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0:00:02 > 0:00:05- It's a special year - for Merched y Wawr...
0:00:05 > 0:00:08- ..as they celebrate - their 50th birthday.
0:00:08 > 0:00:14- 50 years of tea, bara brith - and meeting for a good chinwag.
0:00:14 > 0:00:16- Help yourselves.
0:00:17 > 0:00:20- There must be more to the story - than that.
0:00:20 > 0:00:22- They've been with us for 50 years.
0:00:22 > 0:00:24- They've been with us for 50 years.- - We're still here!
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- We're beginning a journey - to find out more.
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- I'm Jess Davies, - a 24-year-old model and fashionista.
0:00:31 > 0:00:34- Merched y Wawr - has never been part of my world.
0:00:34 > 0:00:37- There's some alcohol in that.
0:00:37 > 0:00:42- I'm actress Hannah Daniel. I've not - been linked to the movement either.
0:00:42 > 0:00:44- You'll have your ball back now.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49- Over a period of a few months, - we'll join Merched y Wawr...
0:00:49 > 0:00:53- ..as they celebrate their - 50th birthday across the country.
0:00:54 > 0:00:55- This is a real bra.
0:00:55 > 0:00:57- This is a real bra.- - A real bra. Size 26.
0:00:58 > 0:01:02- We'll look back at some - memorable moments from the past.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04- It was a battle.
0:01:04 > 0:01:08- We'll ask if the institution - is relevant to modern life.
0:01:09 > 0:01:13- I caused long queues in M&S - for writing a cheque in Welsh.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16- Or is it all tea and bara brith?
0:01:16 > 0:01:17- You're not meant to use these.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19- You're not meant to use these.- - It's tense.
0:01:20 > 0:01:25- Who are Merched y Wawr? Do they - offer anything to today's Wales?
0:01:32 > 0:01:33- Merched y Wawr.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35- Merched y Wawr.- - Merched y Wawr.
0:01:35 > 0:01:38- I don't know anyone of my age - who's a member of Merched y Wawr.
0:01:39 > 0:01:43- Tea, coffee, bara brith.
0:01:43 > 0:01:47- Where does Merched y Wawr - fit into today's world?
0:01:47 > 0:01:49- What do they do?
0:01:49 > 0:01:50- What do they do?- - Why are they relevant?
0:01:51 > 0:01:55- Why did girls our age - join them 50 years ago...
0:01:56 > 0:01:58- ..and why doesn't it happen now?
0:01:58 > 0:02:01- I'm in my 20s, I go out a lot. - I'm in the fashion world.
0:02:01 > 0:02:06- I don't know - where I'll fit in with the women.
0:02:06 > 0:02:12- It'll be a bit odd initially. - The members are a lot older than us.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14- They won't know why we're there.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- Will they be drinking tea - or cocktails?
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- Long Island iced tea.
0:02:22 > 0:02:24- There'll be a lot of tea...
0:02:24 > 0:02:26- ..bara brith, I hope...
0:02:26 > 0:02:30- I'm not sure if I like bara brith.
0:02:30 > 0:02:32- Good luck, Jess!
0:02:38 > 0:02:41- Every journey - starts with a single step.
0:02:41 > 0:02:46- A Merched y Wawr branch is ready - to welcome me to Gorseinon.
0:02:46 > 0:02:51- I can't wait to meet the members - and learn more.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57- They have their purses out. - I didn't know we had to pay.
0:02:58 > 0:03:00- Is there a raffle every month?
0:03:00 > 0:03:02- Is there a raffle every month?- - Yes, that's how we raise funds.
0:03:02 > 0:03:06- There are 38-40 of us here and the - money covers the teas and coffees.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09- We also donate - to different charities.
0:03:10 > 0:03:12- That's brilliant.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14- Can I borrow a pound?!
0:03:15 > 0:03:16- Hi. Hannah.
0:03:16 > 0:03:17- Hi. Hannah.- - I'm Betty.
0:03:18 > 0:03:19- And Janet, nice to meet you.
0:03:20 > 0:03:22- Hi, Kay. Are you OK?
0:03:22 > 0:03:23- Good evening, ladies.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- Welcome to the April meeting.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31- I hope you all had a good Easter - and enjoyed yourselves.
0:03:31 > 0:03:36- I hope you didn't eat - too much chocolate, like some of us.
0:03:37 > 0:03:40- We're welcoming - a new member to the branch tonight.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43- Hannah. - A warm welcome to you, Hannah.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46- It's a pleasure to have you here.
0:03:46 > 0:03:51- I hope you'll enjoy your time - with us.
0:03:51 > 0:03:53- We're nice women!
0:03:53 > 0:03:56- We organise different events.
0:03:56 > 0:04:03- Craft competitions - - one robin redbreast in any medium.
0:04:03 > 0:04:08- Baking a loaf of bara brith - without using yeast.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17- They're a welcoming group.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20- I'll take a coffee - if there's one going spare.
0:04:20 > 0:04:21- Cheers.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23- They're a lively bunch.
0:04:24 > 0:04:26- Plenty of characters.
0:04:26 > 0:04:30- Mam and Dad spoke Welsh - but didn't speak Welsh to me.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33- I'd hear a lot of Welsh - but I didn't speak it.
0:04:33 > 0:04:36- You all sound fluent.
0:04:36 > 0:04:40- If you attend this branch, - you have to practise your Welsh.
0:04:40 > 0:04:42- Does it help you to be here?
0:04:42 > 0:04:44- Does it help you to be here?- - We speak Welsh here every month.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- We have regular events - where we make things...
0:04:47 > 0:04:49- ..and they help us - improve our Welsh.
0:04:50 > 0:04:55- I still make mistakes but I like - speaking Welsh, I like the language.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57- I love the language.
0:04:57 > 0:05:02- My Welsh isn't fantastic but - don't worry about making mistakes.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- If you make a mess of it, - just carry on.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- Yes, yes.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09- They have Welsh learners here.
0:05:09 > 0:05:14- They have a word of the week - for the weekly walking club.
0:05:14 > 0:05:18- They back each other up here - which is lovely.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21- I'm 104 years old - in six weeks' time.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24- 104 years old in six weeks' time? - Wow!
0:05:25 > 0:05:27- What brings you back here - every month?
0:05:27 > 0:05:32- It's the interesting things - that we do.
0:05:32 > 0:05:37- Everything that happens here - is very interesting.
0:05:37 > 0:05:41- It must help you to stay young too.
0:05:41 > 0:05:42- Probably.
0:05:43 > 0:05:46- We did yoga last year - and we had to raise our legs.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49- Who was the first one to do it? - She was!
0:05:49 > 0:05:53- We have fun. We do silly things.
0:05:53 > 0:05:55- I heard a lot of laughter here - tonight.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59- As people get older, - they get lonely.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01- This is a way - of maintaining friendships.
0:06:02 > 0:06:03- They meet new people...
0:06:04 > 0:06:08- ..they keep fit, - they keep their brains ticking over.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13- I'm a Ceredigion girl.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17- I'm going closer to home, - to Aberaeron...
0:06:17 > 0:06:20- ..to meet members - of the Cylch Aeron branch.
0:06:21 > 0:06:24- Is the branch ready - to welcome someone in their 20s?
0:06:24 > 0:06:28- What age range - do you have in Merched y Wawr?
0:06:29 > 0:06:33- Do you welcome young women? Or don't - young women think they can join?
0:06:33 > 0:06:40- Any one. We encourage women - of all ages to join the branch.
0:06:40 > 0:06:44- There's a big emphasis - on socialising and enjoyment.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48- This year, to celebrate our 50th...
0:06:48 > 0:06:52- ..we'll visit St David's College - in Lampeter and we're having tea.
0:06:53 > 0:06:58- We have a lot of fun participating - in different competitions.
0:06:59 > 0:07:02- We compete against - other Welsh regions.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06- We're very angry if we don't win.
0:07:06 > 0:07:08- I'll tell you that now!
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- What kind of competitions - are available to your members?
0:07:13 > 0:07:16- We play Scrabble, that's fun, - and tippit.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21- There are golf - and bowling competitions.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24- Cooking competitions - are very popular...
0:07:24 > 0:07:26- ..especially with members - in our branch.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29- Delyth Jenkins - is a member of our branch.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32- She's a world champion...
0:07:33 > 0:07:34- ..bara brith maker.
0:07:35 > 0:07:40- I've just heard about Delyth, the - bara brith making world champion.
0:07:40 > 0:07:44- I didn't know there was - a bara brith world championship.
0:07:44 > 0:07:46- I want to know more about it.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52- I visited Gorseinon.
0:07:52 > 0:07:56- I was warmly welcomed - by the members.
0:07:56 > 0:08:01- I detected a spirit in them, - a fighting spirit.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06- I want to know if that's something - at the core of the movement.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10- So, I've driven to North Wales...
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- ..to meet Sylwen, Lona and Zonia...
0:08:13 > 0:08:15- ..who started Merched y Wawr...
0:08:16 > 0:08:22- ..to try and find out more - about what inspired them initially.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- The story started in - the village of Parc, near Bala...
0:08:28 > 0:08:30- ..51 years ago..
0:08:30 > 0:08:31- ..in 1966.
0:08:33 > 0:08:39- A farmer's wife came to me and said - she was thinking of starting...
0:08:39 > 0:08:41- ..a WI branch in Parc.
0:08:41 > 0:08:45- She said it would be - a Welsh language branch...
0:08:46 > 0:08:47- ..so I joined.
0:08:48 > 0:08:53- The WI told us that it was - an English language movement...
0:08:53 > 0:08:57- ..and it would be too expensive - to include Welsh in the magazine.
0:08:57 > 0:09:03- Mrs Edwards from Parc suggested - we start a Welsh language movement.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05- That's when the seed was planted.
0:09:05 > 0:09:09- Zonia came up - with the name Merched y Wawr.
0:09:09 > 0:09:14- Merched y Wawr? - We all loved the name.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18- We all thought it was a good name - and it was a good name.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- It sounds like an exciting time.
0:09:21 > 0:09:22- It was exciting.
0:09:23 > 0:09:27- Merched y Wawr grew rapidly - across the country.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30- Merched y Wawr, - the new women's movement...
0:09:30 > 0:09:34- ..whose activities take place - entirely in Welsh.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38- There've been lots of enquiries - from potential new members.
0:09:39 > 0:09:40- When the story broke...
0:09:41 > 0:09:48- ..within a week another branch - had started in Ganllwyd, Dolgellau.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52- Before the end of the first decade, - there were 250 branches.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55- Members from Parc.
0:09:55 > 0:09:57- Thank you. Ganllwyd.
0:09:59 > 0:10:00- Llanuwchllyn.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- A lot of it was down - to the spirit of the '60s.
0:10:04 > 0:10:08- Saunders Lewis gave his - Tynged Yr Iaith radio speech.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10- Cymdeithas Yr Iaith was established.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15- I don't think the support for - the Welsh language continues today.
0:10:15 > 0:10:19- It was an era of protest, - fighting for the language...
0:10:20 > 0:10:24- ..and the right to speak Welsh and - they were filled with an energy...
0:10:24 > 0:10:26- ..which doesn't exist anymore.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30- Zonia said it doesn't exist - in our generation today.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34- It sounds as if - the women of Wales were ready.
0:10:34 > 0:10:35- That was important.
0:10:36 > 0:10:40- It was an opportunity - for Welsh women to play their part.
0:10:40 > 0:10:45- Had it not started in Parc, it - would have started somewhere else.
0:10:45 > 0:10:49- Did you think the movement - would last 50 years?
0:10:49 > 0:10:52- I hoped it would.
0:10:52 > 0:10:56- I think the Welsh language - is more important than the movement.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59- Our language was given to us by God.
0:10:59 > 0:11:02- It's our duty to keep it alive.
0:11:02 > 0:11:06- Our generation - needs more of that passion.
0:11:06 > 0:11:07- Yes indeed.
0:11:07 > 0:11:13- The movement was formed to - safeguard the language and culture.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16- We weren't boring, - we had a lot of fun.
0:11:16 > 0:11:20- We haven't made that much jam - in 50 years!
0:11:20 > 0:11:26- I think Merched y Wawr has helped - the Welsh language greatly.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28- Its status is far higher.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- Thanks to that fighting spirit.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- Yes, thanks to that fighting spirit.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44- Visiting Parc - has left its mark on me.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48- I feel slightly ashamed...
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- ..as someone - from an apathetic generation...
0:11:52 > 0:11:55- ..that takes these things - for granted.
0:11:55 > 0:12:00- We forget that people - battled so hard in the past.
0:12:00 > 0:12:04- We're not doing much to safeguard - the language for the future.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07- So, yeah.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- You hope the battle will continue...
0:12:09 > 0:12:13- ..and that spirit of the '60s - can be discovered again.
0:12:13 > 0:12:14- Hopefully.
0:12:16 > 0:12:16- .
0:12:21 > 0:12:21- Subtitles
0:12:21 > 0:12:23- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:12:24 > 0:12:28- Merched y Wawr is celebrating - its 50th birthday this year.
0:12:29 > 0:12:30- Myself, Jess Davies...
0:12:30 > 0:12:32- ..and Hannah Daniel - are on a mission....
0:12:33 > 0:12:36- ..to discover the true meaning - of the movement.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39- While talking to members - from Cylch Aeron...
0:12:39 > 0:12:44- ..I heard about one member who's - an expert at making bara brith.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- Delyth, world champion bara brith.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- Well, I couldn't believe it.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54- After they'd said my name - the third time, it sunk in.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- This is the winning recipe.
0:12:57 > 0:13:02- I'm not giving you the recipe! - I hope to sell it in shops.
0:13:02 > 0:13:06- Can you teach me - how to make bara brith?
0:13:06 > 0:13:09- I'm not a great baker.
0:13:09 > 0:13:13- The fruit's soaking in tea - and a spoonful of marmalade.
0:13:13 > 0:13:15- How long do you soak the fruit?
0:13:15 > 0:13:17- How long do you soak the fruit?- - Overnight. There we go.
0:13:18 > 0:13:20- Bara brith is easy.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22- One of the easiest cakes to make.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- Add the flour. Self-raising flour.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29- Mix it all together.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34- A lot of people use these papers.
0:13:35 > 0:13:39- If you're competing, - you can't use them.
0:13:39 > 0:13:40- Not at all.
0:13:43 > 0:13:46- Leave what's left or you'll - see it on top of the cake.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- Delyth's tips.
0:13:49 > 0:13:52- Into the oven at 170 degrees - for 90 minutes.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55- We can forget about that now.
0:13:55 > 0:13:59- I want to taste - the world's best bara brith.
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- Good. Delicious.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08- Thank you.
0:14:10 > 0:14:11- Good, nice.
0:14:15 > 0:14:16- I'm on my way to Machynlleth...
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- ..to Merched y Wawr's - summer festival...
0:14:20 > 0:14:24- ..one of the highlights - of the annual calendar.
0:14:24 > 0:14:28- There'll be plenty of tea - and bara brith there.
0:14:28 > 0:14:33- I've heard that there are some - unexpected events taking place too.
0:14:33 > 0:14:37- We're on our way to see Elizabeth - to learn more.
0:14:37 > 0:14:40- I'm looking forward to this.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- Elizabeth, - you're the county's organiser.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47- Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51- You also organise the sports.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55- For many years. It's convenient - since I live close to Machynlleth.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- What will I be doing with you today?
0:14:59 > 0:15:04- A round of golf. You can join - the ladies on the golf course.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07- We'll soon see - if I'm a golfer or not.
0:15:07 > 0:15:08- Good luck.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Good luck.- - Thank you, I'll need it.
0:15:11 > 0:15:12- I feel nervous.
0:15:12 > 0:15:18- I've never played golf before apart - from Crazy Golf in St David's 2.
0:15:18 > 0:15:23- I have a handicap of 36 - which sounds quite impressive.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27- Am I on your team? - Dorothy, Ruth, Hannah.
0:15:27 > 0:15:28- Doreen.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31- Not Dorothy. Ruth.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35- I have no idea what I'm doing - so bear with.
0:15:36 > 0:15:37- Do I have a ball?
0:15:37 > 0:15:39- Thank you.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41- Completely prepared.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48- This'll be so embarrassing.
0:15:51 > 0:15:52- OK.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56- Practise.
0:15:57 > 0:15:59- I can't hit it
0:16:01 > 0:16:02- Thank you.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05- I won't play for long. Promise.
0:16:05 > 0:16:07- Thanks for the clap.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09- I won't be able to keep up with you.
0:16:09 > 0:16:11- Eye on the ball.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- Oh, Ruth, - you can have you ball back now.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19- Oh, yes, good shot.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- They're energetic. - They're determined.
0:16:23 > 0:16:28- That must be why - they're still going 50 years later.
0:16:29 > 0:16:31- Hey.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- It's not something I'd associate - with Merched y Wawr.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39- We have a tea and bara brith - stereotype of Merched y Wawr.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- It shatters that image - which is great.
0:16:44 > 0:16:45- Hole-in-one!
0:16:45 > 0:16:47- Hole-in-one!- - Well done.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50- Well done, me. I've carried this - around half the course.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53- Well, I'm not a natural golfer.
0:16:53 > 0:16:58- It's nice to know that there are - other activities in Machynlleth.
0:17:00 > 0:17:05- Even though it's an annual event, - this year is rather special.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10- Everyone's really excited about it.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- They've been busy preparing.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16- Delyth's appointed me - as a bara brith judge with her.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19- I'm an expert. - I know what to look out for.
0:17:20 > 0:17:25- I'll hide from the golfers - after yesterday's embarrassment.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28- It might be an eye-opening - new experience.
0:17:28 > 0:17:29- Hopefully.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35- As part of the celebration...
0:17:35 > 0:17:38- ..every county has made an unique - panel to reflect their area.
0:17:39 > 0:17:41- It will be taken - around the country...
0:17:41 > 0:17:45- ..before ending up - in the Senedd building.
0:17:47 > 0:17:48- It's nice.
0:17:49 > 0:17:54- Every area has its own - interpretation of Merched y Wawr.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57- No-one knew - what the others were making.
0:17:57 > 0:18:01- There was no discussion - between the counties.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04- There's so much detail.
0:18:05 > 0:18:07- There are people behind the mesh.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09- I can't find myself!
0:18:09 > 0:18:13- I can see myself right there.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16- I thought that was you. - I could see the resemblance.
0:18:17 > 0:18:22- I was drawn to this masterpiece. - There's something cheeky about it.
0:18:23 > 0:18:24- It's a real bra.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27- Size 26.
0:18:27 > 0:18:28- Are you sure?
0:18:30 > 0:18:34- Delyth is busy tasting the - bara brith at the back of the hall.
0:18:34 > 0:18:39- 36 members have competed for - the honour of winning best in show.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44- There's a lot to taste today.
0:18:45 > 0:18:47- It looks nice.
0:18:49 > 0:18:51- This one's a little dry.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54- Don't you think - they all taste the same?
0:18:54 > 0:18:58- Not quite. - Some are drier than others.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00- OK. Tips.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03- Delyth is very serious - about crinkles.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06- If they have crinkles, - they don't win.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09- Here's an example - of wonderful bara brith...
0:19:10 > 0:19:13- ..but they've used paper.
0:19:14 > 0:19:19- She doesn't even taste some of them. - She just looks at them.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21- No, not good enough.
0:19:22 > 0:19:23- A bit dry.
0:19:24 > 0:19:28- This isn't my typical - Saturday afternoon.
0:19:29 > 0:19:30- Wine tasting, maybe.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33- Ooh, I can taste alcohol.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37- Looks nice. A lot of fruit in there. - No crinkles.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39- That's good.
0:19:40 > 0:19:41- Which one's the best?
0:19:41 > 0:19:43- Which one's the best?- - First goes here.
0:19:44 > 0:19:45- Why - the flavour?
0:19:45 > 0:19:47- Why - the flavour?- - It's nice and moist.
0:19:47 > 0:19:49- That's how bara brith should be.
0:19:51 > 0:19:54- The board game room - is popular every year.
0:19:54 > 0:19:58- Elizabeth organises - the domino competition.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02- It's very competitive.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04- It's very competitive.- - Oh, yes.
0:20:04 > 0:20:06- Especially north against south.
0:20:06 > 0:20:10- Is that the case here? - Which branches are competing?
0:20:10 > 0:20:13- We're Nantgaredig, near Carmarthen.
0:20:13 > 0:20:15- Llandrillo, near Corwen.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18- North v South.
0:20:20 > 0:20:22- It's non-stop here.
0:20:23 > 0:20:26- Have you competed before - in the domino competition?
0:20:26 > 0:20:27- Once.
0:20:27 > 0:20:28- Did you win?
0:20:28 > 0:20:30- Did you win?- - No, we didn't.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34- You're back - and you won't stop until you win.
0:20:37 > 0:20:38- It's moved along quickly.
0:20:40 > 0:20:41- It's very tense.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44- We're down to the final four.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47- I didn't realise dominos - was so competitive.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51- Then I remember playing it - during my childhood.
0:20:51 > 0:20:54- It's the same now in Merched y Wawr.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- Finished?
0:20:56 > 0:20:58- Wrexham!
0:20:58 > 0:21:00- Victory for Wrexham.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03- I'm sweating.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05- I like the domino room.
0:21:05 > 0:21:07- It's like a casino.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12- Back in the hall, there's a sketch - and presentation competition.
0:21:13 > 0:21:15- We're each going to have a tattoo.
0:21:16 > 0:21:21- One of the branches competing is - Cylch Aeron - my new best friends.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24- Hannah and I are this year's judges.
0:21:24 > 0:21:25- No pressure.
0:21:28 > 0:21:29- We're the gold of Wales.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34- # Ffa-la-la-la-la-la-la #
0:21:37 > 0:21:39- Confident.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- They spoke clearly.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44- There was a definite plot.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- # Fine and pleasant is seeing
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- # Migldi magldi hei now now #
0:21:49 > 0:21:53- What struck me - is how much fun they have together.
0:21:55 > 0:21:56- There's a positive energy.
0:21:58 > 0:22:02- No-one's holding a phone, no-one's - on-line, no-one's on Twitter.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07- They're just enjoying - crafts and cooking.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09- And each other's company.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- Now we can celebrate.
0:22:16 > 0:22:21- All the scripts are nice. - There's plenty of energy.
0:22:21 > 0:22:27- There are exits there, there and - there if you need a quick getaway.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29- The standard was so high.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34- So nervous.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- The dramatic presentation - competition.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40- In first place, - Henllan by a whisker.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44- The sketch is next.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46- In first place, Cylch Aeron.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53- It feels as if everyone's - part of a community here.
0:22:53 > 0:22:54- It does.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58- There's not a drop - of testosterone in sight.
0:23:00 > 0:23:00- .
0:23:04 > 0:23:04- Subtitles
0:23:04 > 0:23:06- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:23:13 > 0:23:16- Merched y Wawr - has organised numerous parties...
0:23:17 > 0:23:19- ..to celebrate its 50th birthday.
0:23:19 > 0:23:23- There's nowhere more suitable for - the celebration than this location.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26- We're in Parc, Bala.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29- This is where the movement began.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34- The women are here - to celebrate and reminisce.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38- # Our language and country
0:23:38 > 0:23:42- # I'll love them more and more #
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- A warm welcome to you.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- "Where we began, where we were born.
0:23:48 > 0:23:50- "Our heritage and our Mecca too."
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- The words on the wall - outside this centre.
0:23:54 > 0:23:58- Very few of the original members - are here...
0:23:58 > 0:24:03- ..but the welcome has continued - with the younger generation.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07- There's always a welcome at Parc.
0:24:11 > 0:24:15- This happened just before the Bala - Eisteddfod in '67.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18- This is Ganllwyd, - Wales' second branch.
0:24:18 > 0:24:22- Parc was first - and Ganllwyd followed.
0:24:22 > 0:24:27- You'd never believe the animosity - that existed at the time.
0:24:27 > 0:24:28- Against...?
0:24:28 > 0:24:32- Merched y Wawr - breaking away from the WI.
0:24:33 > 0:24:34- We were part of the WI...
0:24:35 > 0:24:38- ..and this woman - would give us eggs every month.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42- I went up to her and asked, - "Have you got my eggs?"
0:24:42 > 0:24:44- "I haven't got any," she replied.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47- I looked in her basket - and it was full of eggs.
0:24:47 > 0:24:51- Because you'd broken away - and started Merched y Wawr?
0:24:51 > 0:24:53- "They're ordered," she said.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57- She faced opposition - because she wanted to join...
0:24:58 > 0:25:02- ..a Welsh language movement - and wanted to learn Welsh.
0:25:02 > 0:25:06- When I was 13, 14, - I battled against speaking Welsh...
0:25:06 > 0:25:09- ..because I took it for granted - and spoke English...
0:25:09 > 0:25:13- ..without realising how hard people - have fought for the language.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18- When did you campaign - for breast cancer screening?
0:25:18 > 0:25:23- In the '80s. We went to lobby - in the House of Commons.
0:25:23 > 0:25:27- 300 members of Merched y Wawr - from across went to London.
0:25:28 > 0:25:30- That was a special moment.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32- A campaign for...?
0:25:32 > 0:25:35- To secure a breast cancer - screening service for Wales.
0:25:36 > 0:25:39- Back then, it didn't exist. - Women went to Clatterbridge.
0:25:39 > 0:25:45- After our campaign, the screening - service was introduced in Wales.
0:25:45 > 0:25:49- Breast Test Wales was established - as a result.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55- It's traditionally Welsh. They don't - wear it as a badge of honour.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57- I had to push them - to tell the story.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01- It's such a shame that I, - and my generation...
0:26:01 > 0:26:05- ..regard Merched y Wawr - as just bara brith and tea.
0:26:06 > 0:26:09- Anyone else want a cuppa? - No? Are you sure?
0:26:09 > 0:26:11- My generation don't have an excuse.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14- It's time we pulled our socks up.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16- It's your turn next.
0:26:16 > 0:26:17- It's your turn next.- - You've inspired me.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19- Excellent.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23- # Happy birthday to us #
0:26:24 > 0:26:28- I'm getting a first-hand experience - of these women's energy.
0:26:29 > 0:26:31- The flame has certainly - not gone out.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37- If anyone hides, - I'll get them out to the front.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45- It was great to hear about their - battles over the last 50 years.
0:26:46 > 0:26:50- I want to hear more, especially - about the breast cancer campaign.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53- Mererid, nice to see you again.
0:26:57 > 0:27:02- Buses travelled to London - from every Welsh region.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- We gathered outside - the House of Commons.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07- 300 members of Merched y Wawr.
0:27:07 > 0:27:13- Actress Nerys Hughes - became the face of our campaign.
0:27:13 > 0:27:17- We attracted - a lot of media attention.
0:27:17 > 0:27:22- 750 women die every year in Wales - from breast cancer.
0:27:22 > 0:27:28- When we joined together, - we were a stronger lobbying force.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33- You were national organiser - from 1984 to 1991.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35- Here you are in your office.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40- That was a golden age - for Merched y Wawr campaigns.
0:27:42 > 0:27:47- There were campaigns - for a new Welsh Language Act...
0:27:47 > 0:27:50- ..and the plight - of the Welsh language in Wales.
0:27:51 > 0:27:54- We take the language for granted - these days.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57- Back then, we fought for our rights.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- This is you at Westminster.
0:28:00 > 0:28:06- The day we were lobbying, - with the Plaid Cymru MPs...
0:28:06 > 0:28:09- ..Ieuan Wyn Jones - and Dafydd Elis-Thomas.
0:28:09 > 0:28:13- It must have been an exciting time - and an exciting feeling...
0:28:13 > 0:28:16- ..that propelled you - towards the next campaign.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19- It was, - when you look back at that time.
0:28:19 > 0:28:21- It was exciting, very exciting.
0:28:22 > 0:28:24- When Merched y Wawr started...
0:28:25 > 0:28:29- ..conducting our business in Welsh - was revolutionary.
0:28:30 > 0:28:35- Having a cookery demonstration - in the Welsh language...
0:28:36 > 0:28:39- You battled to secure that.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42- These days, - the battles have been won.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- The Welsh Language Act, the Senedd.
0:28:48 > 0:28:53- I think a movement like Merched - y Wawr gives women an opportunity...
0:28:53 > 0:28:55- ..to increase their confidence...
0:28:55 > 0:28:58- ..and do things - they might not think they could do.
0:28:58 > 0:29:03- Taking on roles within a branch - increases someone's confidence.
0:29:03 > 0:29:04- Public speaking.
0:29:05 > 0:29:09- It gives them opportunities - and teaches them new skills...
0:29:09 > 0:29:14- ..they would never have had - had they not joined Merched y Wawr.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24- I've been on this journey - for a couple of months.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28- There's a fashion show - in the Royal Welsh Show next week.
0:29:28 > 0:29:30- I'm meeting Margarette today.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34- Margarette is a fashionable member - of Merched y Wawr.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36- I work in the fashion world.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40- I want to know more about fashion - in Merched y Wawr...
0:29:41 > 0:29:44- ..and how fashions - have changed over the years.
0:29:44 > 0:29:47- We've been invited - to organise an event...
0:29:47 > 0:29:51- ..to show the fashions of Merched - y Wawr over the past 50 years.
0:29:51 > 0:29:56- They think I like fashion - for some reason.
0:29:56 > 0:29:57- I have no idea why!
0:29:58 > 0:30:02- Merched y Wawr started in '67. - Did you join way back then?
0:30:02 > 0:30:07- I didn't join until 1970. - The maxis were in fashion then.
0:30:08 > 0:30:09- I like maxis.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11- I like maxis.- - This is a special one.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15- It was designed by Gina Fratini. She - designed clothes for Princess Diana.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19- What kind of an era - was the '70s for Merched y Wawr?
0:30:20 > 0:30:24- It was exciting. It was a constant - battle over Welsh language rights.
0:30:24 > 0:30:28- We weren't allowed - to write cheques in Welsh.
0:30:28 > 0:30:34- We caused long queues in M&S - for writing a cheque in Welsh.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36- We were always campaigning.
0:30:36 > 0:30:41- Merched y Wawr supported - every Welsh language campaign.
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- Whatever we wore, - we all felt the same.
0:30:47 > 0:30:51- We've met members - from different branches.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55- It's nice to see - how different all the members are...
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- ..but they all fight - for the same values.
0:30:58 > 0:31:03- I had this when we went to Italy. - There was a Valentino shop in Rome.
0:31:03 > 0:31:05- The shop door was locked.
0:31:05 > 0:31:09- You had to ring the bell - if you wanted to see the clothes.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- Nest, - my friend from St Clears said...
0:31:13 > 0:31:18- .."Margarette, you're wearing - his clothes. Ring the bell."
0:31:18 > 0:31:20- Did you buy a dress there?
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- Did you buy a dress there?- - I'd bought one in Carmarthen.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25- I didn't have to go - to Rome to buy a Valentino...
0:31:25 > 0:31:28- ..when I could buy one - in Carmarthen.
0:31:28 > 0:31:30- I work in the fashion world.
0:31:30 > 0:31:36- I never think of Merched y Wawr as - women who are interested in fashion.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39- It's nice to see - a different side to them.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42- They're just like me and my friends.
0:31:42 > 0:31:44- Other people have stereotyped us.
0:31:44 > 0:31:49- Tell me, would you be willing - to wear some of these clothes?
0:31:49 > 0:31:51- In the fashion show?
0:31:51 > 0:31:54- Yes. Well, I want to wear this one.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56- Alright, OK.
0:31:56 > 0:31:57- This is...
0:31:57 > 0:31:58- This is...- - The best one.
0:31:58 > 0:32:02- I like the flowers and this one. - I like a lot of them.
0:32:02 > 0:32:04- I'll wear them all for you.
0:32:04 > 0:32:07- They'll fit you but I doubt - they'll fit me anymore.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16- I enjoyed meeting the Gorseinon - branch at the monthly meeting.
0:32:16 > 0:32:22- Brenda talked about the enjoyment - of the weekly walk at the branch.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25- I want to see - if it's something I'd enjoy too.
0:32:25 > 0:32:29- Can I enjoy the company - of older women every week?
0:32:32 > 0:32:36- The most important decision - is where we stop for tea.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38- That's an easy decision.
0:32:38 > 0:32:43- We could write a book about - all the cafes we've visited.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46- You identify all the characters.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49- I'll have the bara brith as well, - please.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52- Just after talking to them - for 10 minutes.
0:32:52 > 0:32:54- It's been a successful year.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56- It's been a successful year.- - 50 members.
0:32:56 > 0:33:01- It's been a successful year.- - 50 members.- - We attracted new members this year. - They're slightly younger than us.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04- So you do get new members - joining regularly.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06- We've had guest speakers.
0:33:06 > 0:33:13- One thing is clear, they're worried - about attracting younger members.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16- I was 17 - when I joined Merched y Wawr.
0:33:17 > 0:33:19- I had two children at the time.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22- It was somewhere for us to go - to socialise...
0:33:22 > 0:33:24- ..and leave the children at home.
0:33:24 > 0:33:29- They take their children with them - to pubs and restaurants these days.
0:33:29 > 0:33:32- Men don't want responsibility.
0:33:32 > 0:33:35- Some men say their wives - are working...
0:33:35 > 0:33:37- Ooh, dear! Hello!
0:33:37 > 0:33:39- Are you on telly?
0:33:41 > 0:33:42- Hello.
0:33:42 > 0:33:44- She's camera-ready.
0:33:46 > 0:33:50- When I moved to Gorseinon, - I had no-one to speak Welsh to.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52- That's why I joined the branch.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54- I'm still a member.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59- When was it - 1972? - Almost 45 years ago later.
0:34:01 > 0:34:05- That feeling of giving - something back to society...
0:34:05 > 0:34:08- ..doesn't exist for my generation.
0:34:08 > 0:34:10- It still exists for these women.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- 50 years.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15- We're still here.
0:34:15 > 0:34:19- Thank you very much, both of you.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- Thank you.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25- Ta-ra. Ta-ra, good luck. - See you next time. Thank you.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28- They found it funny to see me here.
0:34:29 > 0:34:33- I'd love to join them every week, - they're a lovely bunch.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36- They have plenty of stories, - they're very lively.
0:34:36 > 0:34:38- They're a real laugh, but...
0:34:39 > 0:34:44- I think everyone is aware - that there's an age gap.
0:34:48 > 0:34:53- Since the 90s, a stepping stone - has been established...
0:34:53 > 0:34:56- ..to attract younger members - to the movement - Clwb Gwawr.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01- An energetic Clwb Gwawr - meet every month in Abergavenny.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04- Tonight's activity - is a selfie treasure hunt.
0:35:04 > 0:35:07- Hannah and I are eager - to join in the fun.
0:35:10 > 0:35:11- We'll take a walk down to the pub.
0:35:12 > 0:35:14- We'll take selfies...
0:35:14 > 0:35:17- ..or if you're too shy, - photos of what you see.
0:35:18 > 0:35:19- Is that OK?
0:35:19 > 0:35:20- Is that OK?- - Yes.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24- Jess, you're an expert selfie taker.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- Against the light and up.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30- From above.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34- I always take about 50 - and choose one!
0:35:35 > 0:35:36- How long does that take?!
0:35:40 > 0:35:41- OK?
0:35:41 > 0:35:43- OK?- - I didn't get that treatment!
0:35:45 > 0:35:47- What a lovely night - for a selfie treasure hunt.
0:35:48 > 0:35:49- From above.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51- I'm just copying Jess.
0:35:53 > 0:35:55- Clwb Gwawr.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59- I've been a member for five years.
0:35:59 > 0:36:03- Before that, I was a member - of Merched y Wawr in Brecon.
0:36:03 > 0:36:05- The activities were different...
0:36:05 > 0:36:08- ..but the enjoyment - was just the same.
0:36:08 > 0:36:10- What did you do?
0:36:10 > 0:36:14- Wine tasting, cheese tasting, walks.
0:36:15 > 0:36:18- Food and drink - dominate our activities.
0:36:18 > 0:36:22- We visit wonderful places to eat.
0:36:26 > 0:36:32- Is it different to your - preconception of Merched y wawr?
0:36:32 > 0:36:36- Yes, well, for me Merched y Wawr - is women older than me.
0:36:36 > 0:36:40- I'm getting older - but I'm not that old.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44- I didn't want to do crochet, - knitting and jam-making.
0:36:44 > 0:36:48- I wanted to meet others - who spoke Welsh in this area.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50- This is a very Anglicised area.
0:36:50 > 0:36:54- We create our own agenda. - We do what we want to do.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56- We visit vineyards to taste wine...
0:36:56 > 0:36:59- We visit vineyards to taste wine...- - There's a lot of wine involved!
0:36:59 > 0:37:01- It's very nice.
0:37:01 > 0:37:05- Or doing something like this - in the middle of summer.
0:37:05 > 0:37:06- It's different.
0:37:06 > 0:37:09- It's different.- - And you socialise in Welsh.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13- Got it.
0:37:13 > 0:37:18- I like doing it from above. - It's a lot better.
0:37:18 > 0:37:19- Tips.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- How do you feel - it's helped your Welsh?
0:37:27 > 0:37:30- You're a learner, like me.
0:37:31 > 0:37:37- Do you think coming together - as a group has helped your fluency?
0:37:37 > 0:37:41- Yes, definitely. - I can speak Welsh more fluently now.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44- I meet a lot of Welsh speakers.
0:37:44 > 0:37:48- Meeting and socialising in Welsh is - like campaigning for the language.
0:37:48 > 0:37:53- The fact that we socialise and speak - Welsh keeps the language alive.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56- In a community - that doesn't speak much Welsh.
0:37:57 > 0:38:01- In a pub, in a restaurant. - Everyone hears us speaking Welsh.
0:38:01 > 0:38:03- In the vineyard!
0:38:07 > 0:38:09- I've really enjoyed myself.
0:38:10 > 0:38:14- Me too. They gave us - a warm welcome and they're a laugh.
0:38:14 > 0:38:17- That appeals to people - and makes them want to join.
0:38:17 > 0:38:21- It's an opportunity to speak - Welsh in the pub...
0:38:21 > 0:38:24- ..not only in work or at school.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26- Here's another selfie opportunity.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29- A selfie of yourself with a drink.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32- Ready? Hang on.
0:38:32 > 0:38:34- Volume.
0:38:34 > 0:38:35- Clwb Gwawr!
0:38:37 > 0:38:37- .
0:38:41 > 0:38:41- Subtitles
0:38:41 > 0:38:43- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:38:44 > 0:38:49- The Royal Welsh Show is an important - event for many national societies...
0:38:49 > 0:38:51- ..including Merched y Wawr.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54- The stall is a hive - of social activity every day.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- I can see men. - I didn't expect to see any.
0:38:59 > 0:39:03- Everyone is ready to take a shift - serving tea and Welsh cakes.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12- As part of their - 50th birthday celebration...
0:39:12 > 0:39:15- ..the women have organised - their own show.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18- As a professional model, - I can't wait to help.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- We're here for the fashion show.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24- The Merched y Wawr fashion show.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26- I've been rehearsing - with Margarette.
0:39:27 > 0:39:31- Lots of designer clothes. - And you're modelling.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33- I'd heard. Are you modelling too?
0:39:33 > 0:39:34- I'd heard. Are you modelling too?- - I am, I am.
0:39:35 > 0:39:36- I'll copy you.
0:39:43 > 0:39:46- I have shoes this colour.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48- I knew, I knew.
0:39:48 > 0:39:50- That's fantastic.
0:39:50 > 0:39:52- I love it.
0:39:53 > 0:39:55- It brings out - the colour of your eyes.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58- Everything's designer, Margarette.
0:40:00 > 0:40:02- These are all your clothes.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- Don't break anything!
0:40:07 > 0:40:10- We don't have enough - statuesque models.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- What are you trying to say, - Margarette?
0:40:14 > 0:40:15- Ouch!
0:40:16 > 0:40:20- This is the '90s, according to - Margarette. I'd wear this out now!
0:40:20 > 0:40:24- This is like hanging out - with my friends, it's brilliant.
0:40:24 > 0:40:29- Margarette is so much fun - and her clothes are incredible.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32- Modelling tips. Shoulders back.
0:40:32 > 0:40:33- Blue steel.
0:40:33 > 0:40:39- Be confident. If you're not enjoying - it, the crowd won't enjoy it.
0:40:39 > 0:40:43- Here they are - - please welcome the models.
0:40:43 > 0:40:46- Hannah's coming in wearing a dress.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50- I told Hannah - it was my going away dress.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53- She asked, - "What a going away dress?"
0:41:00 > 0:41:03- Doesn't Jessica look beautiful - wearing this?
0:41:05 > 0:41:09- You wouldn't usually associate - Merched y Wawr with fashion.
0:41:09 > 0:41:13- It's important. There's been - so much fashion over the 50 years.
0:41:14 > 0:41:18- Minis, maxis, flamboyant hats.
0:41:18 > 0:41:22- Fashion gives me confidence. - That's the most important thing.
0:41:22 > 0:41:28- That shows what kind of effect - clothes can have on a person.
0:41:31 > 0:41:36- I've had a great afternoon. - I've enjoyed their company.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39- I've been part of their circle.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- Just watching them enjoying - themselves through fashion.
0:41:44 > 0:41:48- It's an interesting way - to look back at the history...
0:41:48 > 0:41:50- ..and celebrating the 50.
0:41:50 > 0:41:52- Everyone looks brilliant.
0:41:57 > 0:42:00- Hot on the heels of the Royal - Welsh is the National Eisteddfod.
0:42:00 > 0:42:04- It's an important event - in the annual calendar.
0:42:05 > 0:42:09- Their stall is an important stop-off - for a welcome, a cup of tea...
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- ..and traditional Welsh cakes.
0:42:15 > 0:42:17- It's my first visit - to the Eisteddfod.
0:42:17 > 0:42:22- I never went further - than the Penrhyncoch Eisteddfod.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27- Merched y Wawr is part of - the furniture in events like this.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31- It's a very special Eisteddfod - this year.
0:42:31 > 0:42:34- Four years ago, - we had a national discussion...
0:42:34 > 0:42:37- ..to determine - how we'd celebrate the 50.
0:42:37 > 0:42:40- One of the ideas - was to present the Crown.
0:42:40 > 0:42:45- That dream has been realised. - We're so excited it's happened.
0:42:46 > 0:42:49- The band represents - the Menai Suspension Bridge.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54- It's the bridge that links Anglesey - to the mainland and the world.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57- A bridge gives people - the opportunity to meet.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00- That's what Merched y Wawr does too.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03- Women meet and speak in Welsh.
0:43:03 > 0:43:06- This crown is very relevant - to Merched y Wawr.
0:43:06 > 0:43:11- The blue cap, my missus - is responsible for the cap...
0:43:11 > 0:43:14- ..blue is the colour - of Merched y Wawr.
0:43:14 > 0:43:16- I thought so.
0:43:20 > 0:43:22- I'm a member of the Gorsedd.
0:43:23 > 0:43:25- I'm interested to see - who wins the crown.
0:43:25 > 0:43:31- You're wearing wellies now but I'm - told you'll be wearing gold sandals.
0:43:31 > 0:43:36- I'll be wearing gold sandals - we're - celebrating the golden anniversary.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42- Tegwen is so happy. - You can tell by her face.
0:43:42 > 0:43:45- She's so proud to be part of this.
0:43:45 > 0:43:49- I've never heard of this. - What's all this dressing up about?!
0:43:51 > 0:43:54- Look at you. I like the outfit.
0:43:54 > 0:43:56- Very smart.
0:43:56 > 0:43:58- And the sandals.
0:43:58 > 0:43:59- The gold sandals.
0:44:00 > 0:44:02- And the lippy. I can spot the lippy.
0:44:03 > 0:44:06- You look lovely. How do you feel? - Excited, nervous?
0:44:06 > 0:44:09- Excited. - I hope someone wins the crown.
0:44:09 > 0:44:11- I really do hope so.
0:44:30 > 0:44:33- Tegwen really wanted someone to win.
0:44:34 > 0:44:38- She'll be happy. She feels - she belongs to something special.
0:44:38 > 0:44:43- Someone's won the crown. - Tegwen will feel so pleased.
0:44:46 > 0:44:47- Is there peace?
0:44:47 > 0:44:49- Is there peace?- - Peace.
0:44:50 > 0:44:55- You must be over the moon - to see someone winning the crown.
0:44:55 > 0:44:58- I was looking out at the audience...
0:44:58 > 0:45:02- ..and so many Merched y Wawr members - were in the audience.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05- They were so proud at that moment.
0:45:06 > 0:45:09- You could see from Tegwen's face...
0:45:09 > 0:45:11- ..that it was - a special moment for her.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15- They'd had the chance - to design the crown.
0:45:15 > 0:45:20- I just feel glad for Merched y Wawr - that people acknowledge their work.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23- They do so much - for the Eisteddfod and Wales.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32- We're approaching the end - of our time with the ladies.
0:45:33 > 0:45:35- There's one important event - to attend.
0:45:35 > 0:45:39- The Merched y Wawr residential - weekend, the highlight of the year.
0:45:39 > 0:45:42- Aberystwyth is my - old stomping ground.
0:45:42 > 0:45:46- Merched y Wawr's residential - weekend is an annual event...
0:45:46 > 0:45:49- ..and it's special this year - because it's our 50th.
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- We see the same old faces - every year.
0:45:53 > 0:45:56- It's nice catching up - with old friends.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59- Some members only meet once a year.
0:46:00 > 0:46:03- We're celebrating together. - We're so proud.
0:46:03 > 0:46:05- A glass of wine...
0:46:05 > 0:46:07- A glass of wine...- - There's no time for hangovers.
0:46:07 > 0:46:09- We have a long day tomorrow.
0:46:13 > 0:46:15- Who let you in?
0:46:18 > 0:46:20- Journey's end.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22- Journey's end.- - Journey's end, Jess.
0:46:22 > 0:46:29- I feel sad that I won't see - Margarette, Delyth and Tegwen.
0:46:30 > 0:46:32- It's been an educational journey.
0:46:33 > 0:46:35- We've learnt so much - about the movement...
0:46:35 > 0:46:39- ..their political work, - their language campaigns...
0:46:39 > 0:46:42- ..their work for women in Wales.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45- We've had a wake-up call, Jess.
0:46:49 > 0:46:54- When you feel ready to join Merched - y Wawr, it'll be there for you.
0:46:54 > 0:46:58- That's why the future is bright - for Merched y Wawr.
0:46:58 > 0:47:00- You'll join us again in the future.
0:47:00 > 0:47:02- You'll join us again in the future.- - I don't want to say goodbye.
0:47:02 > 0:47:05- Thanks so much. - Good luck, enjoy the weekend.
0:47:06 > 0:47:08- Ta-ra. Thank you.
0:47:14 > 0:47:15- To Merched y Wawr.
0:47:15 > 0:47:17- To Merched y Wawr.
0:47:17 > 0:47:19- Cheers.
0:47:19 > 0:47:21- Our work is greatly supported.
0:47:22 > 0:47:24- We want more members to join us.
0:47:24 > 0:47:30- It's a long but enjoyable journey. - Everyone in Wales is part of it.
0:47:31 > 0:47:33- I hope we're celebrating - in 100 years' time.
0:47:34 > 0:47:36- Cheers, Tegwen. To Merched y Wawr.
0:47:37 > 0:47:38- Here's to the next 50 years.
0:47:39 > 0:47:45- If I have this spirit in another - 50 years' time, I'll be happy.
0:48:01 > 0:48:03- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:48:03 > 0:48:04- .