Three councillors in the Swansea Valley have come to the rescue of a popular fireworks display that was unexpectedly cancelled. Clydach councillors Matthew Bailey, Gordon Walker, and Brigitte Rowlands have joined forces with Friends of Coed Gwilym Park to ensure the event will take place at the park on Saturday, November 2. Following the announcement on October 1 by Clydach Community Council that it would not be hosting the display this year, the three councillors stepped in to revive the event, albeit with a £2 entry fee per person to cover costs.
The decision by the community council to cancel the fireworks display stirred frustration among residents, prompting the councillors to take action. Cllr Bailey shared that the community council had organised the event for several years, starting from a small display and eventually escalating to the larger Coed Gwilym Park due to its popularity. The trio of councillors pledged to cover any remaining costs not met by the entry fees, highlighting their commitment to ensuring a safe and organised display that benefits the community.
Despite initial concerns raised by the community council over organising the event, the councillors have demonstrated their dedication to upholding this long-standing tradition in Clydach. They emphasised the importance of a centralised and controlled display to alleviate the need for individual home fireworks, thereby reducing potential risks and disturbances to residents and animals.
In response to the councillors’ intervention, the community council expressed its readiness to collaborate on delivering the event and encouraged residents to engage with its upcoming activities. Alongside the fireworks display, the community council also highlighted a series of events planned for November and December, including a family day, Remembrance Day service, and winter festivities.
The joint efforts of the councillors and community groups underline the significance of community spirit and cooperation in preserving cherished local traditions. The revitalised fireworks display at Coed Gwilym Park promises to provide an evening of joy and celebration for residents of the Swansea Valley on November 2.