HISTORIC links between Aberystwyth and the Japanese town of Yosano have been strengthened with an 11-day visit by students from Aberystwyth University.

Two hours north of Kyoto on Japan’s west coast and with a population of around 24,000, Yosano established close links with Aberystwyth in the 1980s thanks to the work of former prisoner of war, the late Frank Evans.

Originally from Llanwnnen, near Lampeter, Mr Evans was captured following the battle of Hong Kong in 1941 and imprisoned at Oeyama, near Yosano, where he worked in a nickel mine and smelting works.

Following the publication of his memoir Roll Call of Oyeama POW Remembers, Mr Evans revisited the camp in 1984 and erected a memorial to his comrades at the site.

In subsequent years, he sought reconciliation and friendship with his former captors which led to exchange programmes between Aber­ystwyth and Yosano.

This year’s visit is the second from Aberystwyth University and will see the students staying with local host families.

The visit has been organised by director of international academic strategy and professor of public diplomacy at Aberystwyth University, Prof Gary Rawnsley.

Prof Rawnsley said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to see a different culture and carry on the friendship that Frank Evans established so many years ago."

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