Interview with Dilwyn Roberts by Jill Jones

[00:00:34] Early Life

Born in 1930. First school was Infants Junior School on Penygelli Road, and at age 7 moved to Penygelli Junior School. Age 11 he moved to Penygelli Road Secondary School, Coedpoeth, then left education aged 14.

 

[00:02:13] Minera Limeworks

Recalls his first job at the Minera Limeworks. Describes the railway lines, layout of the limeworks, the names of who worked there. DR began work in the clerk’s office, then transferred to fetching water from the nearby spring to the quarry. Gives background about processing lime.

 

[00:06:20] Minera Quarry

After 18 months, began work in the quarry. Talks about colleagues and his job there.

 

[00:07:53] National Service

At age 18, DR was called to the National Service and put in the Royal Air Force (RAF).

 

[00:08:10] Returning to Minera Quarry

Age 20, DR returned to his previous job as a brakesman, and then to the kiln. Describes his colleagues at the quarry, their jobs and conditions at the kiln. More about the quarry layout. Father fought in World War II, then also came back to work at the quarry. DR goes on to take an extra Saturday job.

 

[00:18:47] Landscape

Remembers the woodland around the limeworks, which is still there today. JJ and DR discuss the wildflower species found there.

 

[00:20:34] Drawing hobby

Anecdotes about his drawings, submitting to the Wrexham Leader.

 

[00:25:27] Finishing up

Interview finished, concern and talk about recording device.