Treherbert Territories Issue 1 (final version)

treherbert territories issue 1

Credits Lead Designer Ella Dangmann Page Designer Megan Mercer Graphic Designer Anne- Marie Howick Illustrator Yik Tay Teng Editors Tanya Khanna Hasti Bhayani Suvithraa Paramasivarasa Reporters Megan Mercer Anne-Marie Howick Ella Dangmann Yik Tay Teng William Gale Trystan Jones Yiheng Fu Suvithraa Paramasivarasa Tanya Khanna Ayse Lord Hasti Bhayani Video Editor Yiheng Fu Games Composers Megan Mercer William Gale Social Media Exectives Trystan Jones Will Gale Reviews composer Ayse Lord

Cover Art By Tay Yik Teng and Anne-Marie Howick

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Contributors

Pictured from left to right: Tanya Khanna, Megan Mercer, Trystan Jones, Tay Yik Teng, Ayse Lord, Suvithraa Paramasivarasa, Will Gale, Ella Dangmann, Anne-Marie Howick, Hasti Bhayani. Not pictured: Fu Yiheng. By Andromeda Thomas

Who are we?

We are eleven students from the Welsh School of Architecture at Cardiff University. This magazine is a product of our experiences on our field trip to Treherbert that took place between Sunday, 31st October, to Wednesday, 3rd November. In this magazine, we have tried to express the various impressions we had on our field trip.

Our goal with this magazine is to reflect on our experiences, collect the knowledge we gained during our visit to Treherbert and share it with its people. With this magazine we want to express our sincere gratitude to the community, people of Treherbert and Welcome To Our Woods. Especially to those who gave us their time and knowledge, those who inspired us, taught us about the area and its history and included us in their many activities. The content in this magazine is produced as a way for us to process our various experiences and impressions that were made on us during our trip.

The magazine has been divided into three themes: History, Landscape and Community. We hope you enjoy the read!

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Contents HISTORY DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TIME HISTORY OF MINING IN TREHERBERT FRAGMENTS FROM LOCAL HISTORY THE STORY OF THE HORSES

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LANDSCAPE INTERNATIONAL & LOCAL NEWS NEWS HEADLINES DURING OUR FIELD TRIP WEATHER OUTLOOK TREES OF TREHERBERT TALKING TREES MINDFULNESS COLOURING IN COLOUR BY NUMBERS THE STORY OF PEN PYCH JUNO’S JOURNEY WORD SEARCH THE ARMS OF THE WOODS THE MOTHER OF THE WOODLANDS A PLACE OF HAVEN

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COMMUNITY TREHERBERT THROUGH THE EYES OF BRUCE AND NELL HOW TO MANAGE AN ALLOTMENT COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: WHAT’S ON? MARIANNE: MY MEMORY OF TREHERBERT REVIEW OF DUNRAVEN HOTEL JOURNEY FROM LIBRARY TO THE BREWERY SITE LOCAL LEGENDS NEXT ISSUE

40 42 44 46 47 48 52 54

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HISTORY Treherbert’s landscape and its people have been shaped by their rich past. Throughout history there have been dramatic changes in both the landscape and their people. These changes still have a noticeable impact on the community and their surroundings today. In this part of the magazine we recount some of the stories we have been told and how the town came to be the one we know today.

A photograph postcard showing a view of Treherbert, with Bute Merthyr Colliery in the foreground By National Museum Wales Bush, E. 1995. General View, Treherbert (postcard) Available at: https://museum.wales/collections/ online/object/d97de798-1c8f-3755-8ad1-c3ad526d81ed/General-view-Treherbert-postcard/?field0=agent_ uuid&value0=05b06853-a010-303f-9dcc-6af86b909318&index=5 [Accessed: 6 December 2021].

DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TIME

By Ayse Lord

Development through time

1880s 1900s 1920s 1940s 1960s 1980s

1912

1920

1930 The growth of urban development of Treherbert increased over years.

1960

1979

In 1841, the population was only 218 people, which had risen to 1203 by 1861. The development of coal mining in 1924 lead the population of the valleys to peake over 167,900 inhabitants. Now it stands just under 6000 people.

Photos reproduced by kind permission from Rhondda Cynon Taf Library References: Flynn, J. 2016. 27 brilliant pictures that will remind you how the Rhondda used to be. WalesOnline. Available at: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/ nostalgia/27-brilliant-pictures-remind-you-11190021 [Accessed: 18 November 2021].

Wikipedia. 2021. Treherbert - Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treherbert [Accessed: 6 December 2021].

Lord, A. 2021. Treherbert. Available at: https://digimap.edina.ac.uk/roam/map/historic [Accessed: 6 December 2021].

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HISTORY OF MINING IN TREHERBERT

By Ayse Lord

History of Mining In Treherbert Timeline of Rhondda, Story of Coal (1800-1986)

1800-1810: People were widely dispersed and very destitute.

(Benjamin Health Malkin,1803)

1836: A harsh and hilly place where the stillness is austere and unbroken (Thomas Roscoe, 1836)

1840: The initial method of working coal was to dig directly into the coal seams that outcropped on the sides of hills.

These levels relied on natural ventilation, and when working conditions got too tough, they were swiftly evacuated and other levels were created.

The development of Rhondda was largely based on one occurrence: the excavation of the first steamcoal pit in Treherbert in 1855. The digging of a tunnel started in 1850, but progression was excruciatingly slow because of the shortcomings of the Rhondda’s transit infrastructure in the 1840s. All the materials had to be transported by horse making the process slow. The Upper four feet seam of steam coal was discovered in April 1853 at a depth of 125 yards, and production began in 1855. (Treherbert,2021)

1880-1890: Rhondda, a peaceful rural area with a population of 1998 people, was changed.

In 1851, it was one of the world’s fastest expanding population centres, with a population of 152781 people in 1911.

(D. Egan,1987)

1908: Year after year, the noise of steam engines, the whir of equipment, the grating noise of coal screens, and hammering has reshaped the entire length of the valley. A unusual combination of industrial wealth and a big population has resulted.

(A.Morris,1908)

The use of the name, Treherbert, was recorded for the first time in the Parish records in January of that year.

Treherbert’s name is the combination of tre from the welsh word, tref, 8

1932: The final grain of coal was raised.

(town) of Herbert, the surname of the Earls of Pembroke who resided in Treherbert. (Treherbert, 2021) Main mines of Treherbert Abergorky colliery, a minor level appeared here in the early 1800s, but it wasn’t until the Bute pit was drilled and an inflow of coal speculators arrived in the upper Rhondda that this mine was developed and fully exploited. Bute Merthyr Colliery, W.S. Clark decided to supervise production directly on behalf of the Bute Estate in 1862, and output surged significantly. By 1869, production had nearly doubled, and the pit had been enlarged.

After nationalisation, the national coal board did not operate the colliery, but it was maintained operating as a pumping station for a brief period.

The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive, ‘Coal mining at the seam face’ [online] . Available at: shorturl.at/efDR9 [Accessed 22 November 2021].

1932: Many businesses went bankrupt in 1932, and it caused many people to lose their jobs.

Lady Margaret Colliery was one of Upper Rhondda’s first pits. The newly enlarged Taff Vale Railway and colliery sidings served it. Lady Margaret was solely used for pumping and ventilation before it was nationalised in 1947. (Phillips,1994).

Rhondda Cynon Taf Libraries, ‘Glen Rhondda Colliery circa 1963’ [online] Available at: http://webapps.rctcbc.gov.uk/heritagetrail/english/rhondda/treherbert.html [accessed 21 November 2021].

References: Blake, S. (n.d.). Land // Recolonising the post industrial landscape by Saskia Blake - Issuu. Available at: https://issuu.com/saskiablake/docs/170816_program_saskia_blake__3af7539133b1e5 [Accessed: 22 November 2021].

Davies, J. 2007. A history of Wales. London: Penguin.

Phillips, D. 1994. Rhondda : the story of a coal community to 1914. Porth: Mid-Glamorgan County Council.

Webapps.rctcbc.gov.uk. 2021. Treherbert. Available at: http://webapps.rctcbc.gov.uk/heritagetrail/ english/rhondda/treherbert.html [Accessed 6 December 2021].

FRAGMENTS FROM LOCAL HISTORY

By Ella Dangmann

Fragments from Local History

Three short stories from locals’ memories throughout the Rhondda valley and various times in history.

This is the stone that was placed at the entrance to the Rhondda Tunnel to commemorate its opening. The Rhondda Tunnel Society started searching for a suitable place for the key stone to be relocated from the train station closer to the tunnel entrance. There was lots of engagement with the community that created support for the reopening of the tunnel.

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he Rhondda tunnel was built in July 1890 and all of a sudden with one train line Blaencwm, in the Rhondda Valley, and Blaengwynfi, in the Afan Valley, were connected. Initially separated by the Bwlch mountain, the tunnel provided a 3443 yards (3,15 km), route straight through the mountain. When it was built the tunnel was the seventh longest railway tunnel in Britain. (Destination partnerships of Rhondda Cynon Taf, 2021) At the beginning the tunnel was used for coal transportation, to provide an easier way to transport coal to the port of Swansea and provided an alternative to the Taff Vale Railway that ran to Cardiff Docks. (Destination partnerships of Rhondda Cynon Taf, 2021) When I mentioned the tunnels to the locals I got a few different responses from the people I spoke to. One person recalled summer vacations to the beach in Swansea by train. The train rode through the tunnel on the way there and when people left their windows open, and the carriage would be filled

with wind. Another remembered a story about a relative that would walk home through the tunnels after a night out, with the path lit up only by the flame of a candle. Since the light from the candle only lit up a few feet in front of them, they would become confused and would end up getting turned around, only for them to walk back out the same way they came in. At the end of the night they would finally come back out the right side of the tunnel only to be covered in candle wax.

The tunnel closed in the 1960’s, a victim of Dr. Richard Beeching’s rationalisation of the railways. (Destination partnerships of Rhondda Cynon Taf, 2021) The tunnel that had previously connected so many was now cut off from the other side. The closure meant relationships between families and friends were suddenly much harder to maintain because the physical distance seemingly grew much greater overnight.

Today the tunnel has been closed for 60 years, but through the enthusiasm people have shown for its reopening there is a hope for the disused tunnel to be opened again. The Rhondda Tunnel Society has members from all over the world. Their main goals are to reopen the tunnel, in its entirety, for cycling and walking as well as to reconnect the Rhondda and Afan Valleys. (Rhondda Tunnel Society, 2021)

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pon emerging from Treherbert park and crossing the bridge, our group entered the alley behind the houses facing Dunraven Street. Before the

right turn that brings you back onto the street there’s a ruined stone building. Some of us had stopped to take pictures of the front wall when we started discussing what this building might have been used for before it fell to ruins. The blank poster board on the left side of the wall was of no use, and left most of us more confused than before we saw it.

From across the street an older gentleman acknowledged our confused faces with a smile. He asked us if we wanted to know what the ruins were from, to which we eagerly agreed. He started to tell us about the ruins and how they had once been used as the Treherbert Home Guard’s base during the war.

When the alarms went off the Home Guard would make sure everyone was following the blackout order. The blackout was an order to turn off all lights that might make it easy for enemy air crafts to target urban areas in the dark. We are not entirely sure what put this building into such a state of disrepair, perhaps from abandonment or purposeful neglect, but now it stands as a constant reminder of the efforts made by brave locals during such dire times.

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n a walk along the paths around the Glyncornel nature reserve with the Social Strollers, I started a lovely conversation with an elderly lady about her life. While entering the nature reserve through the kissing gate she pointed at a building along the mountain ridge on the other side of the valley. She then began telling me the story of how the building 9

case of smallpox in the Rhondda Valley had been isolated was destroyed when the outbreak was under control. Fire consumed any remaining traces of the virus which had plagued Wales in the spring of 1962. All that remained on the site were the walls around the edges of the property. Now there’s a house built on the site, however the location still reminds many of its past.

(Stewart, 2012) With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing it is difficult to not see the similarities between these two healthcare crises. The two past years of the pandemic have brought With time the Home Guards’ location changed and moved further down the Rhondda River. The building was left and fell into disrepair over time, now only a ruined stone building back forgotten childhood memories to any outsiders. for many.

“If you look across the skyline, along the other side of the valley, you can see where the hospital used to be.” that originally stood in its place was an old isolation hospital for people who had contracted smallpox, but it has since burned down. The hospital she was referring to was Penrhys Isolation Hospital.

In 1962 there was an outbreak of smallpox, which affected everyone in the valley. During the crisis, 12 patients were isolated there as doctors fought to control the outbreak.

When there was news of a confirmed positive case of smallpox, panic spread. At this point in time

there were very few who knew how to combat smallpox.

Several people I spoke to remember their parents taking them somewhere to get vaccinated. At that time the vaccine for smallpox often left scars, so the memories of these scary times are still present to many in a physical way. They also remember being told not to go places where the virus had been contracted, missing days of school because of vaccination side effects and cancelled plans due to isolation. The hospital where the first

References: Sign outside Treherbert train station, published

by Destination partnerships of Rhondda Cynon Taf. 2021.

Rhondda Tunnel Society. 2021. Rhondda Tunnel Society, Available at: https://www.rhonddatunnelsociety.co.uk/ [Accessed: 15 November 2021].

James Stewart (2012) Storyline – outbreak in Wales. Available at: https://smallpox1962.wordpress.com/storyline-the-outbreak-in-wales/ [Accessed: 15 November 2021].

A local lady points at the former location of the Penrhys Isolation Hospital.

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THE STORY OF THE HORSES

By Ayse Lord

The Story of the Horses

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n the past, before Treherbert was developed, there was no railway connection, and the public roads consisted primarily of rough tracks and several bridle routes. The areas industrial development was inextricably related to the development of transportation links in the area. This development ended its rural isolation and transformed Treherbert into a centre of industrial activity.

The majority of early road traffic was comprised of hansom cabs, brakes, and waggonettes. Horses transported all equipment, and horses were the primary mode of transportation in Treherbert.

There were dedicated stable spaces to leave horses around Treherbert. For instance, there was a 3 meter space next to the local pub which is now an office but back in the day, it used to be a space for people to leave their horses while they went to the pub. These mini stables are now shops as depicted in the illustrations.

Now

However, in the 1860s, two horsedrawn omnibus services were established between Treorchy and Treherbert. The route was expanded in the 1870s to include three daily trips between Treherbert and Ystrad. The Rhondda Tramways Company was founded in April 1906, and the first electric tramcar arrived in Treherbert in 1908. In the 1930s, trams were replaced with buses, and the first bus operated from Treherbert to Cardiff in 1931. Thus, in less than eighty years, the Upper Rhondda had been transformed from a peaceful, secluded parish that had remained mostly unchanged for hundreds of years to a thriving industrial town with connections to the rest of South Wales.

Webapps.rctcbc.gov.uk. 2021. Treherbert.

Available at: http://webapps.rctcbc.gov. uk/heritagetrail/english/rhondda/treherbert.html [Accessed: 6 December 2021].

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LANDSCAPE The Rhondda Valley is rich, beautiful and enticing landscapes that fill the view from every angle.

Winding paths allow for exciting adventures of plenty, for both locals and tourists. They can take you up the tallest of peaks and along the most rapid rivers. Treherbert is no exception to this.

This section will highlight some of our favourite aspects through a variety of medias.

Waterfall on the way up Pen Pych

INTERNATIONAL & LOCAL NEWS

By Yiheng Fu

Treherbert, supporting COP26

Enhance the worldwide vision from local to the world

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or people residing outside the UK, Treherbert is not a place that sounds familiar. But with the local action, Treherbert’s community is taking many steps towards sustainable living. It is on its way to making itself known as a notable place in the world as a sustainable community.

Treherbert’s community promotes the use of local resources through the community hydro project as well as sustainable food management through their allotments. The local communities are also committed to making sure Treherbert is connecting with people globally.

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ecently, the UK, and the whole world, have set their focus on Glasgow for the UNFCCC COP26 (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change: Conference of the Parties). The host city of the important world climate conference, Glasgow in Scotland, is one of the most sustainable cities in the UK. The local organization in Treherbert had also visited Glasgow to gain knowledge and experience in order to protect and develop Treherbert in a sustainable and efficient way. Treherbert is located in a valley, enclosed with mountain forests on both sides of the town. The forests and woodlands are important and full of precious resources for Treherbert.

At early stages of the COP26 conference, world leaders made promises to end deforestation by 2030.

It is worrying to see that the size of world’s forests are still decreasing as visible in the past decades as shown in the chart above. It is horrifying that every year there is a woodland about nine times the size of Wales lost in the world. To protect these forests, countries signed for a pledge of almost fourteen billion GBP which combines both public and private funds to support developing coun

ties such as that of Treherbert. Early in February, the Welsh Government claimed to become the world’s first deforestation free country.

The Welsh Government was taking a step to make Wales a leading country in tackling global climate change.

This would later be included in the NDC (National Determined Contribution) of the UK during COP26.

Geographically, Treherbert is in the Welsh territory, so the aim set by the Welsh Government to protect forests also applies to the forestry in and around Treherbert.

Steffan Messenger, ‘Community Hydro Project in Treherbert’ [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ukwales-43073001. [Accessed 13 December 2021].

tries to restore damaged land, tackle wildfires and support indigenous communities. The countries which agreed with this pledge, some being, Canada, Brazil, Russia, China, Indonesia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the US and the UK, contain over 85% of the world’s forests. The hope is that this pledge helps to protect and cultivate forestry in communi-

Wales has a governing body which sets a lot of rules and regulations that are separate from the UK Government. They have a lot of good ideas to implement and actions they are planning to take to generate more eco-friendly and sustainable communities in Wales. If the UK government and the Welsh government were to discuss the aims the Welsh government has set out to become the world’s first deforestation free country, perhaps more communities all over the UK would grow together towards a sustainable future.

Table by BBC News from Georgina Rannard & Francesca Gillett 13

By Fu Yiheng

Climate Change: Wales as a Leading Country New schools in Wales must be net zero from 2022

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ewly established schools and university buildings in Wales will have to meet net zero targets commencing January 2022.

The new Welsh Government rules demand a 20% decrease of carbon emission from construction and material processing. This means that the future construction of any new buildings in Wales must consider and apply this rule. Treherbert is no exception; new building designs should take energy efficiency into consideration and reduce as many greenhouse gases as possible. The community’s efforts are already working towards these goals. They have been weighing options for prospective ways to use their local resources to benefit the environment and build in the most locally, sustainable ways possible. A lot of the projects being discussed in Treherbert at the moment are already looking into renewable energy sources such as the hydro pump, wind and solar energy, etc. New built schools are not the only ones that need to focus on reducing carbon emissions. The reports say old school and university buildings should also improve energy efficiency and restore damages caused by climate change in Wales (BBC, 2021).

Assistant site manager Dafydd Williams says everything is geared toward achieving net zero (Lewis, 2021).

The head deputy teacher Frances Williams feels confident and satisfied with the new build facilities subjecting to the new net zero rules of Wales (Lewis, 2021).

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lthough this is a great initiative, there are some feeling not confident about this uncompromising rule. Over a thousand people expressed their negative attitudes towards the first net zero school construction plan. It will be important for architects, constructors and local managers to consider how to convince and pacify those opponents.

Reference: Lewis, B. 2021. Climate change: New schools in Wales must be net zero from 2022. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59123571 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

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Construction of Llancarfan Primary School, in Vale of Glamorgan. This is the first school subjected to the new rules (Lewis, 2021).

NEWS HEADLINES DURING OUR FIELD TRIP

By Fu Yiheng

International Headlines:

during our field trip to Treherbert

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hina’s president, Xi Jing Ping, is to address Glasgow COP26 in written statement on Monday.

His statement will be uploaded to the official conference website following addresses by world leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and President Emmanuel Macron of France. However, Xi, who has not left

China since the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020, had not been expected to attend the conference in person. (Reuters, 2021)

REUTERS/Thomas Peter, 2021

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OP26: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030.

More than a hundred leaders from all around the world have signed the climate summit’s first major deal on deforestation. Brazil, were stretches of the Amazon have been cut down, were among the signatories on Tuesday. The deal includes almost £14bn ($19.2bn) of public and private funds. The countries who have signed

the pledge - including Canada, Brazil, Russia, China, Indonesia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the US and the UK - cover around 85% of the world’s forests.

Some of the funding will go to developing countries to restore damaged land, tackle wildfires and support indigenous communities. (Rannard and Gillett, 2021)

C Natalie Behring / Bloomberg via Getty Images

References: BBC. 2021. COP26: Wheelchair-using minister unable to attend summit [Accessed: 23 November 2021]. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ world-59128618 Wells, I and Raikes, N. 2021. Plastics in wet wipes should be banned, says Labour MP. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-politics-59128718 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

BBC. 2021. COP26: Police close road as protesters march near M8. Available at : https://www. bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-59133920 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Lewis, B. 2021. Climate change: New schools in Wales must be net zero from 2022. Available at:

Getty Images, BBC, 2021

hina at COP26: Beijing’s coal addiction is key to climate summit. China is a country of epic contradictions. It is home to the world’s largest solar farm with four million panels set up high on the Tibetan plateau, an area large enough to cover Manhattan. However, 600 miles east, in Mongolia, smokestacks from the Tuoketuo power plant stand tall. It is known to be the world’s largest coal-driven power station.

This type of energy use is one of the biggest source of pollution there is (Smith, 2021). It’s interesting to see how China attempts to combat its pollution production through various techniques of renewable energy generation. Only time will tell if these methods help maintain or hopefully better its green agenda.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59123571 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

COP26 in written statement on Monday Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/chinasxi-ad dress-glasgow-cop26-written-statementmonday-2021-11-01/ [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Seabrook, A. 2021. Huge Cop26 march through Cardiff planned on Saturday demanding climate action Available at: https://www.walesonline. co.uk/news/local-news/huge -cop26-marchthrough-cardiff-22033229 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Rannard, G., Gillett, F. 2021. COP26: World leaders promise to end deforestation by 2030, Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-59088498 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Smith, A. 2021. China at COP26: Beijing’s coal addiction is key to climate summit. Available at: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/chinacop26-beijings-coal-addiction-key-climate-summit-rcna3277 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Reuters. 2021. China’s Xi to address Glasgow 15

By Fu Yiheng

National Headlines during our field trip to Treherbert

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srael’s energy minister couldn’t enter COP26 because of wheelchair inaccessibility. Karine Elharrar tweeted that it was “sad” the UN “does not provide accessibility to its events”.

Elharrar appeared to blame the Israeli delegation as well as the event organizers, telling BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “What would normally happen in this situation is that Israel would have communicated that they had that particular need for their minister.” (BBC, 2021)

“Plastics in wet wipes should be banned” says Labour MP

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P Fleur Anderson discusses why she is proposing a ban of wet wipes that contain plastic. (Wells, I and Raikes, N. 2021) COP26: Protests continue on day two

of Glasgow climate summit. More protests across Scotland’s two biggest cities have marked the second full day of the COP26 climate summit.

(BBC, 2021).

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limate change: New schools in Wales must be net zero from 2022. New school and college buildings in Wales will have to meet net zero targets from January (Lewis, 2021).

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t is known that almost 90% wet wipe products contain plastics. These are not bio-degradable and thus the microplastics in these one time use products never break down. They stay in our local marine and land envrionments for a very long time, affecting all types of habitats. When there are many bio-degradable options at the same cost, there is no need for our communities to be holding on to the plastic filled prodcut.

H WalesOnline, 2021.

References: BBC. 2021. COP26: Wheelchair-using minister unable to attend summit [Accessed: 23 November 2021]. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ world-59128618 Lewis, B. 2021. Climate change: New schools in Wales must be net zero from 2022. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59123571 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Seabrook, A. 2021. Huge Cop26 march through Cardiff planned on Saturday demanding climate action Available at: https://www.walesonline. co.uk/news/local-news/huge-cop26-march16

REUTERS, 2021

BBC, 2021

uge COP26 march through Cardiff planned on Saturday demanding climate action. A huge march through the centre of Cardiff is planned on Saturday demanding action on the climate crisis. ens of thousands in Cardiff, Glasgow, London, as well as 14 other UK cities, are expecting a march through the city on November 6th demanding “just and fair solutions” to the climate crisis to be adressed at the United Nation climate talks in Glasgow (Sea-

brook, 2021). In today’s day and age of social media, the younger generation has a voice. They are using it to bring attention to issues that must be addressed and taken action on.

Although it is up to governments and local authority figures to implement those actions, the mere action of raising voices allows for quicker responses.

through-cardiff-22033229 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Smith, A. 2021. China at COP26: Beijing’s coal addiction is key to climate summit. Available at: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/chinacop26-beijings-coal-addiction-key-climate-summit-rcna3277 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Rannard, G., Gillett, F. 2021. COP26: World leaders promise to end deforestation by 2030, Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/ science-environment-59088498 [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Reuters. 2021. China’s Xi to address Glasgow COP26 in written statement on Monday Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/chinas-xi-ad dress-glasgow-cop26-written-statement-monday-2021-11-01/ [Accessed: 23 November 2021].

Hansard.parliament.uk. 2021. Plastics (Wet Wipes) - Hansard - UK Parliament. [online] Available at: <https://hansard.parliament.uk/ commons/2021-11-02/debates/BEAFBF8A-359348B7-8C14-B5A35B19C4F2/Plastics(WetWipes)> [Accessed 13 December 2021].

FEELING LONELY? FACING PROBLEMS? TRYING TO FIND PEACE?

COME AND JOIN THE WOODLAND THERAPY SESSIONS EVERY WEDNESDAY MEET US IN THE LIBRARY

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By Will Gale

Weather Outlook Treherbert Valley

(https://digimap.edina.ac.uk, 2021) 18

By Will Gale

Treherbert Valley Weather Patterns

(2D Sun-Path, 2021) 19 19

By Will Gale

Long Range Weather Outlook Throughout the remainder of this

month and through december, the weather is likely to remain unusually calm with westerly and northerly air flows becoming predominant. This will lead to the most changeable conditions in the north of the UK. While South Wales and England are more likely to have periods of high pressure leading to calmer frosty conditions with morning fog likely. Particularly in the valley regions that will take a long time to lift in the mornings due to the colder temperatures.

In the very long term, this is likely to increase the frequency of extreme weather events leading higher risk of flooding and severe snow. Both of these have potential to affect the Rhondda valley and this is something that we should all be aware of planning for the future.

Mostly Sun

WEDNESDAY Mostly clouds with some sun

THURSDAY References: Andrewmarsh.com. 2021. 2D Sun-Path. Available at: http://andrewmarsh.com/apps/releases/sunpath2d.html [Accessed: 22 November 2021].

Weatherspark 2021. Available at: https://weatherspark.com/y/37757/Average-Weather-in-Treherbert-United-Kingdom-Year-Round [Accessed: 12 November 2021].

This year, a weak La Niña effect will be in place. The La Niña Effect is a weather pattern in the Eastern Pacific where stronger than normal trade winds blow warm water west. This causes the tropical East Pacific to cool down and disrupts weather patterns across the world.

MONDAY Mostly Sunny with evening rain

TUESDAY

Global weather patterns will also be affecting the weather outlook for the rest of winter in the south.

La Niña Effect

The Weather during the week of our Field Trip

Met Office. 2021. Treherbert (Rhondda Cynon Taf) weather. Available at: https://www. metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gcjmzx14r#?nearestTo=Treherbert%20(Rhondda%2CCynon%2CTaff )&date=2021-11-18 [Accessed: 22 November 2021].

Accuweather. 2021. Available at: (2021)/en/winter-weather/accuweathers-2021-2022-europe-winter-forecast/1032617 [Accessed: 22 November 2021].

Official blog of the Met Office news team. 2021.

Colder than average conditions for the start of winter?. Available at: https://blog.metoffice.gov.

uk/2021/10/21/colder-than-average-conditionsfor-the-start-of-winter/ [Accessed: 22 November 2021].

Mostly Sun

FRIDAY Mostly Cloudy

SATURDAY Mostly cloudy with evening rain

SUNDAY Mostly clouds with some sun

November: An unusual month for the Rhondda Valley.

This month has set itself apart from the normal trend seen during autumn for this part of the world. A time where the relatively dry and warm spells of summer are replaced with winter storm systems passing by bringing heavy rains and wind with them. November is typically the wettest month of the year on average with 44% of days having some form of precipitation. However, this trend of increasingly unpredictable weather is a reflection of the wider change in our climate.

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Percipitation Graph for Treherbert

TREES OF TREHERBERT

By Tanya Khanna

Trees of Treherbert

O

ur walks in the woodlands of Treherbert allowed us to discover and explore the various species of trees in the landscape.

On our walk with Chris, we learned how to differentiate between native woodlands and a plantation.

A native woodland is sometimes self-seeded, contains broadleaf trees of variousspecies and is visually quite diverse. Meanwhile, the conifer plantations are filled with non-native needled trees, They visually juxtapose the broadleaf trees; are much darker and look similar to one another.

The Conifers

FIR

Douglas Fir is native to western North America Pacific Fir (60m) Douglas Fir (55m) and used for softwood timber construction.

Noble Fir (45m) Pacific Fir is native to northwestern North America. It’s used as a softwood and as an ornamental tree. The tree has an attractive smell so sometimes it’s used for christmas decorations as well as paper making.

Noble Fir is native to northwest California, Oregon, and Washington. It’s also used as a christmas tree and for paper making.

Conifer

55m

Fir Needles 1m Broadleaf

6m

WESTERN HEMLOCK

B

45m

2.7m

Hemlock Needles

roadleafs and conifers are easily distinguished by their leaves. Broadleafs have flat leaves which usually shed in the winter, and conifers have needle-shaped leaves. They are cone-bearing and are evergreen meaning that they don’t shed their leaves in the winter. It was noticable in Treherbert’s plantation area that the conifer trees didn’t have enough space to grow their branches outward due to them planted close to one another.

Western Hemlock is native to northwest America. It’s known to travel to Britain in 1852. The wood’s usage is mainly for construction, roofing, box-making and paper making. It’s known to hold nails very well. Very few species can live in the trees as its very dark. The tree produces an important herb for women according to Native Americans.

9m

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Scots Pine is native to western Europe, eastern Siberia and the Caucasus Mountains. They’re always placed closer to the forest limits. Its use is mainly as a christmas tree and for hardwood construction.

PINE

Pine Needles Scots Pine (35m) Macedonian Pine (35-40m) Lodgepole Pine (40-50m)

Macedonian Pine is native to Macedonia, Bulgaria and Albania. The wood is durable and highly valuable in construction; especially for furniture and carvings.

12m

Lodgepole Pine is native to western North America. It requires wildfires to maintain a healthy population of diverse ages. The heat opens its cones and releases more seeds allowing for regeneration.

40m

1.7m

LARCH

Corsican Pine is native to south Mediterranean Europe.

It’s softer and not as strong for hardwood use because it grows quite fast. The use for the wood revolved around fuel, paper making, and general construction needs.

Japanese Larch grows in deep, well-drained soil.

It’s an important tree for forestry plantations as the wood is tough and durable. Smaller Japanese larch trees are used for fencing while bigger ones, for construction. It’s also an ornamental tree. In 2009, sudden oak death disease found in Japanese larch trees meant most of them being infected as the genetic code of the different types of larch trees is quite similar. At the moment, UK Larch trees are still infected.

Larch Needles

Japanese Larch (30m) Hybrid Larch (40m)

7.6m

30m

1.3m

SITKA SPRUCE

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6m Spruce Needles

1.5m 40m

Sitka Spruce is native to the west coast of North America and is named after Sitka, Alaska. An introduction to the UK in 1831 leads to it being a popular tree since. The tree drives out endangered wildlife which isn’t ideal however the wood is light, soft, strong and flexible, and has excellent acoustic properties. The uses include construction, ship building, and plywood.

Hybrid Larch exists due to an accidental cross-pollination of Japanese and European larch.

It survives under poor conditions which meants its good for timber production. It changes color every season which allows forests to balance plantations with visitor friendliness.

The Broadleafs

BEECH

Rauli Beech (50m) Beech (40m)

Beech is an unusual tree to be found in the UK although its native to the southeast of England. Sometimes, it has an unusual bark.

The beech trees provide food and shelter to a lot of species such as butterflies, fungi, mosses, lichens and seeds which feed voles, mice, squirrels and birds.

Beech Leaves

12m

40m

2m

SESSILE OAK

MOUNTAIN ASH

4m

Sessile Oak Leaves

Ash Leaves

4.5m

0.8m

20m

Mountain Ash is native to the cool areas in the northern hemisphere. They’re small ornamental trees with dense wood which is used for carving, tool handles and walking sticks. It is a strong, stable timber which produces durable wood flooring. In Finland, it’s the traditional wood used for horse seld shafts. The tree atrracts fruit-eating birds and makes for good firewood. It’s also called the traveler’s tree because it prevents people from getting lost in the woods. Fun Fact: the tree was known to scare witches in the Victorian era. It’s still known to be the portal tree in the druidism religious movement; a threshold between this world and the other world.

1m

20m

Sessile Oak is the national tree of Ireland and native to most of Europe’s hilly areas. It supports wildlife more than any other native trees; up to 257 species of insects which are food sources for birds and other predators in the surrounding areas. The timber is very durable howeer it takes 150 years before an oak tree is ready to use in construction. The uses include flooring, wine barrels and firewood. The leaves, bark, acorns were believed to heal many medical ailments such as inflammation and kidney stones. The acorns are used to make break flour and tannin collected from the bark is used to tan leather.

Rauli Beech is a deciduous tree which grows in Chile and Argentina and is able to tolerate low temperatures and heavy winds.

The bark is gray and the wood is fit for furniture making, wine barrels, doors, veneers, shingles and flooring. It’s an ornamental tree in the UK and grows well in western Scotland because it gets the necessary rainfall there.

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ADLER

Italian Adler (25m) Red Adler (20-30m) Italian Adler is native to the southern Apennine mountains and the northeastern mountains of Corsica. It improves soil fertility through symbiotic nitrogen fixation and thrives in drier soils. It grows well even in unfavorable conditions thus it’s valuable for landscape planning for a difficult site such as mining spoil heaps which makes sense why it is found in valley towns such as Treherbert. Its uses are plywood, furniture panelling and town decoration.

Red Adler is native to western North America. The tallest red adler stands thirty-two meters in Oregon. The bark is ashy-gray, smooth, and Native Americans are known to use a dye extracted from it to dye fishing nets so they are less visible underwater, as well as treate poison oak, insect bites and skin irritations. The tree is able to fix nitrogen in the soil and its self-fertilizing trait allows for rapid growth. It doesn’t thrive in heavy, wet clay soils.

Alder timber isn’t durable for outdoor usage but does well for furniture as its softer than other hard woods. It’s become popular only becasue it is a cheaper option than other hardwoods.

5m

0.8m

25m 7.6m

GUM

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1.3m

Birch Leaves

0.4m 25m

Downy Birch (30m) Silver Birch (15-25m) Downy Birch is found throughout Europe and grows on damp soil, high elevations and provides food and shelter for more than 300 insect species.

It produces tough and heavy wood used for furnity, handles, toys and the bark is used to tan leather. Herbal medicine is made from the tree and people use the sap in drinks.

6m

Gum Leaves

35m

Shining Gum (70-90m) Cider Gum (35m) Cider Gum is native to Tasmania, and is one of the few evergreen broadleaf trees. It has a smooth bark and white flower buds in groups of three. It grows in woodlands, on slopes, and mountains 1100m above sea level. For a eucalyptus tree, it tolerates very cold climates. It’s a fast growing ornamental tree (1.5m/ year). The leaves are used for essential oils.

Shining Gum is native to Victoria and eastern New South Wales, Australia. It grows in wet forests and on fertile soil. It has a smooth white, gray or yellow bark with rough and flaky grayish bark near the base. The timber is used for general construction, and furniture. It’t not suited for dry, poor or alkaline soils. Climate change is predicted to increase the range of sitea suitable for this species.

BIRCH

Adler Leaves

Silver Birch is an ornamental tree which is also used for joinery timber, firewood, tanning, racecourse jumps and brooms. It provides perfect conditions for grass, moss and violets to grow. The birch symbolises renewal and purification in Celtic culture.

Woodlands vs Plantations By Tanya Khanna

References: Alder, A., 2021. Alnus cordata - Italian Alder. [online] Britishhardwood.co.uk. Available at: <https://www.britishhardwood.co.uk/alnus-cordata-italian-alder> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

American Conifer Society. 2021. Pinus peuce / Macedonian pine | Conifer Species | American Conifer Society. [online] Available at: <https://conifersociety.orgconifers/pinus-peuce/> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Arborday.org. 2021. Scots Pine Tree on the Tree Guide at arborday.org. [online] Available at: <https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeGuide/TreeDetail. cfm?ItemID=902> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Conifer and Broadleaf Leaf Illustrations by Tanya Khanna Conifers.org. 2021. Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir) description. [online] Available at: <https://www.conifers.org/pi/Pseudotsuga_menziesii.php> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

EU Science Hub - European Commission. 2021. Sessile Oak - EU Science Hub - European Commission. [online] Available at: <https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/ research-topic/forestry/qr-tree-project/sessile-oak> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Forest.jrc.ec.europa.eu. 2021. [online] Available at: <https://forest.jrc.ec.europa.eu/media/atlas/Larix_decidua.pdf> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Forestry and Land Scotland. 2021. [online] Available at: <https://forestryandland.gov.scot/learn/trees> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Forest Research. 2021. Shining gum - Forest Research. [online] Available at: <https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/tools-and-resources/tree-species-database/shining-gum/> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Nwconifers.com. 2021. Pacific Silver Fir. [online] Available at: <http://nwconifers.com/nwhi/silverfir.htm> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Tree Nursery UK. 2021. Red Alder tree (alnus rubra) - Tree Nursery UK Fast Uk Delivery. [online] Available at: <https://www.tree-shop.co.uk/product/ red-alder-tree-alnus-rubra-2/> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Trust, W., 2021. [online] Woodland Trust. Available at: <https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Windbreak Trees. 2021. Tree Information and Pictures [online] Available at: <https://www.windbreaktrees.com/ > [Accessed 19 November 2021].

Woodlands.co.uk. 2021. Corsican Pine or Black Pine.. [online] Available at: <https://www.woodlands.co.uk/blog/tree-identification/corsican-pine-orblack-pine/> [Accessed 19 November 2021].

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TALKING TREES

By Hasti Bhayani

Talking Trees: Showing the interdependance of trees

Top view of dense vegetation Interdependence of trees

Identifying the mother and young trees

Mother trees creating a micorrhizal network between trees

Process of Interdependance in trees

T

here is another world underground, a world of infinite biological pathways that connect trees and allows them to communicate. The forest can be considered as a single organism within which there are trees interdependant on each other.

The trees create a fungal network with each other called the micorrhizal network. The dark green nodes in the figures are considered to be the mother trees which nuture the younger ones. These mother trees acts as pathways for the transport of nutrients, water and carbon.

They also increase the resilience of the community by sending defense signals. The final image shows how the forests look without the mother tree. The removal of mother trees disrupts the balance of the forest and the growth of trees.

The mother trees are tall and recieve good amount of sunlight to produce sufficient amount of glucose sugar through photosynthesis. The fungi which lacks in sugar, absorbs the nutrients from the soil. The trees 26

Connection between trees

share the glucose with the fungi which in return gives back the nutrients from the soil. The mother tree shares the nutrients with the young plants in order to nurture them. It is visible in the figure 3 how this interconnection works.

The micorrhizal network helps in the faster growth of plants and trees and is clearly visible how trees communicate with each other.

A similar kind of network is seen in the woodlands of Treherbert.

All the trees are interconnected with each other through the roots.

Trees like firs, pines, Western Hemlock becomes mature at the age of 40-50, after which they try to nurture their younger ones and provide them with nutrients, carbon. Moreover, they send more carbon to the trees which are geneticaly related.

This is the reason why some of the trees are found in clusters.

Map of different trees found in Treherbert 27

MINDFULNESS COLOURING IN

By Megan Mercer

Colour in the plants below and find the locations on the map on the next page!

Can you identify the main difference between broadleaf and conifer leaves?

1

2

5

4

6

3

CONIFER: 1. Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) 2. Japanese Larch (Larix kaempferi) 3. Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) BROADLEAF: 4. Silver birch (Betula Pendula) 5. Sessile Oak (Quercus Petraea) 6. Red Alder (Alnus Rubra) 28

COLOUR BY NUMBERS

By Megan Mercer

Next time you go on a walk, try and spot the different leaves and identify which trees they belong to!

5

6 1

5

6

5 1

4

5 5 2 1

1 3 2

1

5 6

1

1

1 2 6

1

Conifer

2

Broadleaved

3

Ground prep

4

Young trees

5

Grassland/other

6

Felled

1:5000 @ A2

3

1 1

4

0m

50

100 150 200

6

250

500m

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THE STORY OF PEN PYCH

By Tay Yik Teng

The Story of Pen Pych A long time ago, a Celtic tribe occupied the top of Pen Pych, raising their famous prize bulls along with their cattle in the valley below. One day during the Roman expansions, the Romans demanded for the Celtic to hand over their land. When the Celts refused this proposition, the Romans demanded for their bulls as an alternative offering, something the Celts was largely enraged by. Rather than handing them over, they cut the heads off of their bulls and put them on stakes, tossing the bull’s bodies off of the mountain. Hence, the name Pen Pych which is derived from Pen yr pump Pych meaning the head of the five bulls.

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JUNO’S JOURNEY

By Anne-Marie Howick

31

32

33

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WORD SEARCH

By Will Gale

Word Search Treorchy Dunraven Library PenPych Ystrad Maerdy Bakery Rhondda Blaencwm Ynyswen

Education.com. 2021. Word Search Worksheet Generator | Education.com. Available at: https://www.education.com/worksheet-generator/reading/ word-search/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAkNiMBhCxARIsAIDDKNXqPeWUmW5ATPdyxBubuYjOXCoURfBW-8tA_NYRa9Yf_BOH8RN8x9caAqqnEALw_wcB [Accessed 20 November 2021].

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THE ARMS OF THE WOODS

By Suvithraa Paramasivarasa

The Arms of the Woods

They are watching me from afar, I can see them.

They knew I was coming.

There are so many of them, And one of me.

Tall, thick, and slender. they were not from here.

But this was their land, I was the outsider, Like a prey ready to be eaten I stood in front of them in fear.

‘Come, we will not hurt you’, With open arms they welcomed me.

Protected and secure, That is how I felt.

They were the kings, They had the power to protect me This was not my land.

This was theirs.

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THE MOTHER OF THE WOODLANDS

By Suvithraa Paramasivarasa

The Mother of the Woodlands

She was the mother of the woods she was everywhere she drifted in the morning at a dusk, she wasn’t afraid of the cold or the night frost she protected those who were were lost in her land.

She travelled with you as you walked besides her children.

She gave ‘ all’ to those in her time, she was the source of trees and beer. She caused natural disasters which inflicted fear.

She fell from high above you. below you and next to you she was the mother of the woodlands, the goddess of water And You were her visitor .

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A PLACE OF HAVEN

By Suvithraa Paramasivarasa

A Place of Haven The central space for community gathering

T

he destruction caused by the coal mines had a devastating impact on the community ownership of the woodlands. The woodlands evoked an unknown fear which prevented the community from entering the forest. The lack of community involvement lead to a lack of community ownership within the forest. Today, the current pandemic led more and more people to explore the woodlands - the central space for community gatherings.

By speaking to some of the faces of the community it was found that having the woodlands right at their doorstep provided them comfort.

They shared their experience of the woodlands underlining how the sound of the water, the rhythm of the light and the views towards the urban provided them a sense of tranquality that could only be exprencied in the woods. The woodlands, according to the community, was a safe place. So safe that some individual even went to as far as camping in the woods at night.

Hearing this, it was repeatedly questioned whether there were any threats at all in the woodlands. In which it was found that at certain points of the day the woods get very dark but there was no doubt that it was a safe place.

The people of Treherbert were not wrong, intrigued by their experience of the woodlands one ofthe members of Cardiff University walked through the woodlands herself.

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She described the experience to be mystical highlighting that the sense of smell evoked by the trees, the sound of the water and the different widths of the trees all created a mystical sensation.

A pure sensation that was lost in the urban realm of Treherbert.

markers of the logs, the ashes from the fire used for camping were all freshly present. There was a clear sign of ownership in these woodlands. Boundaries of territories were marked with objects such as stones.

It was clear which areas the people of Treherbert occupied and the spaces the nature occupied. The fascinating aspect about the woodlands was the amount of audible markers that were present.

Moving through the woodlands, she heard the sound of the birds, the sound of the water which made her feel as if she was the entering their territory.

Signs of Occupation

As she walked through the woodlands, up the steep valleys she saw the signs of occupation. The natural Key

Her positive reflection of the woodlands echoed the concept of the woodlands being a safe place.

A place of haven.

Temporal marker Heat Boundaries of fire Temporal of tree Fixed Marker

N

Temporal markers and Boundaries

1:200

Temporal markers and Boundaries

COMMUNITY We have been fortunate to visit Treherbert and take part in activities and conversations with the community there. This next part of the magazine is based on our interactions with the community.

Conversations after a mindfullness photography session

TREHERBERT THROUGH THE EYES OF BRUCE AND NELL

By Hasti Bhayani

Treherbert through the eyes of Bruce and Nell: talking about their life and experiences in the valleys

Collage showing the journey of Bruce and Nell

Bruce is a gardener by profession and Nell is a wood carvist in Treherbert. They have lived in Treherbert for seven years now.

Their reason for coming here was extra-ordinary but now they enjoy the vegetation, climate, community and the valleys. As Nell steps out her front door, she feels intimidated by the mountain and waterfall. Bruce experiences peace by walking in the woods everyday with his dog.

His dog is very enthusiastic about the stroll everyday. He does a long and a short walk accordingly.

The Pixie Bridge

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The couple loves to go to the Fairy Poles - Pixie Bridge which was depressing and dull back then but in the push now it is an attractive waterfall with a view. Nell admires the trees of the woodland, but feels unhappy about the falling of trees due to soft lands. Through wood carving, makes use of the wood.

She also creates an awareness among the community to engage more with the woodland and use more of sustainable and handmade materials.

She mostly uses hardwood like oak to carve spoons, knifes and jewellery.

According to Bruce and Nell, Treherbert has less activities to engage in. There are a very few restaurants and places to go out.

They feel the woodland should have more activities for adults and especially for the kids, to make them excited about the trees.

Bruce feels that Treherbert should have fruit trees, as he had in his home country. It creates a friendly connection between the trees and the community. Nell appreciates more community involvement and weekly meetups.

The Hydroelectric under the Pixie Bridge

Small walk: 1.78 Km Long Walk: 2.52 Km

Short walk

Long walk

Map showing the walk by Bruce and his dog 41

By Megan Mercer

HOW TO MANAGE AN ALLOTMENT

How to Manage an Allotment Tips and tricks from Gareth Williams for new growers and gardeners after his recent work on the Tynewydd Allotments

The Tynewydd Allotments have seen some unrecognisable changes in the past twelve months after the unfortunate overgrowth since the covid pandemic. This has highlighted more than ever what can be achieved when communities work together, having a knock-on positive impact for the future. Speaking to Gareth Williams, the local Community Railway Partnership Development Officer who has been helping to redevelop the site in the past ten weeks, we have some tips and tricks to share on how you can get started with growing and gardening!

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Q: What were the biggest learning curves through the process of developing the allotments?

Some of the key obstacles include managing the land such as tackling overgrowth, slugs, pests, and space management as once tiny seedlings are big enough, they each need their own pot!

With the changing seasons, the allotments must adapt to the space available and the time it takes for plants to grow. By keeping on top of watering in summer and transferring most plants into the polytunnels for winter – it teaches you patience that plants grow at different rates at different times of the year.

Forming relationships on the allotment is very important to create a sense of community. By looking out for one another and providing help if needed, people will offer assistance in return. This includes working together to keep on top of one of the more mundane tasks of weeding!

Q: What is your best advice when growing on an allotment?

Be a team player. Work as a community. By working together to help each other out and help the site, people have pride over their space which has a positive knock-on effect on other members to inspire new ideas and look after their portion of land as well. This requires being open to allowing people into your space and open to help and advice from others. Getting more and more people involved from the whole community will only help even more!

“Be a team player. Work as a community.”

Q: What are 3 tips to new growers and gardeners?

Q: Why are the allotments important to you?

Start with easy things to give you a basis to experiment from, such as chives, strawberries, rhubarb etc.

These are all perennials so come back year after year, making it easier if you aren’t used to growing!

Everything you learn each year can be used in the future, especially if you experiment and try something new each season.

The allotments are the basis of a community, and have been for many, many years, passing knowledge and support from other gardeners through numerous generations. They have a positive impact on biodiversity and mother nature.

Attracting bees and wildlife, helping flowers, fruit, and vegetables.

This in turn helps the environment which is as important as ever but especially in the wake of the climate crisis.

“You are going to make mistakes and mess up.

This is SO important!”

Making mistakes teaches you lots of lessons but with gardening you still get a reward. Even if you only get 10 tomatoes one year, it is still something! If you want to gain more knowledge, look at books, read up about growing, and get advice from others!

Make your allotment to suit yours and your plant’s needs. For example, if you struggle to or would rather not get down on your hands and knees, make higher raised growing beds.

Q: What are some favourite things to grow?

There are too many to choose just one favourite! Garden peas are great as they are quick and you always get lots! Sweetcorn is amazing! Sunflowers are great as you don’t know what’s going to happen and they look stunning. Squash and pumpkin are great this time of year and again; very quick to grow!

Q: What do the future of allotments look like?

Allotments in one form or another have been around for years, known more as smallholdings in the past; they are the same thing. Moving into the future, it is important to put an end to our ‘throwaway’ nature, and instead provide more accessibility to teaching everyone on every street to grow. A modern version of allotments could come in the form of community gardens, having a pivotal role in local grassroots action to become sustainable communities.

At the moment, food can’t be commercially sold from the allotments, however this could be a good step for the future, providing goods for zero waste shops and making it more financially viable. There are always risks involved, especially as this isn’t something that should be turned into a business, however greater community ownership and management means more people will benefit.

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COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: WHAT’S ON?

By Ella Dangmann and Anne-Marie Howick

Community Activities: What’s On?

There is plenty going on in this valley! Here’s a small guide on some of the highlights we encountered.

Blaencwm Chapel: Pay As You Feel Café Location: 2 Wyndham Street, Treherbert, Treorchy CF42 5BT (15 minute walk from the station) Facebook Page: Blaencwm Chapel pay as you feel cafe [https:// www.facebook.com/BlaencwmChapel-pay-as-you-feel-cafe103394881197996/] Pay as you feel cafes have been on the rise in recent years and what they do is something very special.

The main principle is to use food saved through the Fareshare Project to cook meals for the community. This uses produce that would usually be disposed of by supermarkets but is still of good quality.

This is the village’s way of doing something very real and very tangible for climate change. Opening hours are every Thursday from 9am to 2pm and they post a full menu on the Facebook page the day before, allowing you to scope out the

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tasty dishes even before you arrive!

They run various events, such as the recent coffee and cake fundraiser for Children in Need, as well as mid-season feasts for the whole family.

by using the natural woodlands to amply this feel good energy.

Come rain or shine, they are always welcoming of new faces and would love to see you come along for a session or two.

Welcome To Our Woods: Woodland Therapy Location: “Woods behind Treherbert railway station” (4 minute walk from the station) Facebook Page: Welcome To Our Woods [https://www.facebook. com/ welcometoourwoods/]

Mindful Photography Well-Being Programme Duration: 6 Weeks Ran by: Welcome To Our Woods in partnership with Lost Peatlands Project

Anyone fancy a chat? Cup of warm soup? Good company? The Woodland Therapy group ventures out into the forest weekly from 10:30am to 12:30pm on Thursdays to do just that. Meetings encourage conversation about whatever you fancy, whether it be of a serious topic or just good anecdotes. It is all about making people feel better

Whilst this programme has come to an end, it feels imperative to mention in case of another course running. This free course encouraged those partaking to meet new people and try new skills, all the while improving your wellbeing by simply being mindful of the abundance of beauty in the Rhondda valley. Whether you own a fancy camera or not, if you have a pair of walking boots you would be all set to join this friendly group.

Social Striders Duration: around 1 hour Facebook Page: Welcome To Our Woods / Be Active RCT [https:// www.facebook.com/welcometoourwoods // https://www.facebook. com/BeActiveRCT]

Social Strollers The Social Strollers are a walking group arranged by the same people as the Social Striders. The walks with this group during the day and at a beginner level so everyone is welcome.

The Social Striders are an intermediate walking group that go on walks around the local area, from Treherbert to Treorchy. This walking group is one of many activities aimed at improving health and wellbeing around the area. The walking group is run as a partnership between Welcome to Our Woods and Be Active RCT (Rhondda Cynon Taff ). The walks this group undertake last about an hour and are a nice way to destress after a long day or to get some activity.

At this time of year the walks will happen during the night time, in the dark and will offer a different perspective of the surroundings.

Come along and remember to bring your torch; or perhaps you would rather spend your time looking for constellations like the Big Dipper.

Tynewydd Community Growing Space This allotment growing space is run by the local communities with Welcome to our Woods supporting their activities. Some of the produce grown here goes to local charities, such as the Pay As You Feel Café.

The community team are at the allotments site most Thursdays at 10:00am-2:00pm, if you would like to get involved or wish to discuss anything with us.

Allotment & Gardening Project: Location: Coldra Road Allotment, Coldra road, Blaenrhondda, Treorchy, CF42 5ST (25 minute walk from the station) Starts: Monday 6th september Every Monday & Thursday, 10:00am2:00pm

Do you want to volunteer in your local area, make a difference within your community and meet new people? Join our friendly team and help develop our allotment plot and polytunnel. Grow food for you and local people to enjoy, and learn new skills like growing, construction, gardening, skills development and accreditation.

References: Welcome to our woods upper rhondda valley.

2019. Pay as you feel cafe blaenycwm baptist chapel Rhondda valley wales uk. Available at: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybu0e9sblec accessed: 15 november 2021].

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MARIANNE: MY MEMORY OF TREHERBERT

By Tanya Khanna

Marianne: My Memory of Treherbert A collage of a cherished conversation

marianne: my memory of treherbert

A Cherished Conversation a memory christmas markets in berlin and austria interior design in cardiff her friend’s wall her daughter awaiting her sweater rays of sunshine glistening in the conservatory grazing onto her work chair pringle boxes into works of art duvets and dog beds for fundraising her dog waiting by the attic stairs plants raised with care and love even offered to give me one a hug and a kiss on the cheek a reminder of my grandmother (gone jan 2021) a tear on my walk back a book and then another one an email

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uring our session with the mindfullness photography group, I met a lovely lady named Marianne. The group is full of creative individuals who 46

embrace the surrounding landscape through walks and capture its beauty using cameras. Marianne is one such creative individual with many hobbies through which she produces various forms of art.

Photography, knitting, and interior design were a few she mentioned.

My conversation with her was special becuase she reminded me of my grandmother who passed away earlier this year. Coincidentally, the week of our trip was also the week of an important festival in my religion. This festival focuses on family. and brings everyone together. I haven’t met my family for two years due to Covid-19. When speaking to Marianne, I felt like I was with family. She was kind, warm-hearted and she pays attention to detail; just like my grandmother did. My grandmother had similar hobbies thus seeing someone similar pursuing them made me reminisce. My first trip to Treherbert was definitely special and this experience is something I won’t forget.

References: Anna Babii, Vector Brush Stroke Illustration <https://www.canva.com/design/DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Canva Original Stickers, Scandinavian Christmas Tree <https://www.canva.com/design/ DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Canva Original Stickers, Warmth Sunshine Sticker <https://www.canva.com/design/ DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Simon Jozsef, Vector Image <https://www. canva.com/design/DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Sketchify, Cute Comfy Sweater Clothing <https://www.canva.com/design/DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Sketchify, Single Leaf Stem <https://www. canva.com/design/DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Sparklestroke Global, Mom Brushing Daughter’s Hair <https://www.canva.com/design/ DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Sparklestroke Global, Rattan Chair Illustration <https://www.canva.com/design/ DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

Vectify, Vector Hanging Plant <https://www. canva.com/design/DAEv0xVI0_4/ekIEmyDk4s5JpGSo5w1dwQ> [accessed 12 November 2021].

REVIEW OF DUNRAVEN HOTEL

By Ayse Lord

Review Of Dunraven Hotel

5 star reviews:

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unraven Hotel is located in the heart of Treherber, 13 Dunraven St, Treherbert, Treorchy CF42 5BG. The hotel is an ideal stop if you are exploring the Rhondda and Cynon Valleys. During the time that we spent in Treherbert we were frequently going back to hotel to leave or pick something as it was really accessible and there were lots of shops near the hotel.

that we had everything we needed and were satisfied with everything.

As it is located in the heart of the Treherbert, it has a perfect view of Treherbert. It is a lovely place to have your coffee against a perfect view of Treherbert in Dunraven Hotel.

The whole hotel was really clean and rooms were cleaned every day as well changing bedsheets and towels daily.

Dunraven hotel is a family run hotel with lovely and helpful hosts, kind and polite staff. We got along with them so well that in only two days time we felt at home. During our stay, the hosts and staff made sure

We arrived at the hotel before check in, however we were still allowed to store our luggage in their meeting room.

The rooms were large and comfortable enough that two people could easily stay. There was a large kitchen and common room for sitting, chatting and studying.

If you would like to see more 5 star reviews from our stay, search for The Dunraven Hotel on TripAdvisor.

“Helpful Staff and a variety of food options.”

- Tanya Khanna “Delightful Accommodation” - Anne-Marie Howick “Lovely hotel!”

- Ella Dangmann References: Trip Advisor. 2021. Dunraven Hotel. Available at: <https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g13946655-d12549459-Reviews-Dunraven_ Hotel-Treherbert_Rhondda_Cynon_Taf_South_ Wales_Wales.html> [Accessed 6 December 2021].

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By Trystan Jones

JOURNEY FROM LIBRARY TO THE BREWERY SITE

Journey From Library to the Brewery Site A Journey documented with the help of both photographs and a long drawing with pencil on brown paper.

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he journey begins, from the old library, which is now a workshop for the Welcome to our woods group. A building which differentiates itself from the terrace house mould. It captures the eye thanks to the red brick accents it bared on the facade of the building.

Although red brick is used on other buildings along the way, this tone of red set it apart with a slight darkening to the other reds. This gives the building a comforting invitation to enter which is useful for a group who want to work alongside the community. Heading out the door of the library, the A4061 stands before. This road connects to the A470 in Pontypridd and the A465 atop the Rhigos.

Crossing this road carefully using the traffic light nearby, begins a journey down station street that leads directly to the brewery site.

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street a bridge connects two sides of the Treherbert separated by the Rhondda River. The river that connects with the Taff further down the valley. The banks of this river in Treherbert are as if their imprisoned, large fences surrounding the river to prevent any accidents is a sign of the restrictions placed upon Treherbert.

By the mouth of station street, sat directly facing the library is Sharan’s Fish Bar, a definite must have if heading down station street. As you venture down the

A large run-down building catches the eye on the walk towards the site. There is no need to ask around what the building was thanks to the writing across its front: The Conservative Club. A type of branding which would be unnecessary unless to entice visitors to activities occurring inside. Standing atop the building was a clock that stands alone as one of the tallest points along the journey. The steely bluish tint is a contrast to the sadness of the grey

exterior which gives the club a sliver of proudness to it.

Passing by the Covy club as locals called the club, you are flanked from either side by rows of terrace houses. A staple within mining towns: quickly erected terrace housing is to be found everywhere up and down the valleys and across Wales. Some better looking than others show a clear imbalance of power between sectors of the street, with some having a nicer brick work facade and others having a Welsh wall finish: pebble dash.

Opening from the opposite end of the tunnel you arrive at what connects Treherbert to the Welsh the capital the railway station. A well drawn graffiti art first greets from the direction heading towards the brewery site. Although minimal the station a rectangular building which houses the locomotive drivers, who will alternate at each end of the run depending on shifts

and where they live. A minimalistic station is not what you want to be greeting possible tourists that visit the area. With a revamp coming possibly, the introduction of an electric monorail could also be a cause to redesign the station. Fossil fuel trains being made redundant within the Valleys and Cardiff’s rail services.

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ollowing on from the Treherbert train station a metal gate separates the town from the forest. It gives an impression as if it isn’t meant to be used for crossing. Crossing the track however, the sight of looking straight for miles informs you of how close the next train might be to Treherbert. A view such as this really emphasises how narrow and far down the

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Rhondda valley goes. Passing through the gate on the other side of the tracks it as if you have entered a different place entirely compared to the town environment with green all around. The tracks could be said to act as a threshold between the forest and town, a significant boundary between the two sides of Treherbert.

The old brewery site sits at the bottom of the hill which the regenerated forest possesses.

The site in which a new vision of Treherbert might be accomplished.

Currently it is far from this.

Previously used as a brewery site, the brewery was the only reason that a forest could grow in such an area. The need of a supply of clean running water the soil in which surrounded the compound wasn’t used as a coal heap. This resulted in the soil not becoming contaminated and acceptable for vegetation to grow within.

Although this is where the journey ends, venturing onwards past the site to explore what can be found beyond provides what opportunities are there for things such as energy to the site, drainage and the beauty of the area.

The Drawing below on all pages is of this journey drawn by unit 3 whilst in Treherbert.

all over the valley with plenty of running water flowing down from hills such as Pen Pych.

This concludes the journey from the library to the old brewery site.

A short yet eventful journey, it has plenty to look at and plenty to work on, if tourists visit the town, using the metro in the near future.

Forced to use this route, for both access to the town, and to the facility that will be erected in the old brewery site this road will be an important factor in Treherbert future.

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bove and below are images of a man-made waterfall that is currently being used by the small hydroelectric generator to provide electricity for the Welcome to our woods groups use. Although the waterfall itself is man-made the water which flows was a pre-existing stream that has been built upon. A small example of what could be achieved

The dominance of such a road on its landscape was a space for visitors but a place known well by the locals.

All images were taken by Unit 3.

The importance of the perspectives of both the high street and Station Street are key views to understand Treherbert.

With the never-ending high street stretching into the distance and the contrast between the street and nature rising in to the sky. From the Station Street perspective, the notion of territories is clear in the boundary between nature and man-made.

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LOCAL LEGENDS

By Tay Yik Teng

Local Legends During my stay at Treherbert, I had the opportunity to get to know a few locals who contribute to the community in their own unique way. I was able to learn about their goals and their own story with Treherbert.

Ian Thomas As managing director of the Welcome to Our Woods organization, Ian is passionate about fostering a more vibrant, self sustaining Treherbert and addressing the climate emergency through community engagement and education. One of the many responsibilities of his role is to steward locals who share the same passion in enriching Treherbert

and he facilitates their endeavors, helping them achieve what goals whether it is to start an allotment or organizing events for the community. The vigor he applies to his work stems from his with to create a better place for his children where they can thrive and have many jobs opportunities within the valleys.

Lee Williams Famous for her cheery smile and photography walks, my first introduction to Lee was one of the locals referring to her as a legend. A Treherbert native for 64 years, Lee has worked in pharmacy for the past 35, and in those years she has seen the landscape and population change drastically. From being a 52

town centered around the mining industry, it has transformed into a space of captivating views sans the pollution of prior. She enjoys volunteering, bringing around walking groups, hosting woodland therapy sessions, and helping the community practice mindfulness during her photography walks.

Chris Blake Chris Blake is the project manager of the Skyline project, and through he is not a Treherbert local, he is a familiar face to the community due to the nature of his work. The Skyline project details the need for community stewardship to claim the valleys and resources around them to foster a self sustaining and employment rich system. Hence, the

name skyline which describes how Treherbert should not be limited of the built environment within the valleys, but also extend out to what the eyes can see from a street in Treherbert. His knowledge about the valleys and the many tenets of community enrichment and economics is unprecedented.

Adrian Meredith Adrian’s infectious smile and dad jokes is often followed by laughter as he details his many wood working endeavors. Handy with any tool that has to do with making something out of wood, whether it’s a table, a spoon or a bowl, his wood working workshops attracts many from the community to try their hand at making their own wares, effectively sharing his

valuable skills. He sets up shop at the old library and his wood working classes allows for people to come together through the act of making and being creative.

Currently, one of the projects he is working on is a hydroponic growing space for Welcome to Our Woods.

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NEXT ISSUE

Next Issue: What’s Next?

Our project will for the rest of this school year focus on the notion of territories. We will be working alongside the community partnership group Welcome To Our Woods to develop a project for the old brewery site next to the train station.

Special thanks to Ian Thomas and the Welcome To Our Woods volunteers for allowing us to use the old library as our work space, the help and information we have gotten from you and the activities you arranged for us. We hope to see you all again soon!

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For more information on our work, follow our social media accounts or email us Facebook: WSA - Territories of TreInstagram: @territoriestreherEmail: wsastudentstreherbertproject@outlook.

Scan the QR code for a special video of our trip

By Trystan Jones 55