The Guardian of the Valleys
Six Bells Disaster
[image: Guardian of the Valleys]
In the summer of 1960, the community of Six Bells near Abertillery, south Wales witnessed a disaster that would haunt them for the rest of their lives.
On June 28th an underground explosion at 'Arrael Griffin' colliery led to the deaths of 45 miners, all local men - fathers, sons, husbands, brothers.
Fifty years later, to the day, after tireless work by the community and local organisations, a steel sculpture by Sebastien Boyesen, over 60ft high, was dedicated to those who died.
The name of each man who perished is engraved on its plinth. It was not possible to attach the outstretched arms for the opening ceremony due to safety concerns, but the statue was complete by the 28th July.
Guardian of the Valleys
6Bells_450.f4vThis short film, by Alun Jones and Ian Smith, records the commemorative event and the dedication of the 'Guardian of the Valleys' who now stands proud, in memory of not just the Six Bells miners, but miners everywhere.
Article Date: 20 May 2011
2 comments
William John Jones on 16 July 2011, 14:37
Timely and most impressive.
As stated "in memory of not just the Six Bells miners, but miners everywhere"
Shan Llewellyn Jones on 7 June 2011, 10:01
I am the very prud granddaughter of a coal iner from Cynheidre colliery in PonIets . I now live in Sweden and am always amazed at the fortitude and bravery that Welshmen show in times like the SixBells disaster , you all make me so proud of my hertiage . Am returning "home" in three days ,I wish all you Guardians of our heritage the very best .Shan Llewellyn Jones harpist of the Gothenburg Opera , Sweden
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