THE new history app which uses augmented reality technology will soon go live.

The first of its kind in North Wales, a free history app, called Imagine Trail, sheds light on some of the Bay of Colwyn and Mochdre’s old tales and brings them to life through augmented reality (AR) technology.

The app - which is launching on September 18 - has been created as part of Imagine Colwyn Bay, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund with support from Conwy County Borough Council and the Bay of Colwyn Town Council.

Arts charity TAPE Community Music and Film and tech experts Reality Boffins worked closely with creative people from the area, heritage groups and the wider community to develop it.

Animated videos, old footage and photos, sound recordings and interviews have been used to recall stories of note from monks in the Middle Ages through to the mod rallies of the 70s and 80s.

Launch events are being held at Colwyn Bay Artisan’s market, the Welsh Mountain Zoo and many more.

TAPE’s Neil Dunsire said: “The app is a real treasure trove of stories. We’ve been fortunate to unearth some terrific tales and memories from Dinosaur World to Medieval ambushes. It has been brilliant to work with 20 local creatives, who have adapted and overcome challenges brought about by the pandemic.

"In all, we’ve worked with 300 people, from school children to local historians to create the 52 pieces of video, sound, and animation included in the app, which will be free to download. We’re hugely grateful to everyone who has taken part and are very much looking forward to being able to share the Imagine Trail.”

An additional event will take place on Tuesday, September 28 at Theatr Colwyn. This involves a film documenting the Harlequin Puppet Theatre, Britain’s oldest permanent puppet theatre.

“David Masding, Chair of Colwyn Bay Heritage Group, said: “The new app will be a draw for locals and visitors alike, I am delighted that our heritage trails have been brought to life in a modern, engaging, fun way for everyone to enjoy.

“There is something for everyone throughout the week-long launch [which started on September 13] with the chance to see how the app works and get a taste of what to expect.

"The events are all free to attend. All we’d ask is people get in touch to book or for more information.”

Visit tapemusicandfilm.co.uk or call 01492 512109.

Event schedule:

Thursday, September 16

11am Rhos on Sea heritage walk

5.30pm Rhos on Sea heritage walk

7pm Cinema - Alfred and Jakobine (U)*, Rhos on Sea United Reform Church

Friday, September 17

11am Mochdre heritage walk

6pm Cinema: The Reason I Jump (12A) – TAPE Community Arts Centre, Old Colwyn

Saturday, September 18

10am – 4pm: Imagine Trail Launch

Colwyn Bay Artisan Market and the Welsh Mountain Zoo

Animation workshops (booking required), Ghostbuskers, record your memories, app demos all day, art workshops, free colouring books and much more.

Tuesday, September 28

10.30am – 12pm: Harlequin Puppet Theatre documentary premiere

Theatre Colwyn