Maerdy was once a proud, passionate, and hardworking Welsh community, existing as one of Wales’ most affluent mining towns for a century. During this time Maerdy thrived, with the local community understanding the importance of the industry, and its contribution to their lives.

Following the closure of the mines in 1990, Maerdy’s community, amenities, landscape and ambition has become scarred by its industrial past. Glimpses of Maerdy 30 years on, help explore the community’s stories through the eyes of its former miners, community leaders, residents, and children.

In the shadow of the town, the film shows local children as they proudly depict Maerdy’s past in a school play, retired miners retrace their steps across the scar tissue of the coal face, and young adults discuss how they’ve become the first generation to leave Maerdy in search of higher education.