Our event titled ‘Stories of the Sea – Memories of storms and the shore in Borth‘ took place in a converted chapel, aptly named The Star of the Sea. It was standing room only to hear the wonderful speakers who shared their storm inspired stories.
Clychau’r Cantre’r Gwaelod
O dan y môr a’i donnau
Mae llawer dinas dlos
Fu’n gwrando ar y clychau
Yn canu gyda’r nos;
Trwy ofer esgeulustod
Y gwyliwr ar y tŵr
Aeth clychau Cantre’r Gwaelod
O’r golwg dan y dŵr…
An extract from the poem by J Williams that was read in full as part of a five part play depicting the role of the Uppingham School following the big flood of 1877 – written by Mike Francis especially for the ‘Stories of Storms’ event.
Over the course of the evening we heard poems, memories, historical accounts, fictional stories, first hand observations and tall tales all inspired and connected to the central theme of storms.
A number of speakers recounted the events of the notable storms of 1976, 2014 and 2021 that serve as benchmarks in their memories. They explained how these storms act as points of reference serve to help them and those around them in navigate present events and understand new storms.
“Community response to big storm events is not new. Following the huge strom of 1976 the community of Borth came together and formed the “Storm and Tempest Committee” to respond should help be needed in the future.”
Each person taking to the stage brought their own perspective on their relationships with storms. We heard a number of times about the impact of storms on family life. We were told stories of children and cats being carried through flood waters to safety. One local writer shared with us her poem about the birth of her child born during the chaos and destruction of Storm Darragh.
Others chose to share stories they had written, works of fiction based on their experiences of the wild side of Borth weather. Stories of arrival and acceptance into the community for those who had “Blown in on the wind”.
“I don’t have a tale to tell. I’m just a blow in”
Quote from project research participant highlighting how the
wind and the storms have entered the vernacular of Borth
We heard from speakers with long family histories in the village. As well as bringing a vast depth and breadth of knowledge about the evolution of sea defences and storm impacts they also shared with us lighter moments from storms gone by.
Family secrets about flood prediction were revealed and the often asked question ‘Why is there a wave pained on your house?’ was publicly answered.
To end the evening we heard a surreal tale that perfectly encapsulated the wildly creative and playful essence of Borth. A story based on both historical events and the legends of Cantre’r Gwaelod, that incorporated current environmental issues around water pollution whilst also acknowledging the local group who dance on the beach – it was joyous, you had to be there!
Our speakers brought to life what it is to experience storms in Borth and demonstrated the wealth of knowledge and wisdom that can be found within the community.
Diolch – Thank You
Diolch yn fawr – Thank you so much to all those who took part on the night regaling their tales, performing their poems and sharing the history of both recent and historical storms with us all.