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Duw it’s hard! A bronze statue of Max Boyce will soon be in place in his beloved Glynneath
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26 September 2023
A spectacular statue of Welsh comedian, singer and entertainer Max Boyce will be unveiled in the popular ex-miner’s home town of Glynneath on September 30th, 2023.
Max, who received the Freedom of the Borough of Neath Talbot in honour of his charity work and lifelong commitment to his community in 2014, has sold more than two million albums in a career going back to the 1970s.
He will celebrate his 80th birthday just a few days before the unveiling which will be performed by Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford and the Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, Louise Fleet.
The bronze statue, created by renowned local artist Rubin Eynon, will face Abernant Park – the home of Max Boyce’s beloved Glynneath RFC. There will be road closures between 11am and 3.00pm on the day of the event.
Residents of Glynneath, fans, supporters and followers of Max Boyce across Wales, the UK and further afield are invited to attend the unveiling ceremony which will commence from 11.30am and end at 1.40pm on Saturday 30th September 2023.
The statue has been funded using Community Grants available locally and will act as a gateway symbol to Glynneath and the surrounding communities.
Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said: “We are delighted Glynneath RFC is honouring its Club President with this unique event. The dedication and support Max has provided to Glynneath RFC over the years and to his local community has been truly remarkable.
“I know the club has expressed its gratitude to funders Selar Opencast Community Fund, Aberpergwm Community Fund and the Maesgwyn Wind Farm Community Fund. This honour for Max Boyce is richly deserved.”
Following the formal unveiling ceremony, guests are invited back to Abernant Park to watch Glynneath RFC 1st XV play Ystradgynlais RFC in a Division 1 West Central league clash where the Band of the Royal Welsh will entertain guests on the pitch prior to Kick Off at 3pm.
There will be a dinner held for invited guests within the clubhouse in the evening following the rugby match. The event has been organised by Glynneath RFC in conjunction with the Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan’s office.