0:00:00 > 0:00:00- *
0:00:02 > 0:00:05- Wales, a land - of mountains and valleys.
0:00:06 > 0:00:10- The terrain defines our country, - from the coast to the border.
0:00:11 > 0:00:15- This canal ran from Newtown - to Llangollen.
0:00:15 > 0:00:17- I'm the only one here.
0:00:18 > 0:00:20- Wales against the Saxons.
0:00:21 > 0:00:22- Princes against kings.
0:00:23 > 0:00:24- It all happened here.
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- This time, we're in the Banwy valley - and Welshpool areas...
0:00:31 > 0:00:35- ..where the hills - rise menacingly towards the border.
0:00:36 > 0:00:41- As you'd expect from its location, - it's dotted with battle sites.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- More than anywhere else in Wales.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49- By now, though, - it's comparatively quiet here...
0:00:49 > 0:00:52- ..and, as you can see, glorious.
0:01:00 > 0:01:04- It's an agricultural area that has - defended the language and culture...
0:01:05 > 0:01:10- ..and an area full of secrets - laden with remnants from the past.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19- Castles, old canals and industries.
0:01:19 > 0:01:23- But this area - doesn't just belong to the past.
0:01:23 > 0:01:26- It's evolving - and recreating itself...
0:01:27 > 0:01:31- ..building layer upon layer - on the foundations of the centuries.
0:01:31 > 0:01:33- This is our habitat.
0:01:46 > 0:01:50- The rivers Banwy, Severn, - Rhiw and Vyrnwy cross the area...
0:01:50 > 0:01:55- ..and many interesting travellers - have made their way to these parts.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59- Celtic leader Caradog - is said to have fought...
0:01:59 > 0:02:02- ..his final battle - against the Romans here.
0:02:02 > 0:02:06- On the western side of the valley, - near the source of the Banwy...
0:02:07 > 0:02:09- ..life is a little more relaxed.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13- We're in Llangadfan, - in the Banwy valley.
0:02:13 > 0:02:15- It's a fairly wide area.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- It's part of Montgomeryshire.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- You've heard the saying - "mwynder Maldwyn".
0:02:22 > 0:02:24- The gentleness of Maldwyn.
0:02:24 > 0:02:29- It's a fair description - of the gentle terrain, first of all.
0:02:29 > 0:02:33- We're gentle people as well, - but we have an inner strength.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36- We're within a few miles - of Offa's Dyke.
0:02:37 > 0:02:41- The fact that the language - has lasted here as long as it has...
0:02:42 > 0:02:44- ..is proof of that strength.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47- We're proud of our language.
0:02:48 > 0:02:52- It is an interesting dialect, - with your own unique words.
0:02:53 > 0:02:55- We do have certain words, yes.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58- What if I asked you - when you last ate "ffebrins"?
0:02:59 > 0:03:01- I've no idea what it means.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04- "Ffebrins" is certainly - a Montgomeryshire word.
0:03:05 > 0:03:06- It means gooseberries.
0:03:07 > 0:03:08- Oh, right.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- As for birds, - we'd say "clegar glas".
0:03:11 > 0:03:14- That's "creyr glas", or a heron.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18- And A is often pronounced - like the Welsh E.
0:03:19 > 0:03:24- Linguistic gems aren't the only - treasures in Llangadfan.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- I've got a few things to show you.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31- You open that door - and I'll open this one.
0:03:33 > 0:03:36- We'll see what you think.
0:03:36 > 0:03:37- Good grief!
0:03:38 > 0:03:41- These are just a few - of the old things I've collected.
0:03:42 > 0:03:42- It's like a museum.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45- It's like a museum.- - I suppose it is, in a way.
0:03:46 > 0:03:51- Most of them are from this area, - the work of local craftsmen.
0:03:52 > 0:03:54- Do you know what this is?
0:03:54 > 0:03:57- Do you know what this is?- - Something to do with a candle?
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- It's a rush-candle.
0:03:59 > 0:04:03- In September, they'd cut reeds - and rushes to about this length.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07- They'd strip the reeds, - taking off a lot of the outer husk.
0:04:08 > 0:04:09- If you hold that for me.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12- They then had a rush pan.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17- They'd then heat mutton suet - over the fire...
0:04:17 > 0:04:23- ..and let the reeds - absorb all the suet...
0:04:23 > 0:04:24- ..then dry them.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29- After it had dried, - the reed would be about this length.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31- It was then placed into this.
0:04:31 > 0:04:33- And lit to light the house.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37- You've heard the saying, - burning the candle at both ends.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39- I've done lots of that!
0:04:40 > 0:04:44- What happened was, - they'd place the reed there...
0:04:44 > 0:04:46- ..and light one end of it.
0:04:46 > 0:04:48- But when much of it - had burnt away...
0:04:48 > 0:04:51- ..they'd light the other end.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55- Burning the candle at both ends.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57- That's the origin.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- That's the origin.- - Here's another object.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04- This is a piece of local history, - but do you know what it is?
0:05:06 > 0:05:08- No.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- As you can see, - it's a piece of something.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15- An aeroplane came down - in the Twrch valley...
0:05:15 > 0:05:17- ..at my wife's home.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- This was in 1977, - and there was a huge explosion.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25- They went out - and the sky was full of fire.
0:05:25 > 0:05:30- The field where the plane came down - was originally two fields.
0:05:30 > 0:05:35- One was Cae Tu Ucha'r Sgubor, - and the other was Cae Ffynnon.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38- But the plane - made a huge crater.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41- It's called Cae Eroplen - to this day...
0:05:41 > 0:05:43- ..despite the farm changing hands!
0:05:44 > 0:05:47- It's incredible - to look at this collection.
0:05:48 > 0:05:49- These must mean the world to you.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51- These must mean the world to you.- - It does give me a lot of pleasure.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56- In this technological age, - it's easy to forget about the past.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59- About what has gone by.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02- John Ellis Lewis - sums it up perfectly.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06- "I often ask the question, - but it sounds so foolish, they say.
0:06:06 > 0:06:11- "Will we ever see the old area - back the way it was one day?"
0:06:12 > 0:06:14- May he rest in peace.
0:06:15 > 0:06:16- That's how I see it.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29- There are more battlefields here - than anywhere else in Wales.
0:06:30 > 0:06:35- Given that we're so near the border, - that doesn't come as a surprise.
0:06:35 > 0:06:40- I'll try to locate a lost battle - site north of Castle Caereinion...
0:06:40 > 0:06:44- ..and follow Owain Glyndwr's - footsteps to Welshpool...
0:06:44 > 0:06:48- ..then head to Buttington - on the trail of Vikings.
0:06:48 > 0:06:52- Somewhere here, - five miles south of Welshpool...
0:06:52 > 0:06:55- ..was the likely site - of the Battle of Rhyd-y-Groes.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01- In the year 1039, a group of Saxons - from Mercia gathered here.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03- We don't know much about them...
0:07:04 > 0:07:07- ..expect for some names - that have survived.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09- Edwin, Thurkil and Elfget.
0:07:10 > 0:07:13- But we can picture the scene.
0:07:13 > 0:07:15- Back then, trees covered this land.
0:07:16 > 0:07:18- The Saxons gripped their weapons...
0:07:18 > 0:07:21- ..fearful of any movement - among the leaves.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24- They were right to be afraid.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27- Hiding in the trees - was Gruffudd ap Llywelyn...
0:07:27 > 0:07:33- ..who had just proclaimed himself - King of Wales, and 500 of his men.
0:07:33 > 0:07:38- They wore light clothes to allow - them to move swiftly and quietly.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41- The Welsh descended on the Saxons...
0:07:42 > 0:07:46- ..forcing them back into the Severn - in their heavy armour.
0:07:47 > 0:07:52- This was truly guerrilla warfare, - almost 1,000 years before Vietnam.
0:07:56 > 0:08:01- The name Rhyd-y-Groes survives, - but on a caravan park.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05- It's the only remaining echo - of the Welsh victory on that day.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- Past battle sites may be lost, - but, north of Welshpool...
0:08:13 > 0:08:19- ..there are signs - of an old local industry.
0:08:21 > 0:08:25- These lime kilns near Buttington...
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- ..date from the early 19th century.
0:08:29 > 0:08:31- You can imagine the scene back then.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35- People coming, - loading the coal and the limestone.
0:08:35 > 0:08:39- It burned for three days, - cooled for a couple of days...
0:08:40 > 0:08:42- ..and the lime was then unloaded.
0:08:42 > 0:08:47- The process took about a week, - and they moved from kiln to kiln.
0:08:48 > 0:08:53- At its hottest, the temperature - would have been about 900 Celsius.
0:08:54 > 0:08:55- Very hot.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59- But how did the limestone - and the coal get here?
0:08:59 > 0:09:01- And how was the lime taken away?
0:09:02 > 0:09:05- This was before roads and railways.
0:09:10 > 0:09:15- The Montgomeryshire Canal was once - part of a nationwide network.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18- It was an important focus - for local employment.
0:09:20 > 0:09:25- At one time, two woollen factories, - five breweries, corn mills...
0:09:25 > 0:09:30- ..and gas and timber works - were clustered around the canal.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33- Life and livelihoods - rose out of its waters.
0:09:35 > 0:09:40- By today, only 11 kilometres - of the canal remains.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44- I'm the only one here, - sailing gently towards Welshpool.
0:09:45 > 0:09:45- .
0:09:51 > 0:09:51- *
0:09:52 > 0:09:56- A few miles from the border, - the Montgomeryshire Canal...
0:09:56 > 0:09:59- ..would have run - all the way to Newtown...
0:09:59 > 0:10:02- ..when it was opened - at the turn of the 18th century.
0:10:03 > 0:10:07- Canals played a vital role - in the Industrial Revolution...
0:10:07 > 0:10:09- ..carrying goods across the country.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12- But the advent of railways - and lorries...
0:10:13 > 0:10:16- ..rendered canals - increasingly irrelevant.
0:10:17 > 0:10:19- This canal was closed in 1944.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- But since the 1970s, - a group of volunteers...
0:10:23 > 0:10:26- ..has worked hard - to reopen the canal.
0:10:27 > 0:10:31- One of the first sections to reopen - was this one, through Welshpool.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35- "Trallwng" means a dirty - or marshy pool.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38- The English name Welshpool - is much less poetic.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41- It used to be called Pool.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43- The Welsh was added in 1835...
0:10:44 > 0:10:48- ..to differentiate it - from other places of the same name.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50- Poole in Dorset, for example.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54- But if you listen - to local Welsh speakers...
0:10:54 > 0:10:58- ..they pronounce - the town's name as "Trallwm."
0:11:02 > 0:11:06- Here we are, the lovely - market town of Welshpool.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- This is the Cross, - literally the centre of town.
0:11:10 > 0:11:12- This street is Broad Street.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16- As you can see, it's very wide - because of the market.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21- There was a market that way, - the Smithfield, but not until 1862.
0:11:21 > 0:11:26- Before that, for many centuries, - the market was on the street here.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28- Cattle, pigs, horses, sheep.
0:11:29 > 0:11:34- All kinds of animals, for centuries, - going back to the Middle Ages.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- But the town - was established earlier.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40- In the Middle Ages, - was it an English town?
0:11:40 > 0:11:43- It was a Welsh town, oddly enough.
0:11:43 > 0:11:48- A castle, about a quarter of a mile - that way, defended the valley.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52- A borough was established here - in the mid 13th century...
0:11:52 > 0:11:54- ..by Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn.
0:11:54 > 0:12:00- At that time, the castle was moved - to the present site of Powis Castle.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02- It was known as Castell Coch then.
0:12:02 > 0:12:05- It was known as Castell Coch then.- - So, a medieval Welsh town.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- It's busy and noisy - with all the cars today...
0:12:09 > 0:12:11- ..but it would have been - busier then.
0:12:12 > 0:12:17- Not far away is a building - I didn't expect to have survived...
0:12:17 > 0:12:21- ..especially in an area - where so many battles took place.
0:12:21 > 0:12:26- This is the cockpit, - octagonal in shape, as you can see.
0:12:26 > 0:12:30- It's the only one in Wales - in its original location.
0:12:30 > 0:12:34- It would have been linked - to a tavern there, the Castle Inn.
0:12:34 > 0:12:38- That was probably built around 1720.
0:12:39 > 0:12:40- Was it built as a cockpit?
0:12:40 > 0:12:41- Was it built as a cockpit?- - Yes, purpose-built.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44- And always used as a cockpit?
0:12:44 > 0:12:48- There are records - that it was also used as a theatre.
0:12:50 > 0:12:54- All kinds of people came here, - wealthy and poor alike...
0:12:54 > 0:12:59- ..they'd bring their drinks, beer, - tobacco pipes and so on, to bet.
0:12:59 > 0:13:04- You'd have 32 cockerels - fighting each other, a knock-out.
0:13:05 > 0:13:09- There'd be one winner at the end - taking the prize money.
0:13:10 > 0:13:14- It's said that people - went into that chapel over there...
0:13:15 > 0:13:19- ..with a cockerel under their arm, - to pray for good luck.
0:13:20 > 0:13:26- If they lost, they'd go to the pub - and drink to forget their woes.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30- Two different buildings, - and very different behaviour!
0:13:30 > 0:13:32- That's how the story goes.
0:13:32 > 0:13:35- The cockpit was the halfway point.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- I've seen several Tudor buildings.
0:13:56 > 0:14:00- There's the pub behind me, - once the Mermaid, now The Black Boy.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03- The Talbot across the road, - a few down there.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08- There are records from Tudor times - pertaining to Welshpool.
0:14:08 > 0:14:12- One that stands out - deals with a local yeoman farmer...
0:14:12 > 0:14:14- ..called Humphrey Pierce.
0:14:15 > 0:14:19- He was accused of having a cabin - outside his house...
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- ..in which tennis was played.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26- Playing any game - was illegal in Tudor times...
0:14:26 > 0:14:28- ..be it tennis or even football.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32- The emphasis was on archery.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35- Illegal tennis. Whatever next?!
0:14:36 > 0:14:39- Wales' rich history!
0:14:40 > 0:14:44- West of Welshpool - in a peaceful rural valley...
0:14:44 > 0:14:48- ..lives a young man who's also - part of Wales' rich history.
0:14:49 > 0:14:53- He's the youngest ever to create - the National Eisteddfod chair.
0:14:53 > 0:14:58- But this workshop has produced much - more than the 2015 Meifod chair.
0:15:01 > 0:15:06- I've learnt a lot from - the older generations of my family.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- The tools I now use - belonged to my grandfather.
0:15:16 > 0:15:20- The instincts for the craft - run in my family...
0:15:20 > 0:15:22- ..from both sides, really.
0:15:23 > 0:15:27- It's important for me - to use Welsh wood.
0:15:27 > 0:15:31- The oak and ash that I use - comes from Wales.
0:15:32 > 0:15:36- It's quality timber, - it has grown more slowly...
0:15:36 > 0:15:39- ..and often under tough conditions.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44- That gives a closer grain, - and makes really nice furniture.
0:15:45 > 0:15:50- When I can, I mill timber from trees - on our farm or nearby farms.
0:15:50 > 0:15:55- People very kindly - give me trees to mill.
0:15:56 > 0:16:02- When I can, I make a note - of where the timber came from.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10- I've been able to use trees...
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- ..that my grandfather milled - when he was alive.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- Being able to do that is special.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22- What I try to do - is introduce modern design to it.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- I use old skills, old joints - and old tools, to some extent...
0:16:27 > 0:16:33- ..while introducing the design - in a way that suits the wood...
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- ..but that also suits modern houses.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- I've been very lucky - in my life so far.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46- I've got a career - that makes me happy.
0:16:50 > 0:16:55- The area has seen its share of - bloody tales through the centuries.
0:16:56 > 0:17:00- But some are more modern and not - confined to the fields of battle.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06- This is the Twrch valley, - and we're on Foel Lwyd farm.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10- We're standing under - a very famous tree.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13- Ceubren Foel Lwyd, a hollow tree.
0:17:13 > 0:17:18- This is a photo of a section - of the tree from a century ago.
0:17:18 > 0:17:21- You can see two people in the photo.
0:17:22 > 0:17:27- The late butcher, John Evans, - and the farmhand, Sam Francis.
0:17:27 > 0:17:32- John Evans lived - in that house up there.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36- I've got a good story about it.
0:17:36 > 0:17:37- Have you? Mmm!
0:17:39 > 0:17:43- Apparently, John Evans - had gone down to the Cann Office...
0:17:43 > 0:17:46- ..for a special lunch - that was held once a year.
0:17:47 > 0:17:48- It was called Clwb Cann.
0:17:49 > 0:17:54- He met a man whom he hadn't seen - for quite a while, Rowland Llywarch.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58- Apparently, they had a pint or two.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01- It would appear that John Evans...
0:18:01 > 0:18:05- ..invited Rowland Llywarch - to stay the night...
0:18:05 > 0:18:06- ..as far as we know.
0:18:07 > 0:18:10- But things didn't turn out - as they expected.
0:18:17 > 0:18:20- Here we are at Foel Lwyd.
0:18:20 > 0:18:23- Something horrific happened here.
0:18:23 > 0:18:24- A double murder.
0:18:24 > 0:18:25- A double murder.- - In this house?
0:18:26 > 0:18:28- In this very house.
0:18:28 > 0:18:32- The following morning, - the farmhand, Sam Francis...
0:18:32 > 0:18:35- ..came to work - through that gate, as usual.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38- He got to the farmyard - and all was quiet.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42- As the story goes locally, - he looked towards the door...
0:18:43 > 0:18:46- ..and saw blood flowing - under the door out into the yard.
0:18:47 > 0:18:51- The first thing he saw - was the old butcher, John Evans...
0:18:52 > 0:18:54- ..who had been murdered - with his own knife.
0:18:55 > 0:19:00- He went into another room - and saw Jane Evans.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02- She had also been murdered.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05- The next problem, - where was Llywarch?
0:19:05 > 0:19:08- He had vanished, - no-one knew where he was.
0:19:08 > 0:19:12- It became a manhunt, - all over the local area.
0:19:12 > 0:19:17- Someone saw him by a bridge - that we know today as Pont Sgadan.
0:19:17 > 0:19:22- The police came and found Rowland - Llywarch hiding under the bridge.
0:19:22 > 0:19:28- Because he wasn't in his right mind, - they had no right to hang him.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30- He was imprisoned.
0:19:32 > 0:19:36- This is a postcard - that was published...
0:19:36 > 0:19:39- ..showing the house - as it was at the time.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42- If you look at that wall...
0:19:42 > 0:19:45- ..you can see the outline - of an old door.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49- You can imagine the blood - flowing out underneath it...
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- ..if that was actually true.
0:19:53 > 0:19:57- But the murder was only one thing.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01- The victims had to be buried, - and arrangements were made.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05- Why he murdered the butcher, - who knows.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08- But the equipment to kill him - was there.
0:20:08 > 0:20:13- The old butcher's knife was around, - and that was that, finished.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33- Here, near the border, fights - and battles are never far away.
0:20:34 > 0:20:38- Somewhere down there is the site - of the Battle of Maes Moydog.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41- In the 13th century...
0:20:41 > 0:20:46- ..Madog ap Llywelyn - proclaimed himself Prince of Wales.
0:20:46 > 0:20:50- He started a rebellion - against King Edward I.
0:20:51 > 0:20:55- He seized Caernarfon, - Ruthin, Denbigh and Cricieth...
0:20:55 > 0:20:59- ..and came close to beating - the King himself in Conwy.
0:20:59 > 0:21:03- No wonder the King wanted to end - the rebellion once and for all.
0:21:06 > 0:21:11- We know that the English army - marched all night on 4 March 1295.
0:21:11 > 0:21:15- They came across Madog and his men - early the next morning.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18- The English - had two clear advantages.
0:21:18 > 0:21:21- They had bows, - whereas the Welsh had spears...
0:21:21 > 0:21:26- ..and, crucially, they had control - of the high ground you saw earlier.
0:21:27 > 0:21:28- The Welsh had no hope.
0:21:28 > 0:21:31- Arrows sprayed down onto them.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- 700 of them were killed - at the Battle of Maes Moydog...
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- ..compared to 100 English soldiers.
0:21:39 > 0:21:43- There's also talk of a second battle - to the north-west of here...
0:21:44 > 0:21:47- ..when another 100 Welsh soldiers - or so were killed.
0:21:47 > 0:21:52- We even know that the English - had an army of 2,847 that day...
0:21:52 > 0:21:55- ..each earning a good wage - of threepence a day.
0:21:57 > 0:22:01- We don't know the exact site - of the Battle of Maes Moydog.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04- It was probably around here, - near Castle Caereinion.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08- It's a shame - this old oak can't talk...
0:22:11 > 0:22:15- If you drive - along the A458 near Llangadfan...
0:22:15 > 0:22:19- ..you'll pass the Cann Office, - a pub with an interesting name.
0:22:20 > 0:22:21- But why the name?
0:22:21 > 0:22:24- There has been an office here - since 1662...
0:22:24 > 0:22:28- ..where the messengers - of noblemen and bishops...
0:22:29 > 0:22:31- ..changed horses and slaked thirsts.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34- But not every messenger could read.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39- That called for a sign outside - which everyone could understand.
0:22:41 > 0:22:47- The answer was to place - three cans outside the pub.
0:22:47 > 0:22:51- The original meaning of can - is a vessel that held a drink.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54- These were outside the office...
0:22:54 > 0:22:57- ..to show what they could expect - when they went in.
0:22:58 > 0:23:00- The can office.
0:23:01 > 0:23:06- One of the rooms in the pub - also has an interesting name.
0:23:06 > 0:23:08- Cut Lloi - the calves' shed.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12- It has also inspired - the formation of a singing party.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- They keep the tradition - of plygain singing alive locally.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25- It was a room where anyone - could have a drink...
0:23:25 > 0:23:28- ..in their working clothes - and no-one would mind.
0:23:29 > 0:23:30- It was a homely place.
0:23:31 > 0:23:35- Is that a reflection of the sound - that Parti Cut Lloi produces?
0:23:35 > 0:23:39- We're out here - in western Montgomeryshire.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42- The mountains come to meet you.
0:23:42 > 0:23:44- We're out in the countryside...
0:23:45 > 0:23:50- ..and the songs we sing - have links to rural life...
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- ..and farming and rural traditions.
0:23:55 > 0:24:00- Sadly, they're dying out today, - but we try to keep them alive.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04- For example, in winter, - the tradition of plygain singing.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07- You're from a long line of them.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10- I was steeped in the tradition...
0:24:10 > 0:24:13- ..by my father and forefathers, - in a way.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- It was a tradition...
0:24:15 > 0:24:21- ..and it's great to see it - alive and kicking in this area.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- It's important to keep - these traditions alive.
0:24:24 > 0:24:29- It's something of which we can be - extremely proud as a nation.
0:24:38 > 0:24:38- .
0:24:44 > 0:24:44- Subtitles
0:24:44 > 0:24:46- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:24:48 > 0:24:53- We're roaming in the Banwy valley - and Welshpool area this week.
0:24:53 > 0:24:58- In Welshpool itself, - there are several narrow alleys...
0:24:58 > 0:25:02- ..that hide - rather unpleasant tales.
0:25:05 > 0:25:06- This is by no means wide, Dewi.
0:25:06 > 0:25:08- This is by no means wide, Dewi.- - You're right, it isn't.
0:25:08 > 0:25:10- It's narrow, to say the least.
0:25:10 > 0:25:12- It's called Hopkins Passage.
0:25:13 > 0:25:17- It's one of many - narrow alleyways in Welshpool...
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- ..where poor people - would have lived.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24- Pigs would run free here.
0:25:24 > 0:25:28- Raw sewage, no toilets and so on.
0:25:29 > 0:25:31- The stench would have been awful.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35- There were complaints - about the smell even at the time.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37- Are there records of that?
0:25:37 > 0:25:38- Are there records of that?- - Yes, there are records.
0:25:39 > 0:25:43- Fortunately for us, a detailed - report was published in 1849...
0:25:43 > 0:25:46- ..by George Thomas Clarke.
0:25:46 > 0:25:51- He carried out extensive research - into the appalling conditions here.
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- There were concurrent outbreaks - of two diseases in 1849...
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- ..cholera and scarlet fever.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- The percentage - who died in Welshpool...
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- ..was higher than any other town - in north and mid Wales.
0:26:07 > 0:26:09- You first, go on.
0:26:09 > 0:26:10- Thank you.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12- This really is narrow.
0:26:12 > 0:26:16- This is the narrowest of them all.
0:26:18 > 0:26:20- This is Powell's Lane.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23- I know you've researched - the census for this area.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27- I found a record - of a man called Anthony Protheroe.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- I had to read it a few times - to make sure I was reading it right.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36- Under occupation, it said thief.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39- Why would he admit that?
0:26:39 > 0:26:41- Why would he admit that?- - It was an outbreak of honesty.
0:26:41 > 0:26:46- It gives a sense of the people here. - Not everyone did that, of course.
0:26:46 > 0:26:50- Hold onto your bag, in case - Anthony Protheroe is still here.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04- I have to ask about the name.
0:27:04 > 0:27:05- Daxe's Row?
0:27:05 > 0:27:08- Daxe's Row?- - An interesting and unusual name.
0:27:08 > 0:27:11- The Daxes were a local family - here in Welshpool.
0:27:11 > 0:27:15- They lived here - since at least the 17th century.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17- This is named after them.
0:27:18 > 0:27:24- The word row is interesting, - suggesting a row of houses.
0:27:24 > 0:27:28- An inquest was held here - in September 1849.
0:27:29 > 0:27:33- A Doctor Harrison - came here to help.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35- He was stunned - by the living conditions.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40- The deceased was called Elizabeth - Hill and she died of cholera.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- There were six houses here, - all under one roof.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47- There was no toilet - in the entire street.
0:27:47 > 0:27:51- Harrison lived - more or less across the road...
0:27:51 > 0:27:56- ..at Park Lane House that Daxe's Row - was unfit for human habitation.
0:27:56 > 0:28:02- But thanks to people like Harrison, - Clarke's report and local clerics...
0:28:02 > 0:28:07- ..there came an awareness - that the situation had to change.
0:28:07 > 0:28:09- Now, the name remains...
0:28:09 > 0:28:13- ..as a tribute to people - like Elizabeth Hill and others..
0:28:14 > 0:28:17- ..who have been forgotten - by history, in a way.
0:28:17 > 0:28:19- So, there you have it.
0:28:19 > 0:28:21- So, there you have it.- - Daxe's Row.
0:28:30 > 0:28:35- This is another interesting part - of town, Nant Lledan.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40- The stream goes under the canal, - under this aqueduct here...
0:28:40 > 0:28:43- ..and continues towards the Severn.
0:28:44 > 0:28:46- At the time we've been discussing...
0:28:46 > 0:28:51- ..it would have been full - of raw sewage, with an awful stench.
0:28:51 > 0:28:56- But thanks to the likes of Clarke, - it's very different here today.
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- We can hear the ducks - quacking in agreement.
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- As we hear Welshpool's history, - the past comes alive.
0:29:08 > 0:29:11- It happens easily - when you have a good guide.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- But at this time of day, when the - traffic noise starts to die down...
0:29:16 > 0:29:20- ..it's easier to imagine - what this place was like years ago.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29- There are battlefields - around us everywhere.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32- To the south, - the north and northeast.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- But I'm currently - on the Glyndwr's Way path.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38- It starts far to the south, - in Knighton...
0:29:39 > 0:29:42- ..and passes through hills, - towns and rural areas...
0:29:42 > 0:29:48- ..over 217 miles, - before ending here in Welshpool.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54- A lot of people must have ended - their walk in a pub like this one.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59- But do they know why they are - following in Glyndwr's footsteps?
0:30:01 > 0:30:06- The rebellion was just starting - when Glyndwr attacked Welshpool.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- Fresh from attacks - on Ruthin and Colwyn Bay...
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- ..he and his men came here - in late September 1400.
0:30:16 > 0:30:19- They say that history - is written by the victors.
0:30:19 > 0:30:24- But only one record remains - of the fierce fighting here...
0:30:24 > 0:30:27- ..in an English court document.
0:30:27 > 0:30:32- "They made their way in a warlike - manner to the town of the Pole...
0:30:32 > 0:30:35- "..and on the Thursday - immediately following...
0:30:36 > 0:30:39- "..they feloniously and totally - despoiled the said town...
0:30:40 > 0:30:42- "..and the people living in it."
0:30:42 > 0:30:45- In other words, - they wrecked the place.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50- The English give the same impression - about all of Glyndwr's attacks...
0:30:51 > 0:30:56- ..portraying him as wild and - merciless, living outside the law.
0:30:56 > 0:31:01- But other evidence - sometimes tells a different story.
0:31:01 > 0:31:05- We'll never really know - what welcome Glyndwr got here.
0:31:05 > 0:31:11- But thanks to Glyndwr's Way and the - thousands who walk it annually...
0:31:11 > 0:31:15- ..his name will be linked - to the town for years to come.
0:31:15 > 0:31:19- Princes, Glyndwr, and battles - between the English and the Welsh.
0:31:19 > 0:31:23- But a few miles off, - a remarkable story hides away.
0:31:26 > 0:31:31- One thing that's apparent is that - local people are proud of the area.
0:31:31 > 0:31:34- The same is true of the canal.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37- Volunteers come from far and wide.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41- I moved here with my work - almost 40 years ago.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44- I was born and bred - in Aberystwyth, by the sea.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48- And here I am, by the water again.
0:31:48 > 0:31:50- A canal, not the sea.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52- Why the interest in the canal?
0:31:52 > 0:31:53- Why the interest in the canal?- - I don't know.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56- There's something about the peace.
0:31:56 > 0:31:59- We're among nature's beauty...
0:31:59 > 0:32:03- ..and it has - an interesting history.
0:32:03 > 0:32:05- The first section - was opened in 1797.
0:32:06 > 0:32:11- The intention was to open a canal - from Ellesmere near Oswestry...
0:32:11 > 0:32:13- ..all the way to Newtown.
0:32:13 > 0:32:15- For what reason?
0:32:16 > 0:32:19- Limestone came down - from the quarry in Llanymynech.
0:32:19 > 0:32:24- It came down the canal and the lime - was then scattered onto the land.
0:32:25 > 0:32:27- So, it was an agricultural industry?
0:32:27 > 0:32:29- So, it was an agricultural industry?- - That's what it was, yes.
0:32:30 > 0:32:32- What's your involvement with it?
0:32:32 > 0:32:35- What's your involvement with it?- - I'm one of the Friends of the Canal.
0:32:35 > 0:32:41- These people work hard, - and there's always something to do.
0:32:41 > 0:32:42- Maintenance and upkeep.
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- Maintenance and upkeep.- - A lot of maintenance, yes.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- You have to keep the water clear.
0:32:49 > 0:32:55- The boats can't travel along it - if there's too much growth.
0:32:55 > 0:33:00- After battling so hard - to reopen this 17-mile stretch...
0:33:01 > 0:33:05- ..and despite only one barge - travelling along it currently...
0:33:05 > 0:33:09- ..the Friends are determined - to keep it open.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12- You're busy - and it looks like worthwhile work.
0:33:12 > 0:33:14- What sort of stuff do you do?
0:33:14 > 0:33:15- What sort of stuff do you do?- - It varies.
0:33:15 > 0:33:20- Anything from clearing trees - that have fallen across the canal...
0:33:20 > 0:33:22- ..we have to react quickly...
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- ..to painting the locks, - and maintenance on the locks.
0:33:26 > 0:33:31- The canal, it seems to me, is - a very important part of Welshpool.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35- If it's not maintained, - it'll die again.
0:33:35 > 0:33:39- We're doing our best, - and enjoying it, put it that way.
0:33:41 > 0:33:47- As I'm enjoying my canal trip, - it's only fair that I help out...
0:33:47 > 0:33:49- ..and volunteer to clear it.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54- It's almost impossible - to see the bottom.
0:33:59 > 0:34:00- Thank you, Pat.
0:34:00 > 0:34:05- As an archaeologist, I spend most - of my time looking for rubbish.
0:34:06 > 0:34:10- But it's usually much older - than the stuff that's in here!
0:34:10 > 0:34:13- But it's all archaeology...
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- ..and evidence of human behaviour.
0:34:17 > 0:34:19- They're everywhere!
0:34:20 > 0:34:25- We've collected 60 or 70 bottles - in about 15 minutes.
0:34:26 > 0:34:31- This maintenance work is vital - to secure the canal's future.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34- These volunteers - do very important work.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46- Southwest of Welshpool - is Powis Castle.
0:34:46 > 0:34:51- It was home to the Herbert family, - from Sir Edward Herbert in 1595...
0:34:51 > 0:34:57- ..to Earl George and Countess - Violet almost 400 years later.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01- The original castle - was built by the princes of Powys...
0:35:01 > 0:35:04- ..to defend the area - from the princes of Gwynedd.
0:35:05 > 0:35:09- The original castle - was built in the 13th century...
0:35:10 > 0:35:12- ..by Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn.
0:35:12 > 0:35:17- Initially a military castle, - it then became a home.
0:35:17 > 0:35:20- That's why we have - these fantastic gardens.
0:35:20 > 0:35:25- Is this plant here - native to Powis Castle itself?
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- That's right, - Artemisia Powis Castle.
0:35:28 > 0:35:34- In the 1970s, the head gardener - found it among another plant.
0:35:34 > 0:35:37- He took a cutting and planted it on.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39- The original plant is up there.
0:35:39 > 0:35:40- The original plant is up there.- - Am I allowed to touch it?
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- This section dates back - to the start of the last century.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57- Countess Violet changed this area.
0:35:57 > 0:36:01- It used to have greenhouses - and a kitchen garden.
0:36:01 > 0:36:03- But she wanted - a formal garden instead.
0:36:04 > 0:36:06- She had it all changed...
0:36:06 > 0:36:10- ..and now these lovely flowers - and apple trees grow here.
0:36:10 > 0:36:15- It looks much nicer from the castle - than a kitchen garden would have.
0:36:15 > 0:36:17- So, that was the plan.
0:36:30 > 0:36:31- Wow!
0:36:31 > 0:36:34- It's fantastic, isn't it?
0:36:34 > 0:36:35- It takes your breath away.
0:36:35 > 0:36:37- It takes your breath away.- - I wanted to show you this view.
0:36:38 > 0:36:39- It's one of my favourite spots.
0:36:40 > 0:36:42- I'm not surprised.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44- You can see the different periods.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- You can see the different periods.- - Yes, how the gardens have developed.
0:36:47 > 0:36:49- I've got a photo here.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53- You can see the yew trees up there.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55- They're the same ones?
0:36:55 > 0:36:57- They're the same ones?- - Yes, that's right, the same ones.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00- So, they're 300 years old?
0:37:00 > 0:37:02- So, they're 300 years old?- - Yes, over 300 years old.
0:37:06 > 0:37:12- Seven full-time gardeners - maintain the Powis Castle gardens.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15- But you can never have - too much help.
0:37:15 > 0:37:16- There we go.
0:37:17 > 0:37:18- And then just go straight?
0:37:18 > 0:37:20- And then just go straight?- - Yes, straight then upwards.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22- Quite close in to the hedge.
0:37:22 > 0:37:23- Stand back!
0:37:23 > 0:37:25- Stand back!- - I will stand back!
0:37:25 > 0:37:27- Slightly more upright.
0:37:34 > 0:37:35- There we are.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37- There we are.- - Is that too much?
0:37:38 > 0:37:41- In the 100 years - it's been in existence...
0:37:41 > 0:37:43- ..has anyone else - made such a mess of it?!
0:37:44 > 0:37:47- The good thing about yew, - it grows back very quickly.
0:37:47 > 0:37:49- It has become a custom...
0:37:49 > 0:37:53- ..for gardeners to cut patterns - into the lawns at Powis Castle.
0:37:54 > 0:37:58- In the Great War's centenary year, - this year's pattern is a poppy.
0:37:59 > 0:38:00- I'll start mine.
0:38:12 > 0:38:12- .
0:38:17 > 0:38:17- *
0:38:19 > 0:38:24- Beyond the famous baroque gardens, - Powis Castle houses many treasures.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27- While much of the castle - is open to the public...
0:38:27 > 0:38:31- ..we are fortunate enough - to be able to see some items...
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- ..that are usually - under lock and key or hidden away.
0:38:38 > 0:38:43- After seeing the gardens - then approaching this entrance...
0:38:43 > 0:38:46- ...you can see - centuries of history.
0:38:46 > 0:38:50- These particular walls - date back to the 13th century.
0:38:50 > 0:38:54- These marks in particular - are very interesting.
0:38:54 > 0:38:59- That's where they sharpened their - arrows before going into battle.
0:39:00 > 0:39:05- These doors lead you on - into the 19th century.
0:39:05 > 0:39:07- This is interesting.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11- This is based on the coat of arms - of the Herbert family.
0:39:12 > 0:39:16- Sir Edward Herbert - bought the castle in 1580.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20- The family lived here - for the following 400 years...
0:39:20 > 0:39:22- ..and filled the house - with treasures.
0:39:24 > 0:39:28- One of the finest pieces - is this particular table.
0:39:28 > 0:39:34- It's made of marble, - and was made in Italy 450 years ago.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39- The Herbert family - were staunch Catholics...
0:39:40 > 0:39:43- ..and the table - was a special gift from the Pope.
0:39:44 > 0:39:48- If you look closely, - there's an inverted pear.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51- The Italian for a small pear - is peretti...
0:39:52 > 0:39:56- ..and Peretti was the family name - of Pope Sixtus V.
0:40:06 > 0:40:11- This part of the castle - isn't open to the public.
0:40:12 > 0:40:16- Maintenance and restoration work - is constantly going on here.
0:40:17 > 0:40:20- Before I go up, - take a look at the banisters.
0:40:21 > 0:40:26- Pineapples are a symbol - of a warm welcome and hospitality.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28- Let's see what's in store.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34- This is a fine room.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37- Some of us have a parlour, - a room for special occasions.
0:40:38 > 0:40:39- This would have been it.
0:40:40 > 0:40:46- The bedroom where special guests, - or even royals, would stay.
0:40:46 > 0:40:51- It's said that Prince Charles - himself has stayed the night here.
0:40:54 > 0:40:58- Something else that hides - in this room is this.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02- Behind the curtains, - this detail on the window.
0:41:02 > 0:41:05- Three feathers, a royal symbol...
0:41:06 > 0:41:11- ..again underlining the royal - connections of this room.
0:41:12 > 0:41:17- Everything's just a touch grander - than the rest of the castle.
0:41:26 > 0:41:29- There are so many - magnificent items...
0:41:29 > 0:41:32- ..for the public to see - at Powis Castle.
0:41:32 > 0:41:36- But some treasures - aren't on public display.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39- We're very fortunate - to be able to see this.
0:41:39 > 0:41:40- It really is a gem.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44- It's a greeting from - the local people, the tenants...
0:41:44 > 0:41:47- ..to the Earl - and Countess of Powis...
0:41:47 > 0:41:50- ..George and his wife, Violet...
0:41:50 > 0:41:55- ..on the birth of their first son, - Percy, Viscount Clive.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58- It's very interesting, - and in Welsh as well.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01- "We, your Lordship's tenants...
0:42:01 > 0:42:04- "..on the estates - of Llymystyn and Mathrafal...
0:42:05 > 0:42:09- "..wish to congratulate you on - the birth of your son, Lord Clive."
0:42:09 > 0:42:13- It goes on - to praise them as a family.
0:42:13 > 0:42:19- "Our wish is that God bestows - plentiful blessings upon you."
0:42:19 > 0:42:24- However, their son and heir - died at the age of 24 on the Somme.
0:42:33 > 0:42:35- I'm now in Buttington.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39- The English border - is seven miles that way...
0:42:39 > 0:42:42- ..and Welshpool - is 15 minutes away by road.
0:42:44 > 0:42:47- Over 200 years ago, - under this church...
0:42:47 > 0:42:51- ..they found 400 skulls - and human bones.
0:42:51 > 0:42:57- They were probably the remains of - soldiers killed in a battle in 893.
0:42:57 > 0:43:01- One of the most striking battles - in the history of Wales.
0:43:01 > 0:43:05- It was wet, and the Severn - had burst its banks.
0:43:06 > 0:43:10- Believe it or not, a group - of Vikings found themselves here...
0:43:11 > 0:43:13- ..a very long way from the sea.
0:43:13 > 0:43:17- However, we don't know - where they intended to go.
0:43:17 > 0:43:21- But when the river level fell, - they had nowhere to turn...
0:43:22 > 0:43:24- ..and were deep in enemy territory.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28- They had no choice - but to destroy their ship...
0:43:28 > 0:43:30- ..and turn it into a fortress.
0:43:31 > 0:43:34- At the time, fighting - between the Welsh and the Saxons...
0:43:35 > 0:43:37- ..was at its most fierce.
0:43:37 > 0:43:41- But they somehow joined forces - to despatch this new enemy.
0:43:41 > 0:43:42- A siege developed.
0:43:43 > 0:43:47- The starving Vikings - were forced to eat their own horses.
0:43:48 > 0:43:49- The Saxons to the east...
0:43:49 > 0:43:52- ..and the Welsh to the west.
0:43:52 > 0:43:54- They had nowhere to turn.
0:43:54 > 0:43:59- Their only choice was to flee - back in the direction of the river.
0:44:02 > 0:44:08- Some may have sacrificed themselves - so that many others could escape.
0:44:08 > 0:44:11- Did anyone get away? Who knows.
0:44:11 > 0:44:13- There's nothing to mark the site.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16- No plaque, - no information board, nothing.
0:44:17 > 0:44:20- But there may be - one reminder of the battle.
0:44:20 > 0:44:23- This old yew tree behind me, - in the churchyard.
0:44:23 > 0:44:29- It's been dated to the exact - same year as the battle, 893.
0:44:38 > 0:44:42- As I leave Welshpool - and head south...
0:44:42 > 0:44:45- ..the journey becomes less serene.
0:44:45 > 0:44:49- There are several locks, - all examples of superb engineering.
0:44:50 > 0:44:54- They allow both the canal and boats - to ascend steep hills...
0:44:54 > 0:44:57- ..with a bit of physical strength.
0:44:57 > 0:45:01- It's a great shame - that the Montgomeryshire Canal...
0:45:01 > 0:45:04- ..ends eight miles short of Newtown.
0:45:05 > 0:45:09- But there are exciting plans afoot - to try to reopen this section...
0:45:10 > 0:45:12- ..and attracting more boats - to use it.
0:45:21 > 0:45:25- There's a long dry section - north of Newtown at the moment.
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- But the aim is to reopen it.
0:45:30 > 0:45:35- At the moment, the canal ends - just south of Berriew, at Refail.
0:45:36 > 0:45:37- Is that Berriew there?
0:45:37 > 0:45:38- Is that Berriew there?- - Yes, that's Berriew.
0:45:39 > 0:45:42- So, Newtown would be - the end of the line.
0:45:42 > 0:45:46- And as for northwards, - where have you reached?
0:45:46 > 0:45:51- The canal is complete - as far as Arddleen, here.
0:45:51 > 0:45:55- Unfortunately, the A483 - has crossed the canal.
0:45:56 > 0:45:59- A lot of money - would need to be spent.
0:46:00 > 0:46:02- But once we do that...
0:46:02 > 0:46:08- ..we'll have access - to 3,000 miles of canals.
0:46:08 > 0:46:09- The British network?
0:46:09 > 0:46:11- The British network?- - Yes, that's right.
0:46:12 > 0:46:17- It runs from Llangollen - to Frankton Junction...
0:46:18 > 0:46:22- ..where the Montgomery Canal began, - and it goes on from there.
0:46:23 > 0:46:25- That would transform the area.
0:46:26 > 0:46:27- Yes, completely.
0:46:27 > 0:46:31- Tourists could come on the network - all the way down here.
0:46:31 > 0:46:32- A world of difference.
0:46:33 > 0:46:35- There's lots of work to do...
0:46:35 > 0:46:39- ..but Frankton Junction - is the target, then the world!
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- Powis Castle is a patchwork - of different periods.
0:46:58 > 0:46:59- It's also true of this area.
0:47:00 > 0:47:04- One story after another, - piled on top of each other.
0:47:04 > 0:47:07- Some are familiar, - others are hidden.
0:47:07 > 0:47:10- But they all play a part - in the process...
0:47:11 > 0:47:14- ..of turning an area into a habitat.
0:47:29 > 0:47:31- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:47:31 > 0:47:31- .