Image Licensing : Neyland Fish Platform, Pembrokeshire, c. 1910

EDITORS COMMENTS

This evocative photograph captures a moment in time at Neyland Fish Platform in Pembrokeshire, Wales, around 1910. The scene shows a group of dedicated GWR (Great Western Railway) company servants diligently unloading fish crates from a rail link. The rail link connected the platform to the nearby fishing boats, allowing for the swift transportation of fresh catches to markets and consumers. Pembrokeshire, with its abundant fishing grounds, experienced a significant boom in the fishing industry from 1908 onwards. The waters teemed with a variety of fish species, including herring, mackerel, and cod, making it an attractive destination for fishermen. The rail link at Neyland played a crucial role in facilitating the efficient distribution of these catches, ensuring that the fresh fish reached its destination in a timely manner. The photograph offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the hard work and dedication of the GWR company servants who played a vital role in the local fishing industry. The crates, filled to the brim with gleaming fish, speak to the abundance and prosperity of the industry during this period. The scene is a testament to the close-knit community of Neyland and the important role that the railway played in connecting the area to the wider world. The photograph also serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of World War I on the fishing industry. With many ships commandeered for the war effort, the supply of fish and other essential goods was disrupted, leading to shortages and hardships for communities reliant on the industry. Despite these challenges, the spirit of resilience and determination that is evident in this photograph endured, ensuring that the fishing industry in Pembrokeshire continued to thrive in the years to come.