A NEYLAND historian has proved that pictures can speak a thousand words after publishing his latest work that aims to take the reader on a photographic journey through time.

Neyland and Llanstadwell Through Time was launched by historian Simon Hancock last Friday at Hazelbeach Community Mission Hall.

The book focuses on the diverse history of the two neighbouring communities, where the rural life of the 1800s is sharply contrasted with the industry of Neyland today, which was built after the opening of the South Wales Railway in 1856.

Although the town lost the status of a railway town in 1964, its marina and quayside has seen a major transformation in recent years.

The book houses a collection of images, dating back to the 1860s, which are coupled with modern day photographs and explanatory text.

Cllr Hancock said: “In many ways some of the scenes are completely unrecognisable today. If you compare photographs of Neyland, you can see that the old train station is long gone, and has now been replaced by the marina. There are huge changes in Waterston too, with rows of farms replaced by the LNG terminal of today.

“There’s a saying that a picture tells a thousand words, and these images really prove that.”

Cllr Hancock said that it took about a year to get all the material together, going through national archives and researching old articles.

He added: “I went through great pains to ensure that all the material and old images have never been seen before. It’s all fresh material which hopefully will entice readers.

“Researching Pembrokeshire life is something I find stimulating and challenging, enjoyable and rewarding. I think it’s important to be passionate about what you do.”

Cllr Hancock said that only two dozen copies remained from the initial print run of the book, which is part of the Amberley series that covers towns and cities all over Britain.

He said: “It’s nice that Neyland and Llanstadwell will be up on the pedestal along with other towns and cities. It is a beautifully produced book, and there’s a huge demand for it.”

To get your copy, call Cllr Hancock on 07968 225156.