We’re inviting volunteers to help research names listed on our war memorials with the aim of gathering as much information as possible on the lives of those who fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom.
There are 117 War Memorials in Rhondda Cynon Taf which can be found in our parks, churches and on roadsides. Not only do they commemorate the fallen from World Wars I and II, but they also honour those who fought in the Falklands War, the Spanish Civil War, and dedications to more recent conflicts.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is set to deliver a £200,000 programme of investment over the next 5 years, as part of a continued commitment to the Armed Forces. The funding will allow our Heritage and Ancient Monuments Officer to develop a programme of investment and improvement to War Memorials.
Part of the programme of investment will enable the Council’s Heritage Team to start a new, 3 year project, to digitalise every memorial to the brave men and women of our County Borough who fought and sadly lost their lives in conflict. The project will see QR codes placed near each memorial which, when scanned from a phone, will lead to a new website where the stories behind the names.
We have invested significantly in recent years to increase the level of support provided to our veterans and we’re proud to have been one of the first Councils in Wales to establish an Armed Forces Covenant. The Covenant is a voluntary statement of mutual support between the civilian community of Rhondda Cynon Taf and our Armed Forces community.
In the last 18 months, the Armed Forces Team have worked closely with Councillors, local community groups and our Highways Dept. on a number of war memorial projects that have included a range of improvement works and maintenance. In addition, the team provided support to the community in Cwmparc on the opening of their new war memorial.
Councillor Maureen Webber, Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Champion said:
The digitalisation of War Memorials in Rhondda Cynon Taf is a long-term project and one that will ultimately serve to further honour the people of our County Borough who fought bravely and sadly lost their lives in conflicts. The information gathered will not only paint a fuller picture of those who made the ultimate sacrifice but will help people researching their own personal family trees and heritage. Our libraries in Aberdare, Pontypridd and Treorchy are reference libraries and have dedicated enquiry staff who can assist anyone who is tracing their ancestry. This is a fascinating project and I would urge anyone with an interest in history, heritage or our armed forces to volunteer.
All volunteers are welcome, you may already be a part of an established group or an individual who would like to get involved. You may be a Veteran or currently serving in our armed forces. Research experience is not required as guidance packs and training will be provided. Research can be conducted from home and groups will meet regularly to discuss findings and answer questions. There is no time requirement - you can contribute as much or as little as you want.
We will also be working with young people through our schools, cadets and scout and girl guiding groups, working closely with SSCE Cymru ( Supporting Service Children in Education)
We also welcome all members of the public annually to our Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service which this year takes place in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd on 12th November.
If you would like to discuss the project, please contact:
HeritageService@rctcbc.gov.uk
For more information on the Covenant and the support offered, including support for families and those whose loved-ones are deployed, finance, employment and housing assistance, the Covenant Grant Fund and the Veterans’ Advice Service, visit www.rctcbc.gov.uk/armedforces
Posted on 30/08/2023