PREPARATIONS are well under way to celebrate the centenary of the opening of the Elan Valley dams and reservoirs.

The dam project was the largest engineering feat anywhere in the world at the time and was officially opened by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra on July 21, 1904, having arrived on the Royal Train.

Welsh Water's Elan Valley countryside rangers are organising a range of events throughout the year to celebrate the great day when a clean supply of water was, and still is a hundred years later, provided for the Birmingham area.

Today the reservoirs also supply water to most of West Radnorshire and, in times of drought, to parts of South Wales.

A life-size statue has been commissioned from Debbi Leeton, of Argoed Mill, near Llandrindod Wells, and a commemorative booklet, video and CD are being produced.

A large exhibition will be held at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre throughout the summer and also one at the Central Library in Birmingham.

Birmingham City Council is also keen to join in the celebrations and other joint initiatives are planned.

A series of evening talks will be held at the Elan Valley Hotel during the week of July 19 to 23, as well as an evening showing documentary films of the valley's history.

Guided walks and dam open days will also take place in the week and on the big day a special guest - whose identity has yet to be revealed - will unveil the new statue.