Guardian

In the summer of 1960, the community of Six Bells near Abertillery, south Wales witnessed a disaster that would haunt them for the rest of their lives.

On June 28th an underground explosion at 'Arrael Griffin' colliery led to the deaths of 45 miners, all local men - fathers, sons, husbands, brothers.

Fifty years later, to the day, after tireless work by the community and local organisations, a steel sculpture by Sebastien Boyesen, over 60ft high, was dedicated to those who died.

The sculpture is constructed from over 20,000 strips of Corten steel welded together to create a stunning monument that stands proudly on a sandstone plinth.  Viewed from a distance the figure of the miner has a transparent, almost ghostly quality, allowing it to blend into the heavily wooded landscape setting. Only when viewed up close, does the figure appear solid and the true presence of Guardian can be fully appreciated.

The name of each man who perished is engraved on its plinth.

Park in the spaces near the school and follow the signs to Guardian. There are several walks that let you see Guardian from different angles and explore the community of Six Bells.

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