Walking a path of memories (From Penarth Times)

Walking a path of memories

THE first personalised plaques have been bought and sunk into the decking of Penarth Pier.

Through a Vale of Glamorgan Council scheme, which it is hoped will generate funds to help with the upkeep of Penarth Pier, brass plaques can be purchased and, with suitable engraving, are then countersunk into the decking.

More than 60 plaques have already been placed into new wooden planks, and four of the purchasers were randomly selected to attend the official launch of the scheme, along with council officials and councillors.

They included Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, Michael Harvey, Rob Curtis, who came up with the original idea, and Penarth ward representatives Maureen Kelly-Owen, Clive Williams and Paul Church.

Outlining the early success of the scheme, Cllr Harvey said: "It is important that the pier is the beneficiary of any financial gain, and any future profits will continue to be re-invested into the historic structure."

Guests at the official launch included Stewart and Nina Ward who chose to have S J & N M Ward 15.7.05 engraved - to mark the date of their retirement move from Leicestershire to Penarth, an area they love so much.

Miss Ruth Evans, whose family have many happy memories of Penarth, chose side-by-side inscriptions in memory of her mother and brother.

John and Jean Davies have purchased two plaques - one in memory of Mrs Davies' parents, who did their courting on the pier, and the other to mark the start of the couple's golden wedding celebration year.

The council hopes that residents and visitors will choose to make a unique and lasting record by buying a plaque.

Cllr Harvey added: "Whether individuals buy a plaque themselves or just enjoy a leisurely walk along the pier to read those that others have chosen, Penarth provides a prestigious platform to'be remembered'.

"Plaques could make a wonderful gesture for a special occasion, a great birthday gift or even a way to ensure that international visitors leave a record of their stay in our area."