Blaenavon Collection

Retired coal miner Blaenavon, South Wales
A retired coal miner sits with his mongrel dog at Blaenavon, South Wales. Behind them is the redundant Blaenavon coal mine

Man on coal spoil tip Blaenavon, South Wales
A man walks along the edge of a coal spoil tip above council houses in Blaenavon, South Wales. 1988

Blaenavon, South Wales, retired miner
A retired coal miner walks along the railway track with his mongrel dog at Blaenavon, South Wales. In the background is a redundant steam locomotive. First published in The Sunday Times in 1988. 1988

Monmouthshire NP4 9 Map
Postcode Sector Map of Monmouthshire NP4 9

Berkshire RG4 7 Map
Postcode Sector Map of Berkshire RG4 7

A man walks his dog along an embankment in Blaenavon, Wales
A man walks his his dog along a waterside embankment above a council estate in Blaenavon, South Wales. The Sunday Times Date: 1988

Smoking chimneys, early morning in Blaenavon, South Wales
Early morning and the coal fires smoke from chimneys in Blaenavon, South Wales. The Sunday Times Date: 1988

Blaenavon Heritage
The unique neighbourhood of Blaenavon - a historic, industrial area that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Undermined houses, Blaenavon, Monmouthshire
A row of houses at Blaenavon, Monmouthshire, supported by wooden props because of subsidence resulting from mining beneath them. Date: circa 1936

Comfy Seats
Inside a derelict DMU locomtive. It has been left unloved for a number of years and is looking very tired and in desperate need of repair

Abandoned DMU (Diesel Multiple Unit)
An abandoned DMU locomotive awaiting possible restoration.Its tired paintwork shows its age and is emphasised by the thunderous clouds in the background

First class carriage
An abandoned DMU locomotive awaiting possible restoration.Its tired paintwork shows its age and is emphasised by the thunderous clouds in the background

Coal mine industrial heritage museum in snow, Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon, Torfaen, South South Wales, January

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Retired coal miner Blaenavon, South Wales, reminisces about the days when the town thrived on its rich coal deposits. As he walks his dog along an embankment in Blaenavon, Wales, memories flood back of a bustling community fueled by hard work and determination. The smoking chimneys that once dominated the skyline now stand as silent reminders of a bygone era. Standing atop a coal spoil tip, this man reflects on the sacrifices made to extract black gold from beneath their feet. Blaenavon's heritage is deeply rooted in mining history; it tells tales of resilience and camaraderie among miners who risked their lives daily for their families' livelihoods. Undermined houses bear witness to the physical toll exacted by this dangerous profession. Yet amidst these remnants of industry lies a sense of pride and unity that still resonates today. Retired miners like him gather at local pubs to share stories over pints, finding solace in each other's company as they navigate life after mining. In recent years, it has undergone transformation with efforts focused on preserving its unique heritage. The Blaenavon Heritage project aims to ensure future generations understand the town's significance and appreciate its historical value. As you stroll through this Welsh town today, you'll find comfy seats scattered throughout public spaces – inviting visitors to pause and take in the beauty that surrounds them. From picturesque landscapes to charming architecture, it offers glimpses into both past struggles and present-day triumphs. So next time you find yourself exploring Monmouthshire NP4 9 or Berkshire RG4 7 on your map, consider venturing off-the-beaten-path towards this remarkable corner of South Wales – where retired coal miners have left an indelible mark on both landscape and hearts alike.