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0:00:28 > 0:00:30- Good morning. Welcome to Adre.
0:00:30 > 0:00:34- Today, I'm in Bangor, - which stands near the Menai Strait.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37- I'm going to a tiny house - in Upper Bangor.
0:00:44 > 0:00:47- Just kidding! This house is massive.
0:00:48 > 0:00:52- Let's search for clues - so we can find out who lives here.
0:00:53 > 0:00:57- For help to follow the programme, - use the website...
0:00:59 > 0:01:02- ..and download the Dal Ati app.
0:01:08 > 0:01:10- This is a dramatic, theatric house.
0:01:11 > 0:01:15- That tells us that the person - who lives here is a performer.
0:01:19 > 0:01:22- There are a few novels - in this cupboard...
0:01:23 > 0:01:26- ..and they were written - by the man who lives here.
0:01:31 > 0:01:32- Look at this cutie!
0:01:33 > 0:01:37- This little lad grew up to be - one of the artistic directors...
0:01:37 > 0:01:40- ..of a successful - performing arts school.
0:01:43 > 0:01:47- Cefin Roberts and Rhian, his wife, - live in this house.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51- Together, they run Ysgol Glanaethwy - performing arts school.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55- Cefin is an actor, - performer and novelist.
0:01:55 > 0:01:58- He also writes scripts - for TV and radio.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00- Here he is, - performing on Noson Lawen.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07- # But oh, when morning came
0:02:07 > 0:02:10- # The sweet boy felt such dismay
0:02:10 > 0:02:16- # When he felt some strange moisture - And a bad smell under his nose
0:02:17 > 0:02:20- # What flower was it, I hear you ask
0:02:21 > 0:02:26- # A pee-the-bed flower, - the dandelion #
0:02:26 > 0:02:28- LAUGHTER
0:02:41 > 0:02:45- Good morning, Cefin Roberts. - It's good to be in your lovely home.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49- Welcome. It's good to have you here.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52- I don't know where to start!
0:02:52 > 0:02:55- You've done so many different things - in your life.
0:02:56 > 0:02:58- Where did your - love of performing begin?
0:02:59 > 0:03:03- It goes back to - my junior school days in Llanllyfni.
0:03:04 > 0:03:08- I was in the same class as Bryn Fon - and we sang in a cerdd dant party.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12- The headmaster, Glyn Owen, - taught us to sing.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14- He was really dedicated...
0:03:14 > 0:03:18- ..and he enjoyed - immersing himself in Welsh culture.
0:03:18 > 0:03:22- I competed in the Urdd Eisteddfod - from an early age.
0:03:22 > 0:03:26- Mam took me to Liverpool - every Thursday for voice coaching.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31- I also had piano, guitar, - recitation and singing lessons.
0:03:31 > 0:03:36- I'd sing in eisteddfodau or concerts - every weekend, so I lived on stage.
0:03:36 > 0:03:41- You went to Trinity College - and the College Of Music And Drama.
0:03:41 > 0:03:43- What was your first paid job?
0:03:44 > 0:03:48- I worked as an actor for - Cwmni Theatr Cymru for six years.
0:03:48 > 0:03:53- I was then offered a part - in the BBC drama series, Gwen Tomos.
0:03:54 > 0:03:58- I was also cast in a new - drama series by Meic Povey...
0:03:58 > 0:04:00- ..called Dim Ond Heddiw.
0:04:01 > 0:04:05- During that period, I also worked - with Bara Caws theatre company.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10- It was a great experience - because we wrote our own scripts.
0:04:10 > 0:04:14- We also wrote our own sketches - for Hapnod.
0:04:14 > 0:04:18- I learned to be a better writer - during that time.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22- You've scripted Rownd A Rownd, - haven't you?
0:04:22 > 0:04:26- Yes, and that was after - we established Glanaethwy.
0:04:26 > 0:04:30- We set up the Rownd A Rownd - scriptwriting team in 1995...
0:04:33 > 0:04:37- ..and I worked as a storyliner - for the series for eight years...
0:04:37 > 0:04:42- ..and I wrote shows for Glanaethwy - at the same time.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46- When did you and Rhian - establish Glanaethwy?
0:04:46 > 0:04:50- Glanaethwy celebrated - its 25th birthday last year.
0:04:50 > 0:04:52- We started it in 1990.
0:04:53 > 0:04:57- I had a vision that I'd establish - a performing arts school...
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- ..when I was a boy.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04- I'd just finished directing a show - for the Urdd Eisteddfod...
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- ..and 60 youngsters took part it.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- We performed - at the old Theatr Gwynedd.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16- The children were crestfallen - when the production ended...
0:05:16 > 0:05:20- ..and Rhian felt the time was right - to establish our school.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24- I was hesitant - but Rhian said it was now or never.
0:05:25 > 0:05:29- The school gradually expanded - and I blame it all on Rhian!
0:05:31 > 0:05:34- Behind every good man, - there's a better woman!
0:05:35 > 0:05:40- What sort of experience was - taking part in Britain's Got Talent?
0:05:41 > 0:05:43- You came third and you were robbed!
0:05:43 > 0:05:45- You came third and you were robbed!- - I don't think we were robbed.
0:05:45 > 0:05:48- I think we were very lucky - in that competition.
0:05:49 > 0:05:55- As you know, Saturday night TV - panels of judges like those...
0:05:55 > 0:05:58- ..are there - to say nasty things at times.
0:05:58 > 0:06:03- Viewers like to see people - become tearful and disappointed.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07- They even like to see people - become embittered.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11- We try to teach our pupils - never to feel bitter about losing.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15- It's part of the process - of performing.
0:06:16 > 0:06:20- In this case, we lost - in front of 11 million viewers...
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- ..and we had millions hits - on YouTube.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27- That's the opportunity - a show like that gives you.
0:06:27 > 0:06:31- It's not about losing to a dog, - or to two dogs as it tuned out!
0:06:34 > 0:06:38- The tour of this big house - will take ages! Let's get started.
0:06:38 > 0:06:41- With pleasure. No problem.
0:06:48 > 0:06:52- This is the first room you see - when you enter the house.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54- That red is lovely.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- It goes all the way up to the top.
0:06:57 > 0:06:58- It goes all the way up to the top.- - Yes, to the mezzanine.
0:07:00 > 0:07:05- This is the back door, but everyone - uses the back door for some reason.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08- It's now designed for Christmas.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13- Apparently, when you view a property - that's for sale...
0:07:13 > 0:07:17- ..you immediately wonder - where you'd put the Christmas tree.
0:07:18 > 0:07:20- It's part of us all, or so they say.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23- Where do you put your tree?
0:07:23 > 0:07:24- Where do you put your tree?- - Here.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28- It was built this high - so I can have a huge tree.
0:07:29 > 0:07:32- You can pop up there to put - the angel on top of the tree.
0:07:33 > 0:07:38- It's a minstrels' gallery, which is - a perfect place to sing carols.
0:07:38 > 0:07:40- The acoustics are great.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42- It was made - for singing Silent Night!
0:07:52 > 0:07:54- Oh, what a nice kitchen.
0:07:54 > 0:07:55- Oh, what a nice kitchen.- - Yes, it's spacious.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59- There's some lovely light coming in.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01- There's some lovely light coming in.- - Yes, especially in the afternoon.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06- The kitchen has become the heart - of the home for a lot of people.
0:08:07 > 0:08:09- Yes - people chat while they cook.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12- Who does the cooking. You or Rhian?
0:08:12 > 0:08:13- We share cooking duty.
0:08:15 > 0:08:20- I do a lot of writing in here - because the light is so lovely.
0:08:20 > 0:08:22- It can be a good place to work.
0:08:23 > 0:08:28- Rhian and I often sit there on our - laptops before we go to the lessons.
0:08:28 > 0:08:32- We close the laptops - and head to Glanaethwy.
0:08:32 > 0:08:34- Can I choose a door - and have a snoop?
0:08:34 > 0:08:36- Of course.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41- This is the lounge. Nice.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47- This is a cosy room - and the view is lovely too.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- Who dusts all these plates - and ornaments?
0:08:57 > 0:08:58- Me. I do it all.
0:08:59 > 0:09:04- Nobody who cleans this house - is allowed to touch my collections.
0:09:06 > 0:09:10- Do you enjoy the process - of exploring in antique shops?
0:09:12 > 0:09:16- I love car boot sales - and antique fairs.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20- Antique shops draw me in, - like a magnet.
0:09:20 > 0:09:25- It's an addiction and Rhian despairs - whenever I go on eBay.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30- Not everyone - has a bar in their lounge.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34- Are you the barman? - Do you work behind there?
0:09:34 > 0:09:36- It's certainly fun.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39- I do end up there some evenings.
0:09:40 > 0:09:41- I may have a tipple later!
0:09:42 > 0:09:43- Where shall we go next?
0:09:44 > 0:09:47- It's up to you. - There's plenty of choice.
0:09:54 > 0:09:57- Wow! This room - is almost like a theatre set.
0:10:00 > 0:10:04- The curtains are theatric and so - are the big paintings on the wall.
0:10:06 > 0:10:10- I commissioned the middle one - from the artist Ed Povey.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14- When you commission Ed - to do a painting...
0:10:14 > 0:10:18- ..he sits down with you - to discuss what you want.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- I think I'm the clown - in that picture.
0:10:21 > 0:10:25- Rhian's one of the audience members.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30- That painting was created - especially for us.
0:10:30 > 0:10:35- I've just seen one of my - favourite things - a rocking horse!
0:10:36 > 0:10:38- Can I ride it?
0:10:38 > 0:10:40- No - it won't take my weight.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43- I adore that rocking horse.
0:10:44 > 0:10:46- I'd have liked one - when I was a girl.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48- Where did it come from?
0:10:48 > 0:10:50- Where did it come from?- - I bought it on eBay.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54- It was a Christmas present - for my grandsons and they love it.
0:10:54 > 0:10:56- Tell me about that piano.
0:10:56 > 0:10:57- Tell me about that piano.- - Rhian is the pianist.
0:10:58 > 0:11:03- I write music on the piano but I do - it by ear rather than from a copy.
0:11:05 > 0:11:06- Those are volumes...
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- ..of Eisteddfod adjudications - and winning literary entries.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- Yes, and I've been collecting them - since I was at school.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21- I used to go to Eric Jones's shop - in Caernarfon to buy them.
0:11:22 > 0:11:27- He stocked these volumes of - adjudications and literary works...
0:11:28 > 0:11:29- ..going back many years.
0:11:30 > 0:11:35- I add to this collection every year - but I don't have the complete set.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38- What about these pictures?
0:11:38 > 0:11:39- What about these pictures?- - Let's start with these.
0:11:40 > 0:11:43- Rob Piercy from Porthmadog - painted these.
0:11:43 > 0:11:48- His son was a Glanaethwy pupil and - he asked me if he could come in...
0:11:49 > 0:11:51- ..and paint some portraits.
0:11:51 > 0:11:55- That was our production - of A Midsummer Night's Dream.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58- This is my old home - Tyddyn Difyr.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02- My first novel, - which was called Brwydr Y Bradwr...
0:12:03 > 0:12:05- ..mentions pigs, hens and so on.
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- This is the old henhouse...
0:12:08 > 0:12:11- ..which sparked the idea - for that first novel.
0:12:15 > 0:12:16- Where shall we go next, Cefin?
0:12:16 > 0:12:18- Where shall we go next, Cefin?- - Through to the front room.
0:12:26 > 0:12:28- Oh, this is nice.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30- It's like an old-fashioned parlour.
0:12:30 > 0:12:31- It's like an old-fashioned parlour.- - Yes.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36- This is a good room for sitting down - and having a chat.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39- Yes - everyone facing each other.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43- What do we have on the walls?
0:12:43 > 0:12:45- More of Rob Piercy's work.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48- I think I recognize that man!
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- I think I recognize that man!- - Rhian commissioned it from Piercy.
0:12:51 > 0:12:56- It's a portrait of me winning the - National Eisteddfod Prose Medal.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- That was my birthday present - last year.
0:13:02 > 0:13:04- I'm having such fun with Cefin!
0:13:04 > 0:13:06- Join us after the break.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- Do you fancy a half?
0:13:10 > 0:13:10- .
0:13:17 > 0:13:17- Subtitles
0:13:17 > 0:13:19- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:13:27 > 0:13:29- Welcome back.
0:13:29 > 0:13:35- We've seen the ground floor, and the - tour of this great house continues.
0:13:39 > 0:13:42- There are lots of doors - at the top of the stairs.
0:13:43 > 0:13:44- What have we got here?
0:13:44 > 0:13:48- Well, we have enough doors - to stage a good farce!
0:13:49 > 0:13:54- There are three bedrooms - and one bathroom over here.
0:13:55 > 0:14:00- The old master bedroom, the new - master bedroom the mezzanine.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04- This staircase leads to the attic.
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- May I see the new master bedroom?
0:14:11 > 0:14:13- Oh, it's nice!
0:14:13 > 0:14:18- I could soak in that bath for hours - with a book and lots of bubbles.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22- Is that the original window?
0:14:22 > 0:14:24- Is that the original window?- - Yes, and it used to have a view!
0:14:24 > 0:14:29- We commissioned one of the parents - to create a stained glass window...
0:14:29 > 0:14:31- ..to match the tiles.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- You're so swish!
0:14:34 > 0:14:37- Great. From the en suite - to the bedroom.
0:14:43 > 0:14:45- What a spacious bedroom!
0:14:45 > 0:14:48- Wow! What an amazing view!
0:14:48 > 0:14:50- Do you ever close the curtains?
0:14:50 > 0:14:52- Do you ever close the curtains?- - No. It's like a picture, isn't it?
0:14:52 > 0:14:56- This is the extension - above the living room.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59- I always wanted a step down.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02- It's a step up, onto this stage.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05- Well, it's very theatric.
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- I've just spotted - a rather roomy walk-in wardrobe.
0:15:10 > 0:15:15- Yes, we both love clothes, - and there's plenty of space there.
0:15:15 > 0:15:17- Do you have more than Rhian?
0:15:17 > 0:15:19- Do you have more than Rhian?- - No - we have as much as each other!
0:15:20 > 0:15:22- Let's go on to the next room.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37- Wow!
0:15:37 > 0:15:39- I can't believe my eyes.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41- Cups, jugs...
0:15:42 > 0:15:44- ..and more plates.
0:15:44 > 0:15:47- Have you considered therapy?
0:15:49 > 0:15:50- This is my therapy.
0:15:51 > 0:15:53- This is therapy? Excellent.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56- It's a piece of history.
0:15:56 > 0:16:01- Several of these items were given - to my parents as wedding presents.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05- I could never get rid of them. - I'm very sentimental.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10- Some of my friends say being - sentimental can be a weakness...
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- ..but I find it very comforting.
0:16:14 > 0:16:19- What strikes me is you'll often find - that avid collectors are untidy...
0:16:21 > 0:16:26- ..but this collection - is meticulously organized and neat.
0:16:26 > 0:16:31- You can't appreciate them - unless they're displayed neatly.
0:16:32 > 0:16:36- What's the point of collecting items - if you don't enjoy them?
0:16:37 > 0:16:41- Some of my friends laugh, like you, - and others understand it.
0:16:49 > 0:16:51- Here we are, on the mezzanine.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54- We came in through that door.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56- Do you come out here often?
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- Do you eat here?
0:16:58 > 0:17:00- Do you eat here?- - Yes, especially in the summer.
0:17:01 > 0:17:03- It's a lovely place to eat dinner.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06- I also come here - when I need some thinking time.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10- There are - a few ornaments in here too!
0:17:11 > 0:17:16- Yes, some of my favourite - collections are on display here.
0:17:19 > 0:17:23- I've enjoyed snooping around - the theatre set you call home!
0:17:24 > 0:17:27- Can we go down - the spiral staircase?
0:17:27 > 0:17:29- Yes, of course.
0:17:49 > 0:17:52- I popped to the school - to have a chat with Rhian.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57- It's Sunday - and it's very quiet in here today.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00- It's usually noisy and lively, - isn't it?
0:18:01 > 0:18:05- Yes, it's usually - full to the rafters.
0:18:05 > 0:18:06- How many pupils do you have?
0:18:06 > 0:18:08- How many pupils do you have?- - Around 150.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12- Who can come here and - do they have to audition to get in?
0:18:12 > 0:18:14- Not at all.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17- The doors are open to everyone.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22- They start at six or seven - and they're here until they're 18.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25- Some stay on longer than that.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29- All we ask is they come with - enthusiasm and want to be here.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33- Do you and Cefin - have different roles here?
0:18:34 > 0:18:38- I teach the young ones - and Cefin teaches the older ones.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42- Cefin does the scripting - and creative development...
0:18:42 > 0:18:45- ..and I do the administrative work.
0:18:45 > 0:18:50- I'm sure organizing trips, booking - buses and hotels is a lot of work.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54- Yes, and I sometimes feel - I have endless lists.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- I have to check - people's availability.
0:18:57 > 0:19:02- It's a responsibility, especially - when we did Britain's Got Talent.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05- How many of you were on that show?
0:19:05 > 0:19:07- How many of you were on that show?- - There were 168 of us.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10- You all needed hotel rooms - in central London?
0:19:11 > 0:19:15- Yes. The group was split - between three different hotels.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18- It was a pain - to have to pick everyone up.
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- What does working with youngsters - do for you?
0:19:23 > 0:19:24- They've kept us going.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28- We've had to battle several elements - over the years...
0:19:29 > 0:19:31- ..but the youngsters - made it all worth it.
0:19:32 > 0:19:36- We have great memories - of our first pupils.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39- They're now in their 40s...
0:19:39 > 0:19:42- ..and their children - are at our school.
0:19:43 > 0:19:44- That makes me feel old!
0:19:52 > 0:19:57- What three things would you rescue - from this house if it were on fire?
0:19:58 > 0:20:02- Like the collector you are, - I see there are lots of items here.
0:20:05 > 0:20:07- This is the oldest item I've chosen.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10- A watch which was left to me...
0:20:10 > 0:20:13- ..by the daughter of the singer, - Mary King Sarah.
0:20:14 > 0:20:16- She was my father's cousin.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21- They came from Cornwall originally, - hence the surname Sarah.
0:20:22 > 0:20:26- She won the solo for sopranos at - the Caernarfon National Eisteddfod.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32- She went over to America - with Penrhyn Male Voice Choir.
0:20:32 > 0:20:34- She was their guest soloist.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37- She then settled in America.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41- When she came back to Wales - on her travels...
0:20:42 > 0:20:44- ..this watch was presented to her.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49- 'This watch and chain was presented - to Mary King Sarah...
0:20:49 > 0:20:54- ..by friends and inhabitants of - the Nantlle Valley, December 1909.'
0:20:57 > 0:21:02- Evelyn King, her daughter, brought - the watch back here in the 1960s.
0:21:02 > 0:21:07- My mother told me to stand on - a chair and sing for Evelyn King...
0:21:07 > 0:21:11- ..to show her there were - still singers in the family.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- That's when - she gave the watch to me...
0:21:14 > 0:21:19- ..and said, as I would take up the - family's musical baton in future...
0:21:19 > 0:21:22- ..I should be the one - who keeps this watch.
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- I think it's important - that I rescue this from a fire.
0:21:27 > 0:21:31- The second item also reminds me - of someone who's very dear to me.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- Norah Isaac, my drama lecturer - at Trinity College.
0:21:35 > 0:21:37- When Norah died...
0:21:37 > 0:21:42- ..all her friends were invited - to choose one item from her house.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45- This is Math Fab Mathonwy...
0:21:46 > 0:21:49- ..with Goewin, his foot-holder.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52- Math had to rest his feet in her lap - at all times...
0:21:52 > 0:21:57- ..other than when he was at war - and he had to protect his country.
0:21:57 > 0:22:02- That's when Gilfaethwy and Gwydion - brutally attacked Goewin.
0:22:02 > 0:22:04- It's an important story.
0:22:06 > 0:22:12- Norah told us the story and this - is more than a piece of porcelain.
0:22:12 > 0:22:13- It's a fond memory.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- As it's next to the novel, - I may know what's in this box.
0:22:21 > 0:22:26- Yes. This is the National Eisteddfod - Prose Medal which I won in 2004.
0:22:26 > 0:22:29- It brings back - some wonderful memories.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33- Ray Gravell - was the Sword Bearer back then.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- I remember Ray Gravell laughing...
0:22:36 > 0:22:41- ..because I sat down before I was - invited to do so by the archdruid.
0:22:42 > 0:22:46- I thought I'd heard Ray - telling me to take a seat.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50- That's not what he said - but I sat down anyway...
0:22:50 > 0:22:53- ..and made a mess of the ceremony!
0:22:53 > 0:22:55- Never mind. I enjoyed it.
0:22:55 > 0:22:59- Winning one of - the Eisteddfod's main prizes...
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- ..must be - the pinnacle of your career...
0:23:02 > 0:23:05- ..and you won it - for your first novel.
0:23:05 > 0:23:08- Yes. I wrote a show - for the school every year.
0:23:08 > 0:23:13- I jotted down ideas that year and - I realized it wouldn't make a show.
0:23:13 > 0:23:16- I didn't know - where it was taking me.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- I chatted to a few authors - who live locally...
0:23:19 > 0:23:24- ..and Geraint, my neighbour, told me - he thought it was a short novel.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28- The writing created - a different world from the stage...
0:23:29 > 0:23:32- ..and, slowly but surely, - this novel grew from that.
0:23:33 > 0:23:37- The Eisteddfod asked for a novel - with an agricultural theme...
0:23:37 > 0:23:41- ..and I entered my novel, - just to get some feedback.
0:23:41 > 0:23:45- I'm proud that the adjudicators - deemed it a worthy winner.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- Thank you, Cefin. - I really enjoyed myself.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52- Thank you for sharing - your collections with me.
0:23:52 > 0:23:53- My pleasure.
0:23:55 > 0:23:59- Well, I had a lovely morning - with Cefin and Rhian Roberts.
0:23:59 > 0:24:04- Join me next week to snoop around - the home of another celebrity.
0:24:04 > 0:24:05- Until then, goodbye.
0:24:07 > 0:24:07- .
0:24:13 > 0:24:13- Subtitles
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:24:20 > 0:24:22- Hello! I'm Nia Parry.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24- Can you guess where I am today?
0:24:24 > 0:24:28- Yes - Dolgellau, - in Snowdonia National Park.
0:24:28 > 0:24:29- Welcome to Milltir2.
0:24:36 > 0:24:41- I'm in the town of Dolgellau, - on the banks of River Wnion.
0:24:45 > 0:24:50- Dolgellau is a market town with - a population of just under 3,000.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53- In this area, - 65% of people can speak Welsh.
0:24:54 > 0:24:59- Agriculture is important to the area - and to the town for centuries.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05- River Wnion's source is near Bala...
0:25:05 > 0:25:09- ..and it runs south-west - to the town of Dolgellau.
0:25:09 > 0:25:14- Just outside the town, - River Wnion joins River Mawddach.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19- The rivers meet - near the old Cymer Abbey.
0:25:20 > 0:25:23- Cymer means 'where two rivers meet'.
0:25:28 > 0:25:33- The source of River Mawddach is - in the mountains north of Dolgellau.
0:25:34 > 0:25:39- The river runs through Coed Y Brenin - where there was once a gold mine.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- The River Mawddach estuary - is near Barmouth.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- A ten-mile cycle path - goes from Dolgellau to Barmouth...
0:25:48 > 0:25:50- ..along the old railway track.
0:25:56 > 0:26:00- South of Dolgellau is a beautiful - mountain called Cader Idris.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- This area is popular - with walkers and climbers.
0:26:05 > 0:26:07- As you walk around the town...
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- ..you see the local stone, - called dolerite.
0:26:11 > 0:26:13- Here are Aled Sam - and Greg Stevenson.
0:26:15 > 0:26:19- For help to follow the programme, - use the website...
0:26:22 > 0:26:25- ..and download the Dal Ati app.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- There's no better starting point - for a programme about Dolgellau...
0:26:31 > 0:26:35- ..than on the church tower, - in the centre of town.
0:26:35 > 0:26:40- We can look down at everyone, - except the gentry houses up there.
0:26:40 > 0:26:42- This is a very Welsh town.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47- It's below a mountain and there are - stone buildings everywhere.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51- Local dolerite stone - is used in almost every building.
0:26:52 > 0:26:57- This is a handsome town - and I mean handsome, not pretty.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- Are many of these buildings listed?
0:27:05 > 0:27:07- Are many of these buildings listed?- - Yes, over 200 of them are listed.
0:27:07 > 0:27:10- We're in Snowdonia National Park...
0:27:10 > 0:27:13- ..so the town's character - can never be changed.
0:27:31 > 0:27:34- This house - is really close to the cemetery.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37- Is it linked to the church - in some way?
0:27:37 > 0:27:39- This path leads to the cemetery.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43- The house is called - Tan y Fynwent (Below the Cemetery).
0:27:44 > 0:27:46- It's older than the present church.
0:27:46 > 0:27:50- It's one of Dolgellau's - oldest buildings, as we can see.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53- There are clues about its age here.
0:27:53 > 0:27:59- The stone dormers are significant, - as is the rough stonework.
0:28:00 > 0:28:04- More recent, Victorian buildings, - have smooth stones.
0:28:14 > 0:28:18- It's a Victorian porch but you - can see it isn't a Victorian house.
0:28:18 > 0:28:23- This 17th-century house - has some interesting plasterwork.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- It's quite primitive - and I'm very fond of it.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- This oak door - dates back to the same period.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33- This is called Bolection moulding...
0:28:33 > 0:28:37- ..and it was fashionable - in the late 17th century.
0:28:37 > 0:28:41- The staircase is remarkable.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- This is an early 18th-century - oak staircase.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57- It stretches over three floors.
0:29:01 > 0:29:03- There are - three types of balusters here.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07- These are splat balusters.
0:29:08 > 0:29:12- This is the most primitive - and the cheapest of the three types.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15- It's a late 17th-century design.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17- There are turned balusters...
0:29:18 > 0:29:22- ..and some fancy balusters at - the bottom, where the family lived.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25- This bannister is wonderful.
0:29:25 > 0:29:27- This bannister is wonderful.- - Yes, the craftsmanship is good.
0:29:27 > 0:29:31- It's a wide staircase - made of oak, from top to bottom.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36- What's next, Greg?
0:29:36 > 0:29:40- We go from a 17th century house - to a 17th century bridge.
0:29:40 > 0:29:42- Have you seen Minti?
0:29:58 > 0:30:03- Centuries ago, this must have been - Dolgellau's most important feature.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07- This bridge made it possible - for people to cross the river.
0:30:07 > 0:30:12- Yes, this 17th century bridge - was widened in the 19th century.
0:30:12 > 0:30:17- The top section was also rebuilt - after the Great Flood of 1903.
0:30:19 > 0:30:22- The top end was extended - to accommodate the railway...
0:30:23 > 0:30:26- ..which was - where the main road lies today.
0:30:27 > 0:30:32- It must have attracted visitors here - to see this untamed countryside.
0:30:33 > 0:30:37- Yes. Tourism began to flourish - in the 1930s and the 1940s.
0:30:39 > 0:30:43- It only took five hours to get - to London from here in the 1930s.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47- It would take five hours - to drive to London from here today.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02- Here we are, - in a street called Wtra'r Felin.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05- Wtra means "narrow lane" - and Felin means "mill".
0:31:05 > 0:31:08- This narrow lane leads to the mill.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11- This is the town's industrial area.
0:31:11 > 0:31:13- There were several - woollen mills here.
0:31:14 > 0:31:19- Dolgellau's wealth was generated - by the wool and leather industries.
0:31:19 > 0:31:22- There were several tanneries here.
0:31:23 > 0:31:28- The mills must have been very noisy - and the tanneries were very smelly.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32- The tanneries used water - from the river, down there.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37- The evidence - of this town's industrial past...
0:31:37 > 0:31:41- ..lies in old mill buildings - and warehouses, like this one.
0:31:41 > 0:31:45- There are doors on each floor - and a roof for the winch.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49- Dolgellau has several - mill buildings.
0:31:49 > 0:31:51- The word Wtra is fascinating.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56- There are several examples - of roads called Wtra in Dolgellau.
0:31:56 > 0:32:01- The word Wtra comes from an English - word from the Shropshire area.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04- People in Shropshire - use the word out-tracks.
0:32:05 > 0:32:09- Dolgellau people probably - did business with Shropshire people.
0:32:10 > 0:32:14- The word out-track filtered - across the border and became Wtra.
0:32:27 > 0:32:29- Wtra. That's a nice word.
0:32:30 > 0:32:32- I've never heard it before.
0:32:32 > 0:32:33- Look who's here with me!
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- The TV presenter and author, - Bethan Gwanas.
0:32:38 > 0:32:42- Are there any other words - which are unique to this area?
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- The first one - which springs to mind is chav.
0:32:48 > 0:32:53- Our chav existed long before - the English called people chavs.
0:32:53 > 0:32:57- I think it stems from the time - when the gypsies came here.
0:32:57 > 0:33:02- It was common to hear people greet - each other with, "Reit dde, chav?"
0:33:02 > 0:33:05- People say dde, not dda here.
0:33:06 > 0:33:11- We say E not A, but it's harder - than the E you hear in Machynlleth.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- My grandmother said, "Brwsh bres" - and "Y geth".
0:33:15 > 0:33:18- When I'm with my Dolgellau friends, - I say E not A.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23- What's the situation - of the Welsh language in this area?
0:33:23 > 0:33:25- It was once totally Welsh-speaking.
0:33:26 > 0:33:31- Centuries ago, people started to - think Welsh was inferior to English.
0:33:32 > 0:33:33- That's a common tale.
0:33:34 > 0:33:37- That feeling - has never left Dolgellau.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42- Ever since I can remember, - the townies tend to speak English...
0:33:42 > 0:33:44- ..or half-Welsh, half-English.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- I'm just going to get the children - from yr ysgol.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52- They can speak Welsh - but they choose not to.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- Yes. I'm not sure why and - I doubt they know why either.
0:33:57 > 0:34:01- I went to school with people whose - parents spoke Welsh fluently...
0:34:02 > 0:34:06- ..but they chose to speak English - with their siblings...
0:34:06 > 0:34:08- ..and with their school friends.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12- The Welsh speakers - are out on the farms?
0:34:13 > 0:34:18- Yes, people in villages and on farms - speak Welsh all the time.
0:34:18 > 0:34:21- Dolgellau must be - close to your heart.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- What makes it so special?
0:34:23 > 0:34:27- When I was at school, - I couldn't wait to leave the place.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30- I thought it was an absolute dump.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34- But, having been away - and lived abroad...
0:34:36 > 0:34:39- ..I realized - that it's a lovely place to live.
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- I didn't realize just how beautiful - it is until I left.
0:34:43 > 0:34:48- I don't think there's anywhere - more beautiful than this area.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52- No other place - has so many shades of green.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55- We have more greenery - than other areas.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00- My roots are here - and that's incredibly strong for me.
0:35:00 > 0:35:05- I come from a farming family and - I'm related to lots of people here.
0:35:05 > 0:35:11- I enjoy walking about the square - saying "Hello, chav!" to everyone!
0:35:12 > 0:35:13- I don't really say that!
0:35:14 > 0:35:17- What about community events?
0:35:18 > 0:35:21- Are many events - held through the medium of Welsh?
0:35:22 > 0:35:26- Yes, cyfarfodydd bach - - small eisteddfodau - are held here.
0:35:26 > 0:35:30- They preserve our Welshness, - as do agricultural shows.
0:35:30 > 0:35:34- At Rhydymain Show, - we make bilingual announcements...
0:35:34 > 0:35:38- ..but it's held - through the medium of Welsh really.
0:35:38 > 0:35:42- Sesiwn Fawr is another thing - which boosts Welshness.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- I have great memories - of Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau!
0:35:46 > 0:35:48- Describe Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau.
0:35:48 > 0:35:49- Describe Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau.- - It's a music festival.
0:35:50 > 0:35:53- Bands play in the streets - all weekend.
0:35:54 > 0:35:58- People have a chance to hear - Welsh bands and that's vital.
0:35:58 > 0:36:04- It's important to respect the music - of people who speak your language.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07- Thank you, Bethan.
0:36:07 > 0:36:11- Join me after the break - for more from Dolgellau.
0:36:11 > 0:36:11- .
0:36:17 > 0:36:17- Subtitles
0:36:17 > 0:36:19- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:36:22 > 0:36:24- Welcome back to Dolgellau.
0:36:25 > 0:36:27- Next, we meet Karen Goswell.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30- She moved to the area - and learned Welsh.
0:36:30 > 0:36:34- She has also gone on to establish - her own wool business...
0:36:34 > 0:36:37- ..but with alpacas, not sheep.
0:36:41 > 0:36:42- My name is Karen.
0:36:43 > 0:36:45- I'm half-Welsh - and I live in Gwynedd.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- I'm learning online - with Say Something In Welsh.
0:36:52 > 0:36:55- I've been learning for two years.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03- I've just started - going to a Welsh class in town too.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07- It's an advanced - conversation course.
0:37:08 > 0:37:10- I really enjoy it.
0:37:12 > 0:37:17- I think it's really important - when you're learning Welsh...
0:37:18 > 0:37:24- ..to reach the point where you can - talk to people as soon as possible.
0:37:28 > 0:37:33- Once you reach that point, - everyone becomes your teacher...
0:37:33 > 0:37:36- ..and speaking Welsh is fun.
0:37:41 > 0:37:43- I was working in America - two years ago.
0:37:44 > 0:37:47- I lived in America for a long time.
0:37:49 > 0:37:52- I lived there for almost 15 years.
0:37:55 > 0:37:59- One day, I met an alpaca - for the first time.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04- I fell in love with his big eyes!
0:38:08 > 0:38:12- That's when I decided - I wanted to keep alpacas.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15- And here I am!
0:38:16 > 0:38:19- Alpacas are mountain animals.
0:38:22 > 0:38:26- They're really happy - on the mountains in Snowdonia.
0:38:27 > 0:38:32- The alpaca - comes from South America originally.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37- They're hardy, - so it's easy to take care of them.
0:38:40 > 0:38:44- Alpacas are friendly animals - but they're not too friendly.
0:38:48 > 0:38:51- They want to - come and see what's happening.
0:38:53 > 0:38:57- If you walk down the field, - the alpacas come close to you...
0:38:59 > 0:39:01- ..but not too close.
0:39:04 > 0:39:05- We shear them once a year.
0:39:10 > 0:39:12- I send the fleece to the mill.
0:39:14 > 0:39:20- When I get the wool back, I sell - balls of it in the shop in town.
0:39:24 > 0:39:29- I make all sorts of things - in my knitting room.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31- I use a knitting machine.
0:39:33 > 0:39:35- It's quite an old machine.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41- It was a hi-tech machine - back in the 1980s!
0:39:44 > 0:39:48- It still works and I enjoy using it.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57- The alpaca has big, beautiful eyes.
0:40:00 > 0:40:04- Their fleece is soft, like cashmere.
0:40:07 > 0:40:09- They're very valuable too.
0:40:11 > 0:40:14- The plan - is to expand the alpaca herd...
0:40:15 > 0:40:19- ..until it reaches - around 100 animals.
0:40:21 > 0:40:22- That's plenty for us.
0:40:25 > 0:40:26- I love living here.
0:40:30 > 0:40:35- I look out of the window every - morning and think how lucky I am.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41- For help to follow the programme, - use the website...
0:40:44 > 0:40:46- ..and download the Dal Ati app.
0:40:55 > 0:41:00- People have come here to climb - Cader Idris for more than 200 years.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04- Dolgellau is now a popular - outdoor pursuits centre...
0:41:05 > 0:41:08- ..as Iolo Williams discovers.
0:41:08 > 0:41:13- My trip starts with someone - who likes being outdoors.
0:41:14 > 0:41:16- He's waiting for me down the road.
0:41:27 > 0:41:31- Ifan, the Mawddach Trail - is great for cyclists, isn't it?
0:41:31 > 0:41:33- Yes, it is. It's flat.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36- It appeals - to a wide range of people.
0:41:37 > 0:41:42- It attracts families and people - who can't cope with steep climbs.
0:41:42 > 0:41:44- When did you start cycling?
0:41:44 > 0:41:46- When did you start cycling?- - I started in 2005.
0:41:46 > 0:41:51- I'd had enough of playing rugby - and always getting injured.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53- I thought I'd do something new.
0:41:53 > 0:41:58- I knew about the Mawddach Trail - and places like Coed y Brenin.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01- I hadn't noticed them previously, - so I bought a bike.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04- You realized you're a natural.
0:42:04 > 0:42:08- Yes, I took to it straightaway - and then started racing.
0:42:08 > 0:42:13- I reached a fairly high standard, - and raced across Wales and Britain.
0:42:14 > 0:42:15- I had a good time.
0:42:15 > 0:42:16- I had a good time.- - Well done.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19- And what a wonderful place to train.
0:42:21 > 0:42:25- As well as being a cyclist, - you're a mountain runner.
0:42:26 > 0:42:28- That's a silly sport, if you ask me.
0:42:28 > 0:42:32- Yes, I suppose it is. - I leave my brain at home and go.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36- What made you start? - Did it go well with cycling?
0:42:36 > 0:42:39- Yes, but I had also hurt my hand - in a work accident.
0:42:40 > 0:42:43- I couldn't ride a bike - because I was in plaster.
0:42:43 > 0:42:46- I had to do something - to keep myself fit.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51- After my first race, - I found that I was a good runner.
0:42:51 > 0:42:53- You've represented Wales.
0:42:53 > 0:42:55- I ran the Snowdon Race this year.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57- I ran the Snowdon Race this year.- - How did it go?
0:42:57 > 0:42:59- I finished 18th out of over 500.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03- I kept up with - the international runners.
0:43:13 > 0:43:15- Let's take a breather here.
0:43:15 > 0:43:18- My backside's aching a little!
0:43:18 > 0:43:23- Obviously, you're a good cyclist. - You excel at running too.
0:43:23 > 0:43:26- Which would you prefer - if you had to choose?
0:43:27 > 0:43:30- From a fun perspective, - I'd say the bikes.
0:43:30 > 0:43:33- It's much faster, isn't it?
0:43:33 > 0:43:37- Even so, I'd choose running first, - because of my success...
0:43:38 > 0:43:42- ..but it's impossible - to think about not cycling.
0:43:42 > 0:43:46- Dolgellau has Coed y Brenin - and the Mawddach Trail.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48- I'll always be on the bike.
0:43:48 > 0:43:51- We still have a long way to go, - but I'll race you!
0:43:52 > 0:43:54- Ready? Three, two, one, away!
0:43:59 > 0:44:03- The village of Brithdir - is just to the east of Dolgellau.
0:44:04 > 0:44:08- I went there some years ago - to meet Edna Griffiths.
0:44:18 > 0:44:21- Santa Claus gave me a hat - for Christmas one year.
0:44:21 > 0:44:24- I thought I looked - the bee's knees in it.
0:44:24 > 0:44:29- It brings back fond memories. - I'll never forget it.
0:44:33 > 0:44:39- Edna Griffiths has been designing - and making hats for eight years.
0:44:49 > 0:44:51- Why do hats appeal to you?
0:44:53 > 0:44:56- I like styles, colours, - co-ordinating...
0:44:56 > 0:44:59- ..and finding the right hat - for the weather.
0:45:00 > 0:45:02- How often will you wear a hat?
0:45:02 > 0:45:04- I always wear a hat in the winter.
0:45:05 > 0:45:08- I always wear a hat - when I'm out and about.
0:45:08 > 0:45:11- I come in - and throw the hat on the floor.
0:45:11 > 0:45:16- If there's already one on the floor, - I pick it up and put it on.
0:45:16 > 0:45:18- I would love to go to the races.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21- I haven't been yet, - but it's an ambition of mine.
0:45:22 > 0:45:25- I'd definitely wear a hat - to go to the races.
0:45:30 > 0:45:36- The very first hat I made - was pink and black.
0:45:38 > 0:45:39- It was a cloche.
0:45:40 > 0:45:45- A cloche is a hat which comes down, - over your face.
0:45:47 > 0:45:51- It comes down, over your face, - or with an upturned brim.
0:45:52 > 0:45:53- It's a 1920s style hat.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06- This is my cupboard, Nia.
0:46:06 > 0:46:08- This is my cupboard, Nia.- - I'm sure it's full of hats.
0:46:10 > 0:46:14- Wow! There are so many different - styles and colours in there.
0:46:14 > 0:46:16- Where shall we start?
0:46:16 > 0:46:19- Let's start at the top - and work our way down.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22- This is a good hat for you, Nia.
0:46:23 > 0:46:25- Felt and a little bit of knitwear.
0:46:25 > 0:46:28- You must have known - what I'd wear today!
0:46:28 > 0:46:32- Teal is the fashionable colour - this season.
0:46:33 > 0:46:35- Is it, really?
0:46:35 > 0:46:36- I'll try this one.
0:46:40 > 0:46:42- Wow! You look like a cockerel.
0:46:42 > 0:46:44- Yes, that's right.
0:46:45 > 0:46:47- What else do we have here?
0:46:47 > 0:46:49- Let me see.
0:46:49 > 0:46:53- What on earth - inspired you to make that hat?
0:46:53 > 0:46:54- I'm as mad as a hatter!
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- That's the only answer - I can give you.
0:46:59 > 0:47:02- This is the very first hat - I made myself.
0:47:02 > 0:47:07- This is your first attempt - to make a hat, using this material.
0:47:07 > 0:47:08- Yes.
0:47:09 > 0:47:10- I'll model it for you.
0:47:11 > 0:47:12- This is the front.
0:47:13 > 0:47:14- What material is that?
0:47:14 > 0:47:16- What material is that?- - This is sinamay.
0:47:18 > 0:47:23- It's actually made of the wood of - a tree related to the banana tree.
0:47:23 > 0:47:25- It's called the abaca tree.
0:47:26 > 0:47:28- It comes from the Philippines.
0:47:28 > 0:47:31- Here's another hat, - made from sinamay.
0:47:31 > 0:47:35- I had gained more experience, - by the time I made this one.
0:47:36 > 0:47:38- This is sinamay and straw.
0:47:39 > 0:47:43- As you gain experience, - you can combine materials?
0:47:43 > 0:47:44- Yes.
0:47:45 > 0:47:46- Try it on. Go on! Go on!
0:47:46 > 0:47:48- Let's have some fun.
0:47:49 > 0:47:53- The first thing you want to do - when you see a hat is try it.
0:47:53 > 0:47:55- How should I wear this hat?
0:47:55 > 0:47:57- Forward, like this?
0:47:57 > 0:47:59- Pull the brim down.
0:47:59 > 0:48:03- You look like a shady lady, - who's off to the races!
0:48:21 > 0:48:24- S4C subtitles by Eirlys A Jones
0:48:24 > 0:48:24- .