Legends of Llangollen – A Dog called, Nero
In 1869, the Royal Hotel had a most remarkable legend, a clever hound named Nero. This faithful dog became something of a celebrity in Llangollen for his uncanny talent for rescuing lost clothing from the River Dee.
In those days, hats were prized possessions, large enough and prone to blowing off the heads of many a passing excursionist crossing the bridge. Ever alert in his garden at the Royal Hotel, Nero was always ready to spring into action, his keen eyes fixed on the rushing waters below.
Visitors soon came to see the sagacious dog of Llangollen in action, gathering on the bridge to watch him dive into the river to retrieve stray hats, always returning them to their owners to great applause.
One particular tale of his exploits appeared in the Llangollen Advertiser on the 22nd of July, 1870.
Two youngsters were fishing near the Royal Hotel on a hot summer’s day and had removed some of their clothing to cool down as they fished on the rocks near the hotel. A sudden gust of wind swept one boy’s jacket and another’s stockings into the Dee’s rushing waters.
Thomas “the Boot,” the hotel driver and Nero’s trusted friend, called out the command that the dog knew well.
Without hesitation, Nero plunged into the current, paddling determinedly after the heavy, sodden garments. Moments later, to the cheers of the fishermen, he emerged triumphantly with both items in his jaws, delivering them safely back to the boys.
It’s said that Nero now rests somewhere in the garden of the Royal Hotel, close to the spot where his brave deeds once delighted crowds of visitors.
Well done, thou good and faithful servant — good boy, Nero!
Story from Trevor Roberts (2006), Tales of Llangollen - Past and Present (Book 2)
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