Community Comes Together to Mark 100 Years of the Penrhiwceiber and Matthewstown War Memorial

Hundreds of people gathered to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Penrhiwceiber and Matthewstown War Memorial in a moving day of remembrance, reflection and community pride.

The commemorative service was led by Major Huw Williams MBE DL RLC and featured prayers led by the Revd Fr Philip Leyshon, Acting Ministry Area Leader for Cynon Valley South. His prayers provided a poignant reminder of the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in service and the importance of continuing to remember them a century after the memorial was first established.

The day ran smoothly thanks to the dedication and organisational skills of Major Huw Williams, whose commitment over many months helped ensure the anniversary was a fitting tribute to the fallen. His work, alongside the efforts of many volunteers and organisations, created a memorable occasion for the whole community.

The service was enriched by the music of the Band of the Royal Welsh and the Mountain Ash Rugby Club Singers. Past and present pupils from Penrhiwceiber and Pengeulan Primary Schools joined together to learn and sing the Welsh hymn Beth Sydd imi yn y Byd, while children from both schools also read the names of those commemorated on the memorial.

The organisers also thanked every adult and child who attended the ceremony to honour the area's fallen heroes.

A particularly significant partnership developed between the Armistice Committee and the Valleys Re-Told group. For weeks and months leading up to the anniversary, volunteers researched the history of the memorial clock and the lives of those whose memory it commemorates, while Major Huw Williams gathered personal details of the fallen to help tell their stories.

Visitors were also invited to explore a special exhibition at Penrhiwceiber Welcome Centre (Cross Street Penrhiwceiber, CF45 3YD), featuring photographs, artefacts and historical information. Among the highlights is a detailed 1:50 scale model of the war memorial clock, created by volunteer Adrian Moses. The exhibition will remain open for the next two weeks, providing an opportunity for the community to learn more about those remembered by the memorial and the history it represents.

Reflecting the spirit of the day, the words of Scripture offered a fitting message:

"The memory of the righteous is a blessing." (Proverbs 10:7)

The centenary commemoration served as a powerful reminder that, although a century has passed since the memorial was erected, the sacrifice of those it honours continues to be remembered with gratitude, respect and prayer.