Bridgend

I was born in 1941 and brought up in the King’s Head Hotel, Nolton Street. Shortly after the war, perhaps 1946 or 1947, POWs were allowed out into the town. They often made small items to sell to locals. I remember having my foot drawn around by a POW who made me a pair of carpet slippers. One day I was sitting in the window with my mother and aunt who sent me down to ask a group of 3 POWs to come in for a cup of tea, which they did. They came to visit several times in the King’s Head. Their names were Albert, Theo and Elwin. I remember sitting in our living room with them and with my father, who had been badly wounded in Normandy, my uncle who fought from Normandy into Northern Germany, and my grandfather who had served in France in the First War. The atmosphere was very relaxed with plenty of conversation. They also came to visit us around Christmas, as I played on the carpet with my model soldiers! These are my memories of the POWs in Bridgend.
By the way, I served in the RAF and qualified as a German interpreter, so I would be willing to help if you need any translating done.

South Wales

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Germany, Hamburg

I am the grandson of Gen. Lt. Otto Kühne. It was very interesting to read about this part of my grandfather’s personal history. My father, the son of Otto Kühne still lives (age 93) in Hamburg and may be able to offer some further information.

Abingdon, Oxon

In the late 1940\'s we used to pass Island Farm on the way from Cardiff to visit my Grandparents in Port Talbot. I can recall one trip when we passed a uniformed German officer [peaked cap, great coat] walking along the main road [A48] and escorted by an armed British soldier. From memory the soldier was adjacent to the camp fence and the officer at the kerb side of the pavement - stopping him pushing the soldier into the road ?! I believe some officers where allowed un-escorted into Bridgend - anyone any ideas who this officer may have been ?

wales now Canada

great website very informative thank you

Maesycwmmer, near Blackwood, Gwent

I am very interested in the story of Island Farm camp 198. My father told me about it when I was a child. I think of it every time we pass in the car on our way to Porthcawl. Is there a book written about it? Thanks

Windsor

Loved reading your website - very informative and great stories! I am visiting Bridgend this week and it is a shame that the site isn\'t open to visit, but I will be sure to visit anyway and walk around the perimeter and see what else of the site is to be explored!

Llandaff

Had an invite from a friend earlier this week, so glad I visited! Had a fantastic afternoon, the volunteers were very knowledgable, Hut 9 is authentic and the tea and cake excellent. For a different day out and to learn lots about Bridgend this is an absolute must on any bucket list.

Bridgend

Thoroughly enjoyed my visit. Absolutely fascinating and very informative. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in local history and hope that it is preserved for many years to come.

Blyth

Thank you i am looking into camp 291 kitty Brewster farm and you have given me some good ideas to help me