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0:00:01 > 0:00:02- Wales.
0:00:03 > 0:00:04- A land of contrasts.
0:00:05 > 0:00:09- Nature and industry, - history and legends.
0:00:12 > 0:00:18- But our story is also contemporary, - created anew every day.
0:00:18 > 0:00:23- This train no longer carries slates - but rather thousands of tourists.
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- The past feels so close at times...
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- ..as we walk paths - where tales rise from the land.
0:00:32 > 0:00:37- This place is amazing, - but its legends are even better.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43- This week, - we're in the Vale of Ffestiniog...
0:00:43 > 0:00:48- ..an industrial area surrounded - by outstanding natural beauty.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52- There are wonders - around every corner.
0:00:57 > 0:00:59- An easy place to hide.
0:00:59 > 0:01:01- I hope I don't get lost.
0:01:14 > 0:01:18- People have quarried here - for almost 200 years.
0:01:18 > 0:01:23- Today, it's an ideal place to roam, - both above and below ground.
0:01:23 > 0:01:27- Past and present, - mountains and streets.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31- The Vale of Ffestiniog - has them all.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36- Beneath me here - is the town of Blaenau Ffestiniog...
0:01:36 > 0:01:38- ..nestling on the slopes...
0:01:38 > 0:01:41- ..and protected - by the hills and mountains.
0:01:42 > 0:01:45- They also provide - employment and pleasure...
0:01:45 > 0:01:48- ..and a reason - for the town's existence.
0:01:48 > 0:01:49- This is our habitat.
0:02:04 > 0:02:08- We start our journey - in Blaenau Ffestiniog...
0:02:08 > 0:02:11- ..before venturing - into the surrounding countryside.
0:02:12 > 0:02:17- At the height of the slate industry, - the town had a population of 12,000.
0:02:18 > 0:02:23- By now, it has more than halved...
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- ..but local people - haven't forgotten the slates.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30- Indeed, their history - has been etched into the slates.
0:02:31 > 0:02:35- This is the sort of sight that - welcomes you to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39- I'm sure you'll agree, - it's spectacular.
0:02:39 > 0:02:45- I can imagine the impact of coming - off the train and seeing them.
0:02:45 > 0:02:51- As you can see, they've been laid - at an angle of 30 degrees.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55- That reflects how the rock lies - within the mountain itself.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58- Are the words we see on the sides - local sayings?
0:02:59 > 0:03:02- Quarrying terms, often, - and lines of verse...
0:03:02 > 0:03:06- ..that convey ideas - associated with quarrying...
0:03:07 > 0:03:09- ..and the kind of town - in which we live.
0:03:09 > 0:03:13- As far as I'm concerned, - this is the best line of them all.
0:03:13 > 0:03:17- "The quarrel closed down, - and all here is still.
0:03:17 > 0:03:20- "Submerged is the level, - and quiet the mill."
0:03:21 > 0:03:22- Who wrote that?
0:03:23 > 0:03:25- Ah! You!
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- Ah! You!- - That's why it's the best of them!
0:03:29 > 0:03:30- I agree, Vivian.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45- As part of the scheme - to transform the town centre...
0:03:45 > 0:03:47- ..these small slates were laid...
0:03:48 > 0:03:52- ..to convey the wit and humour - prevalent in the quarry cabins.
0:03:52 > 0:03:53- It's important for people to know.
0:03:53 > 0:03:55- It's important for people to know.- - What is this one here?
0:03:55 > 0:03:57- "A face like a five month."
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- Some months run into a fifth week.
0:04:01 > 0:04:06- That meant an extra week's work - before they'd get their wages.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10- So, a face like a five month - meant a sad look.
0:04:10 > 0:04:14- Yes, because they had to work - an extra week before being paid.
0:04:14 > 0:04:16- They're gems, aren't they?
0:04:25 > 0:04:28- This is a line from an englyn...
0:04:29 > 0:04:32- ..recited at the 1898 - National Eisteddfod...
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- ..the only time - it has been held here.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38- There were fears - about holding it here...
0:04:39 > 0:04:44- ..because of the hoary old cliche - that it always rains in Blaenau.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- "The festival - was free of umbrellas."
0:04:47 > 0:04:50- Praise for holding it here, - and it was a dry week.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02- "Barefoot lobscouse."
0:05:03 > 0:05:04- What do you think that means?
0:05:04 > 0:05:05- What do you think that means?- - No idea.
0:05:06 > 0:05:08- Lobscouse with no meat in it.
0:05:08 > 0:05:10- It's a sign of the times then.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13- Money was tight - and they couldn't afford meat.
0:05:14 > 0:05:16- Barefoot lobscouse.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19- Lobscouse, or cawl, without meat.
0:05:26 > 0:05:29- This is the end of the trip, - where we see the last saying.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33- "Away from the cow's backside."
0:05:34 > 0:05:36- Backside? Oh, right.
0:05:36 > 0:05:38- Backside? Oh, right.- - This is what it means.
0:05:39 > 0:05:42- When a farmhand - has found a job at the quarry.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45- He's come away - from the cow's backside.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49- I love this idea.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02- Not many places can boast as many - legends as the Vale of Ffestiniog.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04- I'm in Llan Ffestiniog...
0:06:04 > 0:06:08- ..on the trail of both historic - and legendary characters.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11- Then I'll head north - through Blaenau itself...
0:06:12 > 0:06:16- ..on the trail of more contemporary - but no less interesting stories.
0:06:19 > 0:06:24- These are the Cynfal Falls, - and the water is extremely powerful.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28- Over hundreds - of thousands of years...
0:06:28 > 0:06:33- ..the falls and the river have worn - all kinds of shapes into the rock.
0:06:33 > 0:06:38- In the 17th century, Huw Llwyd, - a local man from Maentwrog...
0:06:38 > 0:06:41- ..came up here to stand on a rock - above the falls...
0:06:42 > 0:06:45- ..to recite poetry, - to preach and to talk to ghosts.
0:06:46 > 0:06:51- He thought he was safe on the rock - because the Devil feared water.
0:06:53 > 0:06:57- There are tales about Huw Llwyd - travelling Wales weaving magic...
0:06:57 > 0:07:02- ..fighting witches in Betws-y-Coed - and luring thieves in Pentrefoelas.
0:07:02 > 0:07:08- He did the latter by making - an animal horn grow out of a table.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- The thieves froze on the spot - until morning...
0:07:12 > 0:07:16- ..by which time - the police had come to arrest them.
0:07:16 > 0:07:20- I'm not sure about that story, - but this is Huw Llwyd's Pulpit...
0:07:20 > 0:07:25- ..where he ranted about things - that were enchanting at the time...
0:07:25 > 0:07:27- ..including hypnotism.
0:07:27 > 0:07:32- He was also a minister, a soldier, - a poet and clearly a brave man!
0:07:32 > 0:07:33- Look where the rock is!
0:07:34 > 0:07:36- No, sorry, I'm not going near it.
0:07:44 > 0:07:49- With our feet closer to the ground, - we'll return to the town itself.
0:07:50 > 0:07:55- CellB is a former police station - that draws both young and old.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59- It's a cafe, a bar, - a hostel and a cinema.
0:08:00 > 0:08:05- That gives us a chance to look at - an unusual local mode of transport.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10- This is the old LNWR, - later the LMS railway station.
0:08:11 > 0:08:14- At the back here, - you can see a path.
0:08:15 > 0:08:19- We called it the crooked path, - because it zigzagged up...
0:08:20 > 0:08:24- ..all the way to the Oakeley - and Gloddfa Ganol quarries.
0:08:24 > 0:08:29- This was the path that the quarrymen - walked to work every morning...
0:08:29 > 0:08:31- ..and back down in the evening.
0:08:32 > 0:08:34- We'll move on to Graig Ddu quarry.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38- They travelled differently here.
0:08:39 > 0:08:44- The smith at the quarry in the 1860s - came up with his own patent.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47- It was called the car gwyllt - - the wild car.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- It's earned its place - in Ffestiniog's history.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54- It was a form of skateboard - with an iron rod attached...
0:08:54 > 0:08:57- ..designed to travel along rails.
0:08:57 > 0:09:01- They came down three inclines - all the way from Graig Ddu quarry.
0:09:01 > 0:09:04- It doesn't look very substantial.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07- And it travelled at a fair speed.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10- I want to show you one more photo.
0:09:10 > 0:09:16- It shows one woman - who used this contraption.
0:09:16 > 0:09:17- Is that her?
0:09:17 > 0:09:18- Is that her?- - Yes, there she is.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- Her name was Kate Hughes.
0:09:22 > 0:09:28- Rhiwbach quarry is on the border - between here and Cwm Penmachno...
0:09:28 > 0:09:33- ..some 1,500 feet up, - where a small village had developed.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37- In 1908, parents in the village...
0:09:38 > 0:09:43- ..demanded a school be set up - for the two dozen children there.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48- Kate Hughes - was appointed headmistress.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50- How did she get there?
0:09:50 > 0:09:54- She'd set off - from Sgwar Diffwys in town...
0:09:55 > 0:09:58- ..and was winched up the inclines.
0:09:59 > 0:10:00- Then she taught.
0:10:00 > 0:10:01- Then she taught.- - She taught all day.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04- Then back down on the car gwyllt.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06- Then back down on the car gwyllt.- - You've heard the story!
0:10:06 > 0:10:08- No, I've seen her photo!
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- Imagine her coming down, - her skirt over her face...
0:10:13 > 0:10:14- ..among all the men.
0:10:14 > 0:10:16- There wasn't much dignity involved.
0:10:16 > 0:10:17- There wasn't much dignity involved.- - Quite a woman!
0:10:23 > 0:10:29- Reminders of quarrying are - everywhere in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:10:29 > 0:10:33- The wheels may have long since - stopped turning on some wagons...
0:10:34 > 0:10:39- ..today's quarrymen are well aware - of their honourable predecessors.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43- I'm from a family of quarrymen.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46- I've worked at the quarry - for over 15 years.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48- I'm the fourth generation to do so.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- I'm the fourth generation to do so.- - Slate must be in your blood!
0:10:51 > 0:10:53- I'm steeped in slate, yes.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- And the products are roof slates.
0:10:56 > 0:10:57- Yes, these are two examples.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59- Yes, these are two examples.- - Different colours, I notice.
0:11:00 > 0:11:05- The purple Caernarfon slate is older - than the blue Meirionnydd slate.
0:11:06 > 0:11:07- That's the best one, obviously.
0:11:07 > 0:11:09- That's the best one, obviously.- - I won't argue with you.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- Blaenau Ffestiniog - isn't just one large quarry, is it?
0:11:14 > 0:11:16- No, there are several quarries.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18- Sadly, many of them have closed.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21- The main ones were the Oakeley...
0:11:21 > 0:11:25- ..once the world's largest - subterranean slate quarry...
0:11:25 > 0:11:30- ..Llechwedd, Maenofferen, Lord, - Diffwys, the first, and Manod.
0:11:30 > 0:11:35- This device here - was unique to Manod quarry.
0:11:36 > 0:11:37- The famous car gwyllt.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40- The famous car gwyllt.- - This is the actual car gwyllt?
0:11:40 > 0:11:44- The quarrymen rode on this - at the end of the shift.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47- It's a simple enough device.
0:11:47 > 0:11:52- Two wheels formed from iron - attached to a piece of wood.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56- And it just rested on the line.
0:11:56 > 0:11:57- And that's the brake.
0:11:57 > 0:11:59- And that's the brake.- - This is the brake, yes.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02- Everyone had one of their own.
0:12:02 > 0:12:03- You can see the initials here, RP.
0:12:03 > 0:12:05- You can see the initials here, RP.- - Robert Parry, probably!
0:12:06 > 0:12:07- And he'd own this.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- And he'd own this.- - This belonged to him, yes.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12- How many quarrymen - went home using these?
0:12:12 > 0:12:16- About 200 of them - would have raced down the incline.
0:12:16 > 0:12:17- In one long line!
0:12:18 > 0:12:19- Were there any accidents?
0:12:19 > 0:12:22- Were there any accidents?- - Very few, I think, on the whole.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26- Sit there, and throw your leg over.
0:12:26 > 0:12:27- Facing this way?
0:12:30 > 0:12:33- Both legs stretched out, crossed.
0:12:33 > 0:12:34- One hand on the brake.
0:12:34 > 0:12:35- One hand on the brake.- - OK, on the brake.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38- The other one leaning left.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40- Let's give it a go.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- It still works, fair play.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52- Is this how you go home?
0:12:52 > 0:12:55- Not quite! - Things have changed a lot!
0:12:56 > 0:12:57- .
0:13:01 > 0:13:01- Subtitles
0:13:01 > 0:13:03- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:13:05 > 0:13:07- We're in the Vale of Ffestiniog...
0:13:07 > 0:13:11- ..on the trail of local history, - legends and natural wonders.
0:13:11 > 0:13:15- Later, I'll sample produce - that grows wild around us.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20- But first, - I need to find my bearings...
0:13:20 > 0:13:23- ..and I have the ideal guide.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28- It's a nice place to go walking, - and there are lots of paths.
0:13:29 > 0:13:32- I've led tours now - for over seven years...
0:13:32 > 0:13:38- ..and I'm still finding new paths, - even though I grew up in Blaenau.
0:13:39 > 0:13:41- You can walk and see no-one.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45- If you do see someone, - you have a chat and move on.
0:13:45 > 0:13:50- There's so much history to see, - round houses and so on.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- There's wildlife galore.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54- Everything you need, in a way.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57- It's also a good way to keep fit.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00- Nordic walking - uses 90% of your muscles.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04- The only other sport - that does that is swimming.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07- It's good for the core muscles.
0:14:07 > 0:14:09- It's good for batwings.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13- And it's only a hop, - step and jump from town.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18- Here, you can see round houses.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20- The circle comes around this way.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22- The circle comes around this way.- - Yes, it's clear here.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26- The main circle itself - goes all the way round...
0:14:27 > 0:14:30- ..the other side of that stone wall - and back this way.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- Maybe they kept their animals there, - but we don't know.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- We'll go this way now - and I'll show you more.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- Take care - the stones are slippery.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50- This view takes your breath away.
0:14:50 > 0:14:51- This view takes your breath away.- - Isn't it great?
0:14:52 > 0:14:57- That's Moelwyn Bach over there, - then the Stwlan dam...
0:14:57 > 0:15:01- ..then across to Moelwyn Mawr, - Moel yr Hydd and Craigysgafn.
0:15:01 > 0:15:05- In the hollow, that's Cwmorthin, - a remarkable place.
0:15:06 > 0:15:07- Make sure you go there.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Then over there, - Craig Nyth-y-Gigfran...
0:15:11 > 0:15:13- ..and the Oakeley quarries...
0:15:13 > 0:15:17- ..later known as Gloddfa Ganol, - then over to Llechwedd...
0:15:17 > 0:15:21- ..with the zip wires and Antur - Stiniog's downhill mountain biking.
0:15:21 > 0:15:25- That has transformed - Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:15:25 > 0:15:26- It's just...
0:15:26 > 0:15:28- ..the best place in the world.
0:15:32 > 0:15:38- Further down the valley is something - you wouldn't expect here in Wales.
0:15:38 > 0:15:43- Woods with similar characteristics - to the world's most famous forests.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49- I'm walking through a rainforest, - not far from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:15:50 > 0:15:54- Essentially, there's not much - difference between Coed Felenrhyd...
0:15:55 > 0:15:57- ..and the enormous Amazon forests.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- The special conditions, - the moisture and humidity...
0:16:01 > 0:16:05- ..help a wide variety - of plants and wildlife to flourish.
0:16:08 > 0:16:13- That Felenrhyd is a rainforest - isn't the only surprise.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- It's also exceptionally old.
0:16:16 > 0:16:20- This is wood sorrel.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23- It's a small, pretty flower.
0:16:24 > 0:16:28- If you see wood sorrel, bluebells...
0:16:28 > 0:16:32- ..maybe wood anemones in woodland...
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- ..you can be fairly certain - that they're ancient woods.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40- Rory, this tree is enormous.
0:16:41 > 0:16:42- It's an oak.
0:16:42 > 0:16:46- It has to be over 500 years old.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49- It was probably a sapling...
0:16:49 > 0:16:54- ..when William Morgan was busy - translating the Bible into Welsh.
0:16:55 > 0:16:57- Is there a record - of people using the woods?
0:16:58 > 0:17:02- These woods formed part - of the Oakeley estate.
0:17:02 > 0:17:07- Ffestiniog slates have been - exported all over the world...
0:17:07 > 0:17:12- ..in ships made from timber - from these very woods.
0:17:12 > 0:17:13- Very interesting.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22- While I continue - my walk through the woods...
0:17:22 > 0:17:26- ..among the houses - that cling to the rock...
0:17:26 > 0:17:31- ..you'll find some very unlikely - crafts being pursued.
0:17:37 > 0:17:40- The whole process is very complex.
0:17:41 > 0:17:45- It's taken a hold of me - and I can't let it go!
0:17:47 > 0:17:49- I couldn't afford one...
0:17:49 > 0:17:53- ..so I decided to try to make one.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55- I went to see a few people...
0:17:56 > 0:18:00- ..and eventually found a method - that worked for me.
0:18:01 > 0:18:03- But I had - a lot of firewood initially!
0:18:08 > 0:18:12- When you deal with wood, - there isn't much leeway.
0:18:16 > 0:18:21- A pine face, - with maple back and sides.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26- You wouldn't believe how many - measurements I have to take.
0:18:28 > 0:18:30- I'll make a violin sometimes...
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- ..with the exact same wood, - strings and varnish...
0:18:35 > 0:18:38- ..and one sounds better - than the others.
0:18:38 > 0:18:39- Why? I don't know.
0:18:43 > 0:18:49- I saw four big beams of Douglas fir - supporting the chapel rooves.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53- I made some violins out of them - and they sounded so good.
0:18:55 > 0:19:00- It's an art not many can aspire to.
0:19:03 > 0:19:08- Apparently, they played - Y Car Gwyllt in the Oakeley cabins.
0:19:11 > 0:19:15- As it progresses, it gets faster, - and there were no brakes.
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- The second part sounds like a train - hitting the barriers.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27- This air was played - in the quarry cabins.
0:19:32 > 0:19:37- In 1934, it's said, a special stone - was discovered down there...
0:19:38 > 0:19:40- ..on the bed of the River Cynfal.
0:19:40 > 0:19:41- And here it is.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44- It's been laid on dry land now.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- It has a unique feature, - a perfect hole right through it.
0:19:49 > 0:19:53- If you believe the stories, - it didn't happen by chance.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- According to the Mabinogi...
0:19:56 > 0:20:01- ..Lleu Llaw Gyffes's girlfriend, - Blodeuwedd, ran off with Gronw Pebr.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05- Lleu wasn't too happy, - so he chased after them.
0:20:05 > 0:20:07- Gronw threw a spear at him.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11- But Lleu turned into an eagle - and flew away.
0:20:12 > 0:20:17- Later, of course, the time came - for Lleu to seek revenge.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21- Once again, - they were on the riverbank...
0:20:21 > 0:20:23- ..but this time, - Lleu held the spear.
0:20:24 > 0:20:26- He threw it across the river...
0:20:26 > 0:20:30- ..and it hit a stone between him - and Gronw, which explains the hole.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33- It then pierced Gronw's heart.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- That's the story, anyway.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39- Llech Ronw - stands on Bryn Saeth farm.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42- Legend has it that it's so named...
0:20:42 > 0:20:47- ..because Lleu threw the spear - from here all the way to the river.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50- You're not allowed - to hunt with spears any more...
0:20:51 > 0:20:54- ..but I was Year 7 - javelin champion in 1998...
0:20:54 > 0:20:55- ..so I'll have a go.
0:21:01 > 0:21:02- Not even close.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05- It's a load of nonsense.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13- Legends aren't the only things - that grow on trees here.
0:21:14 > 0:21:18- The views are guaranteed - to make your mouth water.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22- You can even - get a taste of the area...
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- ..by sampling some fare - that grows wild at the roadside.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30- This is a favourite of mine, - sheep's sorrel.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34- The base of the leaf - resembles a ram's horns.
0:21:35 > 0:21:36- Try a bit of that.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40- The French make soup with it.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- It contains oxalic acid, - which is poisonous.
0:21:45 > 0:21:47- But you'd have to eat a lot of it.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- That won't kill you!
0:21:49 > 0:21:52- These nettles have flowered.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55- That leaves these seeds.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58- They're considered - a superfood nowadays.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01- They contain up to 20% protein...
0:22:01 > 0:22:05- ..vitamins A, C and D, - and potassium.
0:22:06 > 0:22:07- It's remarkable stuff.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09- If you get stung, cut the stem.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- Ignore dock leaves, they don't work.
0:22:13 > 0:22:14- That's what I always use.
0:22:14 > 0:22:18- Cut the stem and apply the sap - from inside the stem.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20- A wealth of benefits.
0:22:20 > 0:22:21- A wealth of benefits.- - And free.
0:22:26 > 0:22:27- Would you like to try this?
0:22:27 > 0:22:28- Would you like to try this?- - What is it?
0:22:28 > 0:22:30- Water and flowers.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33- A small flower called meadowsweet.
0:22:33 > 0:22:37- You can make champagne with it, - as with elderflower.
0:22:38 > 0:22:40- It's an exceptional plant.
0:22:41 > 0:22:42- That's nice.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44- It's very fresh.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49- It contains salicylic acid, - which is the basis of aspirin.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- This is the original aspirin.
0:22:51 > 0:22:53- You can make champagne with it...
0:22:54 > 0:22:57- ..and drink it next day - to clear the hangover!
0:22:57 > 0:23:02- There's something else here, sloes.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08- They're also called blackthorns, - and they're sour!
0:23:09 > 0:23:11- You'd use these to make sloe gin.
0:23:11 > 0:23:12- You'd use these to make sloe gin.- - Oh!
0:23:12 > 0:23:17- A third of sloes, a third of sugar - and a third of cheap gin.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20- Mix it daily until Christmas - and enjoy it.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23- This is nice, but I'll fling this!
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- Let's go.
0:23:28 > 0:23:29- So bitter.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- We'll now make a skin lotion...
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- ..with items foraged on our walk.
0:23:43 > 0:23:48- First, pass me the yarrow, - the hairy-looking one.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51- Two or three of those.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55- Pick them, then pennywort.
0:23:55 > 0:23:58- This is very good to revive skin.
0:23:58 > 0:24:02- Then we can either go for lavender - or pineapple weed.
0:24:03 > 0:24:04- We'll go for lavender.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06- We'll go for lavender.- - That helps you to relax.
0:24:06 > 0:24:08- That's really nice.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11- Will the wax help it set?
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- Will the wax help it set?- - It'll thicken it. This is beeswax.
0:24:14 > 0:24:19- Wheatgerm oil - is also good for reviving skin.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22- A bit of elderflower honey.
0:24:24 > 0:24:25- And that's it.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27- The skin lotion is ready.
0:24:28 > 0:24:29- It just has to set now.
0:24:30 > 0:24:30- That was so easy.
0:24:30 > 0:24:32- That was so easy.- - It takes hardly any time.
0:24:33 > 0:24:38- You enjoy a nice, relaxing walk - and it's all there for you.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40- It's a nice end - to a lovely walk.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44- And you can take - the walk home with you.
0:24:46 > 0:24:47- .
0:24:51 > 0:24:51- Subtitles
0:24:51 > 0:24:53- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:24:56 > 0:24:59- You need to get up early - to catch the people of Blaenau.
0:25:00 > 0:25:05- But some things remain a mystery, - even to the townspeople.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09- I've almost finished my tour - of local legends.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14- I've been after a wizard and - legendary characters to the south.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19- Next, I'm heading north, - to the edges of Snowdonia...
0:25:19 > 0:25:23- ..where more recent history - is etched into the soil.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31- If you've ever driven along the A470 - over the Crimea Pass...
0:25:31 > 0:25:37- ..you're sure to have noticed - this strange patch of bare soil.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39- It's known as Boot Hill.
0:25:41 > 0:25:43- It looks like a UFO landing site...
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- ..but on closer inspection, - the truth becomes apparent.
0:25:49 > 0:25:55- Rusty hobnails and heel caps - from old boots, thousands of them...
0:25:55 > 0:25:58- ..burnt in a fire a long time ago.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- In summer, the sun heats the metal.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05- Locals will tell you - that they can feel the heat...
0:26:05 > 0:26:10- ..through the soles of their - wellingtons as they go fishing.
0:26:12 > 0:26:17- Did the shoes belong to quarrymen - fed up with working endlessly...
0:26:17 > 0:26:20- ..and burning their boots - in protest?
0:26:21 > 0:26:25- Or were they left behind by POWs - before they fled the country?
0:26:25 > 0:26:27- The stories are endless.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- The truth, it seems, - is less dramatic.
0:26:31 > 0:26:36- During WW2, there was a factory - that repaired shoes in the area.
0:26:36 > 0:26:41- The shoes came in, were repaired, - and used again by soldiers.
0:26:42 > 0:26:47- Those shoes that had seen better - days were burned on the mountain.
0:26:48 > 0:26:53- For such a recent event, it's - strange how many stories there are.
0:26:53 > 0:26:58- I'm sure the stories will persist, - even after the remnants disappear.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06- Down the valley - from Blaenau's industrial areas...
0:27:06 > 0:27:09- ..is a wonder - that belongs entirely to nature.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13- A rainforest - bearing similar characteristics...
0:27:13 > 0:27:17- ..to that of the Amazon, - but here in Wales.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23- The damp environment is ideal - for some rare varieties of lichen.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29- This lichen is very interesting.
0:27:30 > 0:27:32- If you look at it...
0:27:32 > 0:27:36- ..you can see - that it's slightly elastic.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39- Lichen itself is interesting...
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- ..because it's a combination - of fungi that has algae in it.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48- The algae creates food, sugars...
0:27:49 > 0:27:51- ..and the fungus - provides the structure.
0:27:52 > 0:27:57- As a result, it doesn't need roots - to get the nourishment it needs.
0:27:57 > 0:28:01- It can absorb moisture - from the atmosphere.
0:28:01 > 0:28:07- But that means it can only grow - in very damp places such as this.
0:28:08 > 0:28:09- A rainforest.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19- This moisture means that lichen - grows in every nook and cranny.
0:28:19 > 0:28:23- There are unique species - at Felenrhyd as well.
0:28:28 > 0:28:33- Two important finds have been made - in these woods fairly recently.
0:28:34 > 0:28:40- Thelotrema petractoides - and pyrenula hibernica.
0:28:40 > 0:28:41- Quite a tongue-twister.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43- Quite a tongue-twister.- - Exactly.
0:28:43 > 0:28:49- At the time, we didn't know - of anywhere they grew in Wales.
0:28:49 > 0:28:53- They grow on hazel and ash trees.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57- One looks a bit like this...
0:28:57 > 0:29:01- ..and is described - as blackberries in custard.
0:29:01 > 0:29:05- Why do they grow on these trees...
0:29:05 > 0:29:07- ..rather than oaks and so on?
0:29:07 > 0:29:11- The bark of some trees - is more acidic.
0:29:12 > 0:29:17- The bark of others, - like ash trees, is more alkaline.
0:29:17 > 0:29:22- That will be a problem...
0:29:22 > 0:29:28- ..if ash dieback does strike - and many ash trees disappear.
0:29:28 > 0:29:32- It will be bad news - for lots of rare lichens.
0:29:36 > 0:29:40- There's a vital balance - in a place like this...
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- ..with so many - rare plants and animals.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- Thankfully, it's in the care - of the Woodland Trust.
0:29:47 > 0:29:51- But the woods - are totally dependent on one thing.
0:29:51 > 0:29:52- Water.
0:29:55 > 0:29:58- This is Rhaeadr Ddu - on the River Prysor...
0:29:58 > 0:30:02- ..flowing from Trawsfynydd lake - to the sea.
0:30:02 > 0:30:07- There are two reasons - why these woods are so damp.
0:30:07 > 0:30:12- We get more than 100 days - of rain in a year...
0:30:13 > 0:30:19- ..but we're also in a deep ravine - with a river flowing through it.
0:30:19 > 0:30:22- The resulting spray of water...
0:30:22 > 0:30:26- ..creates a very wet microclimate.
0:30:26 > 0:30:28- If it wasn't for that...
0:30:28 > 0:30:34- ..we wouldn't have the wealth - of lichen and flowers that we do.
0:30:34 > 0:30:39- As we come down the ravine into this - open area and see the waterfall...
0:30:40 > 0:30:42- ..it actually feels - like a rainforest.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47- It's a real gem and it wouldn't - exist without the rain.
0:30:52 > 0:30:58- During the summer of 1940, - almost a year into World War Two...
0:30:58 > 0:31:01- ..rumours spread - in Llan Ffestiniog...
0:31:01 > 0:31:05- ..that some of Britain's - greatest treasures...
0:31:05 > 0:31:09- ..were to be hidden - in the surrounding mountains.
0:31:09 > 0:31:13- First of all, - people that we didn't know...
0:31:13 > 0:31:17- ..came around asking questions..
0:31:17 > 0:31:20- Naturally, - my father was very suspicious...
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- ..of what was happening.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25- Eventually, we started to grasp...
0:31:26 > 0:31:31- ..that something was happening - in the quarry up at the top.
0:31:31 > 0:31:32- What was going on there then?
0:31:32 > 0:31:37- What was going on there then?- - Lorries brought various loads up.
0:31:37 > 0:31:43- Treasures from the National Gallery - to be stored in the quarry.
0:31:44 > 0:31:47- You have a few - black and white photographs there.
0:31:47 > 0:31:48- Take this one.
0:31:49 > 0:31:52- This here is the card - seen in that photo.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56- They could work out, - as I could when I was there...
0:31:56 > 0:32:02- ..the exact air quality - at any given time...
0:32:02 > 0:32:04- ..be it too dry or too humid.
0:32:05 > 0:32:09- When you worked there, - the threat was still ongoing.
0:32:10 > 0:32:13- That if war broke out, - you'd have to do the same...
0:32:13 > 0:32:17- ..as what happened - during the Second World War.
0:32:17 > 0:32:21- We'd get twelve hours' notice - should anything have to come in.
0:32:21 > 0:32:25- We had to take care of the roof...
0:32:25 > 0:32:27- ..the rock face itself...
0:32:27 > 0:32:32- ..and the internal temperature - and air quality.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34- And you looked after all that?
0:32:34 > 0:32:36- And you looked after all that?- - That was my job there, yes.
0:32:36 > 0:32:39- This is a rough map of the chamber.
0:32:40 > 0:32:42- We called one the cathedral.
0:32:42 > 0:32:47- That one was specially protected.
0:32:47 > 0:32:53- It's said that the Crown Jewels - and the like were kept there.
0:32:53 > 0:32:54- In there?
0:32:54 > 0:32:55- In there?- - Yes, in there.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- How much truth was there in that?
0:32:58 > 0:32:59- How much truth was there in that?- - I think it was true.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01- Yes, I'm fairly certain.
0:33:01 > 0:33:06- Was everything there, I don't know, - but they certainly came there.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14- By today, - nothing is stored at Manod.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16- But one current employee...
0:33:17 > 0:33:20- ..will guide me along - the same route as the treasures...
0:33:20 > 0:33:25- ..and give me a privileged glimpse - of the historic chambers.
0:33:26 > 0:33:30- This is where it all started, - the paintings coming from London.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35- The first problem - was getting under the bridge.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37- They had a few large paintings.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42- The tarmac was higher - than it is now, which was a problem.
0:33:42 > 0:33:44- There were two large paintings...
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- ..King Charles I on Horseback, - and The Raising Of Lazarus.
0:33:48 > 0:33:53- It's said there was half an inch - to spare after deflating the tyres.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56- Whether or not that's true, - I don't know.
0:33:57 > 0:33:58- How long did this go on?
0:33:58 > 0:34:00- Three containers a day...
0:34:00 > 0:34:03- ..six days a week, for five weeks.
0:34:03 > 0:34:09- About 90 containers, - a total of some 3,500 paintings.
0:34:09 > 0:34:10- Shall we go?
0:34:10 > 0:34:12- Yes, why not?
0:34:16 > 0:34:19- Why did they choose that location?
0:34:19 > 0:34:23- It's such a remote place, - and it's difficult to get to.
0:34:23 > 0:34:26- It's about three miles - from the village.
0:34:26 > 0:34:29- It's all uphill, the road's narrow.
0:34:29 > 0:34:34- Apparently, - Lloyd George recommended it.
0:34:35 > 0:34:38- There was so much bombing - during the Second World War.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42- They probably thought - this was the safest place.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45- They were safe underground, - so that's why.
0:34:58 > 0:34:59- Right, this is the start.
0:35:00 > 0:35:04- The paintings came up here - on the wagons to be unloaded...
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- ..and were taken by narrow gauge - railway to the far end...
0:35:08 > 0:35:11- ..and into the chambers.
0:35:11 > 0:35:16- The loading bay was here - and they went to different chambers.
0:35:16 > 0:35:17- Great.
0:35:18 > 0:35:19- Let's go in then.
0:35:19 > 0:35:20- Let's go in then.- - Right.
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- No-one has been in here - for many years.
0:35:27 > 0:35:33- It's a huge honour to go somewhere - where time has stood still.
0:35:37 > 0:35:42- We're approaching the chambers - where they kept the paintings.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- As you can see, these levels have - been expanded to bring them in.
0:35:47 > 0:35:52- They were about six feet, - but they're now about 14 feet high.
0:35:52 > 0:35:53- A lot higher.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56- Chains to hold up - sections of the roof.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59- Here are the buildings.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- These housed the air con units.
0:36:03 > 0:36:08- They kept the temperature - at a constant 65 degrees.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- The temperature had to be exact.
0:36:12 > 0:36:17- It was meant to be constant - and not fluctuate at all.
0:36:18 > 0:36:22- There's something interesting - on the other side as well...
0:36:23 > 0:36:24- ..if you'd like to see.
0:36:25 > 0:36:27- There are steps going up.
0:36:28 > 0:36:29- It's remarkable, isn't it?
0:36:29 > 0:36:30- It's remarkable, isn't it?- - Yes, it is.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- We're in this area, - having come all the way through.
0:36:37 > 0:36:41- The loading bay was next door, - then the paintings came in here.
0:36:42 > 0:36:43- The other side here?
0:36:43 > 0:36:45- Yes, on the other side.
0:36:47 > 0:36:48- How long were they here?
0:36:49 > 0:36:54- The paintings came here - from August 1941 until 1945.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58- It's incredible to think - that they were here.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00- That we're standing - in the actual spot.
0:37:03 > 0:37:04- Right.
0:37:05 > 0:37:06- It's huge!
0:37:06 > 0:37:09- Can you see the white squares?
0:37:09 > 0:37:12- That's where the paintings were.
0:37:12 > 0:37:13- Here?
0:37:13 > 0:37:14- Here?- - That's right.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- There used to be labels, - which I've since read about...
0:37:19 > 0:37:23- ..and there was one Michelangelo - kept in here.
0:37:26 > 0:37:31- I touch this wall and wonder - which painting was here back then.
0:37:31 > 0:37:35- It's said that a quarter - of Britain's wealth was here.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37- I don't know if that's true.
0:37:43 > 0:37:46- I didn't know what to expect...
0:37:46 > 0:37:48- ..but it's truly remarkable...
0:37:49 > 0:37:53- ..the thought of all those treasures - stored here.
0:37:54 > 0:37:55- .
0:38:00 > 0:38:00- Subtitles
0:38:00 > 0:38:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:38:04 > 0:38:09- We're in the Vale of Ffestiniog, - an area of extraordinary diversity.
0:38:09 > 0:38:13- There's so much more to the area - than quarries and slate.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16- But I still want to ask - what the weather is really like.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20- The Moelwyn - isn't wearing a cap today.
0:38:20 > 0:38:21- What does that mean?
0:38:21 > 0:38:22- What does that mean?- - That it's sunny.
0:38:23 > 0:38:26- No cap means no mist or cloud?
0:38:27 > 0:38:32- The lower the mist descends, - the more rain falls in Blaenau.
0:38:32 > 0:38:37- Are there lots of sayings - and have you grown up with them?
0:38:37 > 0:38:39- Yes, Dad used them often.
0:38:40 > 0:38:45- The Moelwyn, maybe mountains - in general, sometimes appear close.
0:38:46 > 0:38:48- That's another sign of rain.
0:38:48 > 0:38:52- If the mountains seem distant, - it's set fair.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54- Do all these sayings hold true?
0:38:55 > 0:39:00- Nine times out of ten, yes, - but there are exceptions.
0:39:00 > 0:39:04- Even the weather people - aren't always right.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07- You gather information - about the weather.
0:39:08 > 0:39:09- I have done for years.
0:39:10 > 0:39:14- I started to keep - a written record in 1986.
0:39:14 > 0:39:19- These old books - show how I did it at first.
0:39:19 > 0:39:23- This is a record of August 1987...
0:39:23 > 0:39:27- ..when the Eisteddfod - was in Porthmadog.
0:39:27 > 0:39:30- The handwriting's a bit untidy.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34- Heavy rain overnight, - a mess on the Eisteddfod field.
0:39:35 > 0:39:38- At that time, - I kept it in the form of a diary.
0:39:38 > 0:39:43- But I've kept daily records - over the years, without fail.
0:39:43 > 0:39:44- Every day?
0:39:44 > 0:39:46- Every day?- - Yes, every day.
0:39:46 > 0:39:50- You've recorded the weather - every day since 1986.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- Is it true - that it rains here more often?
0:39:54 > 0:39:57- I've got a rough graph - at the back of this book.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00- I'll show it to you.
0:40:00 > 0:40:01- It's a simple graph...
0:40:01 > 0:40:02- It's a simple graph...- - That's good.
0:40:03 > 0:40:07- This is rainfall, is it?
0:40:07 > 0:40:08- This is rainfall, is it?- - Yes, this is rain.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10- It starts on the left with 1986.
0:40:11 > 0:40:15- 1989 was fairly dry, - but 1994 was very wet.
0:40:16 > 0:40:17- But there was worse to come.
0:40:17 > 0:40:18- But there was worse to come.- - Yes, there was.
0:40:18 > 0:40:23- The mountains - and the fact that we're high up...
0:40:23 > 0:40:27- ..mean that we catch - the Atlantic rains.
0:40:28 > 0:40:34- There are lots of sayings about - the different kind of rain as well.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38- Light rain, it's pouring down, - those kind of sayings.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41- What would you say?
0:40:41 > 0:40:44- "Tatsian y glaw."
0:40:44 > 0:40:45- What does that mean?
0:40:46 > 0:40:48- Really heavy rain!
0:40:48 > 0:40:49- "Tatsian y glaw."
0:40:51 > 0:40:53- It's throwing it down.
0:40:53 > 0:40:55- When it's raining buckets.
0:40:55 > 0:40:56- Or sweeping rain...
0:40:57 > 0:41:01- ..when the wind blows it and you - can see it move horizontally.
0:41:02 > 0:41:04- Then there are sayings about mist.
0:41:04 > 0:41:06- "Mae'n niwl dopyn."
0:41:06 > 0:41:09- When you can't see further - than your nose.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11- Winter mist, snow's servant.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- Winter mist, snow's servant?
0:41:15 > 0:41:17- A sign that snow would soon follow.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20- It's important - to keep these local sayings alive.
0:41:21 > 0:41:26- They describe the area, - and also feature the local dialect.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30- Other areas - might say something similar...
0:41:30 > 0:41:34- ..but the odd word here and there - belongs to us.
0:41:44 > 0:41:47- The Crimea Pass is a steep road...
0:41:47 > 0:41:51- ..that snakes through the mountains - near Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:41:51 > 0:41:57- It was opened in 1854, - during the very bloody Crimean War.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- It was a religious war, - against Russia.
0:42:04 > 0:42:09- Locally, some people believe - that Russian POWs built this road.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13- A little piece of Russia - on the A470? Perhaps.
0:42:14 > 0:42:19- The Crimean War isn't the only war - to leave its mark on this area.
0:42:19 > 0:42:23- Not many people know about a hidden - wonder by the side of the road.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27- A small rock - with dozens of names carved into it.
0:42:27 > 0:42:33- Local youths came here to the exact - same rock to leave their mark...
0:42:33 > 0:42:38- ..before setting off - to fight in wars all over the world.
0:42:39 > 0:42:41- It's called St Michael's Stone.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45- A spring - used to rise to the surface here.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49- People came here - for centuries to pray.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55- In a way, - the carved initials are a prayer.
0:42:56 > 0:43:00- Local boys, about to leave home - for maybe the last time...
0:43:00 > 0:43:05- ..asking for help from God, - the mountains, anyone who'd listen.
0:43:06 > 0:43:08- I wonder how many did come back.
0:43:17 > 0:43:22- I've already sampled quarry culture - here in the Vale of Ffestiniog.
0:43:22 > 0:43:27- But seeing the scale of the work - with your own eyes is amazing.
0:43:28 > 0:43:29- In the late 19th century...
0:43:30 > 0:43:35- ..almost 500 thousand tons of slate - was quarried here annually.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- The scale of the work is immense.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42- Huge blocks of slate - are treated and split in the mill...
0:43:43 > 0:43:45- ..to supply the building industry.
0:43:49 > 0:43:54- You realized just how noisy it was - when you took out the earplugs.
0:43:54 > 0:43:55- It's also dusty in there.
0:43:56 > 0:44:00- My own grandfather - died of silicosis before I was born.
0:44:00 > 0:44:05- Everyone in Blaenau knows someone - who was affected by the slate dust.
0:44:06 > 0:44:10- It takes years to master the art.
0:44:10 > 0:44:13- These lads - have been at it for years.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16- The mill and quarry skills - are similar.
0:44:16 > 0:44:20- We split the rock, - we pillar the rock...
0:44:20 > 0:44:22- ..only on a much bigger scale.
0:44:23 > 0:44:27- We use explosives where the lads - at the mill use a hammer and chisel.
0:44:27 > 0:44:32- As we head to the rock face, - the source of all these slates...
0:44:32 > 0:44:36- ..I find that much information - has been passed down...
0:44:36 > 0:44:39- ..and remained unchanged - for generations.
0:44:40 > 0:44:42- I can read layers in soil...
0:44:42 > 0:44:45- ..but the rock is totally different.
0:44:45 > 0:44:47- Explain what we have here.
0:44:47 > 0:44:53- The rock has various faults, - and we target them to work the rock.
0:44:53 > 0:44:57- The skills are the same - as they were centuries ago.
0:44:57 > 0:45:01- We use precisely the same skills - that the quarrymen used.
0:45:01 > 0:45:04- At the base here, - we have what we call a "slont."
0:45:04 > 0:45:07- There's a slont - beneath our feet here.
0:45:07 > 0:45:11- A fault or weakness, a parallel - joint that will push the rock out.
0:45:12 > 0:45:14- That's a natural fault, is it?
0:45:14 > 0:45:15- Yes, that's right.
0:45:15 > 0:45:20- A "pleriad", a columnar formation - that has been dug and blasted.
0:45:21 > 0:45:27- This is a vertical fissure, - a natural weakness in the rock.
0:45:28 > 0:45:32- Then a foot-joint, at a right angle - to the vertical fissure.
0:45:32 > 0:45:36- This is like a new language - - "slont", "cefn", "troed".
0:45:44 > 0:45:49- Cwt-y-Bugail quarry maintains the - quarrying tradition in Ffestiniog.
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- Many workers come - from a long line of quarrymen...
0:45:53 > 0:45:57- ..for whom reading the rock - is almost instinctive.
0:45:57 > 0:46:02- How do you decide where to place - the explosives to get at the slate?
0:46:02 > 0:46:06- We look for the fissures, - the natural weaknesses.
0:46:06 > 0:46:09- Because we make roof slates...
0:46:09 > 0:46:13- ..we want the rock out in one block, - not in fist-sized lumps.
0:46:13 > 0:46:16- If I look at the top of the rock...
0:46:19 > 0:46:22- ..I might find a fissure here.
0:46:23 > 0:46:28- I'd drill a hole further back - from the fissure, and explode it...
0:46:28 > 0:46:32- ..giving us two blocks - from only one blast.
0:46:32 > 0:46:36- I get it. - Well, I'm beginning to understand.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45- What's happening here?
0:46:45 > 0:46:48- Llion is drilling - the last hole now...
0:46:48 > 0:46:50- ..down towards the slont.
0:46:51 > 0:46:56- Hopefully, the blast will free - two or three blocks of slate.
0:46:56 > 0:46:58- We're almost ready.
0:46:58 > 0:47:01- So, it'll explode outwards - from the holes?
0:47:18 > 0:47:21- That was much louder - than I anticipated!
0:47:32 > 0:47:35- As more slate is extracted - from Ffestiniog's hills...
0:47:36 > 0:47:40- ..this place is clearly different - to other industrial parts of Wales.
0:47:41 > 0:47:46- The reason for its existence, - the quarries, are still operating.
0:47:46 > 0:47:48- Still splitting the rock.
0:47:50 > 0:47:55- Two things have become apparent from - our time in the Vale of Ffestiniog.
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- The extraordinary natural beauty - and the doggedness of local people.
0:48:00 > 0:48:03- Solace and adversity - are two very different concepts...
0:48:04 > 0:48:07- ..but in a place like this, - they go hand in hand perfectly.
0:48:23 > 0:48:25- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:48:25 > 0:48:26- .