Since the demise of the old guard in Merthyr Tydfil Council, things have, on the whole, been quite different for the residents living near the mine. The new brooms in the council are determined to sweep clean, and we're only too happy to stand back and let them carry on.

Although the mining carries on, we are currently experiencing (relative) quiet! It appears that the mining company, Miller-Argent, have suddenly realised their social responsibilities and they're making efforts to limit the noise and dust output from the mining operation.

Obviously the two events above are completely unconnected and coincidental, and Miller-Argent would have implemented these constraints anyway - wouldn't they?

Whatever the reason, and for how long it will last we don't know, but for the moment a semblance of normal life is tentatively creeping back into the local community.

We are all just grateful for small mercies.