Interview with Hugh James by Year 5 pupils at Ysgol Carreg Hir primary School, 15th March 2024, who shares his memories of transport in Britain Ferry.

(00:00:36–00:00:54). Early Life and Transport in Briton Ferry

Hugh James, born in 1943, recalls how cars were rare during his childhood, with only professionals like doctors or teachers owning them. Most people relied on public transport, particularly buses and trains.

James shares his passion for steam trains, which was influenced by his father's work on the railway. He enjoyed train spotting as a child, and this interest also helped him excel in geography.

(00:01:39–00:03:15) - Ownership of Older Cars

He reflects on the cars he owned, including a Mini and a vintage 1949 Riley, comparing them to modern vehicles. He notes how cars of the past, like the Mini, required more manual operation, such as double declutching, and lacked conveniences like heaters

(00:03:24–00:03:55) - Commuting to School

James talks about how he got to school, mainly using bikes, buses, or walking. He mentions that special buses were laid on for senior school students, which is no longer the case today.

(00:03:57–00:04:12) - Importance of Public Transport

He stresses the importance of public transport, particularly for elderly people who do not have cars. He also notes that while Britain Ferry’s railway station shut in the 1960s, it was reopened in 1994 and is improving.

(00:05:04–00:06:02). Briton Ferry’s Transport History and Legacy

James delves into the historical significance of Briton Ferry in the Industrial Revolution, particularly highlighting the work of engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his impact on local transport.

(00:06:05–00:06:44) - Cooperative and Credit Book System

He reminisces about the cooperative in Briton Ferry, where people used a credit book to make purchases instead of using cash or cards, which were uncommon at the time

(00:06:47–00:08:00) - Presenting Historical Paintings

James presents paintings to the interviewer, depicting local trains and ferry crossings, emphasizing their historical importance and his connection to the past.