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A Cynon Valley author will host an Open Doors event at St Gwynno’s Church in Llanwonno, on Saturday afternoon, September 20, to coincide with the unveiling of a Blue Plaque.

From 2.30pm Gary Marsh, of Mountain Ash, will be exploring the links between St Gwynno, the 12th Century saint, and the legendary Welsh runner Guto Nyth Bran.

At the same time as this free event a Blue Plaque will be unveiled in the church in memory of the great athlete and the inspiration of the world-famous Nos Galan Road Races.

The talk should also prove popular with fans of the BBC’s Dr Who as Gary will discuss the “fascinating” connection between the famous Time Lord and St Gwynno’s Church.

Gary grew up surrounded by the tradition of the Nos Galan Road Races and a career in journalism resulted in him covering the event every New Year’s Eve for 22 years – something that continues now as part of his job as a media officer with Rhondda Cynon Taf council.

Gary, who is also a proud member of the Nos Galan Committee, is the author of Guto: Story of the Nos Galan Road Races.

Born in 1700, Guto could reputedly run 50 yards in just four seconds, 10 miles in 45 minutes – and in his final, fateful race, he ran 12 miles in 53 minutes. He died in such tragic circumstances in 1737, aged 37.

The Nos Galan Road Races, in his memory, started on Wednesday, December 31, 1958. The founder of the races, Bernard Baldwin MBE and his family, are expected to attend the event at St Gwynno’s Church – the day before his 89th birthday.

Gary said: “It promises to be a very special day for me and everyone connected with St Gwynno’s Church. It will be a huge honour to welcome Bernard Baldwin and his family to the event, as well as everyone else.

“After many years of visiting St Gwynno’s Church and the grave of Guto Nyth Bran, it will be the first time for me to actually host a talk inside this place of worship.”

This event forms part of the Open Doors initiative which celebrates the country’s architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission.

As a result RCT Council is working in partnership with various organisations and individuals throughout the month of September.

For further information about the Nos Galan talk email gary.marsh2@hotmail.co.uk or call Gary Marsh on 07770 302 791.