The Golden Valley: A Visual Biography of the Garw

Product Information

The new premises mark the next phase in the organisation’s plans to support the future growth of this diverse, world-leading industry and the wider blue economy. With funding assistance from UK and Scottish governments, the base will serve as a hub for GUH’s members across the north of England. Garw Pit was owned by the Blaengarw Ocean Coal Company, a subsiduary of the Ocean Coal Company. Sinking of the pit began in 1883 and reached full production by 1886. Cancellations can be posted to social media, however, that's not always accessible, especially in the older generations. "I'm Dad's taxi normally," Andrew laughs. Gareth Poulton also noted the issue with transport, noting how buses to Bridgend used to run until 10.30pm from the top of the valley, however they have now been reduced and finish at 8.30pm, meaning an expensive taxi home for those out later than then. Rod noted that being a big outdoors person with five English Pointers, there was a huge draw for his family to settle in the valley. "It's stunningly beautiful. I think it surprises most people - because it's a headless valley you can't go anywhere else - so you have to have a reason to come here, and when people do come up, they're really quite surprised."

The community centre is also successfully reaching out to the older members of the community, thanks to the hard work of Rod and Mandy Shaw, who now run several activities from the centre daily as well as a community cafe. Rod, chatting happily in his West-county accent, stands out among the crowd, but couldn't be more integrated into the community if he tried. The Newcastle office is also expected to welcome overseas trade delegations, helping cultivate global relationships. Over the past year, GUH has hosted groups from Barbados, China, Estonia, France, Latvia and Lithuania to learn about the knowledge, technology and expertise possessed by UK companies working across the underwater supply chain.

Bryntirion, Broadlands, Laleston and Pen Y Fai

A friendly get-together for local crafters with free hot drinks and biscuits! Bring along your own crafts to knit and natter, create and chatter for a relaxing morning of creativity whilst enjoying our beautiful sea views. Dementia Hwb Open 7 days a week from 10am - Fun free activities supporting those living with dementia and peer support for carers.

Driving up the Garw Valley is similar to most other valleys in south Wales. The characteristic rows of terraced houses line the road, streets spurt off up the side of mountains, and it's all located in a bowl of green fields and trees. However as the journey approaches Blaengarw, the hills become evermore imposing, until it feels like you're surrounded. Featuring a dedicated event space, the building will bring together companies working across the oil and gas, offshore energy, defence and subsea cable sectors in the region, and further afield, to enable collaboration and facilitate the exchange of ideas and technology across the sectors. Seventy-five kids screaming on a Friday, imagine the noise. You had a big smile on your face because you knew seventy-five kids were safe, they were warm, and they were entertained. We had to close because of Covid, and I'd see some of the kids in the street and they'd be like 'Miss, Miss, when can we start again?'"The Garth Mountain overlooks the village and was the inspiration for the fictional "Ffynnon Garw", featured in the book and film The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain directed by Christopher Monger who was born in Taff’s Well. Foodbank, 10am - 12pm, tea and coffee available. Citizens Advice and Employability advisers available if required.