Wayne David, Labour MP for Caerphilly and Shadow Defence Minister has met with senior officers of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to discuss recognition and signage for war graves throughout the country and in particular in the Rhymney Valley.

The CWGC is the body which is responsible for commemorating the Commonwealth forces who died during the two world wars. It is responsible for the graves and memorials for over 1.7 million casualties in more than 150 countries and territories.

In the Caerphilly constituency there are 151 Commonwealth war graves, the greatest number being in the cemeteries of Penyrheol and St Martin’s in Caerphilly and in St Cattwg Churchyard in Gelligaer.

It is now Mr David’s intention to approach Caerphilly Council and the churches of St Martin’s and St Cattwg’s about the possibility of Commonwealth war graves signs to be erected at the three places where the greatest number of war graves are located.

Wayne David said, “I was extremely impressed by the work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. In this year commemorating the end of the First World War, it is especially important to recognise the sacrifice of those who defended our country.

“The Commission will install and maintain the signs and I very much hope that the local authority and the churches will agree with me that is important to publically recognise those who paid the ultimate price during the two world wars.”