0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:29 > 0:00:33- Hello! I'm Nia Parry - and today I'm in Bangor, Gwynedd.
0:00:33 > 0:00:34- Welcome to Milltir2.
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- Welcome to Bangor, - by the Menai Strait.
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- The Menai Strait - is the narrow stretch of water...
0:00:48 > 0:00:51- ..between Gwynedd and Anglesey.
0:00:51 > 0:00:56- Caernarfon stands on one end of the - Strait with Bangor on the other end.
0:00:56 > 0:01:00- South of Bangor is Bethesda - and Snowdonia National Park.
0:01:04 > 0:01:10- On today's programme, we look at - Bangor's history and its people.
0:01:10 > 0:01:15- Tudur Owen visits Bangor station, - I meet Ffion Dafis, the actress...
0:01:16 > 0:01:19- ..Sian James shares memories - of her student days...
0:01:19 > 0:01:24- ..Islwyn Parry's stylish wardrobe, - the old hall house of Cochwillan...
0:01:24 > 0:01:27- ..and a visit to Bethesda.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36- For help to follow the programme, - use the website and the app...
0:01:36 > 0:01:39- ..and don't forget the subtitles!
0:01:41 > 0:01:45- Bangor is a tiny city with - a population of around 16,000...
0:01:45 > 0:01:48- ..only around half of whom - were born in Wales.
0:01:49 > 0:01:53- Some 36% of the people of the area - speak Welsh.
0:01:55 > 0:01:59- Small shops line the city's - long high street.
0:02:00 > 0:02:03- Many of the large stores - and supermarkets...
0:02:04 > 0:02:06- ..have moved - to out-of-town locations.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10- Ysbyty Gwynedd - is also on the outskirts of town.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15- This big hospital serves - the people of Gwynedd and Anglesey.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19- What do local people - think of Bangor?
0:02:23 > 0:02:27- I was brought up just - outside Bangor. It's a lovely place.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30- It's a relatively small place.
0:02:30 > 0:02:33- It's easy to get to know the people - and the area.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38- It's a lively city, - with plenty of shops and cafes.
0:02:38 > 0:02:43- I come here in the afternoon, to do - some shopping and have a cup of tea.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47- There's lots to do in Bangor - with your friends...
0:02:47 > 0:02:49- ..or with your family.
0:02:49 > 0:02:51- It's great.
0:02:51 > 0:02:57- I like the fact that people from all - parts of the world live in Bangor.
0:03:00 > 0:03:04- The very beautiful Bangor Cathedral - has a rich history.
0:03:07 > 0:03:11- Saint Deiniol built a church here - in the 6th century.
0:03:12 > 0:03:15- A wooden fence - was erected around the church.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19- The term of that type of fence - was bangor...
0:03:19 > 0:03:22- ..and that's how Bangor - got its name.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29- Bangor station is one of - the city's most iconic buildings.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31- It was a very busy station...
0:03:31 > 0:03:35- ..with trains trundling through it - day and night.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38- One man who has fond memories - of the place...
0:03:39 > 0:03:42- ..is comedian and TV presenter, - Tudur Owen.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13- I'm on platform one, - Bangor train station.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17- Some of my earliest memories - come from this place.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28- The station connects me to my past - and I like that.
0:04:28 > 0:04:33- So much has happened here. I love - sitting down to reflect on that.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37- I also like to reminisce about - the times I came here as a boy.
0:04:37 > 0:04:42- For a child, the steps at the front - of the station were quite iconic.
0:04:43 > 0:04:45- I remember thinking as a child...
0:04:46 > 0:04:49- ..the steps were the gateway - to the rest of the world.
0:04:49 > 0:04:53- That's what they were - as far as I was concerned.
0:04:53 > 0:04:58- More often than not, my journeys - began or ended in Bangor station.
0:05:00 > 0:05:05- There's a lot of emotion attached - to this place - for me, anyway.
0:05:05 > 0:05:10- As a family, we travelled a lot - and that's still true today.
0:05:19 > 0:05:23- I'm always excited - when I'm on the platform...
0:05:23 > 0:05:26- ..whether it's to meet someone - or see them off.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30- There's a tunnel - at either end of the platform.
0:05:31 > 0:05:35- You could hear the train approaching - before you could see it.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39- The tracks made a whistling noise.
0:05:40 > 0:05:44- We'd look into the darkness - and see the light emerging.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47- We'd know that Mam and Dad were - home.
0:06:02 > 0:06:07- I remember one time when they went - to South Africa for several weeks.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12- One of my earliest memories...
0:06:13 > 0:06:17- ..is saying goodbye to my parents, - my brother and my sister.
0:06:17 > 0:06:22- I was too young to go but I remember - holding Auntie Katie's hand...
0:06:23 > 0:06:27- ..and hiding behind her shyly - when I welcomed them back.
0:06:28 > 0:06:30- Mam was upset - because I was so shy.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37- A lot of romance - is linked to this place.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39- It's seen better days.
0:06:40 > 0:06:45- The buildings need a lick of paint - and some love but I like them.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- They provide a link to my past.
0:06:50 > 0:06:55- I like sitting here imagining - what's gone on here over the years.
0:06:55 > 0:06:57- I've had so many experiences here...
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- ..welcoming people home - and saying farewell.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02- I love this place.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11- Look who I've met for a cuppa - - Ffion Dafis!
0:07:12 > 0:07:13- How are you?
0:07:14 > 0:07:17- We've just seen Tudur - at Bangor station.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20- I'm sure you've been there - many times...
0:07:20 > 0:07:22- ..as you catch trains - to and from Cardiff.
0:07:23 > 0:07:24- That's very true.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28- I've lived in Cardiff for years - but I work up here.
0:07:28 > 0:07:32- We film Rownd A Rownd - in Menai Bridge, near Bangor...
0:07:32 > 0:07:37- ..so I spend most of my time - either in the car, on the A470...
0:07:37 > 0:07:38- ..or on the train.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42- I leave the train at Bangor station, - of course.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- What sort of place was Bangor - for a child?
0:07:47 > 0:07:50- I moved to Bangor - when I was eight years old...
0:07:50 > 0:07:54- ..from a tiny village of 200 people - called Dolwyddelan.
0:07:54 > 0:08:00- My dad was made the headmaster of a - Bangor Welsh-medium junior school...
0:08:00 > 0:08:02- ..so we moved to Bangor...
0:08:02 > 0:08:07- ..and I thought I'd arrived - at the biggest city in the world.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12- I enjoyed growing up in Bangor.
0:08:12 > 0:08:17- I'm really glad my parents - moved from the tiny village.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20- Much as I love Dolwyddelan...
0:08:20 > 0:08:23- ..I'm glad - I was brought up in a city.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28- You went to Bangor University. - Was that a new experience?
0:08:29 > 0:08:30- I didn't live at home.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33- I moved into halls of residence.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35- I hardly saw my parents.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38- I'd go home from time to time - to wash my clothes...
0:08:39 > 0:08:41- ..and to have Sunday lunch...
0:08:41 > 0:08:45- ..but apart from those times, - I didn't see my parents.
0:08:45 > 0:08:48- Upper Bangor was our everything, - as students.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52- We came down into town - to drink in the pubs...
0:08:52 > 0:08:55- ..but we spent most of our time - in Upper Bangor.
0:08:57 > 0:09:01- We went to pubs like The Globe, - The Vaults and Belle Vue...
0:09:01 > 0:09:05- ..and we even went to a few lectures - every now and then!
0:09:05 > 0:09:11- During my student days, I met a lot - of people from every part of Wales.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14- It was a very different experience.
0:09:15 > 0:09:19- My best friend and I went from - junior school to secondary school...
0:09:20 > 0:09:22- ..and then on to college together.
0:09:23 > 0:09:25- We even shared a room, as students.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- We were very adventurous!
0:09:28 > 0:09:30- Has Bangor changed a lot?
0:09:32 > 0:09:35- When you don't live somewhere - all the time...
0:09:35 > 0:09:39- ..you do notice lots more changes - when you visit.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42- I think Bangor has changed - in a negative way...
0:09:43 > 0:09:46- ..in terms of - what's happening on the streets.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50- A lot of shops have closed.
0:09:50 > 0:09:55- It wasn't easy being a Welsh-speaker - at school when I was growing up.
0:09:56 > 0:10:01- You had to battle for your Welshness - even at Ysgol Tryfan, at the time.
0:10:05 > 0:10:09- Menter Iaith Bangor - was launched around a year ago.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- I hope it can promote - the Welsh language...
0:10:12 > 0:10:15- ..and increase - the use of Welsh in Bangor.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18- The native Welsh speakers - are still here...
0:10:19 > 0:10:24- ..but so many people come to Bangor - to study and some even stay here...
0:10:24 > 0:10:29- ..and it's very important that they - realize the Welsh language exists.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35- Thank you, Ffion. - We'll chat again later.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38- Let's take a break - and finish our coffee.
0:10:38 > 0:10:38- .
0:10:45 > 0:10:45- Subtitles
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:10:52 > 0:10:57- Welcome back to Bangor, which is - known as The City Of Learning.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59- The university - was founded in 1884...
0:11:00 > 0:11:04- ..and it was originally based in - an old inn called the Penrhyn Arms.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07- It had 58 students back then...
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- ..but it's now home - to over 11,000 students.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- The university moved - to this building in 1901.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21- This is the arts building...
0:11:22 > 0:11:26- ..and there are other - college buildings in the city.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31- Bangor is the furthest from home - I could travel to study Welsh!
0:11:31 > 0:11:33- That's why I chose to come here.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39- Before I moved here, I thought - I'd spend my time in town...
0:11:39 > 0:11:41- ..but I'm always in Upper Bangor.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43- I love it here.
0:11:43 > 0:11:49- We start in The Globe and work our - way around the Upper Bangor pubs.
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- We then go down to the clubs - in Lower Bangor.
0:11:56 > 0:11:57- Bangor is great...
0:11:58 > 0:12:02- ..if you're a student who wants - to live through the medium of Welsh.
0:12:02 > 0:12:07- Lots of Welsh speakers live here - and it's a close community.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- I feel at home. It's great.
0:12:11 > 0:12:17- This is Pontio, Bangor's new - Arts And Innovation Centre...
0:12:18 > 0:12:22- ..for the University - and for the general public.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26- The North Wales - Welsh For Adults Centre...
0:12:26 > 0:12:29- ..is also based at the university.
0:12:30 > 0:12:34- The Centre offers courses in Bangor - and across North Wales.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40- Sian James found fame as a singer - and a member of folk groups.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43- Sian studied music - at Bangor University.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- Here are some of her memories - of her time there.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- I remember the first day. - I came here with Mam.
0:13:00 > 0:13:02- I felt, "Wow, this is it now.
0:13:03 > 0:13:04- "I've left home."
0:13:09 > 0:13:11- Mam was ill for many years.
0:13:11 > 0:13:16- Responsibility at home fell - on my father - he looked after Mam.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21- It was a very difficult situation - for both of them.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24- I felt drawn - by very strong emotions...
0:13:26 > 0:13:28- ..to return home to Bryn Tanat.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- # To find another was her plan
0:13:52 > 0:13:53- # To find another was her plan- - # To find another was her plan
0:13:54 > 0:13:56- # But not one of the village lads
0:13:56 > 0:13:57- # But not one of the village lads- - # But not one of the village lads
0:13:57 > 0:13:59- # Ffol-di rol-di rol-lol - Ffol-di rol-di ro
0:13:59 > 0:14:01- # Wanted to marry - Lisa from Yr Hendre
0:14:01 > 0:14:04- # Ffol-di rol-di rol-lol - Ffol-di rol-di ro... #
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- This is where the group Bwchadanas - was formed...
0:14:10 > 0:14:14- ..with friends I'd met - during the first year.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18- Young, like-minded musicians.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23- That, in itself, was a huge step.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- It was something I'd dreamt of - before arriving here.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29- "Ooh, I wonder if I could be - in a band?"
0:14:33 > 0:14:35- # An old maid lost her lover
0:14:35 > 0:14:37- # Ffol-di rol-di rol-lol - Ffol-di rol-di ro
0:14:37 > 0:14:38- # To find another was her plan
0:14:39 > 0:14:40- # Ffol-di rol-di rol-lol - Ffol-di rol-di ro #
0:14:41 > 0:14:46- The response to Bwchadanas - surprised me.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49- I didn't know what to expect.
0:14:49 > 0:14:54- Performing at gigs - and seeing people dance...
0:14:54 > 0:14:57- ..that was wow, it was great!
0:15:00 > 0:15:05- It was an opportunity for me to - express myself in a different way...
0:15:05 > 0:15:09- ..in terms of the way - I performed and used my voice.
0:15:09 > 0:15:11- That was a new experience for me.
0:15:11 > 0:15:16- I'd been singing to harp - accompaniment since I was 14.
0:15:16 > 0:15:21- The concerts I'd attended - were rather respectable affairs.
0:15:21 > 0:15:25- In Bangor, - I was in a band with the lads.
0:15:25 > 0:15:30- They were influenced - by rock and roll music.
0:15:30 > 0:15:35- Further down the line, - we had drums and a bass guitar.
0:15:35 > 0:15:40- That opened the floodgates for me.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- We played - rock musical instruments...
0:15:44 > 0:15:47- ..whilst singing folk songs.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49- That was a huge influence on me...
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- ..especially later on, - with my folk songs.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01- It was exciting. Really exciting.
0:16:19 > 0:16:24- I don't think you can measure the - importance of going to college...
0:16:24 > 0:16:28- ..especially if - it's the right choice, which it was.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34- I developed musically.
0:16:34 > 0:16:38- Mind you, the music department - became a bit of an also-ran...
0:16:39 > 0:16:43- ..compared to the exciting things - which were going on elsewhere.
0:16:46 > 0:16:48- I also developed as a person.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52- When I first arrived, - I didn't know how to write a cheque.
0:16:52 > 0:16:55- I felt so naive. - I'd never had to write a cheque.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- At the university, - I learnt a lot about myself.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07- I'm very grateful to this place.
0:17:21 > 0:17:23- Among the famous people of Bangor...
0:17:24 > 0:17:28- ..are singer Steve Eaves and Duffy - and the band Swnami...
0:17:29 > 0:17:31- ..broadcaster Dewi Llwyd...
0:17:31 > 0:17:37- ..and footballer Wayne Hennessey who - plays for Crystal Palace and Wales.
0:17:37 > 0:17:43- The very dapper Islwyn Parry - is one of Bangor's great characters.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45- He always looks smart...
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- ..and he only wears - co-ordinating colours...
0:17:48 > 0:17:51- ..all the way down to his slippers!
0:17:51 > 0:17:56- I went meet him to talk about - his wardrobe some years ago.
0:17:59 > 0:18:04- I come from a well groomed family - and my father was a bus driver.
0:18:04 > 0:18:08- He wore the jacket and trousers - supplied by the company.
0:18:09 > 0:18:12- He was always neat - and he wore a peaked cap.
0:18:12 > 0:18:16- I think I inherited this from him - to some extent.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22- I was fond of wearing a blazer, - a white shirt and a tie...
0:18:23 > 0:18:25- ..when I was at college.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29- Being well groomed was important - to me, even back then.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33- Gabicci is a well-known brand.
0:18:33 > 0:18:34- I like these jumpers.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38- I'll hold them for you.
0:18:40 > 0:18:43- This orange shirt - goes with the orange jumper.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46- This blue shirt - goes with the blue jumper.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53- This goes with the green jumper.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- The fact that they match - is important to me.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- Men tend to wear drab colours - like grey and black.
0:19:02 > 0:19:04- I always wanted to be different.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07- That's what's behind - the way I dress.
0:19:08 > 0:19:13- My desire to express myself lies - behind the way I choose my clothes.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16- This is my leather jacket.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18- I bought it from Devred.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22- I wear this black leather jacket - with a grey polo neck.
0:19:22 > 0:19:24- The polo neck goes well with it.
0:19:26 > 0:19:29- I wear a hat with this jacket too.
0:19:29 > 0:19:30- You wear hats?
0:19:31 > 0:19:35- Yes. A hat is handy on a windy day - for a man with hair like me!
0:19:35 > 0:19:36- Shall I put it on?
0:19:36 > 0:19:37- Shall I put it on?- - Yes - model it for me.
0:19:38 > 0:19:39- Oh, very smart.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42- Do you like the feather on the side?
0:19:42 > 0:19:47- I wear a grey hat with dark colours - but never with brown clothes.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- I wear my brown hat - with brown clothes.
0:19:50 > 0:19:51- May I try it?
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- I bought that one in Paris.
0:19:56 > 0:20:00- It suits you. - How much will you give me for it?
0:20:01 > 0:20:03- This is my dressing gown.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06- As you can see, - it matches the rest of my bedroom.
0:20:07 > 0:20:11- I also have two pairs of trousers - and a vest which match.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- They all go well - with the colours of your bedroom.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18- Yes, and I also need - a pair of slippers.
0:20:19 > 0:20:21- I also buy my slippers in France.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25- I won't wear slippers - which don't match my outfit.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30- I buy them in neutral colours and - these are the flavour of the month.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- If we change the decor, - I'll change these!
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- The decor comes first, - then the slippers.
0:20:36 > 0:20:40- Alwena won't let me decorate - the room to match my clothes!
0:20:49 > 0:20:53- Would it be a nightmare for you - if someone at a wedding...
0:20:53 > 0:20:55- ..turned up in the same suit as you?
0:20:55 > 0:20:57- ..turned up in the same suit as you?- - It's unlikely to happen.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00- They'd have to travel far to buy it!
0:21:00 > 0:21:04- But it wouldn't be - a nightmare for me.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08- I'd be thrilled that someone - has the same taste as me!
0:21:09 > 0:21:13- If there is someone like me - out there, I've yet to meet them.
0:21:23 > 0:21:27- What a well-dressed, colourful - and sweet man.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29- It's time for another break.
0:21:29 > 0:21:32- Stay tuned - to hear all about the pier...
0:21:32 > 0:21:35- ..and to learn - about the Penrhyn family.
0:21:37 > 0:21:37- .
0:21:44 > 0:21:44- Subtitles
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- Welcome back to Bangor - and to its pier.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- Garth Pier - is the second-longest pier in Wales.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03- The pier was opened to the public - in 1896.
0:22:03 > 0:22:09- Pleasure steamers from Liverpool and - Blackpool called here until 1914...
0:22:09 > 0:22:11- ..when a ship crashed into it.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14- The pier closed in 1971...
0:22:15 > 0:22:19- ..but it was renovated - and it reopened in 1988.
0:22:20 > 0:22:26- They're now talking about running - boat trips from the pier again.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- Marian Delyth, the photographer, - came here...
0:22:33 > 0:22:37- ..to take pictures for her book, - 100 Places, as she told Aled Sam.
0:22:38 > 0:22:44- With all due respect, these images - look like postcards from Bangor.
0:22:45 > 0:22:48- Yes, and that was my dilemma.
0:22:48 > 0:22:51- Should I choose - traditional photographs?
0:22:51 > 0:22:52- They're popular, of course.
0:22:53 > 0:22:57- They don't inspire me - but they're functional.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01- They give you an idea - of the main sights of Bangor...
0:23:01 > 0:23:04- ..for those who haven't been there.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07- That element didn't excite me.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11- I remember walking down - Siliwen Road...
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- ..and suddenly, the pier - appeared through the trees.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- That was the starting point - of my journey...
0:23:20 > 0:23:22- ..when I photographed that area.
0:23:28 > 0:23:32- These photographs of Bangor pier - are far more personal...
0:23:32 > 0:23:35- ..but they're not included - in the book.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- Personally, I like images - which include reflections...
0:23:40 > 0:23:42- ..or a strong graphic element.
0:23:44 > 0:23:48- But they may not be suitable - for a project such as this.
0:23:48 > 0:23:52- For example, I took some shots - through the glass on the pier.
0:23:52 > 0:23:57- For me, they convey the essence - of Bangor, with students walking by.
0:24:02 > 0:24:06- I took one photo of the pier - and its rounded little shelter.
0:24:06 > 0:24:10- There's a hint of colour - in that photograph...
0:24:11 > 0:24:15- ..and that's the beauty - of that photograph, for me.
0:24:15 > 0:24:19- It's a subdued photograph - which contains a flash of red...
0:24:19 > 0:24:21- ..and a hint of blue.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- This photograph - is a snapshot of life.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28- When I'd photographed the pier...
0:24:28 > 0:24:31- ..I looked across, towards Anglesey.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36- That's when I realized that - the photograph I'd like to use...
0:24:36 > 0:24:41- ..was an image of Bangor - in the middle of the winter months.
0:24:41 > 0:24:45- There's snow on the mountains - and the sky isn't blue.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48- In fact, it's quite stormy.
0:24:48 > 0:24:53- There's a special feel to the place - and that's the photograph we used...
0:24:53 > 0:24:56- ..as the main shot of Bangor.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- Back we go to Blue Sky cafe - in the town...
0:25:04 > 0:25:08- ..where I talked to actress - and TV presenter, Ffion Dafis.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- Tell me about Rownd A Rownd.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- For someone who hasn't seen it, - what is it?
0:25:17 > 0:25:22- Rownd A Rownd is a series - which started around 20 years ago.
0:25:22 > 0:25:26- It was originally based - around a newsagent's shop...
0:25:26 > 0:25:30- ..and a group of children - who did a paper round.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34- Society has changed...
0:25:34 > 0:25:38- ..and it isn't so common for - children to have a paper round.
0:25:39 > 0:25:44- People tend to buy their newspapers - from supermarkets these days.
0:25:45 > 0:25:49- The ethos of the programme - had to change, as a result of that.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- The stories also had to change...
0:25:53 > 0:25:56- ..because the programme's slot - has been moved...
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- ..from an afternoon slot - to 7.30 at night.
0:26:00 > 0:26:05- Because of that, the stories have - become more suitable for adults.
0:26:07 > 0:26:09- We had to grow up, as a programme.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12- It's family viewing, isn't it?
0:26:12 > 0:26:13- It's family viewing, isn't it?- - Yes, most definitely.
0:26:15 > 0:26:17- You can sit down and watch it...
0:26:17 > 0:26:21- ..with your grandmother - and your six-year-old child.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- You're an actress - but you're also a TV presenter.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29- You presented the dating show, - Cinio Caru.
0:26:30 > 0:26:33- You also presented - the music series iDot.
0:26:33 > 0:26:34- Which do you prefer?
0:26:36 > 0:26:39- It's a tough choice - because I enjoy doing both.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43- Because I spend so much time - filming Rownd A Rownd...
0:26:43 > 0:26:46- ..and it takes up - so many months of my year...
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- ..I can't do as much presenting work - as I once did.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53- I do bits and pieces of presenting.
0:26:53 > 0:26:58- I also do a lot of theatre work - - both acting and directing.
0:26:59 > 0:27:03- That's developing into something - I'm doing more and more.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06- I'm developing a few things - at the moment.
0:27:07 > 0:27:12- As long as I'm busy and I'm striving - to produce work which I enjoy...
0:27:13 > 0:27:18- ..I think that's the most important - thing in my life, at the moment.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21- I just have to keep going.
0:27:21 > 0:27:23- What are your hobbies?
0:27:23 > 0:27:25- What do you enjoy doing?
0:27:26 > 0:27:28- I really, really enjoy walking.
0:27:30 > 0:27:32- When I'm up here...
0:27:33 > 0:27:36- ..I go out walking with my friends.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- I love to discover new places.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- I went to Cwm Orthin the other day.
0:27:41 > 0:27:43- It's a wonderful place...
0:27:43 > 0:27:47- ..above Blaenau Ffestiniog, - Croesor and Beddgelert.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49- I'd never been there before.
0:27:49 > 0:27:52- Things like that spark my interest.
0:27:52 > 0:27:53- I also love to travel.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57- I'm always thrilled - to go and explore a new country...
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- ..and learn about a new way of life.
0:28:00 > 0:28:03- That's certainly - one of the things...
0:28:03 > 0:28:06- ..which make me glad - to be on this earth.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- Do you have family in North Wales?
0:28:11 > 0:28:12- Do you have family in North Wales?- - Yes.
0:28:12 > 0:28:17- Because I'm here so much, I'm part - of my sisters' children's lives.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20- She has four boys.
0:28:20 > 0:28:25- Being able to pick them up - from school, take them swimming...
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- ..and those sorts of things - is wonderful.
0:28:28 > 0:28:31- If I were in Cardiff all the time...
0:28:31 > 0:28:34- ..I wouldn't be - such a big part of their lives.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37- I'm only 20 months older - than my sister...
0:28:37 > 0:28:40- ..and we're extremely close.
0:28:40 > 0:28:42- My father - has moved away from Bangor.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45- He now lives in Caernarfon - and he loves it there.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50- He lives there with Liz, his wife, - which is very nice.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54- Thank you for the chat, Ffion.
0:28:54 > 0:28:59- The Penrhyn family is one of the - old, important families of the area.
0:29:00 > 0:29:04- Its history goes back 700 years - to a man called Edyfed Fychan.
0:29:04 > 0:29:09- The family's home was on the penrhyn - - headland - east of Bangor.
0:29:11 > 0:29:16- For help to follow the programme, go - to the website and download the app.
0:29:16 > 0:29:18- And don't forget the subtitles!
0:29:28 > 0:29:33- In 1465, William ap Gruffydd, - a member of the Penrhyn family...
0:29:33 > 0:29:36- ..built a hall house - called Cochwillan.
0:29:39 > 0:29:43- Aled Sam and Greg Stevenson - visited the ancient building.
0:29:54 > 0:29:59- Let's discuss some of the features - which make this so special.
0:29:59 > 0:30:03- I've never seen a ceiling - as wonderful as that in my life.
0:30:03 > 0:30:06- Yes. - The ceiling looks wonderful to us.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10- Imagine how impressive it was - 500 years ago!
0:30:10 > 0:30:16- People wouldn't have seen a ceiling - like it, other than in cathedrals.
0:30:17 > 0:30:19- I'm sure people would say...
0:30:19 > 0:30:23- .."You should see the ceiling - at William ap Gruffydd's house.
0:30:24 > 0:30:25- "It's so fancy!"
0:30:26 > 0:30:28- The colours are plain today...
0:30:28 > 0:30:33- ..but I suspect it may have been - more colourful originally.
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- The beams and the trusses - may have been painted.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40- That's the highest ceiling - I've ever seen in a house.
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- Yes, it was built to impress - and I think it's fantastic.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50- Everything about this house - screams money and status.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54- The windows are amazing. - The work is intricate.
0:30:55 > 0:31:00- The craftsmanship of the oak frieze - is absolutely breathtaking.
0:31:00 > 0:31:02- The roof structure is unusual.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06- It's supported - by hammer-beam trusses.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- This was the home - of an affluent family.
0:31:11 > 0:31:12- How was this room used?
0:31:13 > 0:31:16- Almost everything - took place in this room.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20- This room - covers three quarters of the house.
0:31:20 > 0:31:25- There are a couple of small rooms, - behind the partition walls...
0:31:25 > 0:31:28- ..but almost everything - happened in here.
0:31:28 > 0:31:31- We're sitting at the top table.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33- The term comes from hall houses...
0:31:34 > 0:31:38- ..because the table - sits on a dais - a low platform.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42- This was the dais partition.
0:31:42 > 0:31:46- People say they're sitting - at the top table at weddings.
0:31:46 > 0:31:50- We're sitting at the sheriff's - top table at Cochwillan.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33- The windows are similar to the ones - we see in churches today.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37- Yes. They're very fancy windows.
0:32:37 > 0:32:42- Imagine how expensive that - magnificent window must have been.
0:32:42 > 0:32:46- Most people wanted tiny windows, - to keep the wind out...
0:32:46 > 0:32:51- ..but these are the most - ostentatious windows you could find.
0:32:52 > 0:32:56- I don't think that wall could have - taken a larger window than that.
0:32:57 > 0:33:00- It would be structurally unwise.
0:33:00 > 0:33:03- It really is a magnificent window.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07- One of the features - of the hall house...
0:33:08 > 0:33:12- ..is a fireplace in the middle, - with smoke exiting through the roof.
0:33:13 > 0:33:17- This is different. There's a huge - chimney on one side of the house.
0:33:18 > 0:33:20- Yes, and it's original to 1465.
0:33:20 > 0:33:25- This house was at the cutting edge - of fashion. It was ultramodern.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28- It was built - at the end of the hall house era.
0:33:28 > 0:33:33- It was built in 1465 and having a - fireplace like that was a new idea.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36- It was common practice - 100 years later.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- What a lovely, interesting building.
0:34:06 > 0:34:10- Join me after the break to hear more - about the Penrhyn family...
0:34:11 > 0:34:15- ..and about Porth Penrhyn, Bangor, - and Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda.
0:34:17 > 0:34:17- .
0:34:24 > 0:34:24- Subtitles
0:34:24 > 0:34:26- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:34:31 > 0:34:33- Welcome back.
0:34:33 > 0:34:35- Behind me is Porth Penrhyn...
0:34:35 > 0:34:39- ..a harbour for fishing boats - and pleasure boats alike.
0:34:41 > 0:34:45- This was a very busy port - around 100 years ago.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49- Slate from a very famous quarry - was exported from this port.
0:34:50 > 0:34:54- Penrhyn Quarry, in Bethesda, - around five miles from here.
0:34:56 > 0:34:59- The Penrhyn family - ran Penrhyn Quarry...
0:34:59 > 0:35:02- ..the largest slate quarry - in the world...
0:35:02 > 0:35:05- ..with a workforce - of around 3,000 men.
0:35:05 > 0:35:09- A strike was called at the quarry - in the year 1900.
0:35:09 > 0:35:12- The Great Strike of Penrhyn - lasted for three years.
0:35:15 > 0:35:19- Penrhyn Quarry - was on the banks of River Ogwen...
0:35:19 > 0:35:22- ..and Glan Ogwen - was the name of the old village.
0:35:22 > 0:35:27- But, as the quarry grew, - hundreds of families moved there...
0:35:27 > 0:35:32- ..and a new town grew by the quarry, - which was given the name Bethesda...
0:35:33 > 0:35:37- ..after Bethesda Chapel, - which was built there 200 years ago.
0:35:39 > 0:35:43- Let's head to Bethesda - to meet Gaynor Ellis-Williams.
0:35:43 > 0:35:47- Her house looks out over - the Ogwen Valley and the quarry.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49- Aled Sam had a chat with Gaynor...
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- ..about the way she's combined - old and new in her home.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57- For help to follow the programme...
0:35:57 > 0:36:00- ..go to the website - or download the app.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- And don't forget the subtitles!
0:36:22 > 0:36:24- We're in the new extension.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29- I wanted a work room that would - double up as a sitting room.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32- I tried to combine the two things.
0:36:33 > 0:36:35- I want the place to look old...
0:36:35 > 0:36:41- ..and that's why I bought this wood - from a chapel in Penmaenmawr.
0:36:44 > 0:36:48- The slate on the floor - came from the Penrhyn Quarry.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53- This room gets the sun all day - in the summer...
0:36:53 > 0:36:56- ..so I open the doors - and I sunbathe right here!
0:37:05 > 0:37:10- The kitchen, on the ground floor, - is about to be given a makeover.
0:37:15 > 0:37:21- It's as though you collect things in - order to give unwanted items a home!
0:37:22 > 0:37:25- Yes, I keep things - that other people throw out.
0:37:26 > 0:37:31- I love to pick up driftwood - and seashells on the beach.
0:37:31 > 0:37:35- I'm particularly fond of things - made of natural materials.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40- I'm not interested - in having ornaments.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44- All these items - are important to you.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46- They're friends of yours!
0:37:46 > 0:37:47- Yes, that's right.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53- I think they make the house - cosy and welcoming.
0:38:15 > 0:38:16- This is your bedroom.
0:38:16 > 0:38:19- This is your bedroom.- - Yes. It's part of the extension.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22- I tried to make this seem old, too.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25- This timber - also came from the old chapel.
0:38:27 > 0:38:28- You have an en-suite.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31- Yes, and it's great - when I have visitors.
0:38:32 > 0:38:34- I enjoy having a private bathroom.
0:38:35 > 0:38:37- You have lots of storage space.
0:38:38 > 0:38:42- Don't open the cupboards, - or my clothes will fall out!
0:38:44 > 0:38:46- That's an interesting fireplace.
0:38:46 > 0:38:47- That's an interesting fireplace.- - Yes, it's unique.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50- There's a date on it - 1834.
0:38:52 > 0:38:58- In Victorian times, the quarrymen of - Bethesda and the Nantlle valley...
0:38:58 > 0:39:03- ..would carve slate - and use it to decorate their houses.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08- Just imagine - they work - in the quarry for 12 hours...
0:39:09 > 0:39:12- ..and they come home - and start carving!
0:39:13 > 0:39:18- Everything you buy these days - is perfect and has straight lines...
0:39:19 > 0:39:24- ..but some of the patterns on this - slate are crooked, and that's great.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43- This is why you built this veranda.
0:39:43 > 0:39:44- Yes.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48- I could stare at that light - all day long!
0:39:48 > 0:39:51- It changes continually.
0:40:41 > 0:40:46- I love it here so much, I find I - need less and less foreign holidays.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51- It's important to be happy at home - and I most certainly am.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53- I love living here.
0:40:53 > 0:40:56- My friends enjoy visiting me here.
0:40:56 > 0:40:59- I hope I've managed to create - a homely haven.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25- Several famous people - were born and raised in Bethesda.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30- Among them are Caradog Pritchard, - a poet...
0:41:30 > 0:41:33- ..and the author of the novel - Un Nos Ola Leuad.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38- R Williams Parry, the poet, - lived here.
0:41:38 > 0:41:42- He worked in the Welsh Department - at Bangor University.
0:41:43 > 0:41:47- Gruff Rhys, the lead singer - of Super Furry Animals...
0:41:47 > 0:41:51- ..and John Ogwen, the actor, - come from Sling, Bethesda.
0:41:51 > 0:41:54- Darren Hughes - has moved to Bethesda...
0:41:54 > 0:41:58- ..and he's making a name for himself - as an artist...
0:41:58 > 0:42:00- ..as Shan Cothi discovered.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06- Hello, Darren.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09- This is a neat little studio.
0:42:09 > 0:42:14- This is where you spend many hours.
0:42:14 > 0:42:16- All day, every day.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21- You're an artist, evidently!
0:42:21 > 0:42:23- From what I can see around me...
0:42:23 > 0:42:28- ..I'm surrounded by Bethesda...
0:42:28 > 0:42:30- ..in its raw state.
0:42:30 > 0:42:32- Yes, it is.
0:42:33 > 0:42:35- I love Bethesda.
0:42:35 > 0:42:40- When I moved here, I thought - it was the perfect place to paint.
0:42:41 > 0:42:43- I go out every day to paint.
0:42:43 > 0:42:46- What attracted you to the area...
0:42:47 > 0:42:50- ..and what has kept you here - and inspired you?
0:42:51 > 0:42:55- Everything, really. - Primarily, I loved the community.
0:42:55 > 0:43:00- When I saw the house - and the incredible views...
0:43:00 > 0:43:04- ..I knew that I could live here - and paint here.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08- It's amazing. - The light changes every day.
0:43:08 > 0:43:11- It's a fantastic place - and I knew I had to live here.
0:43:14 > 0:43:17- The light is very dramatic at times.
0:43:17 > 0:43:24- You have the slate and the quarries - but also some lovely sunshine.
0:43:24 > 0:43:26- That's what's so good about it.
0:43:27 > 0:43:29- For an artist, everything is here.
0:43:30 > 0:43:33- The colours are incredible.
0:43:33 > 0:43:37- If it rains, you can see - pinks and greens in the slate.
0:43:37 > 0:43:40- Everything comes alive.
0:43:40 > 0:43:43- It's great for an artist.
0:43:43 > 0:43:48- Is it difficult for a young artist - to get the first big break?
0:43:48 > 0:43:50- It is, but I was lucky.
0:43:51 > 0:43:56- Kyffin Williams - spoke about my work on TV one day.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59- Everything grew from there.
0:43:59 > 0:44:03- I was offered exhibition space - at the Thackeray Gallery.
0:44:03 > 0:44:08- People started seeing my work, - but a lot of it was down to Kyffin.
0:44:08 > 0:44:12- I'm so glad to have met him.
0:44:12 > 0:44:17- I've heard that you've had interest - from abroad.
0:44:17 > 0:44:20- Once again, I've been lucky.
0:44:20 > 0:44:25- I was one of several Welsh artists - exhibiting in Bethesda, Maryland.
0:44:26 > 0:44:31- It's a great link. I was so glad - to be part of that exhibition.
0:44:31 > 0:44:33- It was great.
0:44:34 > 0:44:36- Well done and good luck.
0:44:36 > 0:44:38- How much do your paintings cost?
0:44:38 > 0:44:42- How much money do I need? - A rather large chequebook?
0:44:42 > 0:44:43- You look embarrassed!
0:44:43 > 0:44:45- You look embarrassed!- - I'll give you a good deal.
0:44:45 > 0:44:47- Off camera!
0:45:15 > 0:45:17- Paul, how are you?
0:45:17 > 0:45:20- You're busy. What are you doing?
0:45:20 > 0:45:23- Boxing up vegetables - for local people.
0:45:23 > 0:45:26- People have already bought these?
0:45:26 > 0:45:29- They've booked them - for the season.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32- They collect them - on Friday mornings.
0:45:32 > 0:45:36- What exactly is this place?
0:45:36 > 0:45:39- It's a collection of projects.
0:45:40 > 0:45:43- I'm one of them - - I sell the produce.
0:45:43 > 0:45:46- Someone makes compost.
0:45:46 > 0:45:50- There's a manager - to look after the land.
0:45:53 > 0:45:55- There are allotments over there.
0:45:56 > 0:45:59- Fifty people work on the allotments, - all year round.
0:46:00 > 0:46:02- This food looks delicious.
0:46:02 > 0:46:08- I know most of these - - pumpkins, onions and garlic.
0:46:08 > 0:46:11- What's this? - I have no idea what it could be.
0:46:11 > 0:46:15- I've never seen such a thing. - What is it?
0:46:15 > 0:46:17- You can try it.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22- Taste that.
0:46:22 > 0:46:25- It's OK, is it? It's not poisonous.
0:46:25 > 0:46:27- Are you sure?
0:46:33 > 0:46:37- It's like a bland melon! What is it?
0:46:37 > 0:46:39- A cucumber.
0:46:40 > 0:46:42- A cucumber? It's round.
0:46:42 > 0:46:43- Dear me.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45- Dear me.- - It's called a crystal apple.
0:46:45 > 0:46:47- Crystal apple cucumber?
0:46:48 > 0:46:51- I should have known that.
0:46:52 > 0:46:55- I've never seen anything like it.
0:46:56 > 0:46:58- Well, well, well.
0:46:58 > 0:47:00- That's the thing with this place.
0:47:00 > 0:47:04- We try to grow food - that you won't find in the shops.
0:47:04 > 0:47:06- Different food.
0:47:06 > 0:47:10- It's important not to compete - against each other.
0:47:10 > 0:47:14- Tomatoes are the same - we have - different tomatoes and cucumbers.
0:47:14 > 0:47:18- Yellow courgettes - - you can't buy those in the shops.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- A lot of these foods - aren't available in the shops.
0:47:22 > 0:47:24- That's what we're trying to do.
0:47:24 > 0:47:28- Do you want some help? - I'll come out and help you.
0:47:28 > 0:47:30- I'll have another bite of that.
0:47:31 > 0:47:32- Off we go.
0:47:50 > 0:47:53- That's all for today - from Bangor and the area.
0:47:54 > 0:47:57- Join me next time, - when I'll be in Swansea.
0:47:57 > 0:47:59- Until then, goodbye.
0:48:15 > 0:48:17- S4C subtitles by Eirlys A Jones
0:48:17 > 0:48:18- .