Around Porthcawl, Newton and Nottage

This fascinating collection of over 200 old photographs provides a unique and nostalgic pictorial history of Porthcawl, Newton and Nottage. The author was given the opportunity to use photographs and records from the archives of the Bridgend and Porthcawl libraries and the Porthcawl Museum and Historical Society. Some of the images are very rare. Others come from private sources and have not been seen in public before. Together, they trace the fluctuating patterns of life in the district.

The area has witnessed many dramatic changes in its development. It was once, basically, a farming community and agriculture still plays its part. However, being on the coast, the sea has considerably influenced the destiny of Porthcawl, Newton and Nottage. From very early times when Roman galleys and Viking longboats sailed these waters, shipping has provided a means of communication and trade. This reached its peak in the late nineteenth century when Porthcawl became a major coal-exporting port. When fortunes changed, the area developed into one of Wales’ premier seaside resorts with the main business today centred on the holiday and tourist trade.

This book is certain to interest anyone with ties to the area and will provide a wealth of memories to be shared by young and old alike.