A WWII veteran who settled in Cowbridge inspired a local author’s latest book.
The Flying Soprano is the intriguing title of a new novel by Gareth Thomas and published by Y Lolfa. Described as “a love story that brings the past vividly to life” by Jon Gower, the novel is set in 1930s Glamorgan, Spain and London. The book was launched at a recent event at Cowbridge Library.
Author Gareth Thomas lives in St Hilary, near Cowbridge, and the novel—his third English-language novel—has particular local significance. The story and the themes of The Flying Soprano were inspired by the discussions the author had with the late George Crabb in The Bear Hotel in Cowbridge. George will be remembered by many, and the book is dedicated to him.
Gareth Thomas said: “I was struck by his war-time account as a member of Bomber Command. George had intense pride in the bravery and loyalty of his fellow flyers whilst feeling deep remorse over the unnecessary civilian deaths and destruction that their actions caused.
“He lived with this contradiction, proudly displaying his service medals and honouring the cenotaph whilst selling white peace poppies around Cowbridge during the week before Armistice Day.
“George came from a very English middle class background and started life intending to become a professional musician. War disrupted everything. At its end, he fell in love with a Welsh girl and settled in Wales where he worked as a miner and later became a teacher of children with special needs.
“He embraced Welshness, learned Welsh and used it to good effect. He also embraced the Welsh radical tradition by joining the Communist Party. He remained a fervent socialist throughout his life, decrying the self-destructive nature of modern capitalism and proclaiming the need for each of us to respect our common humanity.”
At the book launch, which was staged in partnership with the Cowbridge History Society, Phil Carradice interviewed the author. Dramatised excerpts from the book were read by Sharon James-Evans and Geraint Thomas, with musical backing from the Cae’r Delyn Choir.
The novel follows Siân, the soprano of the title, a young woman from the Rhondda who wins a scholarship to study singing at a prestigious London music academy. Her aim is to follow in the proud line of Welsh female singers. Siân overcomes lack of money, prejudice and predatory impresarios but her plans are thrown awry by the impending war, her own headstrong nature and a love affair.
In Spain, Siân’s brother fights against Franco as part of the International Brigade. His story is drawn from the recollections and memoirs of some of the south Wales miners and ex-miners who volunteered. We follow the idealism that led to their decision and the brutal fight against superior fascist forces.
Send us your News, Sport, Events, Letters and Advertising here.
⭐ All of our social media in one handy place – here
Pencoed tangled up by ‘Seaweeds’
Primary school’s former deputy head is banned from teaching
I make no apologies for calling Plaid Cymru ‘separatists’
‘The importance of participation and continued learning’
Opposition leaders clash with First Minister over independence rally
How Kevin saved a stranger’s life
