Ninety-five years ago, Penrhiwceiber's war memorial was completed. The bronze plaque commemorating those who lost their lives in the first world war was sited at the base of a castellated tower that would also serve as the village clock. It was designed by Mountain Ash architect W.H. William, paid for by public subscription, and built with stone from the old Aberdare canal.

It's a striking landmark, literally at the heart of its close-knit Valleys community, with a Welsh dragon weather vane that can be seen at a distance. The clock tower makes the memorial a memorable one. Later, names of the fallen from the second world war were added, and also another unique feature, a memorial to the Korean war. The tower is now grade II listed, but sadly in recent years its condition has deteriorated and the clock no longer works. But, plans are afoot to change this. The clock will be repaired and the street scene improved. The brass panels have already been cleaned, and new lighting fitted. My thanks to RCT council for doing this as part of its ongoing commitment to the armed forces community. The village holds its remembrance service a week after Remembrance Sunday, a third unique feature. So, I will be joining the community at the war memorial this Sunday to pay my respects to those who gave their lives.