Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards 2011, Bwlch-y-Gwynt & Machynys Lost Communities Group

Group category – Bwlch-y-Gwynt & Machynys Lost Communities Group, Llanelli

A ‘magical’ group of people who once lived in two coastal communities demolished for redevelopment have helped keep their memories alive by producing a range of historical literature, including a book and DVD.

The members of the Bwlch-y-Gwynt and Machynys Lost Communities Group were once residents of the two former villages in Llanelli, who lost their homes when the communities were demolished in the 1970s.

They saw their parents being told they had to move from their ‘beloved homes, beloved communities and beloved neighbours and friends’, said nominator Faye Davies, Communities First Glanymor & Tyisha Community Development Worker.

‘They are the children who remember their parents crying in despair at the thought of moving from the place their family had lived for generations before them.

‘They are the children who also remember their parents being promised that they would be moved temporarily and would be rehoused in their communities when redevelopments took place, only to watch in despair as their parents grew old and passed away, still awaiting the day to come.’

Along with the DVD and book, the Lost Communities Group has also produced an interpretive panel that stands on the Millennium Coastal Path, commemorating the importance of the former industrial area to the growth of Llanelli.

‘These volunteers are a huge inspiration in the community and beyond, as they have turned their sadness and trauma into strength and passion to deliver these excellent community projects – and this is the motivation that has driven them to ensure their stories and many others are heard, while ensuring important history is made for the emerging communities of today and the future,’ said Faye.

‘In all my years of community development in many different areas, I have never come across a group of volunteers like this. I think this group is magical.’

Sandra Jenkins described it as ‘hard to put into words how thrilled we are with the award – it’s been a labour of love for us all.’

She added: ‘When our villages were demolished, we had to stand aside with no voice and no help; the anguish and grief we felt at the loss of not just a way of life but the scattering of our friends and neighbours all over Llanelli.

‘This award is for all the people who still feel the pain of such a loss. We have worked to keep alive the names and memories of the villages and the people who lived there. These truly were very special places and people – we were not rich, but we had each other.’