BLAENAVON Ironworks will be illuminated on October 1 in a tribute to the many men and women who lived and worked at the site.

The project is being carried out by The Society of Light and Lighting and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers, and will see the central water balance tower lit up and surrounded by lights displaying the names of the workers who contributed to south Wales becoming one of the most important iron producing regions in the world.

It forms part of a Night of Heritage Light, where World Heritage Sites across the UK will be illuminated to highlight the important part light and light-based technologies play in the modern world.

The deputy minister for culture, sport and tourism, Ken Skates, said: “It is fantastic that these ironworks, which are one of the best preserved 18th and 19th century ironworks in Europe, will be participating in this national celebration of World Heritage Sites.

“It is important we remember our history and its significance and I hope visitors and residents from the local community will be encouraged to go out to see and appreciate what will be an impressive site at this iconic historic monument.”

The leader of Torfaen council, cllr Bob Wellington CBE, added: “Not only will this be a fantastic sight to see, it will also serve as a tribute to the many men and women who played such an important but often forgotten part in Wales’ industrial heritage.”

Other World Heritage Sites taking part include Edinburgh Old and New Towns, Fountains Abbey, Liverpool Maritime, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Ironbridge Gorge, Blenheim Palace, Jurassic Coast and Giant’s Causeway.

The lighting will take place on Thursday from around 6.30pm until 10pm.

More information on the concept and the artist behind it is available here nohl-sll.org/ben-porter.

The event takes place during the Unesco International Year of Light, which has seen activities take place in more than 100 countries across the globe.