Interview with Mandy by Chris

Description

In this interview, Mandy, a volunteer with the Friends of Cardiff Reservoirs and long-time resident of Cyncoed, shares her personal connection to the local reservoir. Since moving to the area in 1982, Mandy has cherished its natural beauty, using it as a retreat from stressful workdays and creating memorable moments with her family, such as celebrating her son’s GCSE results by the water. She recalls the reservoir’s changes over the years, including its closure in 2005, the subsequent campaign to prevent development on the site, and its eventual transformation into a community space. Initially skeptical of the new developments, Mandy now appreciates the balance between preserving natural beauty and introducing structured activities. She enjoys her involvement as a volunteer, emphasizing the calming and inclusive environment.

Topics covered include:
[00:00:02] Introduction and Setting Volunteers.
[00:00:22] Early Memories: Mandy recalls walking her dogs and the reservoir's wild landscape in the 1980s.
[00:03:09] Reservoir Closure: Reflections on the 2005 closure and the community's reaction.
[00:03:28] Memorable: Moments: Mandy shares personal stories, including celebrating her son’s GCSE results.
[00:05:28] Campaign to Save the Reservoir: Mandy discusses involvement in activism to preserve the space.
[00:07:08] Current State and Volunteering: Mandy reflects on the reservoir's transformation and her role as a volunteer.