Interview with Sofia Hughes on 18 March 2024 about her childhood growing up in Briton Ferry, conducted by Year 5 pupils at Ysgol Carreg Hir Primary School.

00:00:22 – Early Life & Family Background Sofia clarifies she was born after WWII (1945) in Germany. Her Polish father (a POW) met her Russian mother there while working on farms.

00:01:26 – Arrival in Britain She moved to Briton Ferry in 1952 at age six, speaking no English. Initially lived on Church Street and attended St. Joseph’s School in Neath. The family chose Britain over Sweden or America; her father couldn’t return to Poland. An uncle, already working on Briton Ferry Bridge, sponsored them.

00:03:12 – Childhood Memories and the community Sofia recalls playing under the bridge, attending the Queen’s Coronation party, and helping her mother shop by translating. She notes initial difficulties for her parents due to language barriers, though she settled more easily and kept lifelong friends.

00:05:58 – Life in Briton Ferry She describes changes in the town—fewer shops today compared to a lively past with bakeries, banks, and clothing stores. Talks about close friendships, trips to Baglan Beach, cinema visits, and family outings.

00:09:54 – Transport & Daily Life No family car; relied on buses. Remembers local traders with horse-drawn carts, coal deliveries, and very different living conditions compared to today.