Our day started with a treat for the train enthusiasts amongst us, a ride on a brand new 756 Class train, otherwise known as an electric-flirt. We stopped for a bit longer than we were expecting at some of the stations on the way up to Pontypridd and couldn’t decide if this was a minor technical fault or because the train travelled so fast between stations it had to stop for longer to keep to the timetable.
The rain arrived somewhat earlier than forecast so we had one talk in the shelter of Pontypridd station, which at one stage used to be the longest platform in the world. We donned our wet-weather gear and headed down into the town, pointing out the Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, unfortunately closed today as it recovers from the recent floods caused by Storm Bert.
A stop by the drinking fountain in Taff Street enabled us to learn about Lord Pontypidd, a local MP born in Cardiff. There was also time to learn about a modern hero, Richard Parks, who after retiring from playing rugby became a renowned explorer, and climbed the highest mountain on each of the world’s seven continents and complete the Three Poles Challenge (N&S Pole & Everest) within seven months.
It was then down to see the lovely Pontypridd Museum, valiantly opened again after recent bad weather. We received a warm welcome and viewed the wide range of exhibits including a tray decorated with a painting of the Old Bridge, donated by two of our members, Martyn & Janet Williams.
We walked over the Old Bridge, completed in 1756, which was for 70 years the longest single span stone bridge in Britain, and then up the steep hill to The Common. At the far end of the Common we saw the Rocking Stone and discussed various meeting and ceremonies that had been held here including some by the eccentric and radical Dr William Price.
Pontypridd has no shortage of places to eat and drink. Many of our party found Pontypridd Market. We are still eating our way through the Welsh Cakes and Bara Brith.