The 70th anniversary of the founding of the National Health Service had already seen Tredegar perform in their home town as well as the Houses of Parliament as part of the high-profile celebrations throughout the UK. 

This concert completed the circle of commemoration that reflected on Aneurin Bevan’s life as well as legacy; from the initial inspiration of the Tredegar Medical Aid Society, to the passing of parliamentary legislation and finally to the practical benefits and achievements of his creation.

NUM commitment

Pontypridd remains the headquarters of the South Wales Area of the National Union of Mineworkers; a trade union that to this day continues to play an active role in proving practical help and support to families with proud mining histories. 

As a miner himself, Bevan recognised the commitment of the NUM to his cause - and to the need to help those blighted by the effects of working in the industry.

Organised by BBC broadcaster Beverley Humphreys, it was a night that brought all three strands together - the centre point another chance to hear Tom Davoren’s ‘Legacy’ soprano cornet solo which now been downloaded free of charge by over 250 bands all over the world. 

Organised by BBC broadcaster Beverley Humphreys, it was a night that brought all three strands together - the centre point another chance to hear Tom Davoren’s ‘Legacy’ soprano cornet solo which now been downloaded free of charge by over 250 bands all over the world. 

Emotive rendition

Soloist Ian Roberts once again raised the roof with his emotive rendition, whilst the band provided relaxed entertainment with repertoire that included everything from Strauss, Mozart and Berlioz to the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Eric Coates and Jimmy Webb. 

Classy solos from Dewi Griffiths, Chris Davies, Martyn Patterson, Danny Winder and Ben Stratford helped things along, whilst the encores of the miner’s hymn ‘Gresford’ and the march ‘Old Comrades’ were neat touches of sentimentality.

As celebrations go it was joyful and heartwarming - the standing ovation even getting a group of exhausted walkers, who had just got to the event in time after completing their own 130 mile NHS celebratory trek the length of Wales, to their aching feet. 

Bevan’s NHS chiropody service may have got an appointment or two booked in on the Monday morning.

Meryl Teague