 (as the name of a class of fields in Brynlloi, an open common Brynamman and a farm Cwmgrenig) suggesting an ancient continuity.Copper, iron ore and tin were all mined from ancient times, and the settlement became an important station on the Neath-Brecon section of the Sarn Helen along the Pyrddin valley.During the Roman occupation, a fort named Ricus was established on the valley floor along with a very large Roman marching camp nearby.