The Valley Works Rhydymwyn Clwyd North Wales The Valley Works acquired its’ name 1939 when the Ministry of Supply instructed ICI’s Special Products Division to construct a factory and storage area in the Alyn Valley close to Rhydymwyn. The factory was to manufacture mustard gas. In the years 1940-1959 it was involved in the manufacturing, assembly or storage of chemical weapons or mustard gas in bulk containers. During the years 1947-1959 the tunnel complex held the majority of the country’s stock of mustard gas. I was lucky to get on a guided tour of the site last year and thought i would post some photos for those that are interested........
I remember the Motor cycle racing circuit within the Rhydymwyn site, this ran between the early 50's and mid 60's and was organised by Wirral 100 Motor Club. A brilliant circuit to race on with being very narrow and short certainly sorted the men from the boys! http://www.wirral100.co.uk/w100history.html Cheers. Ken.
Mustard gas; Spare a moments thought for the remaining Canadian veterans who were exposed to mustard gas in 1942 at Medicine Hat. Alberta. An offer of 24,000 (Canadian) has been turned down, a class action is before the courts and in the time dishonoured manner is being stalled.
I seem to recognise some of our images. If you wish a fuller story go to Rhydymwyn Valley History Society
Man, we sure know how to uglify a pretty area! Sketch, who were we selling mustard gas to in/by 1959? Did we use it just for ourselves - and where? Cyprus, during anti-EOKA action, for example? Looks very desolate and a bit of a shame it hasn't been turned into something usable - what are those small buildings?