Tim Carter, Ebbw Vale Institute Centre Manager, who presented this award on behalf of GAVO, said:
‘Blaenau Gwent Heritage Forum brings together heritage organisations, community groups and individuals to collaborate, share expertise and inspire greater appreciation of the area’s unique past. Through a diverse programme of monthly lectures, heritage walks, exhibitions, visits, publications and the annual Heritage Day, the Forum makes local history accessible to residents and visitors alike, encouraging learning, participation and community pride.
Volunteers secure funding, research local history, publish journals and reprint out-of-print historical books. Their online resources promote heritage sites, events and walking trails, safeguarding local knowledge for future generations. By sharing ordinary people’s stories and connecting all ages with their past, the Forum strengthens community identity, lifelong learning and pride in Blaenau Gwent.
Through their dedication, knowledge and commitment, Blaenau Gwent Heritage Forum has made an outstanding contribution to the community and is thoroughly deserving of this recognition.’
Rodger Burchell, our current Vice Chair and Publications Editor, is a very accomplished historian who has been involved with the Forum since its inception 31 years ago. However, he has been researching, promoting and celebrating the wonderful heritage of this remarkable area for far longer than this – well over half a century, in fact.
The Forum would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rodger, on this well-deserved recognition of his longstanding service and commitment to local heritage. He is a much valued member of the Forum who gives freely of his knowledge and time and we are indebted to him.
