Llanelli: The Story of a Town

John Edwards has written the first-ever comprehensive history of Llanelli. Originally written in Welsh, it was commissioned by Carmarthenshire County Council as a gift to the National Eisteddfod 2000 at Llanelli.

The story takes us from the Ice Age to the dawning of the Third Millennium. The first thousand years or so follow the fortunes of the Celts and Romans, through early Welsh history to the coming of the Normans and the loss of Welsh independence.

The beginnings of Llanelli centred around the Parish Church and we see the influence of three landed families, the Vaughans, the Stepneys and the Mansels, in the development of the town.

From the mid-19th century, it is the production of tinplate which takes pride of place, making Llanelli's tinplate production the largest of any town in the world.

The second part of the 20th century sees the demise of heavy industry with Llanelli facing up to a new future based on tourism.

About the Author

John Edwards is the foremost historian on all matters Llanelli. He was educated at Llanelli County School before joining the navy in 1944.

In 1947 he entered the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth before becoming a history teacher and taking a masters degree in education.

He took early retirement in 1982, and is still very active in the town's historical circles. He also appears frequently on TV and radio.