Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters
From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today
Two documentary films showing the Welsh political landscape in years gone by will be screened at Bedwas Workmen’s Hall as part of its centenary celebrations.
The screenings are being organised by Tad Davies, son of the late Bedwas councillor Ray Davies, who was known affectionately as “Red Ray”.
The event will be held on Sunday April 2, with the filmmakers themselves, Colin Thomas and Beca Brown, in attendance for a question and answer session.
The first film shown will be The Dragon Has Two Tongues, which is a 13-part series on Welsh history made for Channel 4.
The second film will be Facing Up to the Fascists, which recalls the resistance faced by the British Union of Fascists in Wales, particularly in Bedwas.
The films will be shown using the hall’s new projector, which has been installed in the upstairs theatre.
The projector was funded with support from both the Co-op Local Community Fund and the now-defunct Bedwas-based Musical Youth Theatre group, as well as fundraising efforts from volunteers at the hall.
There is not set price for entry to the two films, other than a donation to Red Ray’s Lift Appeal.
What is Red Ray’s Lift Appeal?
A Labour councillor for Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen, Ray Davies served his community for more than 50 years before his death in 2015.
His legacy lives on through Red Ray’s Lift Appeal, which was set up to raise money for the installation of a lift at Bedwas Workmen’s Hall so it would comply with the 2005 Disability Act.
Speaking to Caerphilly Observer in January 2023, Ray’s widow, Wendy Lewis – herself a volunteer at the hall – said the appeal was nearing its target and she was hopeful work can begin on the lift this year.
Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters
From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts.
Become a member today