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0:00:29 > 0:00:33- Hello! I'm Nia Parry - and today, I'm in Merthyr Tydfil.
0:00:33 > 0:00:37- Join me, as I meet - some colourful local characters.
0:00:37 > 0:00:39- Welcome to Milltir2.
0:00:46 > 0:00:50- North of Merthyr Tydfil - are the Brecon Beacons...
0:00:50 > 0:00:54- ..where two rivers rise - - Taf Fawr and Taf Fechan.
0:00:54 > 0:00:58- They join to form the River Taff - here, in Merthyr.
0:00:58 > 0:01:01- The Taff flows down the valley - to Pontypridd...
0:01:01 > 0:01:05- ..then on to Cardiff - and out into the Severn estuary.
0:01:06 > 0:01:10- Today, Merthyr Tydfil has - a population of around 30,000...
0:01:10 > 0:01:14- ..but back in 1851, - it was the biggest town in Wales...
0:01:14 > 0:01:17- ..with a population - of around 46,000.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19- Why?
0:01:19 > 0:01:22- It boils down to two things - - coal and iron.
0:01:24 > 0:01:29- On the programme, Richard Harrington - talks about his birthplace.
0:01:33 > 0:01:36- Aled Sam and Greg Stevenson - visit Cyfarthfa Castle...
0:01:37 > 0:01:40- ..and other interesting buildings.
0:01:40 > 0:01:44- I talk to Lis Mclean - from the local Welsh centre.
0:01:45 > 0:01:48- Singer, Kizzy Crawford - talks about her style...
0:01:49 > 0:01:53- ..and we meet local Welsh learner, - Coral Putman.
0:01:54 > 0:01:58- A host of famous people were - born and bred in Merthyr Tydfil.
0:01:58 > 0:02:03- Julien Macdonald and Laura Ashley, - from the fashion world...
0:02:03 > 0:02:05- ..the musician Joseph Parry...
0:02:05 > 0:02:10- ..and famous boxers Howard Winstone - and the amazing Johnny Owen.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15- Another famous local boy - is the actor, Richard Harrington.
0:02:15 > 0:02:19- He played DCI Tom Mathias - in the series, Hinterland.
0:02:19 > 0:02:23- Here he is talking about his family - and his childhood...
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- ..on the Gurnos estate - and in Dowlais.
0:02:28 > 0:02:33- For help to follow the programme, - take a look at our website...
0:02:37 > 0:02:39- ..or download the Dal Ati app.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59- Well, I was born here.
0:03:00 > 0:03:01- Whitebeam Close.
0:03:06 > 0:03:11- In 1975, my parents worked as nurses - in St Tydfil's Hospital in the town.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16- A new hospital was being built - here, on the Gurnos.
0:03:18 > 0:03:20- It's a remarkable place.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23- Although I have no memories - of this place...
0:03:24 > 0:03:25- ..I feel I belong here.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34- They speak about it with fondness.
0:03:38 > 0:03:39- Gurnos is fantastic.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44- The people of Merthyr Tydfil - know the meaning of austerity.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50- There's not much here but - there's a spirit and I can feel it.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53- As I said, I feel I belong here, - in a sense.
0:03:54 > 0:03:56- And here's where it all began.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58- It's quite emotional, really.
0:04:15 > 0:04:19- In 1977, we moved from the Gurnos - to this spot in Dowlais.
0:04:20 > 0:04:25- It's located halfway - between Dowlais and Pant.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29- The street is called Pant Road - and I lived at number 7.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33- The other street is called - Cross Ivor Terrace.
0:04:34 > 0:04:38- This is where I played - and where all my friends lived.
0:04:39 > 0:04:43- I remember there being - a real sense of community.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46- Everyone knew - everyone else's business.
0:04:46 > 0:04:48- It was great. It was so vibrant.
0:04:50 > 0:04:55- I can remember the neighbours - being real characters and very kind.
0:05:05 > 0:05:08- I have really happy memories - of being here.
0:05:08 > 0:05:10- Mam and Dad were really happy.
0:05:10 > 0:05:15- At the time, it was just me, - Mam, Dad and my sister, Lynwen.
0:05:15 > 0:05:17- She's three years younger than me.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21- A lot of people would visit.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24- This gate was in constant use - during the day.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28- Mam and Dad were nurses, so all - the hypochondriacs would call.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31- I remember one story - about my father.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36- He liked to sunbathe and there - used to be a coal shed over there.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39- He'd sunbathe on top of the roof.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44- I remember playing football here - one day.
0:05:44 > 0:05:48- People were passing by and saying, - "Alright, Paul?"
0:05:49 > 0:05:52- And Dad, in his Speedos, - would say "alright" back.
0:05:52 > 0:05:55- But I remember hearing - this awful noise.
0:05:55 > 0:05:58- It was Dad - falling through the roof.
0:05:58 > 0:06:00- He's never sunbathed since!
0:06:18 > 0:06:20- I remember the miners' strike.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23- I remember - men crying on the street...
0:06:25 > 0:06:27- ..in 1984...
0:06:27 > 0:06:32- ..when the Guest Keen, the last - of the ironworks, closed down.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35- It was right there, - so it was very dusty.
0:06:35 > 0:06:37- One day, the dust stopped.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44- I remember - Johnny Owen's funeral too.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49- The procession came past the house - in 1980.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- I remember men crying - and Dad was crying too.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02- The place is steeped in history - and people have gone through hell.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06- But there's no room for misery - in Merthyr.
0:07:06 > 0:07:08- You've got to get on with it.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19- When I think about this place...
0:07:19 > 0:07:22- ..I think - of how my life might have been.
0:07:22 > 0:07:25- I don't know - where I would have ended up...
0:07:26 > 0:07:28- ..or what I would have been doing...
0:07:29 > 0:07:33- ..if Mam and Dad hadn't sent me - to a Welsh-medium school.
0:07:33 > 0:07:38- Maybe they regarded Welsh education - as a ticket out of this valley.
0:07:39 > 0:07:41- In the end, - they might have been right.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45- Rhydfelen had a fantastic - Drama department.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48- Drama came to my rescue.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55- My mother's father, my grandfather, - Jack Jones...
0:07:55 > 0:07:58- ..who they used to call - John The Cottage...
0:07:58 > 0:08:02- ..came from Aberdare - and Welsh was his first language.
0:08:04 > 0:08:08- When I came into the world, - he spoke very little Welsh to me.
0:08:08 > 0:08:11- If he wanted to tell me something - in secret...
0:08:12 > 0:08:14- ..he'd say it in Welsh.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18- He used to say, - "Go and buy me some cigarettes."
0:08:23 > 0:08:24- Isn't that strange?
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- As a child, - I went to a Welsh-medium school...
0:08:29 > 0:08:31- ..but I'd come home - and speak English...
0:08:32 > 0:08:35- ..though my grandfather - lived with us and spoke Welsh.
0:08:36 > 0:08:39- He'd speak Welsh to his friends - but not to us.
0:08:42 > 0:08:44- I often had stones thrown at me.
0:08:44 > 0:08:49- Boys called me Welsh Cake - for going to a Welsh-medium school.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53- The irony of it all - is that they were the same boys...
0:08:53 > 0:08:57- ..who'd be knocking on my door - half an hour later...
0:08:57 > 0:09:00- ..asking me - to play football with them.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05- It's a lesson for us all, really.
0:09:05 > 0:09:09- They didn't feel - the Welsh language was inclusive.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14- That's the mentality of this place.
0:09:14 > 0:09:19- But nowadays, the Welsh language - is no longer considered exclusive.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22- It's for everyone. - It's only a language!
0:09:34 > 0:09:39- One of the most important families - in this area in the 19th century...
0:09:39 > 0:09:41- ..was the Crawshay family.
0:09:42 > 0:09:46- They owned Cyfarthfa ironworks - and built Cyfarthfa Castle.
0:09:46 > 0:09:50- Aled Sam and Greg Stevenson - visited the castle.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56- We're outside - the famous Cyfarthfa Castle.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59- It looks like a folly.
0:10:00 > 0:10:01- Yes, it's over the top!
0:10:02 > 0:10:06- It must be the most ostentatious - building in the Valleys!
0:10:07 > 0:10:10- It cost 30,000 to build this place - in 1825.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12- It was very, very expensive!
0:10:13 > 0:10:19- They intentionally built 52 rooms, - one for every week of the year.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- It boasts 365 windows - and a blind window for leap years!
0:10:24 > 0:10:26- That's where our journey begins.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45- From the shape of this room, - it's obvious we're in the tower.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48- Yes, this is the Round Drawing Room.
0:10:48 > 0:10:53- We have the original floor plan, - so we know how this house was used.
0:10:53 > 0:10:58- I think they had too many rooms and - they didn't know how to use them!
0:10:58 > 0:11:01- At the end of this wing, - there's a drawing room.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03- You use drawing rooms after a meal.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07- This is another drawing room. - Why not?
0:11:07 > 0:11:09- Next door was a morning room.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- You sat there in the morning, - to enjoy the sunshine.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16- It's been decorated beautifully.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- It's been decorated beautifully.- - Yes, the wallpaper is fantastic.
0:11:20 > 0:11:25- The drapes are the work of - the Welsh designer, Cefyn Burgess.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29- The window glazing bars - are very thin.
0:11:30 > 0:11:34- This was the height of fashion - in the early 19th century.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38- The plasterwork and the gilding - on the ceiling is perfect.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43- Yes, and that's an original, - French chandelier.
0:12:06 > 0:12:10- The Crawshay family - spent a fortune on the castle...
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- ..but the ironworks - had made them very wealthy.
0:12:13 > 0:12:18- The same wasn't true of the workers, - who had a terribly hard life.
0:12:18 > 0:12:22- In the next clip, Aled and Greg - visit the old ironworks.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32- On the opposite bank - of the River Taff...
0:12:33 > 0:12:38- ..is one of Merthyr's most arresting - and least familiar sights.
0:12:51 > 0:12:55- I can't believe - you can drive through Merthyr...
0:12:55 > 0:12:59- ..and not know about - a huge construction, like this.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03- Who'd think you could hide - these massive blast furnaces?
0:13:04 > 0:13:08- Cyfarthfa was one of - the world's largest ironworks...
0:13:08 > 0:13:10- ..in the early 19th century.
0:13:11 > 0:13:15- The industries in these new sheds - mask the old industry.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21- Yes, and some industrial gems - still remain in this area.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24- The Ynysfach Engine House - is still standing.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27- It's masked by modern buildings.
0:13:28 > 0:13:32- The old railway bridge is apparently - the world's oldest iron bridge.
0:13:32 > 0:13:37- We're all familiar with the viaduct - you can see from the A470.
0:13:37 > 0:13:41- The historical gems are here, - if you know where to look!
0:13:53 > 0:13:57- Stay tuned to meet - the singer, Kizzy Crawford...
0:13:58 > 0:14:01- ..and the Welsh learner, - Coral Putman.
0:14:01 > 0:14:01- .
0:14:11 > 0:14:11- Subtitles
0:14:11 > 0:14:13- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- Today, we're in - the Merthyr Tydfil area.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23- Merthyr Tydfil - means the shrine of St Tydfil.
0:14:24 > 0:14:29- Tydfil's father was Brychan, the - fifth century king of Brycheiniog.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- Saint Dwynwen, the patron saint - of lovers, was Tydfil's sister.
0:14:35 > 0:14:39- Legend has it that Tydfil was killed - by pagans in the year 480.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- A picture of Saint Tydfil - is the town's symbol.
0:14:43 > 0:14:46- Most of the 400 Ysgol Gymraeg - Santes Tudful pupils...
0:14:46 > 0:14:49- ..come from - non-Welsh speaking homes.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- This is the Soar centre - in the middle of Merthyr.
0:14:59 > 0:15:03- It's the home of the theatre - and a Welsh initiative.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07- I asked Lis Mclean about the centre - and about Welsh life in the town.
0:15:11 > 0:15:13- Hello, Lis. How are you?
0:15:13 > 0:15:14- Hello, Lis. How are you?- - Fine, thank you.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- Thank you for inviting me - to see this lovely centre.
0:15:19 > 0:15:24- Yes, it's home to Welsh language - organizations in the Merthyr area.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29- They include Welsh For Adults, - the Urdd and Cylch Meithrin.
0:15:29 > 0:15:32- Menter Iaith is also based here.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36- We also now have a theatre - and a dance studio.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38- What's your role here?
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- I'm the principal officer - at Menter Iaith...
0:15:43 > 0:15:45- ..and I run the centre.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- Some 8.9% of the population - speaks Welsh.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54- That's shockingly low.
0:15:54 > 0:15:59- We try to attract former - Welsh-medium schools pupils here.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- When people leave Welsh education, - where do they go?
0:16:05 > 0:16:09- Menter Merthyr and the Soar centre - try to focus on creating work...
0:16:10 > 0:16:14- ..for former pupils - of Welsh-medium schools.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19- Is a lack of confidence - to speak Welsh a factor here...
0:16:19 > 0:16:22- ..as it is in so many places - across Wales?
0:16:23 > 0:16:25- Yes. It's a huge problem.
0:16:25 > 0:16:30- If someone doesn't speak Welsh for - a few years after leaving school...
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- ..their confidence is shattered.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35- That's what happened to me.
0:16:35 > 0:16:39- I didn't speak Welsh for 17 years - after I left school...
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- ..but I decided - to come back to the language.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44- I know how people feel.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48- How many Welsh-medium schools - are there in the area?
0:16:49 > 0:16:52- Two junior schools - but no secondary schools.
0:16:52 > 0:16:55- People travel to Rhydywaun, Hirwaun.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- It's a huge stumbling block.
0:16:58 > 0:17:02- People don't see the results - of Rhydywaun in Merthyr.
0:17:02 > 0:17:07- Would it help to have a Welsh-medium - secondary school in Merthyr?
0:17:07 > 0:17:12- Yes, but getting children at - nursery age is our first priority.
0:17:12 > 0:17:17- We need a strategy to develop - Welsh-medium education in Merthyr.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- There has to be an economic - advantage to speaking Welsh.
0:17:22 > 0:17:27- It's no longer enough just to have - places where we can speak Welsh...
0:17:28 > 0:17:30- ..although, of course, that helps.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32- We need a purpose.
0:17:32 > 0:17:37- We must be able to put the Welsh - language to work in our communities.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41- What does the future hold - for the Welsh language in Merthyr?
0:17:42 > 0:17:45- I think we'll formulate - a strong strategy in Merthyr...
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- ..which brings together - all the partners.
0:17:50 > 0:17:54- Thank you, Lis. - Let's talk in the theatre later.
0:17:54 > 0:17:59- We filmed Kizzy Crawford in the - theatre talking about her style.
0:18:01 > 0:18:05- Kizzy has a Welsh, English - and Bajan, or Barbadian, background.
0:18:06 > 0:18:10- She sings acoustic jazz/soul music - in Welsh and English.
0:18:10 > 0:18:15- She's performed on television and - radio and played many festivals.
0:18:15 > 0:18:20- This year, she recorded the - song Golden Brown (Brown Euraidd).
0:18:21 > 0:18:26- Hello. I'm Kizzy Crawford - and here's what I'm wearing today.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30- I'm a singer and I live in Merthyr.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- Today, we're in Theatr Soar, - Merthyr.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41- My mother keeps everything she buys.
0:18:42 > 0:18:47- We go around charity shops - and vintage shops together...
0:18:47 > 0:18:52- ..looking for vintage - and old-fashioned clothes.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57- We then try to combine them - with new clothes.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03- My clothes reflect - the mood I'm in at that time.
0:19:03 > 0:19:05- They reflect who I am.
0:19:06 > 0:19:10- I always make a real effort - with my clothes when I perform...
0:19:10 > 0:19:14- ..to make sure my clothes - and my music combine perfectly.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18- I want my clothes - to reflect who I am.
0:19:22 > 0:19:23- This is a wool coat.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28- I like the way it moves - and covers me when I move.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33- It also has bell sleeves...
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- ..so it creates - quite an enchanting effect.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- My mother bought it - in a vintage shop in Oxford...
0:19:42 > 0:19:44- ..when she was a student.
0:19:44 > 0:19:48- What I like about this coat - is it's really warm.
0:19:50 > 0:19:55- This jacket comes from Peacocks, - so it's quite new.
0:19:56 > 0:19:59- I like the way - it goes with this skirt...
0:20:00 > 0:20:04- ..which reflects - my Welsh cultural heritage.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09- This material - was always appreciated...
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- ..because it was seen - as a thing of beauty in Wales.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18- I like the way I'm wearing it, - as a skirt...
0:20:18 > 0:20:21- ..rather than a blanket or a jacket.
0:20:24 > 0:20:30- It then goes with this fabric - which is perhaps a bit newer.
0:20:31 > 0:20:35- I'm wearing a corset which came - from a charity shop in Llandudno.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41- People rarely - wear a corset outside...
0:20:42 > 0:20:46- ..but I can wear it - because this coat keeps me warm.
0:20:49 > 0:20:53- This scarf doesn't look like - it would go with this outfit.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56- It looks quite traditional.
0:20:57 > 0:21:01- I like the way - it brings the outfit together.
0:21:06 > 0:21:12- I think accessories are a great way - to change the look of an outfit.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16- Accessories - makes an outfit complete.
0:21:17 > 0:21:19- That's why I always wear earrings.
0:21:20 > 0:21:26- I wear a nose ring because it brings - out my different characteristics.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33- It helps create - my own unique look too.
0:21:34 > 0:21:39- My mother always tells me if I have - money to spend on an outfit...
0:21:40 > 0:21:42- ..to spend it on shoes or boots.
0:21:43 > 0:21:46- Good footwear - will keep you comfortable.
0:21:50 > 0:21:52- That's why I bought these boots.
0:21:53 > 0:21:57- I'll spend quite a lot of money - on boots and shoes.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03- I think my outfit is quite - enchanting and it stands out.
0:22:06 > 0:22:08- I want to stick to my own style.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11- I don't want to look - like everyone else.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15- I don't really follow fashion.
0:22:18 > 0:22:21- I'm Kizzy Crawford - and this is what I'm wearing today.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26- Kizzy, a young Merthyr woman - who has learned Welsh...
0:22:26 > 0:22:29- ..and uses the language - in her everyday life.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- Coral Putman has also learned Welsh.
0:22:32 > 0:22:35- She comes from Reading originally...
0:22:35 > 0:22:39- ..but she now lives in Trelewis, - ten miles from Merthyr.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46- I'm Coral Putman - and I live in Trelewis.
0:22:48 > 0:22:52- I moved to Wales from Reading - around two years ago.
0:22:58 > 0:23:00- I decided to learn Welsh...
0:23:00 > 0:23:04- ..because I'm following - a degree course in Mathematics...
0:23:05 > 0:23:07- ..with the Open University.
0:23:13 > 0:23:15- I hope to become a teacher.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- I'd like to teach maths - at a Welsh-medium school.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26- When I moved to Wales...
0:23:27 > 0:23:33- ..I had problems with pronunciation, - especially with the letter Ll.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- I have two dogs, three cats...
0:23:44 > 0:23:45- ..and five rabbits.
0:23:47 > 0:23:49- And a duck!
0:23:50 > 0:23:54- I spend a lot of my time - tidying the house!
0:23:56 > 0:23:59- In my spare time, - I enjoy working in the garden.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04- I grow vegetables.
0:24:04 > 0:24:08- I love to knit - items of clothing for my family.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15- I also volunteer - at Taff Bargoed Park.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23- There are a lot of Welsh books - at the Bedlinog Centre.
0:24:29 > 0:24:34- I enjoyed - reading Bethan Gwanas novels...
0:24:35 > 0:24:38- ..especially Blodwen Jones.
0:24:40 > 0:24:44- Blodwen Jones works in a library - in North Wales.
0:24:46 > 0:24:52- She's learning Welsh and - she's in love with her Welsh tutor.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58- It's really, really funny.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09- I'd like to keep learning Welsh - until I'm perfect.
0:25:12 > 0:25:17- Maybe, in ten years' time, - I could be a Welsh tutor.
0:25:20 > 0:25:25- It's great that so many local people - are learning Welsh...
0:25:25 > 0:25:28- ..and using the language - in their daily lives.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31- Stay tuned for more from Merthyr.
0:25:31 > 0:25:32- .
0:25:40 > 0:25:40- Subtitles
0:25:40 > 0:25:42- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:25:45 > 0:25:46- Hello again!
0:25:47 > 0:25:51- John Josiah Guest's family - owned the Dowlais ironworks.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55- He and Charlotte, his wife, - lived in Dowlais House.
0:25:55 > 0:25:56- She learned Welsh...
0:25:56 > 0:26:01- ..and translated ancient, - Welsh stories into English...
0:26:01 > 0:26:05- ..and published them - under the title The Mabinogion.
0:26:05 > 0:26:08- Nothing remains of the old house...
0:26:08 > 0:26:12- ..but two Guest buildings - are still standing...
0:26:12 > 0:26:14- ..the old library and the stables.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20- For help to follow the programme, - take a look at our website...
0:26:22 > 0:26:25- ..or download the Dal Ati app.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- This is the Sir Josiah John Guest - Memorial Library in Dowlais.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34- It's more of a temple - than a library!
0:26:34 > 0:26:38- Yes, it looks like a temple - and that's the whole idea.
0:26:38 > 0:26:44- Sir Charles Barry was the architect - and it was built in 1863.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49- Barry was by then famous - for his work in Westminster.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54- He did a lot of the work - on the Palace of Westminster.
0:26:54 > 0:26:58- This building - still serves the local community...
0:26:58 > 0:27:01- ..as it's a social club, or a pub.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03- Far more useful than a library!
0:27:07 > 0:27:10- Close to the old library - is a building...
0:27:10 > 0:27:13- ..linked to the Guests' reign - in Dowlais.
0:27:15 > 0:27:20- Dowlais ironworks and steelworks - have gone but some buildings remain.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- This beautiful - converted stable block from 1820...
0:27:25 > 0:27:30- ..shows how people like Josiah Guest - spent money on the ironworks.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35- He tried to create a respectable - centre for the ironworks.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46- I'm back in the Soar centre - with Lis Mclean.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48- This theatre is wonderful.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53- When was it converted - from a chapel into a theatre?
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- It's been a theatre for three years.
0:27:57 > 0:27:59- It's very successful.
0:27:59 > 0:28:04- We hold performances, workshops, - courses and conferences here.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08- We also hold public meetings here.
0:28:09 > 0:28:10- Tell me about yourself.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13- Were you born and bred in Merthyr?
0:28:13 > 0:28:15- Were you born and bred in Merthyr?- - No, I was born in Cardiff.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19- My mother was unwell, so she had to - go to Cardiff to give birth to me.
0:28:20 > 0:28:21- But I am a Merthyr girl.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- I was raised - through the medium of English.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- My mother spoke Welsh - but she didn't speak it with me.
0:28:30 > 0:28:35- You didn't speak Welsh at home, - so how did you start to learn Welsh?
0:28:36 > 0:28:41- I went to a Welsh-medium - junior school in Aberdare.
0:28:41 > 0:28:46- Thanks to the efforts of people - like my parents and many others...
0:28:46 > 0:28:50- ..Ysgol Santes Tudful - opened in Merthyr.
0:28:50 > 0:28:55- After you'd left school, was there a - period where you didn't speak Welsh?
0:28:56 > 0:29:00- Yes. I was ill, so I left school - when I was only 14 years of age.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03- I didn't use my Welsh for years.
0:29:06 > 0:29:08- I had children 17 years later...
0:29:08 > 0:29:12- ..and that's when - I started to speak Welsh again.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- Did you make the change - and speak Welsh overnight?
0:29:17 > 0:29:21- I went back to using my Welsh - thanks to a group of volunteers...
0:29:21 > 0:29:23- ..who met up in a Merthyr pub.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- I then did an A-level - in Welsh as a second language.
0:29:27 > 0:29:31- I then decided to get a job - where I had to speak Welsh.
0:29:31 > 0:29:35- I felt that if I worked - through the medium of Welsh...
0:29:35 > 0:29:40- ..and was immersed in the language - in the workplace all the time...
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- ..I'd use the language constantly.
0:29:44 > 0:29:47- What are the characteristics - of local dialect?
0:29:47 > 0:29:49- It's quite a soft dialect.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55- We use many different Welsh words.
0:29:57 > 0:30:01- We say wylia'r Gymraeg - rather than siarad Cymraeg.
0:30:01 > 0:30:03- I've never heard that before.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05- I've never heard that before.- - We say a lot of unusual words.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- We say ce not cae.
0:30:10 > 0:30:12- Merthyr Welsh is a bit different.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15- You're a Merthyr girl.
0:30:15 > 0:30:17- Will you stay here forever?
0:30:18 > 0:30:19- Definitely.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22- Thank you for the chat, Lis.
0:30:23 > 0:30:27- It's time to meet another - Merthyr girl - Donna Edwards.
0:30:27 > 0:30:29- Donna plays Britt on Pobol Y Cwm.
0:30:30 > 0:30:33- Earlier this year, - she chatted about her life...
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- ..with me and Matt Johnson - on the Hwb sofa.
0:30:39 > 0:30:40- Hello!
0:30:41 > 0:30:43- Drum roll, please!
0:30:43 > 0:30:45- Drum roll, please!- - Hello, gorgeous!
0:30:46 > 0:30:48- It's nice to see you.
0:30:49 > 0:30:50- It's nice to meet you.
0:30:50 > 0:30:52- It's nice to meet you.- - Nice to meet you too.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55- Donna, you're an actress.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59- You've worked in the theatre - and you've acted in films.
0:31:02 > 0:31:03- Which do you prefer?
0:31:04 > 0:31:05- Film.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- Film.- - Why?
0:31:10 > 0:31:15- You have so much more time - for each shot when you make a film.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18- I'll check Matt's following.
0:31:18 > 0:31:20- Shwt gymaint mwy. It's lovely.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23- Shwt gymaint mwy - so much more.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25- So much - shwt gymaint.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30- Yes, you have much more time - when you're working on a film.
0:31:30 > 0:31:33- You can spend hours - shooting one scene.
0:31:33 > 0:31:38- You rehearse and rehearse before - you go on stage at the theatre.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41- You spend weeks in rehearsals...
0:31:41 > 0:31:44- ..but you've got to get it right - on the night.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47- If not, you're in trouble!
0:31:48 > 0:31:52- In the theatre, the feeling - of butterflies before you go on...
0:31:53 > 0:31:57- ..and the buzz you get from the - ovation at the end must be great.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- Yes, that's very special.
0:32:03 > 0:32:07- You respond - to the audience's response to you.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11- You're currently - acting in Pobol Y Cwm.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14- How long have you played Britt - in Pobol Y Cwm?
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- I think I've played Britt - since 2001.
0:32:20 > 0:32:21- That's 11 years ago.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25- Do you enjoy it?
0:32:25 > 0:32:28- Yes. Britt is a lovely character - to play.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- She's a troubled character.
0:32:31 > 0:32:32- Do you like your characters?
0:32:32 > 0:32:34- Do you like your characters?- - That's what acting's about.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37- You discover people's character.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- The really nice thing - about being in a soap opera...
0:32:42 > 0:32:47- ..is the fact you really can go - through the whole gamut of emotions.
0:32:50 > 0:32:53- One storyline can be a happy comedy.
0:32:53 > 0:32:57- Another storyline - can be totally tragic.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01- If you're lucky, - you play a character for years...
0:33:02 > 0:33:04- ..and you have time to do that.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07- How long have you been acting?
0:33:07 > 0:33:09- How long have you been acting?- - I was 14 when I took up acting.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11- You played Myfanwy, didn't you?
0:33:11 > 0:33:13- You played Myfanwy, didn't you?- - Yes.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16- The BBC, back in the 1970s...
0:33:17 > 0:33:22- ..filmed a series - about Joseph Parry, the composer.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25- Which is your favourite TV role?
0:33:25 > 0:33:29- Sharon, in Tair Chwaer - is definitely my favourite role.
0:33:30 > 0:33:35- I had a chance to sing, to act and - to have fun with the other women.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37- It was fantastic fun.
0:33:39 > 0:33:40- Menywod - women.
0:33:40 > 0:33:43- Donna had fun with the other women.
0:33:45 > 0:33:50- You won a BAFTA for Tair Chwaer - and for your work on Belonging.
0:33:50 > 0:33:51- I've been very lucky.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53- I've been very lucky.- - It's not luck!
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- Well, as some people say, - I work hard for my luck.
0:33:59 > 0:34:03- I felt truly bilingual - when I won my second BAFTA.
0:34:04 > 0:34:07- I'd already won a BAFTA - for my work in Welsh...
0:34:07 > 0:34:12- ..then, I won a BAFTA for my work - through the medium of English.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- Interesting!
0:34:14 > 0:34:17- That's when Donna - felt truly bilingual.
0:34:17 > 0:34:21- She won a BAFTA - for her work in both languages.
0:34:23 > 0:34:25- And there's something else!
0:34:25 > 0:34:27- My husband doesn't speak Welsh.
0:34:29 > 0:34:34- I went through a phase when, every - night when I was about to nod off...
0:34:34 > 0:34:37- ..I'd say, - "Nos da, cariad. Caru ti."
0:34:38 > 0:34:39- He doesn't speak Welsh!
0:34:41 > 0:34:43- It sounded a bit strange, didn't it!
0:34:45 > 0:34:48- He'd say, - "Don, you're speaking Welsh again!"
0:34:48 > 0:34:50- Are you talking to me?
0:34:50 > 0:34:53- I was obviously thinking in Welsh.
0:34:54 > 0:34:58- We had fun with Donna. - She's a real character.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02- Join me after the break - to meet more Merthyr characters.
0:35:04 > 0:35:04- .
0:35:10 > 0:35:10- Subtitles
0:35:10 > 0:35:12- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:35:15 > 0:35:18- Welcome back - to the coal and iron area.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21- This mural depicts Merthyr - past and present.
0:35:21 > 0:35:25- On this side is the old iron bridge - and Cyfarthfa band.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30- On the new side, - a train and the flats.
0:35:30 > 0:35:35- For help to follow the programme, - take a look at our website...
0:35:38 > 0:35:40- ..or download the Dal Ati app.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- We leave Merthyr - and follow River Taff to Pontypridd.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50- Here, River Taff - meets River Rhondda.
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- It's another area - where coal and iron were important.
0:35:54 > 0:36:00- Iolo Williams came to Pontypridd - to talk to historian, Dean Powell.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- What a great view of Pontypridd.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04- What a great view of Pontypridd.- - It's beautiful.
0:36:04 > 0:36:05- Are you a local boy?
0:36:05 > 0:36:07- Are you a local boy?- - I'm from Llantrisant.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- My family's from Pontypridd - so I feel very close to it.
0:36:11 > 0:36:15- I'd guess, - in a big Valleys town like this...
0:36:15 > 0:36:20- ..that there's a great deal - of industrial and cultural history.
0:36:20 > 0:36:25- Yes, the coal and iron industries - were the making of Pontypridd.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29- Of course, it's important - in the history of Wales...
0:36:29 > 0:36:33- ..from the national anthem - to Tom Jones.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- Tom Jones is all-important. - Everyone mentions him.
0:36:37 > 0:36:42- Are there less well-known people - who are just as important?
0:36:42 > 0:36:45- Dr William Price is a prime example.
0:36:45 > 0:36:50- He was an important figure - in Pontypridd and Wales's history.
0:36:51 > 0:36:57- He's remembered for cremating - his baby, Iesu Grist Price.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01- After that, the Cremation Act - was passed in 1902.
0:37:01 > 0:37:05- Price had lived in Pontypridd - for over 60 years before that.
0:37:06 > 0:37:10- He fought long and hard - for the language and old traditions.
0:37:12 > 0:37:17- He was a doctor - his surgery - was near here, at Coedpenmaen.
0:37:17 > 0:37:23- He also wanted to build - the first Welsh folk museum here.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- The white round houses - stand in the next street.
0:37:27 > 0:37:29- They were his mansion gatehouses.
0:37:29 > 0:37:34- Unfortunately, he didn't have - enough money to finish the project.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36- He was the Archdruid of Wales.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39- He held ceremonies here, - at the Rocking Stone.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42- He founded Wales's first - co-operative society.
0:37:43 > 0:37:46- He never married, - and didn't support marriage.
0:37:46 > 0:37:50- Yet, he fathered - quite a few children.
0:37:52 > 0:37:56- I'm sure it's nice for you - to be able to come back here.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58- Oh, it's beautiful, isn't it?
0:37:59 > 0:38:03- Dr William Price would have had - the same view when he was up here.
0:38:03 > 0:38:07- I like the fact that he was - five-foot-five. Just like me!
0:38:07 > 0:38:08- There's hope for me yet.
0:38:11 > 0:38:16- Next, we leave Pontypridd - and head to the hills with Iolo.
0:38:17 > 0:38:19- Look at these magnificent views.
0:38:20 > 0:38:22- As you all know, I enjoy walking...
0:38:23 > 0:38:27- ..but I'm about to do - a really different sort of walking.
0:38:27 > 0:38:28- Gorge walking.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42- Matt, I'll tell you what, - I'm sweating already.
0:38:43 > 0:38:44- Are you a local boy?
0:38:44 > 0:38:45- Are you a local boy?- - Yes, I am.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47- I went to Ysgol Rhydfelen.
0:38:47 > 0:38:52- During my A-levels, I was climbing - more than I was in school.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55- I then went to Pencoed College.
0:38:55 > 0:38:59- From there, - I was climbing all the time.
0:38:59 > 0:39:01- I was paddling as well.
0:39:01 > 0:39:05- I then got a job - as an outdoor pursuits instructor.
0:39:05 > 0:39:07- So here I am.
0:39:07 > 0:39:10- You teach climbing - and other things too.
0:39:10 > 0:39:13- Climbing, gorge walking, kayaking.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16- I also go out to Malta to work.
0:39:17 > 0:39:19- So, yes, I travel a bit.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- What's ahead of us today?
0:39:22 > 0:39:24- We're doing the balance beam next.
0:39:25 > 0:39:28- We clip you to a rope, - and you go across.
0:39:28 > 0:39:32- You have to walk to the other side - without using your hands.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57- That was some climb, I must say.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01- That was quite difficult, fair play.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05- One thing that's astounded me - is the beauty of this area.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07- It's wonderful, isn't it?
0:40:07 > 0:40:11- This is just part of the farm, - which is really vast.
0:40:11 > 0:40:12- Is it a busy place?
0:40:12 > 0:40:13- Is it a busy place?- - Yes, it is.
0:40:13 > 0:40:17- With the quads, archery - and clay pigeons, we're flat out.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20- People come from all around.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22- I've truly enjoyed myself.
0:40:23 > 0:40:24- How much further is there to go?
0:40:24 > 0:40:26- How much further is there to go?- - About five miles.
0:40:26 > 0:40:27- Five more miles?
0:40:27 > 0:40:28- Five more miles?- - Yes, come on.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30- You lead the way. Five miles!
0:40:31 > 0:40:34- I'm determined to finish, Matt. - Come on, let's go.
0:40:35 > 0:40:37- Good luck, Iolo!
0:40:37 > 0:40:41- Next, we visit the Tonypandy area - of the Rhondda Valley.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49- David Roberts's father - was a coal miner.
0:40:50 > 0:40:54- David and Pat, his wife, - bought an old coal miner's house.
0:40:54 > 0:40:58- Aled Sam and Greg Stevenson - met them there for a chat.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05- There were thousands - of coal miners' houses in Wales.
0:41:05 > 0:41:08- David and Pat Roberts's house...
0:41:08 > 0:41:12- ..is one of the few - original examples still standing.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15- I saw a picture of it - in a shop in Tonypandy.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19- It was for sale - and we were drawn to it, somehow.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23- Even before - we set foot inside the house...
0:41:24 > 0:41:28- ..David said, "We've got to have it! - We've got to have it!"
0:41:29 > 0:41:32- There was no heating in the house.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36- It felt very sad.
0:41:37 > 0:41:42- Plants had come through the windows - and down the curtains.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- It was very spooky.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58- I lived in a house like this - when I was a boy.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01- We had a similar fireplace.
0:42:01 > 0:42:04- We had no electricity or gas - in the house.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06- All we had were candles.
0:42:06 > 0:42:10- I remember my mother - cooking on the fireplace.
0:42:15 > 0:42:19- I probably wanted to regain - a part of my childhood.
0:42:20 > 0:42:25- I like to be - surrounded by interesting objects.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29- We're very fond of the windows - and the doors.
0:42:29 > 0:42:37- We wanted to preserve - the essence of the original house.
0:42:37 > 0:42:41- This area was known as a laboratory.
0:42:42 > 0:42:47- It's a kitchen today, but this is - where they would test the coal.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50- I've never seen - such a building before.
0:42:51 > 0:42:54- The landscape has changed. - The mountain was black.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57- The tips were cleared - and it's green today.
0:43:00 > 0:43:02- The laboratory is over there...
0:43:02 > 0:43:06- ..and we're now stepping into - the main body of the house.
0:43:06 > 0:43:08- This room is surprisingly big.
0:43:08 > 0:43:11- This room is surprisingly big.- - The parlour is a big room too.
0:43:11 > 0:43:16- We assume miners were poor - but that wasn't always the case.
0:43:16 > 0:43:20- A house like this - was a lovely place in which to live.
0:43:20 > 0:43:25- They moved here from other areas, - where they lived in tiny cottages.
0:43:25 > 0:43:29- Whole families shared a single room - in those days.
0:43:29 > 0:43:32- They were happy - to move to terraces like this one.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- I remember the working mines.
0:43:39 > 0:43:43- People, like my father, - walked to the pit in the morning.
0:43:44 > 0:43:48- I remember the sound of the boots - thudding on the ground.
0:43:50 > 0:43:55- I remember Dad coming home - from the pit, in his work clothes.
0:43:55 > 0:43:57- He was filthy!
0:43:59 > 0:44:02- Dad would have a bath - in front of the fire.
0:44:02 > 0:44:05- That goes for me - and the rest of the family too.
0:44:05 > 0:44:07- There was no bathroom.
0:44:09 > 0:44:14- We end by meeting a local girl who - moved down the valley to Cardiff.
0:44:14 > 0:44:19- Catrin Southall created a business - around some very special clothes.
0:44:19 > 0:44:22- I went to meet her a few years ago.
0:44:24 > 0:44:28- This is one of the most - colourful wardrobes I've ever seen.
0:44:30 > 0:44:32- I can't deny it - I love colour!
0:44:32 > 0:44:36- I saw this in a small boutique - in Cardiff called Pussy Galore.
0:44:37 > 0:44:38- I had to have it.
0:44:39 > 0:44:40- It's all about the detail.
0:44:41 > 0:44:43- Look at the frills!
0:44:45 > 0:44:48- It's short at the front - and long at the back.
0:44:48 > 0:44:50- I love the name - Frilly Lilly.
0:44:50 > 0:44:52- I love the name - Frilly Lilly.- - How cute is that?
0:44:53 > 0:44:55- Look at the back of the corset.
0:44:56 > 0:44:59- There's a lace-up effect - at the back.
0:44:59 > 0:45:01- It's quite sexy.
0:45:01 > 0:45:02- It's quite sexy.- - Yes.
0:45:03 > 0:45:04- I like corsets.
0:45:04 > 0:45:08- They give you a nice shape, - even if you feel bloated.
0:45:36 > 0:45:40- A lot of my clothes look girlie, - at first glance...
0:45:42 > 0:45:44- ..but they're girlie/raunchy.
0:45:44 > 0:45:47- Both sides of my character come out.
0:45:48 > 0:45:49- The angel and the devil?
0:45:49 > 0:45:51- The angel and the devil?- - Yes, that's it!
0:45:59 > 0:46:03- I've spent so much money on dresses - and I only wear some of them once.
0:46:05 > 0:46:10- Me and Alex, my friend, - want to set up a dress hire company.
0:46:11 > 0:46:15- We'd call it Cwpwrdd Cudd, - or My Secret Wardrobe in English.
0:46:15 > 0:46:18- It would be perfect - during the credit crunch.
0:46:18 > 0:46:21- I know where to come before a party.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24- I know where to come before a party.- - It'll cost you. This is a business!
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- This is the stuff I wear on stage.
0:46:58 > 0:47:02- I like to team rock T-shirts, - like this AC/DC one...
0:47:03 > 0:47:06- ..with some lace or some netting.
0:47:07 > 0:47:11- I'd wear this to go shopping.
0:47:12 > 0:47:17- I'd wear it on the street and people - would say, "What is she wearing?"
0:47:17 > 0:47:19- I don't care.
0:47:19 > 0:47:21- If you're in the mood, just do it.
0:47:22 > 0:47:26- You don't dress appropriately - for the occasion?
0:47:27 > 0:47:30- No, the clothes I wear - are about the mood I'm in.
0:47:31 > 0:47:34- It's theatric. - That's the performer in you.
0:47:34 > 0:47:36- I just enjoy wearing them.
0:47:37 > 0:47:39- I like to have fun in them.
0:47:45 > 0:47:48- Our journey around Merthyr - has ended.
0:47:48 > 0:47:49- I hope you enjoyed it.
0:47:50 > 0:47:53- Join me next time, - when I'll be on Anglesey.
0:47:53 > 0:47:55- Until then, goodbye.
0:48:11 > 0:48:13- S4C subtitles by Eirlys A Jones