North Wales Police have issued a road safety warning for motorists who are slowing down to admire the magnificent carved oak dragon which is positioned above the road on between Bethesda and Tregarth.
The sculpture known as ‘Y Draig Dderw’ (The Oak Dragon) is about 25′ long, and although on private land, it overlooks the road, but police have already received a number of reports of motorists slowing down and in some cases even stopping in the road to view the Dragon.
Police said: “We, like everyone else love the ‘Draig Dderw’ recently erected in the Bethesda area, however we are concerned at the impact upon road safety as a result of the action of a number of motorists who slow down or in some cases ‘stop’ to view the Dragon.
“There has already been one accident and numerous near misses on this section of road which really does require a drivers full concentration. Please concentrate on the road ahead at all times, if you want to view it , then please find somewhere safe to park (not on the A5) and walk down on the pavement. Please drive carefully.”
The artwork was commissioned by GP Dr Alofs, and carved by Wrexham artist Simon O’Rourke. The multi-award winning wood carver took six days to create the sculpture on site with his chainsaw and tools, etching out the intricate details.
Mr O’Rourke wrote on his Facebook page: “Although Y Ddraig Derw is visible from the road, it’s in a bit of a tricky spot to stop for photos. We’d love for you to see him in person, but encourage you all to do it safely please!
“Do not park on the side of the road as it is a fast and dangerous road. Please be aware there is only a tiny layby there and it’s a dangerous road, so it will be better to park further in towards Bethesda and walk back down.
“Do not park across the private driveway next to the layby and Please be careful and mindful of traffic!”
Photo: Simon O’Rourke
