paramount concern was the safety of our staff and guests, and we could not in good conscience put them at risk.

"The fantastic news is that we've successfully secured the venue, arranged for a new host, and booked our AV company for Friday, November 10th.

"On this day, we will all come together to celebrate the incredible work happening in our schools. Rest assured, any special requirements you submitted will remain in place, including guest numbers, and everything else.

"I want to take this opportunity to express our deep gratitude for your understanding. The response and support we've received from schools and sponsors have been truly overwhelming. All that remains to be said is that we are eagerly anticipating your presence at the Oriel Hotel on Friday, November 10th."