Walking for Waldo

Waldo Williams

A walk is taking place this weekend (30 September) in celebration of the life of Waldo Williams who was born in Haverfordwest on that day in 1940 and who died in 1971 at St Thomas’s Hospital, Haverfordwest. He is  buried in the grounds of Blaenconin Chapel in Llandissilio.

Waldo is known for his love of the Welsh language and found recognition as a leading Welsh Language poet.

A life-long pacifist and anti-war campaigner, he was once dismissed from his post as a headmaster because of his determination as a conscientious objector, and he was imprisoned twice during the Korean war in the 1950s for his views and refusal to pay taxes

Joining the Quakers at Milford Haven in the 1950s, he continued teaching and was much admired by his pupils.

The Waldo Walk, organised by Menter Iaith Sir Benfro, will start on Saturday at 10.30am at Bethel Chapel vestry and proceed to the Carreg Waldo/Waldo memorial stone. Welsh poet Mererid Hopwood will read some of his poetry and will be  joined by broadcaster Derek Brockway.