A new War Memorial in Treorchy has been formally dedicated, providing the community with a lasting tribute to local people who served in the First World War, the Second World War and conflicts since.
The dedication service took place outside Parc & Dare Theatre on Sunday, July 12, bringing together residents, veterans, elected Members, community representatives, local organisations and invited guests to mark a significant moment for Treorchy.
The memorial has been created following many years of discussion within the local community about the need for a dedicated and central place of remembrance in Treorchy. It now provides a permanent place where families, residents and visitors can pause, reflect and pay tribute to those from the town and surrounding areas who lost their lives as a result of war.
The project has been delivered through close partnership working between Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, local elected Members, residents, community groups, volunteers, schools and local businesses. It reflects the shared commitment of the Council and the local community to ensuring the service and sacrifice of Treorchy’s Armed Forces community is recognised and remembered for generations to come.
The memorial has been constructed using stone rescued from a local school, giving the structure a strong local connection. The project was also supported by local businesses Bailey’s Builders Merchant and Dewi Reynolds & Sons Monumental Masons, who generously donated time, labour and materials to help bring the memorial to life.
A Treorchy Roll of Honour has also been developed, featuring more than 500 names commemorating men, women and children from Treorchy and the surrounding areas who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Communities and local elected Member for Treorchy, said: “This was a very proud and moving occasion for Treorchy.
“The creation of this memorial has been deeply significant to the local community, and I am pleased to have supported the work to deliver a dedicated place of remembrance for the town and surrounding areas.
“The memorial will help ensure that the names and stories of those from Treorchy who gave so much are preserved for future generations. It is a fitting tribute to their courage, their service and their sacrifice.”
The dedication service was led by Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Gareth Pennell, with contributions from Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Armed Forces Champion, Reverend Charlotte Rushton and Gwen White of Treherbert & District Royal British Legion. The service was also supported by Parc & Dare Band and Treorchy Male Voice Choir, helping to create a respectful and memorable occasion for all those in attendance.
Residents are still encouraged to come forward with any information that may help ensure the Treorchy Roll of Honour is as complete as possible. Anyone who knows of someone who should be included is asked to email HeritageService@rctcbc.gov.uk with their name, why they should be included and any additional details or photographs.
Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “It was a privilege to stand alongside the Treorchy community for the dedication and unveiling of this important new War Memorial.
“This memorial honours the men and women from Treorchy who served in the First World War, the Second World War and conflicts since. It gives us the opportunity to remember those who lost their lives, those who came home changed by their experiences, and the families who have preserved their stories over many years.
“The absence of a dedicated War Memorial in Treorchy has been discussed within the community for many years, and there has always been a strong desire to create a lasting tribute to those who served.
“I am proud that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has been able to support this project wholeheartedly. Remembering those who served is a responsibility we all share, and this memorial gives the community a fitting place to do just that.
“Projects like this do not happen without people taking the time to champion them and bring people together. I would like to thank Councillor Bob Harris, Council officers, local volunteers, schools, residents, community representatives and local businesses whose support and commitment have helped make this memorial a reality.
“This memorial will stand as a reminder of courage, service and sacrifice, and as a lasting tribute that Treorchy can be proud of.”
The project also forms part of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s wider commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and preserving local heritage. Rhondda Cynon Taf is home to more than 7,500 Armed Forces veterans and the Council was among the first Welsh local authorities to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, reaffirming its commitment in 2018 – symbolising mutual respect between the civilian and Armed Forces communities.
More information: RCT Armed Forces Covenant
This new memorial aligns with the Council’s commitment to a 5-year, £250,000 programme of investment from 2022-2027. Led by the Council’s Heritage and Ancient Monuments Officer, the Council’s War Memorial Digitisation Project continues to research and share the stories behind those commemorated on memorials across the County Borough.
To find out more or get involved, please contact: HeritageService@rctcbc.gov.uk
Posted on 20/07/2026