Variously called the 'Biarritz of Wales', the 'Cambrian Brighton' and,
by Wynford Vaughan Thomas, 'A town for the unambitious man', Aberystwyth
has been mid-Wales's premier holiday resort for over 200 years. It is
also the home of a vibrant university. Both these functions have
contributed to a rich visual culture documenting the town. In
Aberystwyth Reflections, local author William Troughton has brought
together a fascinating collection of historic and modern photographs
that are individually merged to reveal how the town has changed across
the decades. As an established resort the promenade area, with its pier,
bandstand, pierrots, paddling pool and seafront hotels, features in many
of the images. Pictures of streets, shops, notable events, military
camps, funicular and narrow-gauge railways, the harbour and vanished
buildings are also included. A section looks at the development of the
university campus during the 1960s and 1970s. This evocative visual
chronicle, which features many previously unpublished photographs,
reflects Aberystwyth past and present. It will appeal to residents,
visitors and anyone with connections to the town.
