0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:01- 888- - 888
0:00:01 > 0:00:06- Many Welsh people spend - their summer holidays in Europe.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10- Long summer days spent on beaches - in France and Spain...
0:00:11 > 0:00:13- ..sampling foreign foods...
0:00:13 > 0:00:17- ..and learning about - different cultures and customs.
0:00:20 > 0:00:24- Foreign holidays conjure up - romantic images in the mind.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28- Europe feels more laid back - and fashionable.
0:00:28 > 0:00:32- It's more appealing - than our familiar lives back home.
0:00:35 > 0:00:40- It's no wonder Wales has something - to offer our European neighbours.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43- Sharing cultures and produce - can work both ways.
0:00:44 > 0:00:48- In this episode, - I discover how produce from Wales...
0:00:48 > 0:00:52- ..is making its mark - across the countries of Europe.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58- Slate, seafood and trailers...
0:00:59 > 0:01:03- ..are all exports from Wales - that travel the entire continent.
0:01:09 > 0:01:14- The waters flowing between Anglesey - and the mainland are very fertile.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17- Salt is harvested here.
0:01:17 > 0:01:22- But I didn't know that mussels were - farmed here on such a large scale.
0:01:35 > 0:01:36- I love shellfish...
0:01:37 > 0:01:41- ..like most of us who are - frequent visitors to Swansea Market.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44- I'm looking forward - to visiting Port Penrhyn...
0:01:45 > 0:01:49- ..on the outskirts of Bangor, - where the industry is thriving.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53- Here in Wales, the mussels we eat...
0:01:54 > 0:01:56- ..all come from Scotland.
0:01:56 > 0:02:00- The mussels we gather in Wales - are exported all over Europe.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04- To France, Holland - and predominantly to Belgium.
0:02:08 > 0:02:12- It's an old industry, - dating back four centuries.
0:02:12 > 0:02:18- But the Mighty Mussels company now - has special boats to do the work.
0:02:19 > 0:02:23- A tightly-controlled area between - Port Penrhyn and Beaumaris...
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- ..ensures the fishing - is sustainable.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30- They maintain a specific area of - the seabed, planting mollusc seed...
0:02:30 > 0:02:33- ..from Morecambe Bay - or the Irish Sea...
0:02:33 > 0:02:37- ..and leave them to thicken - and mature for three years.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44- I'm aboard the Valente...
0:02:45 > 0:02:48- ..one of the company's two boats - that farm and fish...
0:02:48 > 0:02:51- ..in Britain's biggest mussel farm.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57- How many mussels will we gather - here today, John?
0:02:57 > 0:03:02- We've already gathered one yield - of 20 tonnes that will leave today.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05- At the moment...
0:03:05 > 0:03:09- ..it takes around half an hour - to gather that amount.
0:03:09 > 0:03:14- How many tonnes would you say - the Menai produces in a year?
0:03:14 > 0:03:17- At the moment, - I'd say there must be...
0:03:18 > 0:03:21- ..more than 15,000 tonnes - in the Menai.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23- Every year?
0:03:26 > 0:03:30- Four companies are located - on the shores of the Menai Strait...
0:03:31 > 0:03:33- ..gathering 10,000 tonnes a year.
0:03:36 > 0:03:39- What about the quality - of these mussels?
0:03:39 > 0:03:42- Mussels gathered from the Menai...
0:03:43 > 0:03:45- ..are among the best in Europe.
0:03:46 > 0:03:47- How clean are they?
0:03:47 > 0:03:50- They're put through the washer...
0:03:51 > 0:03:53- ..and reach here - in a very clean state.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00- As you can see.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- They're actually cleaner - than I expected.
0:04:03 > 0:04:08- Whenever I've gathered them - from the beach at the seaside...
0:04:08 > 0:04:10- ..they've never been as clean - as this.
0:04:11 > 0:04:13- That's ready to eat.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19- There are three farming seasons.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23- Between June and August - is when the seed is gathered.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25- August to March...
0:04:25 > 0:04:29- ..is the harvesting season, - when the boats are at their busiest.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31- Then, during April and May...
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- ..they scatter the seed - along the seabed.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37- What's so special about the Menai...
0:04:38 > 0:04:42- ..that makes it such an ideal place - to gather mussels?
0:04:42 > 0:04:45- The Menai is unique to Wales - because of the strait.
0:04:46 > 0:04:48- The tide runs from both sides.
0:04:48 > 0:04:51- There is plenty of food - in the water.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55- It's also sheltered from the wind - and the elements.
0:04:55 > 0:05:00- That's what makes it - such a unique place in Wales.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02- There are no better locations.
0:05:03 > 0:05:07- Traditionally, has it always been - a place where mussels thrive?
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- Oh, yes. It's been teeming - with mussels for many years.
0:05:12 > 0:05:16- I think it was sometime - around 1962...
0:05:16 > 0:05:18- ..if I'm correct...
0:05:18 > 0:05:20- ..that they started farming.
0:05:21 > 0:05:26- Before the boats were introduced, - the process was all done by hand.
0:05:26 > 0:05:30- The next time I see the mussels...
0:05:30 > 0:05:34- ..I'll be in Holland, where I hope - I'll be able to taste them.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37- They've been eaten for centuries...
0:05:37 > 0:05:40- ..but I'm now on my way - to see an industry...
0:05:40 > 0:05:44- ..which was rooted in the earth - for millions of years.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11- Bethesda and its neighbouring - villages were built...
0:06:11 > 0:06:14- ..due to the slate industry.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17- Finding a slate vein - in the nearby mountains...
0:06:18 > 0:06:22- ..has provided a Welsh covering - for roofs all of the world.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31- It's a stunning landscape...
0:06:32 > 0:06:34- ..a view of Ogwen Valley's - slate tips.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38- There is a strong sense - of community here.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43- On a summer's evening, - it's wonderful driving around...
0:06:43 > 0:06:45- ..with the roof down.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- But the weather soon changes...
0:06:50 > 0:06:55- ..and it's a grey day for my visit - to the quarry the following morning.
0:06:55 > 0:06:57- Once inside, the view is dramatic.
0:07:06 > 0:07:08- Over there, beyond the fog...
0:07:08 > 0:07:11- ..is Port Penrhyn, - which was purpose built...
0:07:11 > 0:07:15- ..to transport slate - from Penrhyn Quarry.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18- Welsh slate is known - throughout the world.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21- Beneath me here - is the Penrhyn Blue slate.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31- The quarry was at its peak - at the end of the 19th century.
0:07:31 > 0:07:36- 17,000 people were once employed - in the slate industry.
0:07:37 > 0:07:41- Modernization and global competition - has seen the workforce diminish.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- But the sense of belonging - is still important.
0:07:47 > 0:07:50- What's your name - and how long have you worked here?
0:07:50 > 0:07:52- I'm Iwan. I've been here 10 years.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54- I'm Iwan. I've been here 10 years.- - My name's Cliff Jones.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57- I've worked here - for more than 30 years.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- I'm Gwilym - and I've been here 30 years.
0:08:00 > 0:08:03- I'm Brian - and I've been working here 20 years.
0:08:04 > 0:08:06- I'm Mark. I've been here 20 years.
0:08:06 > 0:08:08- I've been here 34 years.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12- I've been here eight or nine years.
0:08:12 > 0:08:14- Since I was 16.
0:08:14 > 0:08:15- Where are you from?
0:08:15 > 0:08:16- Where are you from?- - Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:08:17 > 0:08:18- Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:08:18 > 0:08:19- Blaenau Ffestiniog.- - Bethesda.
0:08:19 > 0:08:21- From Bethesda.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23- I split the slate for roofs.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28- I light the fuses, drill, - drive the dumpers. Everything.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31- I split, chip and saw.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33- Whatever needs doing.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37- I'm on the machines, - grading and feeding.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40- Whatever the bosses tell me to do.
0:08:40 > 0:08:41- Taid worked here.
0:08:42 > 0:08:43- My father worked here.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46- My brother worked here.
0:08:46 > 0:08:51- I had three uncles who all worked - at the Ffestiniog quarry.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54- And my grandfather in his time.
0:08:54 > 0:08:56- My grandfather, Bob Fill.
0:08:57 > 0:09:02- He drove one of the engines - in his time.
0:09:02 > 0:09:07- My father and grandfather started - working here when they were 14.
0:09:07 > 0:09:11- What does quarrying mean - to the people of Blaenau Ffestiniog?
0:09:11 > 0:09:12- Work. Money.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14- It's all that's left.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17- We're continuing the tradition.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- We're continuing the tradition.- - I'm glad I work in a quarry.
0:09:19 > 0:09:25- I'm pleased there's a family - connection to the quarries.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- We have plenty of fun.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29- The lads always have fun.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32- I love it here.
0:09:32 > 0:09:33- I love it here.
0:09:33 > 0:09:35- I love it here.- - I love it here.
0:09:35 > 0:09:37- How does it make you feel...
0:09:37 > 0:09:41- ..knowing that Bethesda slate - is sold all over the world?
0:09:41 > 0:09:43- It's great. - It's keeping us in work.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47- It gives Penrhyn a good name - around the world.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- What's makes this slate - so remarkable, Dafydd?
0:10:04 > 0:10:07- It's 600 million years old.
0:10:07 > 0:10:10- It's a clean slate.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12- It's very durable.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16- Welsh slate has been used on roofs - for centuries.
0:10:17 > 0:10:21- Nowadays, people replace the slate - on their roofs...
0:10:21 > 0:10:24- ..which was there originally...
0:10:25 > 0:10:28- ..not because there's anything wrong - with the slate...
0:10:29 > 0:10:34- ..but because the wood or the nails - keeping the slate secured...
0:10:34 > 0:10:36- ..have eroded.
0:10:39 > 0:10:43- With fierce competition from - a cheaper, yet inferior, slate...
0:10:44 > 0:10:46- ..from Spain and the Far East...
0:10:46 > 0:10:50- ..the company has had to turn - to overseas markets and buyers...
0:10:51 > 0:10:54- ..who are willing to pay - for quality Welsh slate.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- Do you see a future - for the industry?
0:10:58 > 0:11:03- I hope so, as long as people - still want the slate.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07- It's the best in the world - but costly.
0:11:07 > 0:11:10- People are watching their money - nowadays.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- In motoring terms, if you want - a Porsche, then go for Welsh slate.
0:11:15 > 0:11:18- Otherwise, - go for a cheaper alternative.
0:11:22 > 0:11:25- They've also had to vary - their produce.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28- Roof tiles are the mainstay...
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- ..but they also produce stone - for gardens...
0:11:31 > 0:11:36- ..hearths, headstones, flooring, - window sills and much more.
0:11:38 > 0:11:42- Once the stone has been transported - from the mountain to the mill...
0:11:43 > 0:11:45- ..it's graded in standard - and quality.
0:11:46 > 0:11:49- It's then marked - and the edges sawed...
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- ..ready to be split.
0:11:55 > 0:11:59- Splitting the stone - requires a lot of skill.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02- It's hard work, - as you saw for yourself.
0:12:03 > 0:12:06- It's not something - you can learn overnight.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- It takes - a two-year apprenticeship...
0:12:09 > 0:12:11- ..working on off-cuts.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14- When I started as a 16-year-old...
0:12:14 > 0:12:18- ..I had to work on off-cuts - for two and a half years...
0:12:18 > 0:12:21- ..before being allowed to touch - the actual stone.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25- It's so scarce. It's like gold.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28- You couldn't waste any.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- For what kind of buildings - was it used?
0:12:31 > 0:12:35- The majority of it, around 80%...
0:12:35 > 0:12:37- ..is used for heritage work...
0:12:38 > 0:12:40- ..and restoration projects.
0:12:40 > 0:12:44- They have to use the same materials - that were there originally.
0:12:44 > 0:12:48- Can you name some of the buildings - where the slate has been used?
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- Buckingham Palace...
0:12:51 > 0:12:54- ..the Houses of Parliament.
0:12:54 > 0:12:58- Some go to Windsor Castle, - the British Library...
0:12:59 > 0:13:01- ..King's Cross Station...
0:13:01 > 0:13:06- ..Sydney University, Australia, - National Arts Centre, Sydney.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- Restoration work.
0:13:09 > 0:13:12- What does Penrhyn Quarry - and the industry mean to Bethesda?
0:13:13 > 0:13:19- Bethesda wouldn't exist - if it weren't for the quarry.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21- It's as simple as that.
0:13:25 > 0:13:26- .
0:13:28 > 0:13:28- 888
0:13:28 > 0:13:30- 888- - 888
0:13:34 > 0:13:39- I'm on the trail of slate from - Gwynedd and mussels from the Menai.
0:13:39 > 0:13:42- My journey takes me - to The Netherlands.
0:13:47 > 0:13:49- I land in Amsterdam...
0:13:50 > 0:13:53- ..and travel southwest - to follow the mussels.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- After the dramatic scenery - of North Wales...
0:13:56 > 0:13:59- ..this landscape is boring - by comparison.
0:14:00 > 0:14:04- It's a cliche to say - that The Netherlands is flat...
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- ..but it's entirely true.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08- It's no wonder...
0:14:08 > 0:14:12- ..when a quarter of the country - is below sea level.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- In my ignorance, I arranged to meet - the lorry from Bangor...
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- ..when it arrived at the factory.
0:14:30 > 0:14:33- I didn't realize - I'd be travelling overnight...
0:14:34 > 0:14:36- ..to reach Yerseke - at 5.00am to unload.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41- It's awfully early...
0:14:41 > 0:14:45- ..but a load of mussels have - arrived all the way from Bangor.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49- They were transported overnight - to Calais...
0:14:49 > 0:14:52- ..before reaching - the Zeeland province...
0:14:53 > 0:14:56- ..where they are processed - at Vette & Verhaart.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- I need a cup of coffee!
0:14:59 > 0:15:03- There's a thousand kilograms - in each of these bags.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06- There are 20 bags on the lorry.
0:15:06 > 0:15:10- Each bag leaves this factory, - priced at 2 euros per kilo.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13- Which means... - Work it out for yourselves!
0:15:15 > 0:15:19- 40,000 euros is the answer! - That's a hefty sum.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23- Vette & Verhaart was established - at the end of the 19th century.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27- It's the oldest surviving company - in Yerseke...
0:15:28 > 0:15:31- ..a town where all - the mussel companies are located...
0:15:32 > 0:15:34- ..within an 800-metre stretch.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40- The mussels are washed thoroughly...
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- ..and sorted - in order of size and quality.
0:15:44 > 0:15:46- The women - work every day of the year.
0:15:47 > 0:15:50- I've taken pity on them - and stepped in to lend a hand.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56- I've come to help Hu, - who's standing beside me here.
0:15:56 > 0:15:59- She's checking the quality - of the mussels.
0:15:59 > 0:16:03- They've already been graded - in order of size.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05- There are poor ones and broken ones.
0:16:06 > 0:16:07- Wrong way!
0:16:07 > 0:16:09- The broken ones are thrown away.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- The good ones are sent on their way - to be packed.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- The fourth generation - of the same family is now in charge.
0:16:36 > 0:16:38- Jan-Willem is the boss.
0:16:40 > 0:16:45- How long have you been - importing mussels from Wales?
0:16:50 > 0:16:59- We started importing mussels - from Bangor in North Wales in 1998.
0:17:00 > 0:17:06- We were looking for a regular and - constant supplier for the factory.
0:17:07 > 0:17:12- Have you been to Wales - to see where the mussels are grown?
0:17:18 > 0:17:24- Yes, I've been to Wales a number of - times, not only to see the mussels.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27- I met my wife in Wales.
0:17:27 > 0:17:33- I love the country - and I love the people!
0:17:43 > 0:17:48- You must see thousands upon - thousands of mussels every day.
0:17:48 > 0:17:53- Do you still eat them - or are you fed up of them?
0:17:55 > 0:17:58- I don't eat them any more. I can't!
0:17:58 > 0:18:02- As a boy, I ate so many of them...
0:18:03 > 0:18:06- ..that I developed a severe - allergic reaction to them.
0:18:07 > 0:18:10- But I love oysters!
0:18:22 > 0:18:26- Jan-Willem and his father - devised this unique way of packing.
0:18:26 > 0:18:31- The mussels are packed in seawater.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- All the stock is now ready - to leave the factory...
0:18:35 > 0:18:39- ..for France, Holland, - Belgium and Germany.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42- Some even make their way - back to Britain...
0:18:42 > 0:18:46- ..where they'll be sold - in markets and shops...
0:18:46 > 0:18:48- ..and served in restaurants.
0:18:48 > 0:18:51- And that's exactly - where I'm heading now.
0:18:51 > 0:18:53- Only a mile away...
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- ..is a nearby restaurant - which buys from Jan-Willem.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- I'll finally be able to taste - the mussels from the Menai.
0:19:02 > 0:19:04- But first, a cookery lesson.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15- SHE SPEAKS DUTCH
0:19:18 > 0:19:22- She's going to open these rather - than cook them in their shells.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- I've only ever seen them cooked - in their shells.
0:19:29 > 0:19:33- The gentleman is going to open them. - This is Hon and Rina.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- Is this a special recipe...
0:19:39 > 0:19:41- ..that's only cooked - at this restaurant?
0:19:42 > 0:19:44- SHE SPEAKS DUTCH
0:19:46 > 0:19:49- The restaurant's called De Schelde.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- I think - it's one of their specialities.
0:19:55 > 0:20:00- Once they're opened, Rina covers - them in flour, garlic powder...
0:20:00 > 0:20:02- ..and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06- I've never seen them cooked - this way.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09- Mussels are usually cooked - in their shells.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13- They're boiled or steamed - for the shells to open.
0:20:13 > 0:20:15- But these are fried in butter.
0:20:15 > 0:20:17- Lovely.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19- In they go.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28- What a divine aroma!
0:20:30 > 0:20:32- I'm getting wafts of garlic powder.
0:20:36 > 0:20:41- These mussels have come straight - from the processing factory.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- They could have been gathered - fresh from the Menai.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48- They look lovely.
0:20:49 > 0:20:51- They're soft and tender.
0:20:52 > 0:20:54- They're fried for a minute or two...
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- ..and served on a plate.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59- They're ready to eat straightaway.
0:21:04 > 0:21:07- Wonderful. There we go.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11- Fried Menai mussels.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16- Can I try one?
0:21:17 > 0:21:19- They're a bit hot.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28- Goede?
0:21:28 > 0:21:29- Goede?- - Goede.
0:21:30 > 0:21:31- Ja.
0:21:31 > 0:21:32- Ja, ja.
0:21:33 > 0:21:35- They're delicious.
0:21:35 > 0:21:37- The texture is soft and tender.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40- They're not at all tough.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43- Seafood can often be tough...
0:21:44 > 0:21:47- ..but this is very tender - and lovely.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- Another? Do you want one?
0:21:53 > 0:21:57- After seeing a completely new way - of cooking mussels...
0:21:58 > 0:22:02- ..I'm invited to join Jan-Willem and - his family and friends for a meal.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- I realize how much this town relies - on the industry.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- There's even a summer seafood - festival held here.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- I'll have to come back in August!
0:22:15 > 0:22:20- Does this region specialize - in mussel dishes?
0:22:21 > 0:22:26- Yerseke is famous for its mussels.
0:22:26 > 0:22:33- Holland's mussels that are sold in - Europe are washed and packed here.
0:22:33 > 0:22:38- In August, we hold - a mussel festival...
0:22:38 > 0:22:44- ..because all the villagers - are associated with the industry.
0:22:44 > 0:22:48- This restaurant - is locally renowned for its mussels.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53- Tonight we're going to eat ones - that have been boiled.
0:23:04 > 0:23:06- This is heaven for me.
0:23:06 > 0:23:08- I was brought up on shellfish.
0:23:08 > 0:23:13- We'd get our cockles from the market - every Saturday morning.
0:23:13 > 0:23:16- And on holiday in France, - I'd have moules frites.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- This is the Dutch version - of moules frites.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22- It's one of the national dishes.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27- And the star of the dish are the - mussels, all the way from the Menai.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33- Very good.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- They start them young - in this country.
0:23:43 > 0:23:48- It's little wonder when the mussels - are full of goodness and fun to eat.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- As they say out here, - "goede trukke."
0:23:52 > 0:23:53- Ja!
0:23:56 > 0:23:57- .
0:23:58 > 0:23:58- 888
0:23:58 > 0:24:00- 888- - 888
0:24:05 > 0:24:10- The next product from Wales can be - found all over The Netherlands.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12- So I have to travel some distance.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- I'm in Yerseke at the moment.
0:24:15 > 0:24:19- I'm crossing over to Etten-Leur, - then to Molenschot...
0:24:19 > 0:24:21- ..down to Eindhoven...
0:24:21 > 0:24:23- ..up to Cuijk...
0:24:23 > 0:24:26- ..ending the journey in Arnhem.
0:24:40 > 0:24:45- Penrhyn Quarry slate - is the product, of course...
0:24:45 > 0:24:49- ..which is exported internationally - and used in many ways in Holland.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14- The first stop on my journey - is Etten-Leur.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18- Vincent Van Gogh lived here - at one time.
0:25:18 > 0:25:23- The roof of the Catholic church - is currently being restored...
0:25:23 > 0:25:26- ..using slate from Penrhyn Quarry.
0:25:36 > 0:25:40- Welsh slate covers castles, - monuments...
0:25:40 > 0:25:44- ..and churches, - like this one in Etten-Leur.
0:25:45 > 0:25:48- Piet is the project manager.
0:25:48 > 0:25:52- His company repairs similar roofs - across the country.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00- Tell me a little - about this church...
0:26:00 > 0:26:03- ..and the restoration project.
0:26:12 > 0:26:16- The church was built in 1900.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20- Now it's over a century old, - it's time to repair the roof...
0:26:21 > 0:26:24- ..to restore the church - to its former glory.
0:26:24 > 0:26:27- Welsh slate is being used - to restore the roof.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- Was the original Welsh slate?
0:26:31 > 0:26:38- Yes, Welsh slate was used originally - and we wanted to use the same again.
0:26:39 > 0:26:47- Welsh slate is very popular - here in The Netherlands.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- It's very durable and suitable...
0:26:50 > 0:26:54- ..because our weather - is similar to Wales's climate.
0:26:55 > 0:26:57- Yes, I can vouch for that.
0:26:57 > 0:27:01- The weather is cold and damp here, - as it is back home.
0:27:01 > 0:27:05- What is it about the quality - of the Welsh slate...
0:27:05 > 0:27:08- ..that's so useful to you - here in Holland?
0:27:10 > 0:27:13- There's an excellent quality - to Welsh slate...
0:27:14 > 0:27:19- ..from Ffestiniog - and Penrhyn Quarry.
0:27:20 > 0:27:27- Scientific tests have proven - that it lasts over 80 years.
0:27:27 > 0:27:32- That's why we use the slate - here in The Netherlands.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39- The work will take 18 months - to complete...
0:27:40 > 0:27:42- ..with three men - working on the roof.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46- In weather similar to today's, - I don't envy them at all.
0:27:50 > 0:27:55- They tell me it will take 140,000 - slates to restore the roof.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59- I'll take their word for it - rather than count them!
0:27:59 > 0:28:02- It's very skilful work - but very time consuming.
0:28:03 > 0:28:08- And there's no denying the new slate - will last another century.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21- I turn the car around - and head 30 miles eastwards.
0:28:21 > 0:28:26- The church in this village - had to be restored, following WWII.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32- But the slate remains - in good condition.
0:28:39 > 0:28:41- This is the village of Molenschot.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45- A church has stood here - since the 16th century.
0:28:45 > 0:28:47- It was rebuilt in 1887...
0:28:47 > 0:28:52- ..in the neo-gothic style, using - Penrhyn Quarry's slate on the roof.
0:28:52 > 0:28:55- It's the Church of Saint Anna.
0:28:56 > 0:29:00- People come and pray to her - in order to find a partner.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07- Unfortunately, - the place is deserted.
0:29:07 > 0:29:11- I'll have to come again, - some other time.
0:29:11 > 0:29:13- Molenschot means windmill.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16- Ironic, since I've not seen one yet - on my travels.
0:29:17 > 0:29:21- I might spot one - on my 50-mile journey to Eindhoven.
0:29:28 > 0:29:33- The original headquarters for the - electronics giant, Philips...
0:29:33 > 0:29:35- ..was based in Eindhoven.
0:29:36 > 0:29:40- The bowling pins that greet visitors - as they drive in are striking.
0:29:40 > 0:29:45- But standing tall above the city - is the Catholic church...
0:29:45 > 0:29:48- ..adorned with a crown - of Welsh slate.
0:30:04 > 0:30:06- This is - the Church of St Catherine...
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- ..and the door is always open here.
0:30:09 > 0:30:14- The tranquillity and silence found - within this majestic building...
0:30:14 > 0:30:19- ..offers brief respite - from the chaos of the modern world.
0:30:19 > 0:30:23- It's an opportunity to light - a candle in memory of loved ones.
0:30:37 > 0:30:41- Eindhoven is similar in size - to Swansea.
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- And like Swansea, - it was bombed during the war.
0:30:45 > 0:30:49- This Catholic church was damaged - but it has since been rebuilt...
0:30:50 > 0:30:52- ..using Welsh slate on the roof.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57- There are two tall spires, - measuring 70m in height...
0:30:57 > 0:31:00- ..which represent - the male and the female.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04- But unfortunately, - the clock is wrong.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11- It's lunchtime, - so I get the chance to sample...
0:31:12 > 0:31:13- ..the local delicacies.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17- Pancakes covered in thick, - sweet stroop.
0:31:18 > 0:31:21- I can assure you, it's delicious.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25- I have another two stops to make.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27- I glance at the map and off I go.
0:31:35 > 0:31:39- I travel northwards and head for - the small town of Cuijk.
0:31:39 > 0:31:43- The Catholic Church of St Martin - is situated here.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46- As in Etten-Leur, - this church is being restored too.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50- Slate from Penrhyn Quarry - is skilfully laid on its roof.
0:31:57 > 0:32:02- The original features of old - buildings in Holland are replaced...
0:32:03 > 0:32:05- ..during restoration work.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08- Welsh slate - is obviously as important to them...
0:32:08 > 0:32:12- ..as it is to the prosperity - of the North Wales' quarries.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16- Similar projects - in Australia, New Zealand...
0:32:16 > 0:32:18- ..America, Canada and Europe...
0:32:18 > 0:32:21- ..means that the export market - is vital...
0:32:22 > 0:32:24- ..to the future of Welsh slate.
0:32:27 > 0:32:31- Cuijk's church - was also damaged during the war.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33- Not from an air raid this time...
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- ..but from the Germans firing - from across the river.
0:32:51 > 0:32:56- I cross the river and head for - Arnhem, where my journey ends.
0:32:57 > 0:33:00- Arnhem has strong links - with the Second World War...
0:33:00 > 0:33:03- ..and the film, A Bridge Too Far.
0:33:03 > 0:33:06- It was the first film I ever saw - at Swansea's Odeon.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10- But it's the here and now - that I'm interested in today.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- I'm visiting an estate of new houses - built with materials from Wales.
0:33:18 > 0:33:23- It's nice to see Welsh slate being - used all across The Netherlands.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25- Curiously, - it's not only being used...
0:33:26 > 0:33:29- ..to restore the roofs - of old buildings...
0:33:29 > 0:33:33- ..it's also being used - on this modern estate.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37- The slate is integral to the design - of these contemporary houses.
0:33:47 > 0:33:50- From the Roman era - to the 21st century...
0:33:50 > 0:33:52- ..Welsh slate is renowned...
0:33:53 > 0:33:57- ..for being one of the best - building materials in the world.
0:33:57 > 0:34:01- It's durable, - elegant and easy on the eye.
0:34:02 > 0:34:04- Though the industry - has slowed down...
0:34:05 > 0:34:08- ..the slate continues to withstand - every storm.
0:34:18 > 0:34:19- .
0:34:22 > 0:34:22- 888
0:34:22 > 0:34:24- 888- - 888
0:34:31 > 0:34:35- Driving behind an Ifor Williams - trailer is a familiar experience.
0:34:36 > 0:34:39- The company has been in business - for 50 years.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42- The trailers can be seen...
0:34:42 > 0:34:47- ..not only on the narrow roads of - rural Wales but all over the world.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53- I'm back in Wales, - following up my third story.
0:34:54 > 0:34:59- The trailer company is situated in - Cynwyd, on the outskirts of Corwen.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02- After a long journey, - I've finally arrived.
0:35:10 > 0:35:14- When miniature dolls of pop stars - and film stars are created...
0:35:15 > 0:35:17- ..they know they've made it.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- The company has three factories - in North Wales.
0:35:22 > 0:35:25- One in Ruthin, another on the banks - of the River Dee.
0:35:26 > 0:35:31- But Cynwyd is where Ifor Williams - first started the venture in 1958.
0:35:31 > 0:35:36- I associate box trailers with - transporting horses and livestock.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- But trailers of all descriptions - are manufactured here.
0:35:41 > 0:35:43- Flat trailers and car transporters.
0:35:43 > 0:35:48- All kinds of models, used not only - by farmers and horse owners...
0:35:48 > 0:35:51- ..but by builders, - plumbers, engineers...
0:35:52 > 0:35:54- ..and various small businesses.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58- They have manufactured - over 600,000 trailers.
0:35:59 > 0:36:04- Gareth Williams, - brother of chef Bryn Williams...
0:36:04 > 0:36:09- ..who's been working here for 12 - years, shows me the production line.
0:36:10 > 0:36:11- This is the box van 126.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14- Twin axle.
0:36:14 > 0:36:16- The chassis is fitted here.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19- We install the wiring loom - and hitch.
0:36:19 > 0:36:23- This is where - we adjust the brakes too.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27- The final stage of the process - is installing the floor.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29- The floor comes in two parts.
0:36:29 > 0:36:33- A 12-foot piece at the front - and a 2-foot piece at the back.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36- These aren't for animals, are they?
0:36:36 > 0:36:40- No. People who have market stalls - buy this kind of trailer.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43- And people who own small shops.
0:36:43 > 0:36:47- They're handy because stock is - stored safely and kept dry inside.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54- We assemble the roof here.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56- And the floor of the trailer.
0:36:57 > 0:37:00- We attach the pillars - and the sides...
0:37:00 > 0:37:02- ..using a crane.
0:37:02 > 0:37:06- The roof will be attached - to the sides, using the crane.
0:37:06 > 0:37:09- How many go through this process - in a day?
0:37:09 > 0:37:11- Five trailers daily.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16- This is stage 3.
0:37:16 > 0:37:19- This is where we do the wiring - and lighting.
0:37:19 > 0:37:24- Mud guards and footplates are - attached, as well as cargo rails.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- We also fix the lights - and trim here.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34- This is the final stage.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37- We seal it all - and finish off the trailer.
0:37:38 > 0:37:42- We clean it up and tighten - the bolts to make sure it's safe.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45- We add the stickers - and finish off the paperwork.
0:37:46 > 0:37:47- Is this one ready to go?
0:37:48 > 0:37:50- Yes, it's ready for the road.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54- I played a bus driver on TV. I'll - always be known as Dave Coaches!
0:37:55 > 0:37:58- And he's a whiz - with mechanical equipment...
0:37:58 > 0:38:02- ..so Gareth doesn't need to worry - about me helping out.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05- I'd say you've made a right mess - of that.
0:38:05 > 0:38:07- Nul points.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09- Nul points.- - Nul points, I'm afraid.
0:38:09 > 0:38:13- Yes, - I made a right pig's ear of that.
0:38:13 > 0:38:17- Anyway, beyond the production line - is a huge field...
0:38:17 > 0:38:22- ..that serves as a car park - for trailers leaving the factory.
0:38:22 > 0:38:24- There to meet me is Andrew.
0:38:26 > 0:38:30- A week's worth of production - is held in this field.
0:38:30 > 0:38:35- They'll be sent to distributors - all over Britain and overseas.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40- Apart from the usual stock - you manufacture...
0:38:40 > 0:38:43- ..you've had some unusual requests - too.
0:38:43 > 0:38:46- Every now and again - we have special orders.
0:38:47 > 0:38:50- One example of which are trailers - for the Channel Tunnel.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55- They were remarkable because they - had coupling at both ends.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- The trailers were pulled in and out.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00- So not for road use?
0:39:00 > 0:39:02- So not for road use?- - No, just for the tunnel.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05- The box trailers - have been adapted...
0:39:06 > 0:39:09- ..and they're used all over Europe - for different cargo.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12- Yes. This product is very versatile.
0:39:12 > 0:39:15- We don't adapt them for people...
0:39:15 > 0:39:19- ..but they get sent - to other companies to be modified.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22- A wine-making company used it - for bottling.
0:39:23 > 0:39:26- Grand pianos - have been transported in one.
0:39:26 > 0:39:28- All kinds of uses.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30- Burger vans are popular these days.
0:39:31 > 0:39:35- We produce around 30,000 trailers - a year.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39- Around 30% of those are exported.
0:39:39 > 0:39:43- Where are you biggest markets?
0:39:43 > 0:39:46- France, Germany, Belgium.
0:39:46 > 0:39:49- But our trailers are also sold...
0:39:49 > 0:39:52- ..in South Africa, - New Zealand and Australia.
0:39:52 > 0:39:56- There are even Ifor Williams - trailers in the Caribbean!
0:39:58 > 0:40:00- And also in Denmark.
0:40:00 > 0:40:05- That's where I'm heading to see - one of the box trailers at work.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17- I have fond memories - of being in Copenhagen.
0:40:18 > 0:40:24- I toured there in the 1980s with - the West Glamorgan Youth Theatre.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27- It's a very elegant - and interesting city.
0:40:28 > 0:40:31- I'm here in search of a trailer.
0:40:35 > 0:40:39- Ifor Williams's trailers - are sold throughout Europe.
0:40:39 > 0:40:42- They are modified - for different purposes.
0:40:42 > 0:40:44- I could have gone to Norway...
0:40:44 > 0:40:48- ..where one man transports - artificial snow in his.
0:40:48 > 0:40:52- Or to Portugal - where a cooperative vineyard...
0:40:52 > 0:40:54- ..uses a trailer to bottle its wine.
0:40:55 > 0:40:59- In Italy, a farmer has adapted - his trailer to barbecue pigs.
0:40:59 > 0:41:03- But I've come to Denmark - to meet someone...
0:41:03 > 0:41:07- ..who uses a trailer - for a very interesting purpose.
0:41:08 > 0:41:11- In one of Copenhagen's suburbs...
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- ..a woman, who has - a Welsh-sounding name, lives.
0:41:14 > 0:41:20- Sos travels to her sports therapy - clinic in one of the trailers.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23- Sos was a sports - and biology teacher...
0:41:23 > 0:41:26- ..who also taught yoga by night.
0:41:26 > 0:41:29- Horse riding - is a major hobby of hers...
0:41:29 > 0:41:34- ..so she combined her expertise - to create the Fit 2 Ride company.
0:41:34 > 0:41:39- To make life easier, Sos travels - to her clients for therapy sessions.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45- Why did you decide to offer - a mobile service...
0:41:45 > 0:41:48- ..where you could visit - your clients?
0:41:49 > 0:41:56- It was important for me to have - a trailer so that I could be mobile.
0:41:57 > 0:42:02- I don't have much room here, - so it makes life easier.
0:42:02 > 0:42:12- More importantly, I can now see - my clients on competition days.
0:42:13 > 0:42:19- I can offer them a therapy session - in the trailer.
0:42:19 > 0:42:24- They are treated instantly - so they can carry on competing.
0:42:24 > 0:42:28- As a sports therapist, - what kind of service do you provide?
0:42:32 > 0:42:37- I check people's postures - and see how they hold themselves.
0:42:37 > 0:42:43- It's a sort of screening test.
0:42:43 > 0:42:51- I offer them solutions - and simple exercises.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00- Off we go to see Sos at work.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03- She has an appointment - at nearby stables.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06- Anyone can hire a small trailer.
0:43:06 > 0:43:09- That's what I did for years - to transport my horse.
0:43:10 > 0:43:16- But a special licence is required - for a trailer like mine...
0:43:17 > 0:43:23- ..because there have been - so many accidents.
0:43:34 > 0:43:39- Her client today is Louise, a member - of the national horse riding team.
0:43:40 > 0:43:42- SHE SPEAKS DANISH
0:43:49 > 0:43:52- Before assessing her balance...
0:43:52 > 0:43:55- ..Sos asks her to stand on two - separate scales...
0:43:56 > 0:44:01- ..in order to see if she places more - weight on one foot than the other.
0:44:02 > 0:44:07- Why did you decide to consult Sos - for sports therapy sessions?
0:44:13 > 0:44:17- I used to carry my weight on - the right side without realizing it.
0:44:18 > 0:44:22- I heard about Sos - from a friend who's a physio.
0:44:22 > 0:44:24- I came to her - to correct my balance...
0:44:25 > 0:44:28- ..to improve my posture - when horse riding.
0:44:28 > 0:44:30- THEY SPEAK DANISH
0:44:34 > 0:44:36- I love horse riding too.
0:44:36 > 0:44:41- It's an opportunity to have a - brief session to correct my balance.
0:44:41 > 0:44:43- SHE SPEAKS DANISH
0:44:49 > 0:44:51- Forward. Back.
0:44:51 > 0:44:53- HE WINCES
0:44:56 > 0:45:02- This test confirms - that your right side is very stiff.
0:45:03 > 0:45:09- When you want to turn to the left, - you have to stretch your right side.
0:45:09 > 0:45:15- Lift your right leg to correct this. - It's difficult to lean to the left.
0:45:15 > 0:45:21- I know now that we need - to work on your right side.
0:45:22 > 0:45:25- Why is this trailer - so important to your work?
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- What would you have to do - if you didn't have one?
0:45:30 > 0:45:35- Having a trailer is great for me - in many ways.
0:45:35 > 0:45:40- Now, when I run courses - and have 16 people attending...
0:45:40 > 0:45:47- ..I can bring the equipment with me, - no matter how far I travel.
0:45:47 > 0:45:52- I'm able to be on site - during competition...
0:45:52 > 0:45:56- ..and have the equipment to hand.
0:45:56 > 0:46:00- It's not just horse riders - that you treat...
0:46:00 > 0:46:04- ..you deal with people - from other sporting backgrounds too.
0:46:06 > 0:46:14- I work with golfers, - tennis players...
0:46:14 > 0:46:19- ..and various other disciplines.
0:46:19 > 0:46:25- Everybody can improve in their - chosen sport with the right posture.
0:46:27 > 0:46:29- I'm already leaning to the right!
0:46:39 > 0:46:41- It's been interesting to see...
0:46:42 > 0:46:45- ..how Sos has modified her trailer - to suit her needs.
0:46:46 > 0:46:49- These trailers are known - throughout Europe...
0:46:49 > 0:46:52- ..for their durability - and versatility.
0:46:53 > 0:46:57- There's nothing more recognizable - than Welsh slate...
0:46:57 > 0:47:01- ..that plays such an important role - in European architecture.
0:47:01 > 0:47:05- And nutritious mussels from - the freshwaters of the Menai...
0:47:06 > 0:47:11- ..are important ingredients in - European kitchens and restaurants.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13- What do they have in common?
0:47:14 > 0:47:15- They all come from Wales.
0:47:32 > 0:47:35- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:47:35 > 0:47:36- .