Pontypool, Osborne Road c.1965

Photo ref: P126098

My mum's parents and her brother lived right next door to the Griffin Press no.74. I, my sister, Mum and Dad would travel down from Paddington on the steam train for Christmas and it would be open house for visitors, always so warm with the coal fire. How did we all fit into that small house, but I loved going up the turney stairs. I remember going to the small shop at the end of Osborne Road for sweets, ...see more

I was an apprentice bookbinder at the Griffin Press on Osborne Road between 1969 and 1975. While there, I met my wife Gloria('nee Fowler') who worked in the stationers shop of Hughes and Son Ltd in the town. I remember Sheila Smith, who lived across the road from the Griffin. I remember watching the Riverside housing estate being built from the Griffin. I have very fond memories of my time on Osborne Road and Pontypool itself.

I was evacuated with my school to Pontypool on 1st September 1939. I was taken in with my friend Jim Baker, by a retired miner and his wife, and spent six weeks in what was alleged to be the smallest house in Pontypool. I can't remember the name of my hosts but their dog was called "Fly", my memory of this being supported by a small black and white photograph I still have of Jimmy and myself holding Fly ...see more

My mother was from Pontypool and an uncle and aunt lived at 81 Osborne Road.  My great grandparents lived at 'Coynant' (by the old Griffin Press building) and my grandparents at nearby Gwynfa (now flats). Towards Pontnewynydd (opposite side), is Balmond Terrace, named after my great grandfather, John Balmond.