Celebrating Neyland’s Heritage
Neyland Nostalgia Days – organised by the VC Gallery and Simon Hancock – will take place on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 June.
“This is the third time we have held this very popular event,” Simon said. “And we have two full days planned, each from 11am until 4pm to include historical and artistic displays, militaria from Scolton Manor and finds from Pembrokeshire Prospectors, a local metal detector club. There will also be free refreshments and we hope people will drop by for as long as they like.”
The event, which is being funded by Neyland Town Council, Ron Skinner and Sons garage, and the Armed Forces Covenant Trust, will take place at St Clement’s Church Hall, Neyland, and will also include talks by Simon himself – who is a keen historian.
The talk on Friday will be The History Of Scoveston Fort, which was built in 1860 as part of an intended line of defences, and on Saturday To The Ends Of The Earth, about military ship building in Neyland. The talks will take place at about 1pm.
Both talks explore fascinating aspects of the military history of Neyland and Llanstadwell stretching back over 250 years with many surprising facts and stories.
Barry John, founder of the VC Gallery, which works to promote good mental health and ease isolation among service veterans and the wider community, said: “There are many people who share an interest in the history of the area, which has strong military connections, and an opportunity to bring people together at this time is just what we need.
“The VC is delighted to be organising such an event but we are aware that as covid restrictions lift there is high anxiety for many of us, so we also wanted to offer an opportunity for people to express their concerns.”
To that end, a counsellor will be available during the day on Friday 18 June for anyone who wishes to talk about their anxieties post-covid.
“Naturally,” Barry added, “proper risk assessments have been carried out, and all guidelines will be observed. Whether it is to share your knowledge or to learn something new, everyone is welcome.”
Contact the VC Gallery for more information.
Address: 30 High Street, Haverfordwest SA61 2DA
Email: admin@thevcgallery.com
Phone: 01437 765873
