Bridgend is a small town in south Wales, with a population of about 40,000. Situated in Glamorgan County, it is midway between the cities of Cardiff and Swansea. Named after the bridge that spanned the River Ogmore, it also has another river called Ewenny that runs through its southern part.
The discovery of coal in the 17th century had a big impact on Bridgend. Ironworks and brickworks were set up. Before that it was just a market town.
Like most of Wales, Bridgend does not provide many service jobs. Most employment is provided by the retail sector.
The town also played an important role during the Second World War. There was a large munitions factory and storage base. Burial mounds in the vicinity of Bridgend suggest that it was settled before the Roman invasion.
The discovery of coal in the 17th century had a big impact on Bridgend. Ironworks and brickworks were set up. Before that it was just a market town.
Like most of Wales, Bridgend does not provide many service jobs. Most employment is provided by the retail sector.
The town also played an important role during the Second World War. There was a large munitions factory and storage base. Burial mounds in the vicinity of Bridgend suggest that it was settled before the Roman invasion.