THE streets of Brynmawr will be buzzing on Tuesday 24 August 2021 as retailers and businesses welcome film-maker Stephen Davies to showcase what the town has to offer. Brynmawr, the highest market town in Wales, is working towards bringing the crowds back to its streets with its 45 independent shops, businesses, restaurants and pubs, working in Partnership with Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council. The town also boasts a museum, library and art gallery. The aspirations for Brynmawr include an interactive town map, heritage signs on major highways to attract visitors, redecorating shop fronts, installations, events and much more.
The film will feature an overview of the town including a bridal boutique, shoe shop, cobbler, women’s boutique, creative and printing services, menswear, clothes printing, Zero Waste shop, butcher, delicatessen, DIY and jewellers. Howells Jewellers has been established in the town for decades. Owner, Gareth Howells said: “We are a family-run business that has been trading here for more than 60 years. My Nan and father established Howells, which I joined from school and I’ve been running it for 35 years. I’ve recently been joined by my daughter Hârle who has modernised the business with her IT knowledge, bringing the company into the 21st Century.”
Sally Ann Evans, from Meraki is part of a group of retailers who are aiming to create a brand for Brynmawr. She said: “I think we all feel there’s a real opportunity to take a fresh look at what each town in Blaenau Gwent has to offer and celebrate their individual strengths and unique characteristics. Brynmawr community has definitely led the way in its approach to working together to improve the shopper/visitor experience, and it would be fantastic to build on that and hopefully see a rise in visitor numbers over the next few years.”
Stephen Davies made a successful film about Brynmawr in 2019, which included Welsh rugby legend Shane Williams turning on the town’s Christmas lights. It also featured many of Brynmawr’s independent retailers, but this film is designed to give a different perspective of the town with engaging commentary and insight into the heritage of the town and local scenic landmarks.
Town Centre Development Manager, Karen Williams said: “This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything Brynmawr Town Centre has to offer. The film will highlight the diverse range of businesses, the strong sense of community and the tremendous efforts made by the local businesses to welcome shoppers back to the town.”
All are welcome to Brynmawr on the day of filming and there will be a market outside the Market Hall Cinema – the oldest in Wales – with crafters, artisans, foodies and more. The market is planned as a regular event in Brynmawr with other exciting events to follow in the future.
Photo Credit: Wiki commons /Jaggery
More Stories
Conservatives’ Lack of Action on Obscene Energy Profits “Indefensible” says Welsh Lib Dems
New Audit Office Report on Poverty in Wales supports Plaid Cymru’s calls
Successful Operation targeting anti-social driving across Newport and Monmouthshire