RCT beach a tribute to old miners’ break
“MINERS’ fortnight” is making a return to Rhondda Cynon Taf as a beach is shipped in for local residents to enjoy.
Back when local coal mines were open, there would be an annual twoweek break when the mines would shut and miners and their families would head to the coast, which became known as ‘Miners’ Fortnight’.
Popular seaside resorts such as Porthcawl became known as ‘Hiya Butt Bay’ because all the holidaymakers seemed to know each other – with many living on the same street, from the same town or even working together.
Now Miners’ Fortnight is set to make a comeback – and instead of heading to the beach, RCT council is bringing the beach to RCT.
An urban beach will be open at Rhondda Heritage Park, The Welsh Mining Experience, on the weekend of July 29-30, from 10am until 4.30pm on both days.
And there’s something for all ages – from deckchairs for grown-ups, to children’s rides and even an aquarium.
Councillor Ann Crimmings, Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, said: “All local residents of a certain age will remember with great fondness the traditional Miners’ Fortnight, the mass exodus of families from the South Wales Valleys to the coast.
“The beaches would be absolutely packed with holidaymakers, mainly miners and their families, enjoying their annual summer holidays.
“I am delighted that an Urban Beach is to open this summer at Rhondda Heritage Park, which is already a popular tourist attraction all year around. The added attraction of the beach will no doubt boost its popularity even further.”
The Miners’ Fortnight urban beach is just one of many events at Rhondda Heritage Park during 2017.
Other planned themed events include Tribute in the Park, featuring some of the UK’s top tribute acts on Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, XScream on October 1231, and Santa’s Toy Mine from November 24 until December 24.