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
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