THE HIDDEN history of Cadoxton has been revealed – following a year-long project.

Valeways – a volunteer-led charity which introduces people to walking as a fun and social way to keep people fit and to understand the beauty and history of places within the Vale of Glamorgan – recently launched ‘the hidden history of Cadoxton’.

The charity worked with numerous volunteers and contributors over a year to create the project is focused on the history of Cadoxton in Barry and how it went from a small seaside village to one of the biggest coal exporters in the world.

Valeways, with a grant from the Heritage Fund of the National Lottery, developed a new walk showcasing the rich history of the area – this features many significant which portray how life was lived in the past.

They have now launched two videos – one in English, and one in Welsh – which feature the walk, revealing the history of the area.
Barry And District News: Audience at the launch

Project leader, Paul Hawkins said: “From the start, the project was hampered by coronavirus restrictions.

“However, Valeways volunteer Paul Ogden in conjunction with local historians Brian Luxton and Tom Clemett persevered and the walk was developed.

Barry And District News: Paul Ogden who narrates the English video at a memorial

“Once developed, others could get involved. Valeways volunteers trialled the walk and checked the leaflet directions and walk instructions.

“A Valeways walk and clear team and local residents’ cleared the footpaths of vegetation and rubbish.

“Mererid Velios, of Barry Making Waves, organised the design and translation of a children’s resource pack base on the walk leaflet text for distribution to all local primary schools.

“Valeways’ Rebecca Exley organised and helped to design a walk leaflet which was produced by Darren Witts of Treganna Design. Followed by Valeways volunteers Anne Davies and Cath Davies translating the leaflet into Welsh.”

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This done, the videos were filmed and produced with filmmaker Heledd Wyn Hardy; Paul Oden narrates the English version, while the Welsh one is narrated by Valeways’ chair Peter Weston.

Barry And District News: Peter Weston

Following weeks of editing and checking the project has been completed and launched.

The resource pack has been delivered to local schools, allowing pupils’ to learn about local history and heritage.

The videos are currently available on YouTube.

The English version s available here.

The Welsh version is available here.

Copies of the walk leaflet are available from Barry Library and the walk route is featured online at www.valeways.org.uk