A campaign has been launched in Llantrisant to erect a war memorial to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
With the support of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. the Llantrisant War Memorial Committee is currently working tirelessly to fundraise in an effort to reach their target.
Llantrisant, the oldest community in Rhondda Cynon Taf, began its life as an early Celtic settlement but was later conquered by the Norman lords. Fortified in the 13th century, Llantrisant has witnessed a long-standing military history and its brave sons, known for their expertise with the longbow, fought at the Battle of Crecy in 1346.
Centuries later and the community has decided that the time is long overdue for a War Memorial to be unveiled in the old town itself to commemorate all those local people who fell during either of the two world wars and the subsequent conflicts since then.
Launched by ward member Cllr Glynne Holmes, the Llantrisant War Memorial Committee features members of the Llantrisant Town Trust, Community Council and residents but more volunteers are needed to come forward and support the campaign.
The campaign was launched with a sell-out concert in the town’s workingmen’s club featuring Llantrisant Male Choir and the Melingriffith (Cardiff City) Brass Band.
Present at the evening was the Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf Cllr Robert Smith and also Leader of the Council Cllr Russell Roberts who accepted the position of President of the War Memorial Committee.
With the support of local researchers, the committee is currently exploring the list of names of those residents from Llantrisant, Cross Inn, Penygawsi and Talbot Green that will be featured on the monument.
An estimated £25,000 to £30,000 is required to erect the War Memorial.
Ward member Cllr Glynne Holmes explained: “Llantrisant has a very proud military history which spans almost a millennium and yet it astounds me that we do not have a War Memorial in the old town to commemorate those brave souls that lost their lives in conflict.
“With the excellent support of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council we feel assured that we can reach our goal by raising sufficient funds to erect a Memorial of which we can all be justifiably proud as it pays tribute to those men and women who died for our freedom.”
If you would like to volunteer for the committee, or can assist with any fundraising, then contact Cllr Glynne Holmes on 01443 225678.
