THIS is a strange building to come across

On top of a suburban Barry street

Overlooking the Channel glittering with silver

On this sunny late October morning.

Locals pass by without noticing

As insignificant as a lamppost

The 12th century castle has one eye

Which is today painted blue by the sky.

It has seen the Luftwaffe

But without fear as it has no roof.

And witnessed flares and Teddy Boys

Ford Cortina cars and weathered brutal storms

Sweeping up from Barry Harbour.

I wander through the lonely arch to grass

And I’m the only visitor today

No tourist buses seem to come this way.

But it has a special place in my heart

With only the gatehouse and hall remaining.

It was once an alehouse and I strain

To hear drunken voices from the film of time

Forgotten souls, mourned once

But that was long ago and far away

No more strolling and observing the sight

Of fabulous stars on a Barry Night.

Guy Fletcher

Pantmawr

Cardiff