"For more than a century it has entertained generations of families with its mixture of classic rides and nostalgic arcades. But on Saturday, the sun will finally set on Porthcawl's much-loved fair, Coney Beach Amusement Park. When it opened in 1918, George V was monarch and the country was in the final days of World War I. Since then, it has been a fixture for many in south Wales, some who first visited as children and would go on to return with their own grandchildren."
"It is thought that Coney Beach Amusement Park was built to entertain American troops returning from the war and took its name from New York's pleasure park on Coney Island. What helped cement it in the minds and hearts of many was their childhood trips during miners' fortnight. This saw the south Wales valleys' numerous coal mines close for two weeks in the summer, prompting families to head to the coast for their annual holiday."
Coney Beach Amusement Park in Porthcawl will close permanently after the summer season, with gates to be padlocked following a final day of operation and an after-dark fireworks display. The park opened in 1918 and provided entertainment through classic rides and nostalgic arcades for generations of south Wales families. The park likely began to entertain American troops returning from World War I and took its name from Coney Island. Regular childhood visits during miners' fortnight and the development of Trecco Bay helped make Porthcawl a beloved seaside resort and holiday destination.
Read at BBC News
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