The Rhydyfelin Community Group has created a cascading waterfall of poppies, flanked by the silhouettes representing the Fallen of the First and Second World Wars.
The works have been created to mark Armistice Day 2021 and are proudly on display outside Rhydyfelin Community Centre. The silhouettes are the creation of retired labourer Michael Mottram.
Councillor Maureen Webber, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Champion, also a member of the Rhydyfelin Community Group, said: “We have created this Display of Remembrance to honour our Armed Forces family, past and present.
“It is a fitting tribute for those that have served and continue to serve, both at home and overseas, as well as those who gave their lives during wartime.
“Not just the community of Rhydyfelin, but the whole of Rhondda Cynon Taf owe so much to all those people who served, and those who continue to serve.
“This is the time of year when we all reflect on those sacrifices and remember those who never returned from war, to the love of their families. This is our way of commemorating the lives of each and every one of them. We will remember and we will never forget.”
Regular Armed Forces Breakfast Clubs are held at Rhydyfelin Community Centre, bringing together veterans of all ages for an informal social gathering, supported by the Council’s own Armed Forces Veterans Service.
Among those who attends is Michael Mottram, 65, of Rhydyfelin, who himself served with the Army Reserve (Territorial Army) in the 1970s. Mr Mottram has always supported the Armed Forces, especially the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Michael Mottram said: “Whenever I have any spare change, I always save it and donate it to the Poppy Appeal, a cause to close to my heart.
“So when I was asked if I would consider volunteering to make soldier silhouettes for the community group, it was an offer I could not refuse. Made out of a plywood template, treated for the outdoors and painted black, my silhouettes have been received a wonderful response.
“I am delighted that they also form a part of the Rhydyfelin Community Group display, complementing the handmade poppy waterfall cascade.”
The Council’s Armed Forces Veterans Service offers confidential support and guidance to veterans living in the County Borough, as well as to their families. It gives a wide range of assistance on subjects such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Housing, Adult Social Care, Benefits, Finances and Employment.
Providing FREE, impartial and dedicated information, advice and support, members of the Armed Forces, past and present, can speak to dedicated officers in strict confidence. Call 07747 485 619 or by email: [email protected]
The Taff Ely Veterans Group meets at Rhydyfelin Community Centre every second Wednesday each month and veterans of all ages are welcome to attend the Armed Forces Breakfast Club. No booking is required. For more information, message the Taff Ely Veterans Group on Facebook or call 0774 748 5619.
