Guardian, Six Bells, South Wales

The Six Bells Guardian stands twenty metres into the sunshine from deep in a small valley.  This Miners’ Memorial was created by the sculptor Sebastien Boyesen to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the UK’s largest post-war mining disaster. 

Standing as tall as “the Angel of the North.”  Guardian has not been erected to be seen from afar.  Drivers pass on the A467, many unaware of this colossus hidden deep in this sheltered valley.

Sunk in 1891 by John Lancaster, the Six Bells pit provided work for nearly a hundred years, slowly engulfing the cottages and hillsides with soot, grime and coal dust. Then, in an explosion, on 28^th June 1960 in “W” District of the Six Bells Colliery near Abertillery forty five men were tragically killed. The mine, owned by the National Coal Board, eventually closed in the 1980’s.

But nature will prevail and with the aid of the community, Blaenau Gwent Council and Communities First, the colliery site has been landscaped.  It forms a peaceful setting for the statue, and has brought the valley close to its original state in 1890.   

Gradually news is spreading. It is now a regular haunt for countryside lovers. Dog walkers and families make Guardian their daily or weekly stop-off with plenty of space to run and play, picturesque views to sit and admire, and intriguing footpaths for those more adventurous.  Locals bring relatives, tutors bring students and holiday tour companies bring foreign tourists, all to enjoy tours by local volunteers, and hear the history of this valley and the construction of this emotive sculpture. With easy parking nearby, well-maintained pathways allow access for the disabled and wheelchair bound.