National Screen and Sound Archive of Wales preserves and celebrates the sound and moving image heritage of Wales, making it accessible to a wide range of users for enjoyment and learning. Its film collection reflects every aspect of the nation’s social, cultural and working life across the 20th century, giving a fascinating insight into Welsh filmmaking, both amateur and professional.
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1955 Opening of Usk Reservoir (Aug)
Swansea celebrates the opening of its new reservoir by the Queen. An excellent lunch is provided for all the guests, most of whom can be seen imbibing alcohol rather than water.
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Overview
The Queen opens the Usk Reservoir, 6/8/1955. A commentary has been added to this film at a later date by one of the cameramen, L M Rees, Swansea's Chief Librarian (who ran out of film as his boss was being presented to Her Majesty). Lunch is served, alcohol is imbibed, speeches are made, individuals are presented (" .... Councillor Jones, Councillor Jones, Councillor Dr Jones ..."), the Bishop of Brecon, a vision in red, dedicates the undertaking, Swansea china is gifted.
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