Give Me Strength

The year is 1909. Bargoed is a burgeoning town in the Rhymney Valley since the sinking of the coal mine by Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company. Walter Lewis, the newly elected miners' agent represents the working men of the valley who pay their penny due to the Fed, the South Wales Miners Federation.Walt and his family are preparing to welcome their old friend, Nehemiah Thomas, to their home to share in the celebrations at the Welsh Baptist chapel. On the night of a concert in Fochriw, Walt inadvertently witnesses a young woman approach Miah claiming to be his daughter. This makes Walt realise how little he knows of his friend's life before they met through the church.Walt's comfortable modern lifestyle contrasts with that of Sam Jones and his family who live in a row of old cottages a few miles across Graig Fargoed. Life on the row has been unsettled since the arrival of an English family. And what of the mysterious young couple who moved in during the winter and seem to be keeping themselves very much to themselves?Historical fact meets fiction in a story of crime, mystery and drama in this thrilling tale. And if you are one of many thousands, near or far, with links to the Rhymney Valley or feel nostalgic for the disappearing traditions and lost industrial heritage of south east Wales - this book is a must read.