The Hartfell-Valentian Succession in the District around Plynlimon and Pont Erwyd (North Cardiganshire)

Abstract

The area described in this paper forms part of the hilly country some 12 to 16 miles to the east of Aberystwyth. It extends for a distance of about 9 miles, from the Plynlimon Mountains near the northern margin, to the Ystwyth Valley which forms the southern boundary; the eastern limit lies on the elevated tract which forms the divide between the coastal drainage and that of the River Wye and its tributaries, while its western margin is roughly defined by the western slope of the Rheidol Valley. The area of 40 square miles or so included within these boundaries is given over almost entirely to sheep-grazing, and only small tracts along some of the valleys are under cultivation. In former times mining operations were vigorously carried on, but that industry is now decadent. The small village of Pont Erwynd stands in the Rheidol Valley near the western margin of the district, and on the main road from Aberystwyth to Llanidloes which divides the area into two almost equal portions.