Barry Museum and Heritage Centre is launching a new project to record the memories of local people whose lives were touched by the filming of BBC comedy Gavin & Stacey.
Marking the museum’s 14th anniversary, the project will form the latest chapter of its online ‘Human Library’, which preserves the personal experiences and memories of people in Barry.
The museum is working with Cardiff and Vale College, whose film and media production students will record, produce and edit a series of video interviews with local residents.
The collection will explore Barry’s association with Gavin & Stacey, including how filming affected the town and the role the programme played in raising its profile as a visitor destination.
William Andreoli, a museum volunteer managing the project, said: “Local people’s personal memories are every bit as valuable as the objects and photographs in our collections because they help tell the story of who we are as a community.
“‘Gavin & Stacey’ has become an important part of Barry's modern story and we want to ensure that the voices of local people are recorded and shared.”
The partnership will also give Cardiff and Vale College students experience of working on a live heritage and community documentary project while developing their film production skills.
Further Human Library projects focusing on other aspects of Barry’s social, cultural and community history are being planned for 2027.
Museum chairman John Buxton said: “As we celebrate our 14th birthday, we're delighted to be working with Cardiff and Vale College to expand our ability to celebrate our rich local history through the Human Library.”
The project comes as the volunteer-run museum prepares for wider changes. It recently announced plans to become a charity and change its name from Barry War Museum and Heritage Centre to Barry Museum & Heritage Centre.
Based at the Grade II listed Barry Island Station, the museum is currently closed for its annual spring clean and maintenance work.
Its longer-term plans include expanding its online heritage resources and working with community partners on further outreach activities.
The museum is also looking for additional volunteers to support its activities, including its Human Library video projects, educational work and extended opening hours.
The Human Library and further information about the museum can be found at www.barrymuseum.wales.
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