Porthcawl's Coney Island funfair closes after 100 years

Porthcawl's Coney Island funfair closes after 100 years

After entertaining families for over a hundred years, the iconic Coney Beach Amusement Park in Porthcawl will be closing its doors for the final time this Saturday. Since its opening in 1918 during the reign of George V and the final days of World War I, the fair has been a beloved fixture for many in south Wales. Generations have enjoyed the classic rides and nostalgic arcades, creating lasting memories that will now come to an end with the closure of the park.

Originally built to entertain American troops returning from the war, Coney Beach took its name from New York’s pleasure park on Coney Island. For many, the fair holds a special place in their hearts as they reminisce about childhood trips during the miners’ fortnight, when families from the south Wales valleys would flock to the coast for their annual holiday. The fair has been a symbol of summertime fun and laughter for decades, but now it faces its final days as the summer season draws to a close.

As visitors bid farewell to the fair, fond memories and nostalgia fill the air. Families like Ann and Raymond Crandon from Merthyr Tydfil, who have been coming to Coney Beach for generations, share stories of past visits and cherished experiences. Despite the bittersweet atmosphere, many express sadness at the closing of the fair but also gratitude for the joyful moments and traditions it has provided over the years. From childhood delights to family outings, Coney Beach has left an indelible mark on all those who have passed through its gates.

While the fair has been a beloved attraction for locals, it has also drawn visitors from far and wide who have come to experience its magic before it fades away. Sandy and her family from Liverpool, as well as Reece and his family from Kent, have made the journey to Porthcawl to savor the last moments of the fair. As the gates close for the final time and the echoes of laughter fade away, Coney Beach Amusement Park will live on in the memories of all who had the pleasure of experiencing its timeless charm

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