Delme Thomas: Brenin y Strade

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-It's 40 years since Delme Thomas -excelled on the rugby pitch.	0:00:04	0:00:09
-He's one of Wales's best forwards -to win the Grand Slam.	0:00:09	0:00:12
-Three tours and seven Lions caps...	0:00:13	0:00:15
-..and hero -of a famous Llanelli victory.	0:00:15	0:00:18
-I remember the day -we beat the All Blacks.	0:00:19	0:00:21
-There were over 20,000 people here.	0:00:21	0:00:23
-It was definitely -the best day of my life.	0:00:24	0:00:27
-As an athletic second row and -captain who inspired his players...	0:00:27	0:00:31
-..he secured his place -among legendary players.	0:00:31	0:00:34
-The Welsh Rugby Union's -Challenge Cup is in deserving hands.	0:00:34	0:00:39
-After retiring from rugby, he faced -a difficult time due to depression.	0:00:39	0:00:45
-I felt at a low ebb and couldn't see -the light at the end of the tunnel.	0:00:45	0:00:50
-The King of Stradey Park is about -to celebrate his 70th birthday.	0:00:51	0:00:57
-DELME: -KING OF THE STRADEY	0:00:59	0:01:03
-Saturday afternoon at -the Sosban restaurant in Llanelli.	0:01:11	0:01:15
-A group of men -have gathered to reminisce.	0:01:15	0:01:19
-At Stradey Park -at the end of October in 1972...	0:01:24	0:01:28
-..these heroes -beat the legendary All Blacks.	0:01:29	0:01:32
-The historic score was 9-3 and there -are fond memories of the game.	0:01:33	0:01:38
-You've got hair there.	0:01:38	0:01:40
-You've got hair there. - -I know. Oh, look at Shanto!	0:01:40	0:01:42
-Shanto?	0:01:42	0:01:44
-Unfortunately, we only meet -every three or four years...	0:01:46	0:01:51
-..but when we do meet up, -it's a memorable afternoon!	0:01:51	0:01:55
-As you can see, there are some -real characters in the team...	0:01:59	0:02:04
-..and it's great to see them.	0:02:04	0:02:07
-I think everybody -is looking forward to the afternoon.	0:02:07	0:02:11
-Llanelli had some great players -that season...	0:02:13	0:02:16
-..such as Phil Bennett, -Derek Quinnell...	0:02:16	0:02:19
-..Gareth Jenkins, JJ Williams -and Ray Gravell...	0:02:19	0:02:22
-..and their captain, Delme Thomas.	0:02:22	0:02:26
-He's a true gentleman.	0:02:26	0:02:28
-He was well respected -by his team-mates and opponents.	0:02:29	0:02:35
-The team had a lot of young players -and he was a father figure.	0:02:35	0:02:39
-He was an excellent role model.	0:02:39	0:02:41
-Delme's a gentle giant -but also a hard man.	0:02:41	0:02:44
-Shake his hand -and you'll see how hard he is!	0:02:44	0:02:47
-Give it to Del, -give it to Del, through to Del.	0:02:47	0:02:50
-That's alright. Good!	0:02:51	0:02:52
-He wasn't the quiet guy you think -he was. He could put it about.	0:02:53	0:02:57
-What we had for Delme, what -the players had was total respect.	0:02:57	0:03:01
-When you play rugby, you play -for your club and your captain.	0:03:01	0:03:06
-When your captain is Delme Thomas, -you really play!	0:03:06	0:03:10
-Bancyfelin, on the outskirts -of Carmarthen...	0:03:19	0:03:22
-..has raised many international -rugby players including Delme.	0:03:23	0:03:29
-I moved to Carmarthen 50 years ago -when I got married...	0:03:30	0:03:34
-..but my roots lie in Bancyfelin and -it has a special place in my heart.	0:03:35	0:03:41
-I was born -in the house behind me in 1942...	0:03:44	0:03:49
-..and I lived here -until I was nine or ten years old.	0:03:49	0:03:54
-The house didn't have running water -or electricity.	0:03:54	0:03:58
-We had to fetch water.	0:03:58	0:04:00
-There was a pump -on either side of the village...	0:04:00	0:04:03
-..and we fetched the water -in buckets.	0:04:03	0:04:06
-I spent many evenings fetching water -in buckets with my grandmother.	0:04:06	0:04:11
-After his father died, he was raised -by his mother and extended family.	0:04:12	0:04:17
-It was a very happy childhood.	0:04:18	0:04:20
-My mother and I lived -with my grandmother and grandfather.	0:04:20	0:04:23
-We were a large family -and a happy one.	0:04:24	0:04:28
-We had wonderful neighbours -and everybody knew each other.	0:04:28	0:04:33
-When I was ten, I moved -into a council house with my mother.	0:04:35	0:04:39
-Moving into the council house -was like moving into a palace.	0:04:39	0:04:44
-We had electricity, hot and cold -running water and a bathroom.	0:04:44	0:04:50
-My mother ensured -the house was kept fit for a king!	0:04:50	0:04:54
-I've come back today.	0:04:55	0:04:56
-It's the first time -I've been back to this house....	0:04:57	0:05:01
-..since my mother's funeral -20 years ago...	0:05:01	0:05:04
-..and it's a terrible feeling.	0:05:04	0:05:06
-I spent the happiest years of my -life in this house with my mother.	0:05:06	0:05:12
-It was a very different way of life -back in the 1950s.	0:05:19	0:05:23
-You could go out to play -at the crack of dawn...	0:05:23	0:05:26
-..and your parents didn't worry -because they knew you were safe.	0:05:26	0:05:31
-The children of the village enjoyed -playing on the banks of the river.	0:05:33	0:05:37
-Delme came here with his friends...	0:05:38	0:05:40
-..such as Lyn Jones -who has remained a lifelong friend.	0:05:40	0:05:44
-It must be 45 years since -we played here and went fishing.	0:05:45	0:05:50
-I think it's even longer.	0:05:50	0:05:53
-There were half a dozen of us -in the village of the same age...	0:05:56	0:06:01
-..and Lyn is seven -or eight years younger.	0:06:01	0:06:04
-He always wanted to come with us -when we went fishing or went out.	0:06:05	0:06:10
-Lyn was always trailing behind us.	0:06:10	0:06:13
-We called him Lyn Bach.	0:06:13	0:06:15
-He was great company and we've been -good friends for many years...	0:06:15	0:06:19
-..and I hope -we remain friends for life!	0:06:20	0:06:23
-He was a lovely child...	0:06:23	0:06:26
-..but he was naughtier -than people thought he was!	0:06:26	0:06:29
-I recall the horse racing, -point-to-point races...	0:06:30	0:06:34
-..and Delme asked me to join them -but I was only young.	0:06:34	0:06:37
-I said I wanted to go but didn't -think my mother would like it...	0:06:37	0:06:42
-..so we both went to speak to her.	0:06:42	0:06:46
-It only took a few words because -I could go anywhere with Delme.	0:06:46	0:06:51
-That's the type of person he was.	0:06:51	0:06:53
-He always wanted -to come with the boys.	0:06:54	0:06:57
-I think he picked up -a lot of bad habits as a child...	0:06:57	0:07:02
-..and he hasn't changed one bit.	0:07:02	0:07:05
-He's as mischievous now -as he was as a child!	0:07:05	0:07:08
-Delme isn't the first boy -from the village to play for Wales.	0:07:10	0:07:14
-He was C L Davies.	0:07:14	0:07:16
-I remember watching that game...	0:07:16	0:07:17
-I remember watching that game... - -..at our house.	0:07:17	0:07:20
-I especially remember the game -against England.	0:07:20	0:07:23
-C L Davies, Lynn, scored -the winning try against the English.	0:07:24	0:07:27
-It was an awful day.	0:07:28	0:07:29
-Little did we think that one person -in that room on that day...	0:07:30	0:07:34
-..would play for the Lions in -ten years and that man was Delme.	0:07:34	0:07:39
-It was a football-orientated village -in the 1950s.	0:07:41	0:07:46
-I played a lot of football and still -enjoy the sport to this day.	0:07:46	0:07:51
-My interest in rugby started when I -went to school in St Clears...	0:07:52	0:07:58
-..because my teacher in St Clears -was a former captain of Llanelli.	0:07:58	0:08:04
-His name was Howard Davies -but he was known as Howard Ash.	0:08:04	0:08:08
-I think he started it all for me.	0:08:08	0:08:11
-After playing -for the St Clears Under 18s team...	0:08:11	0:08:15
-..I was selected to play -in the Under 18s Welsh squad...	0:08:15	0:08:19
-..and that's how it all started.	0:08:19	0:08:21
-The village continues to produce -international players.	0:08:23	0:08:28
-Bancyfelin has produced -many great players.	0:08:28	0:08:32
-Even today, there are two local boys -in the Welsh squad.	0:08:33	0:08:36
-Jonathan Davies was raised at -the local pub, the Fox and Hounds...	0:08:36	0:08:42
-..and Mike Phillips -is a local farmer's son.	0:08:42	0:08:45
-Both are from Bancyfelin.	0:08:46	0:08:47
-At 18, Delme was making his way -in the rugby world...	0:08:51	0:08:54
-..but Carmarthen town -also offered a new life.	0:08:55	0:08:59
-Saturday night -was a big night for us...	0:08:59	0:09:02
-..because it was the only time -we came to town.	0:09:03	0:09:06
-We could only afford -to go to town once a week.	0:09:06	0:09:09
-The dances were held -at Drill Hall in the barracks.	0:09:09	0:09:15
-Saturday was a big night out.	0:09:15	0:09:18
-Hundreds of people -would gather at the barracks...	0:09:18	0:09:21
-..and that's where -I met my wife, Bethan.	0:09:22	0:09:25
-I was a shy, young lass who didn't -know a lot about rugby players.	0:09:26	0:09:31
-He was a quiet boy, as he is now.	0:09:31	0:09:34
-He's very quiet -and I was relatively quiet then.	0:09:34	0:09:38
-We started meeting and went to -the pictures once or twice a week.	0:09:38	0:09:44
-I can't say -it was love at first sight.	0:09:45	0:09:47
-He grew on me!	0:09:48	0:09:50
-Yes.	0:09:51	0:09:52
-As the romance blossomed...	0:09:55	0:09:57
-..Delme received a life-changing -offer from the rugby world.	0:09:57	0:10:02
-He faced an exciting era and his -dream was about to come true.	0:10:03	0:10:09
-.	0:10:10	0:10:10
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-# A big saucepan -is boiling on the floor	0:10:16	0:10:19
-# And the cat -has scratched little Johnny #	0:10:20	0:10:26
-I would visit Stradey Park -as a child.	0:10:26	0:10:30
-Every boy in the village -wanted to play for Llanelli.	0:10:32	0:10:36
-I was very fortunate -to get the chance to play here.	0:10:37	0:10:41
-Delme's dream came true -when he was 18 years old.	0:10:41	0:10:44
-He was chosen to play for Llanelli.	0:10:45	0:10:47
-At that time, -he was their youngest ever forward.	0:10:47	0:10:50
-From a young age, it was obvious -that Delme would be a great player.	0:10:51	0:10:56
-Delme played exceptionally well -for the Welsh national youth team.	0:10:57	0:11:01
-From the Carmarthen Athletic -Rugby Club...	0:11:02	0:11:05
-..it was inevitable that he would -come to Llanelli to Stradey Park.	0:11:05	0:11:09
-And that's where he went.	0:11:10	0:11:11
-He was perfect for the club.	0:11:12	0:11:14
-He spoke Welsh, lived in the area -and was an exceptional player.	0:11:14	0:11:20
-It was a big step for me -and I wasn't even 20 years old.	0:11:20	0:11:24
-In those days, I was very young -to be playing as a forward.	0:11:24	0:11:30
-Everybody said that I was too young.	0:11:30	0:11:34
-Stradey Park is long gone...	0:11:38	0:11:40
-..but Delme's memories of the site -live on.	0:11:40	0:11:45
-This was the changing room.	0:11:47	0:11:50
-I spent 15 years -playing for Llanelli.	0:11:50	0:11:55
-I wake up and hope that the tearing -down of Stradey Park is a dream...	0:11:56	0:12:01
-..because my heart -belongs to this place.	0:12:01	0:12:04
-My heart will always be here because -I made some great friends here.	0:12:04	0:12:10
-He was a wonderful forward, -especially in the line-outs.	0:12:11	0:12:15
-He was strong, powerful -and skilful at winning the ball.	0:12:15	0:12:19
-At that time, -Llanelli had strong backs...	0:12:20	0:12:23
-..so it was important -to win the ball.	0:12:23	0:12:26
-As the years passed by...	0:12:26	0:12:28
-..he became a father figure -to a number of the players.	0:12:28	0:12:33
-Some viewed him as an uncle...	0:12:34	0:12:35
-..but he was a father figure to -the important players in the team.	0:12:36	0:12:40
-Ray Gravell was another -of Llanelli's bright young players.	0:12:43	0:12:49
-He could empathize with Delme.	0:12:50	0:12:52
-Delme was from Bancyfelin -which is similar to Mynyddygarreg.	0:12:52	0:12:57
-Delme also took a keen interest -in Ray from the very start...	0:12:57	0:13:03
-..and took him under his wing.	0:13:03	0:13:06
-Ray truly appreciated that.	0:13:06	0:13:08
-There wasn't a single game -that Delme and Ray played...	0:13:09	0:13:12
-..where they didn't change -next to each other.	0:13:12	0:13:15
-They always sat -next to each other on the bus.	0:13:15	0:13:19
-He insisted on being in that spot.	0:13:19	0:13:22
-Delme was his hero.	0:13:22	0:13:24
-He couldn't believe that his hero -had become a great friend.	0:13:24	0:13:29
-He was talented enough -to be like a father figure...	0:13:31	0:13:35
-..but also had the ability -of being like a mother too.	0:13:36	0:13:39
-Mothers are gentle.	0:13:39	0:13:42
-He had the ability of getting -the players to talk to him...	0:13:42	0:13:47
-..and make them better players.	0:13:47	0:13:49
-They didn't just play for Llanelli -but for Delme too.	0:13:50	0:13:55
-We felt like one big, happy family.	0:13:55	0:14:01
-The best years of my life -were spent playing at Stradey Park.	0:14:01	0:14:07
-In 1966, -whilst playing for Llanelli...	0:14:07	0:14:11
-..Delme received -an unexpected offer.	0:14:11	0:14:13
-I'd been playing in London...	0:14:14	0:14:16
-..and when I got home at 3.00pm -on the Sunday...	0:14:16	0:14:21
-..there were photographers -and reporters outside the house.	0:14:21	0:14:26
-I didn't know what was going on when -I walked up to the council house.	0:14:27	0:14:31
-My stepfather approached me, -put his arm around my shoulder...	0:14:32	0:14:37
-..and told me that -I was going to New Zealand.	0:14:37	0:14:40
-I didn't know -what he was talking about.	0:14:41	0:14:43
-He told me that -there had been a phone call...	0:14:43	0:14:48
-..to say I'd been selected to play -for the Lions in New Zealand.	0:14:49	0:14:53
-It was quite a feat...	0:14:54	0:14:56
-..because he still hadn't won -his first cap for Wales.	0:14:56	0:15:01
-I can't describe -that Sunday afternoon.	0:15:01	0:15:05
-They opened the Fox and Hounds pub -in the village.	0:15:05	0:15:09
-I shouldn't say this -but it remained open for two days.	0:15:10	0:15:14
-Very few people from the village -went to work on the Monday morning.	0:15:14	0:15:20
-It's rare for a player to be -selected for the Lions squad...	0:15:20	0:15:23
-..before they've represented -their own country.	0:15:24	0:15:26
-Delme was selected to play -for the second row in New Zealand.	0:15:27	0:15:33
-This makes him remarkable.	0:15:33	0:15:36
-I suspect that one of the toughest -positions...	0:15:36	0:15:40
-..on a New Zealand tour, -prior to winning a cap...	0:15:40	0:15:44
-..is the second row!	0:15:44	0:15:46
-Joining Willie John McBride, -David Watkins and Dewi Bebb...	0:15:47	0:15:53
-..was an honour for Delme who was -working for the Electricity Board.	0:15:53	0:15:59
-You didn't get much for playing -with the Lions in those days.	0:15:59	0:16:03
-I had a blazer, -one pair of trousers and two ties.	0:16:04	0:16:09
-It's different nowadays.	0:16:09	0:16:11
-We weren't paid.	0:16:12	0:16:13
-We were given ten shillings -which is the equivalent of 50p.	0:16:14	0:16:18
-That's all we were paid per day.	0:16:18	0:16:21
-I was lucky because I was still -being paid by the Electricity Board.	0:16:21	0:16:26
-A lot of the boys were teachers...	0:16:26	0:16:29
-..and they were not paid so -it was a difficult time for them...	0:16:29	0:16:33
-..but I was very lucky.	0:16:33	0:16:35
-Travelling across the world wasn't -easy for the boy from Bancyfelin.	0:16:36	0:16:40
-We were there -for five months in total.	0:16:40	0:16:43
-The first fortnight -was heartbreaking...	0:16:43	0:16:46
-..because I'd led a sheltered life -in the village.	0:16:47	0:16:51
-I started to enjoy it as soon -as I got into it and made friends.	0:16:51	0:16:57
-Delme wrote every single day.	0:16:57	0:16:59
-I think he was homesick -and wanted to keep in touch.	0:16:59	0:17:03
-The postman used to laugh.	0:17:03	0:17:05
-I used to have a little blue -airmail letter every single day...	0:17:06	0:17:10
-..all through the tour.	0:17:10	0:17:11
-Delme was in the second row and -faced the likes of Colin Meads...	0:17:12	0:17:17
-..and the best second row -in the world at that time.	0:17:17	0:17:20
-He returned as a stronger player.	0:17:20	0:17:24
-It must have left -a lasting impression on Delme.	0:17:25	0:17:29
-I remember putting on -the Lions shirt for my first game...	0:17:29	0:17:34
-..and I felt very proud.	0:17:34	0:17:36
-I thought about -my home village of Bancyfelin.	0:17:36	0:17:40
-I'd come from that village -and was now playing for the Lions...	0:17:40	0:17:44
-..so I felt very proud.	0:17:44	0:17:47
-As Delme's rugby career developed...	0:17:48	0:17:51
-..his relationship with Bethan -also grew stronger.	0:17:51	0:17:54
-We've been married for over 40 years -and have been very happy.	0:17:56	0:18:01
-There are times -when we don't see eye to eye...	0:18:01	0:18:05
-..but that's true of every marriage.	0:18:06	0:18:08
-He's a perfectionist -who likes everything neat and tidy.	0:18:08	0:18:12
-The garden and lawns -- everything is perfect with him.	0:18:12	0:18:16
-Being me is not always a good thing -because I'm the opposite.	0:18:16	0:18:21
-I'm a little bit scatty!	0:18:21	0:18:23
-She drives me -up the wall sometimes...	0:18:24	0:18:27
-..but we're totally different.	0:18:27	0:18:30
-If I'm going anywhere...	0:18:31	0:18:34
-..I like to be ready -and leave on time...	0:18:34	0:18:38
-..but Bethan -is totally different.	0:18:38	0:18:41
-Having said that, I've been -very lucky with my lifelong partner.	0:18:41	0:18:47
-Few people would have put up with -all that Bethan has had to face.	0:18:47	0:18:53
-The Vale Hotel -on the outskirts of Cardiff...	0:19:06	0:19:08
-..is the training venue -of the Wales Rugby Team.	0:19:09	0:19:12
-Today, the team has a full training -session but Delme is always welcome.	0:19:13	0:19:19
-How are you keeping?	0:19:19	0:19:21
-How are you keeping? - -Not bad.	0:19:21	0:19:22
-How are you?	0:19:22	0:19:23
-How are you? - -Good.	0:19:23	0:19:25
-You've got a birthday coming up.	0:19:25	0:19:27
-You've got a birthday coming up. - -Yes, I'll be 70 in September.	0:19:27	0:19:30
-When Delme was selected to play -for Wales almost 50 years ago...	0:19:37	0:19:42
-..the facilities -were very different.	0:19:42	0:19:46
-We only trained on a few weekends.	0:19:46	0:19:49
-Three weekends a year.	0:19:49	0:19:51
-We met on the beach at Aberavon.	0:19:52	0:19:55
-If the tide was in, we'd wait for it -to go out before training started.	0:19:55	0:20:01
-Having said that, I believe our -training plan was basically good.	0:20:01	0:20:07
-There was a black dog -and it was always chasing the ball.	0:20:08	0:20:14
-I told the boys to catch the ball -before the dog got hold of it!	0:20:14	0:20:19
-We would laugh and enjoy ourselves.	0:20:19	0:20:22
-Delme won his first cap -against Australia...	0:20:24	0:20:28
-..in December 1966.	0:20:28	0:20:31
-Every child -wants to wear the red shirt.	0:20:34	0:20:36
-Children dream -of playing for their country.	0:20:37	0:20:43
-I'll never forget that day.	0:20:43	0:20:45
-# O bydded i'r hen iaith ... #	0:20:46	0:20:52
-Back then, players weren't lifted -in the line-outs to win the ball.	0:20:52	0:20:58
-Delme was able -to jump of his own accord.	0:20:58	0:21:03
-He was able to jump very high too.	0:21:03	0:21:06
-Delme Thomas is number 3 -for Wales. Up he goes.	0:21:06	0:21:10
-Unfortunately, we lost the game...	0:21:10	0:21:12
-..but I'll remember that day -for as long as I live.	0:21:12	0:21:18
-To Delme Thomas. John Lloyd is there -and handing it to Gerald Davies.	0:21:18	0:21:23
-Over the next few years, he played -regularly for Wales and Llanelli...	0:21:23	0:21:29
-..and joined the Lions tour -of South Africa in 1968.	0:21:29	0:21:33
-Scotland - four points ahead -at 18-14.	0:21:33	0:21:37
-Delme Thomas again. -Edwards to Barry John.	0:21:37	0:21:40
-By 1971, Wales had some -of the best players in the world.	0:21:40	0:21:46
-Delme was one of the key players in -the team that won the Grand Slam...	0:21:46	0:21:51
-..coached by Clive Rowlands.	0:21:51	0:21:54
-It was the best team -that I've ever seen.	0:21:54	0:21:58
-It included Gareth Edwards, -Bennett and John.	0:21:58	0:22:02
-Now you're really talking!	0:22:02	0:22:04
-Mervyn Davies, JPR, Gerald, Delme.	0:22:04	0:22:08
-This is Gerald Davies. -Davies scores for Wales.	0:22:08	0:22:12
-It was a lovely family.	0:22:12	0:22:15
-The talented backs couldn't -do anything without the ball.	0:22:15	0:22:21
-Delme was the man who gained -possession most of the time.	0:22:22	0:22:27
-Delme Thomas.	0:22:28	0:22:30
-You've got to win the ball -before you can use it.	0:22:31	0:22:34
-The Grand Slam team of 1971 -did this exceptionally well.	0:22:34	0:22:38
-What a magnificent move!	0:22:39	0:22:41
-After a successful year -with Wales...	0:22:47	0:22:50
-..Delme received his third -invitation to join the Lions.	0:22:50	0:22:54
-They were back in New Zealand -and coached by Carwyn James.	0:22:54	0:22:59
-1971 was a very special year for me.	0:22:59	0:23:04
-I'd been to New Zealand in 1966.	0:23:04	0:23:09
-The team didn't do very well -and we lost several games.	0:23:09	0:23:14
-We returned in 1971, enjoyed success -and beat the All Blacks.	0:23:14	0:23:19
-To this day, -we are the only Lions squad...	0:23:19	0:23:23
-..to beat the All Blacks -in New Zealand.	0:23:23	0:23:26
-Delme Thomas of Wales -in place of Gordon Brown.	0:23:27	0:23:30
-He's packed with Willie John McBride -in many a test.	0:23:30	0:23:33
-It was a massive deal for me -and everyone else on that tour.	0:23:33	0:23:38
-And that's it. That's it.	0:23:38	0:23:41
-A drawn match of 14 points all -at Eden Park.	0:23:42	0:23:46
-The British Lions -have won the series.	0:23:46	0:23:49
-In 1972, Delme was chosen -to captain Wales...	0:23:50	0:23:54
-..in the game against New Zealand.	0:23:54	0:23:58
-The captain of Wales...	0:24:01	0:24:02
-..is one of the most popular -Welsh players of all time.	0:24:03	0:24:06
-Delme Thomas of Llanelli.	0:24:06	0:24:09
-It's a big deal to play for Wales -and more special to be the captain.	0:24:09	0:24:15
-Once again, I thought -of my home in Bancyfelin.	0:24:15	0:24:20
-The village was supportive of me -at such events.	0:24:20	0:24:24
-I knew the people would support me -which was very important.	0:24:24	0:24:29
-Delme's delighted with the continued -rugby tradition in the village...	0:24:29	0:24:33
-..as he meets Jonathan Davies -and Mike Phillips.	0:24:33	0:24:36
-You were raised at the -Fox and Hounds pub in the village.	0:24:37	0:24:41
-That's why people call you Foxy.	0:24:41	0:24:44
-People think it's a dull story -but that's the reason.	0:24:45	0:24:49
-Mike, you're from -the Parc yr Abbot farm.	0:24:50	0:24:54
-I remember playing with your father.	0:24:54	0:24:57
-I remember playing with your father. - -That's all he talks about.	0:24:57	0:25:00
-We played for the St Clears -youth team in the 1950s and 1960s.	0:25:00	0:25:05
-He was a full-back -and pulled quite a punch.	0:25:05	0:25:09
-They say he was better than you!	0:25:09	0:25:12
-People say that you're quick -tempered. Your father was the same!	0:25:12	0:25:17
-I pull his leg that he was the new -style of full-back not JPR Williams.	0:25:19	0:25:24
-Everybody talks about -JPR Williams...	0:25:24	0:25:27
-..but Trevor Parc yr Abbot -was the first!	0:25:27	0:25:31
-The village of Bancyfelin -is very proud of you both.	0:25:31	0:25:36
-It's worth watching the game -on television...	0:25:36	0:25:39
-..to see the boys of Bancyfelin.	0:25:39	0:25:42
-I couldn't feel any prouder of you -if you were my own sons.	0:25:42	0:25:47
-You've put the village on the map.	0:25:47	0:25:50
-Thank you both very much.	0:25:50	0:25:52
-Thank you both very much. - -Thank you, Delme.	0:25:52	0:25:54
-Bancyfelin's most famous son...	0:25:57	0:26:00
-..would be immortalized -in one game...	0:26:00	0:26:03
-..that made history at Stradey Park.	0:26:03	0:26:06
-I've never felt anything like that -in my life before.	0:26:06	0:26:10
-.	0:26:12	0:26:12
-Subtitles	0:26:17	0:26:17
-Subtitles - -Subtitles	0:26:17	0:26:19
-It's match day at Parc y Scarlets.	0:26:21	0:26:23
-The players on the bus are -a bit too old to be playing tonight.	0:26:24	0:26:28
-Forty years ago, Delme Thomas -and this team faced the All Blacks.	0:26:29	0:26:34
-Tonight, they welcome -the former players...	0:26:39	0:26:42
-..who are the heroes -of Llanelli Rugby Club.	0:26:42	0:26:45
-Please welcome to the pitch -the team of 1972!	0:26:46	0:26:51
-Is it true that you're coming on -second half if they're losing?	0:27:05	0:27:09
-We've gone too far for that. -The colour of the hair tells you.	0:27:09	0:27:12
-Thank you. Delme Thomas, everybody!	0:27:13	0:27:15
-It's a local derby against Cardiff -Blues but the Scarlets want to win.	0:27:16	0:27:21
-The old team can sit back -and enjoy the atmosphere.	0:27:22	0:27:25
-In 1972, Delme was under pressure...	0:27:25	0:27:31
-..as he prepared for one of the most -important games of his career.	0:27:31	0:27:36
-I think every child wants to play -against New Zealand...	0:27:48	0:27:53
-..because they are -the best in the world.	0:27:53	0:27:56
-I remember walking -with the massive crowd.	0:28:03	0:28:06
-There was a sense of apprehension -that something was going to happen.	0:28:06	0:28:11
-Carwyn James was the coach -of Llanelli's team.	0:28:14	0:28:17
-A year earlier, he'd enjoyed success -with the Lions team in New Zealand.	0:28:17	0:28:23
-He had a year to prepare the team -for the All Blacks fixture.	0:28:24	0:28:29
-He knew what to expect and knew -their strengths and weaknesses...	0:28:30	0:28:34
-..not that the All Blacks -have many weaknesses.	0:28:34	0:28:38
-Give it to Del, give it to Del, give -it to Del. That's alright. Good.	0:28:38	0:28:43
-We met last night, -Del, Noel and myself...	0:28:43	0:28:46
-..to have a look at the side -for the All Blacks.	0:28:46	0:28:49
-The team selected is...	0:28:50	0:28:51
-..Roger at full back...	0:28:52	0:28:54
-..Andy and John on the wings, -Roy and Ray in the centre...	0:28:54	0:29:00
-..Phil and Chico at half-back...	0:29:00	0:29:03
-..Barry Llewellyn, Roy Thomas -and Tony in the front row.	0:29:03	0:29:07
-The second row is Del and Derek.	0:29:07	0:29:10
-And the back row -are Gareth, Hefin and Tommy David.	0:29:10	0:29:16
-We went for a meal, as was the -tradition, at the Ashburnham Hotel.	0:29:16	0:29:22
-Carwyn got up to speak -and so did some other people...	0:29:22	0:29:28
-..including Delme.	0:29:28	0:29:30
-I told them that -it was possible to beat them...	0:29:30	0:29:35
-..that they were only 15 men, just -like us but we were a good team.	0:29:35	0:29:41
-He went up in my estimation so much.	0:29:41	0:29:43
-He said he would give everything -away - his caps, jerseys...	0:29:43	0:29:48
-..all he'd earned for Wales and the -Lions, just to beat the All Blacks.	0:29:48	0:29:53
-Derek Quinnell, Phil Bennett and -JJ Williams were in bloody tears!	0:29:53	0:29:59
-It's true - they were crying.	0:29:59	0:30:02
-Ray Gravell was crying like a baby.	0:30:02	0:30:05
-Gareth Jenkins was pumped up.	0:30:05	0:30:07
-He made a point of looking -us all in the eye and saying...	0:30:07	0:30:11
-"Are you ready for the biggest -battle of our lives? We can do it!"	0:30:11	0:30:15
-He pointed at the badge, -Llanelli Rugby Club.	0:30:15	0:30:18
-Carwyn James got up and said...	0:30:18	0:30:20
-"Lads, what else can I say? -That's it. Let's go."	0:30:21	0:30:26
-And he sat back down.	0:30:27	0:30:28
-That was the actual moment when -the boys thought they could do it.	0:30:28	0:30:33
-I've never seen a crowd like the one -that was at Stradey Park that day.	0:30:35	0:30:41
-Everybody was excited.	0:30:41	0:30:43
-It was difficult -to get a ticket for the game.	0:30:43	0:30:47
-Carwyn and I went onto the pitch -30 minutes before the game...	0:30:47	0:30:52
-..to take in the atmosphere.	0:30:53	0:30:55
-There were over 20,000 people -at Stradey Park that day.	0:30:55	0:30:59
-I've never experienced -anything like it before.	0:30:59	0:31:03
-# And the cat -has scratched little Johnny #	0:31:03	0:31:06
-Carwyn asked how I felt -and I was feeling good.	0:31:06	0:31:10
-He told me that if we won, -I would never have to work again...	0:31:10	0:31:14
-..but I've had to work -ever since that day!	0:31:15	0:31:17
-Your job is to run at him -and thump him.	0:31:18	0:31:21
-I told the boys -it would be a physical game.	0:31:21	0:31:24
-They thought they knew the game...	0:31:25	0:31:27
-..but you haven't played rugby until -you've played against New Zealand.	0:31:27	0:31:31
-Llanelli had never beaten -the All Blacks.	0:31:33	0:31:36
-Delme and his team knew -it would be a physical showdown...	0:31:37	0:31:41
-..if they wanted to beat -their opponents.	0:31:41	0:31:44
-We had a good start -against the All Blacks.	0:31:45	0:31:48
-There was a penalty and Phil Bennett -took the kick for Llanelli.	0:31:49	0:31:54
-The ball hit the post -and bounced back...	0:31:54	0:31:57
-..and a New Zealand scrum-half -tried to kick it...	0:31:58	0:32:01
-..but Bergiers charged him down -and scored a try under the posts.	0:32:02	0:32:07
-We were six points up -in the first ten minutes.	0:32:08	0:32:11
-It was a great start to the game.	0:32:11	0:32:14
-If Llanelli scored -either a penalty or a try...	0:32:16	0:32:20
-..the crowd erupted!	0:32:21	0:32:23
-It was a historic result -for Llanelli.	0:32:24	0:32:27
-They beat the All Blacks 9-3.	0:32:27	0:32:31
-I couldn't quite believe -that we'd beaten New Zealand...	0:32:32	0:32:36
-..at Stradey Park.	0:32:37	0:32:38
-Barry Llewellyn said, "Hey, -Quinners. Let's carry him off!"	0:32:39	0:32:44
-I'd had enough -and wanted to go and sit down.	0:32:44	0:32:48
-We picked him up and it took 20 -minutes to reach the changing room.	0:32:48	0:32:53
-The crowd had charged -onto the pitch.	0:32:53	0:32:57
-I was tired after the game...	0:32:57	0:32:59
-..but I was ready for bed -after carrying Delme indoors!	0:32:59	0:33:03
-There were so many people -in the changing room.	0:33:04	0:33:08
-Carwyn had to clear the room -so that we could get in!	0:33:08	0:33:12
-You could understand it -because everybody was excited...	0:33:12	0:33:16
-..and wanted to celebrate -the victory over New Zealand.	0:33:16	0:33:21
-Nobody wanted -to go for a shower and change.	0:33:21	0:33:25
-They wanted to keep their shirts on -and celebrate.	0:33:25	0:33:30
-Hooray! Great stuff!	0:33:30	0:33:33
-This victory wasn't just important -to Delme and his family...	0:33:37	0:33:42
-..for Llanelli and Wales...	0:33:42	0:33:45
-..but to the whole world!	0:33:45	0:33:47
-Something special had been achieved -that day.	0:33:48	0:33:50
-I'll remember that day -for as long as I live.	0:33:56	0:33:59
-It was a wonderful feeling.	0:33:59	0:34:02
-It was the best feeling of my life.	0:34:02	0:34:05
-You wouldn't have done that.	0:34:05	0:34:07
-No, you wouldn't have done that.	0:34:07	0:34:09
-You'd have blown up halfway!	0:34:10	0:34:13
-He would have dropped the ball.	0:34:13	0:34:16
-Delme's rugby days are over and -he still enjoys manual labour...	0:34:17	0:34:22
-..but he isn't the boss any more!	0:34:22	0:34:25
-I do all the hard work.	0:34:25	0:34:27
-If there's any hard work to do -then Muggins here has to do it!	0:34:27	0:34:33
-.	0:34:36	0:34:36
-Subtitles	0:34:40	0:34:40
-Subtitles - -Subtitles	0:34:40	0:34:42
-The village of Amroth -in Pembrokeshire.	0:34:48	0:34:51
-Delme Thomas has come here -to relax in his caravan...	0:34:51	0:34:55
-..since retiring from rugby.	0:34:56	0:34:58
-This place is heaven on earth.	0:34:58	0:35:01
-After spending a week at home -in the bungalow...	0:35:01	0:35:04
-..being able to spend weekends here -is invaluable.	0:35:05	0:35:08
-I've been lucky to travel the world -playing rugby...	0:35:08	0:35:12
-..but this location is as good -as anywhere else I've been.	0:35:12	0:35:16
-After a glittering rugby career with -Llanelli, Wales and the Lions...	0:35:21	0:35:27
-..Delme didn't -take to retirement easily.	0:35:27	0:35:30
-I didn't realize that it would be so -difficult to stop playing rugby...	0:35:30	0:35:36
-..but it was harder than I expected.	0:35:36	0:35:40
-I'd toured for many years -and been away from home a lot.	0:35:41	0:35:45
-I missed the game and my friends.	0:35:45	0:35:49
-It was very difficult -quite honestly.	0:35:49	0:35:52
-There wasn't any advice or support -offered when I was a player.	0:35:54	0:35:59
-You were on your own as soon -as you retired from the game.	0:35:59	0:36:03
-It was up to you whether -you went into coaching or not.	0:36:03	0:36:08
-At that time, life was -very different for rugby players.	0:36:08	0:36:12
-When I retired from rugby...	0:36:15	0:36:18
-..it was a great help -to be able to come to Amroth.	0:36:18	0:36:23
-It took my mind off -thinking about the other men.	0:36:23	0:36:27
-Thirty years ago, -I think the best move I ever made...	0:36:28	0:36:33
-..was buying this caravan at Amroth.	0:36:33	0:36:36
-I've had -some wonderful times down here...	0:36:36	0:36:40
-..and made some true friends -over the years.	0:36:40	0:36:44
-Retiring from rugby meant he could -spend more time with Bethan...	0:36:45	0:36:49
-..and his daughters -Tracey and Helen.	0:36:49	0:36:52
-He'd spend a lot of time with us.	0:36:52	0:36:55
-The three of us would go on our -bikes to Starling Park in Johnstown.	0:36:55	0:37:00
-We spent a lot of time -on the bikes and walking.	0:37:00	0:37:03
-At the caravan in Amroth, we spent -many years there in the sea.	0:37:04	0:37:09
-He spent quality time with us.	0:37:09	0:37:11
-These days, -Delme has plenty of time to relax.	0:37:12	0:37:15
-He still feels -that it's important to remain fit...	0:37:16	0:37:19
-..so he enjoys weightlifting, -walking and swimming.	0:37:19	0:37:22
-I don't find it very easy to relax.	0:37:22	0:37:26
-When I'm at home, -I always find something to do.	0:37:26	0:37:29
-My wife is always saying -that we should go to the caravan...	0:37:29	0:37:33
-..because it's the only place -I can relax.	0:37:33	0:37:36
-She's quite right too.	0:37:36	0:37:38
-I find it much easier to relax -in Amroth than I do at home.	0:37:39	0:37:44
-After warming up the body -in the pool...	0:37:48	0:37:50
-..nothing beats -taking a dip in the sea.	0:37:50	0:37:54
-People think I'm crazy when they -see me in the sea in this weather...	0:37:54	0:37:59
-..but it cleanses the body.	0:37:59	0:38:02
-You feel clean -after being in the sea.	0:38:02	0:38:05
-It's totally different -from taking a bath.	0:38:05	0:38:08
-Salt water -is very beneficial for the body.	0:38:08	0:38:11
-These shallots are growing well.	0:38:21	0:38:24
-That's your second crop but those -runner beans are worth showing off.	0:38:24	0:38:30
-Delme remains close friends -with his school friend, Lyn.	0:38:30	0:38:35
-There's no end to the teasing.	0:38:35	0:38:38
-He doesn't work for me but he helps -out every now and then.	0:38:38	0:38:42
-We have a lot of fun.	0:38:42	0:38:44
-We have a lot of fun. - -I do all the hard work.	0:38:44	0:38:46
-If there's any hard work to do -then Muggins here has to do it.	0:38:46	0:38:52
-He's not bad for a 70-year-old!	0:38:52	0:38:55
-He's years older than me -as you can see!	0:38:55	0:38:58
-You know my wife so it's nice -to come here for peace and quiet.	0:38:58	0:39:02
-That's why I come here.	0:39:03	0:39:04
-That's why I come here. - -I'm doing him a favour.	0:39:04	0:39:06
-We see a lot of each other -because neither of us moved away.	0:39:09	0:39:14
-We live half a mile away -from each other in Carmarthen.	0:39:14	0:39:18
-He comes to help me -and we have a lot of fun.	0:39:18	0:39:21
-My grandmother kept chickens.	0:39:21	0:39:23
-He hasn't only done exceptionally -well on the rugby field...	0:39:23	0:39:27
-..but we're also proud -of his personality and character.	0:39:27	0:39:32
-He has both feet -firmly on the ground...	0:39:32	0:39:35
-..and he enjoys the company -of local people.	0:39:35	0:39:38
-He's a shy person -but very genuine with it.	0:39:38	0:39:42
-He's a true best friend.	0:39:42	0:39:44
-There are few people like him -and he's a very special friend.	0:39:44	0:39:49
-Another of Delme's close friends -was Ray Gravell.	0:39:59	0:40:03
-His death in 2007 -came as a massive blow.	0:40:03	0:40:07
-Ray Gravell and I -were great friends.	0:40:08	0:40:11
-It's difficult -to describe the feelings...	0:40:12	0:40:16
-..on that day in Stradey Park.	0:40:16	0:40:20
-Thousands of people -had gathered here...	0:40:20	0:40:23
-..because everybody -thought so highly of Ray.	0:40:23	0:40:27
-When I think of Stradey Park...	0:40:30	0:40:32
-..I think of the best -and worst moments of my life.	0:40:33	0:40:36
-He was so young -and had so much to offer...	0:40:37	0:40:40
-..not just on the rugby field -but as a Welshman.	0:40:40	0:40:45
-It was an incredible loss -to the country.	0:40:45	0:40:48
-Everybody was friends with Ray -and he was friends with everyone.	0:40:48	0:40:53
-Ray was famous in his own right -and had made a name for himself.	0:41:00	0:41:05
-When they built the new -Parc y Scarlets stadium...	0:41:06	0:41:11
-..they named one of the stands -after Ray Gravell.	0:41:11	0:41:15
-They named -the training barn after me.	0:41:16	0:41:20
-I call it the shed!	0:41:20	0:41:22
-He would laugh his head off -if he was alive today...	0:41:23	0:41:27
-..because I had the shed -and he got the stand!	0:41:27	0:41:31
-Five years after retiring from rugby -and Delme faced dark times.	0:41:40	0:41:44
-He had to stop working for the -Electricity Board for a period.	0:41:45	0:41:49
-At the start of the 1980s, -I went through a very bad phase.	0:41:49	0:41:54
-I felt very depressed...	0:41:54	0:41:56
-..and was off work -for about six months.	0:41:56	0:42:01
-I spent two months -in Glangwili Hospital.	0:42:01	0:42:07
-I couldn't see the light -at the end of the tunnel.	0:42:08	0:42:13
-I travelled a lot -when I played rugby...	0:42:14	0:42:17
-..and it all came to a sudden end.	0:42:17	0:42:19
-I had to learn to live -a different life.	0:42:20	0:42:23
-I'm the type of person -who gives 100% to everything.	0:42:23	0:42:27
-I suppose I expect others -to do the same...	0:42:28	0:42:32
-..but life isn't like that.	0:42:32	0:42:36
-It was a very difficult time for me -if I'm honest.	0:42:36	0:42:41
-He started to improve over time...	0:42:41	0:42:43
-..and he remembers the exact day -of that turning point.	0:42:44	0:42:47
-I'll never forget -that day in hospital.	0:42:48	0:42:50
-A person was going from bed to bed.	0:42:50	0:42:53
-I suspect he recognized me -from my rugby playing days...	0:42:54	0:42:57
-..and asked what I was doing there -so I told him how I felt.	0:42:57	0:43:01
-The man was Reverend Glyndwr Walker.	0:43:02	0:43:05
-He was absolutely wonderful to me...	0:43:06	0:43:09
-..during the time I spent -at Glangwili Hospital.	0:43:09	0:43:14
-He visited me every day -for three weeks.	0:43:14	0:43:19
-He talked to me -and asked what he could do.	0:43:19	0:43:23
-We would take a stroll -around the hospital.	0:43:23	0:43:27
-There's a small chapel -in the hospital.	0:43:27	0:43:30
-He told me to go inside.	0:43:30	0:43:32
-We would go to the chapel -to talk and say a prayer or two...	0:43:33	0:43:37
-..but we mainly chatted -about how I was feeling.	0:43:37	0:43:42
-To this day...	0:43:42	0:43:44
-..I know that I turned a corner -on the day I met Glyndwr Walker.	0:43:44	0:43:48
-He was an extraordinary man.	0:43:49	0:43:52
-The tablets prescribed by the -doctors didn't aid my recovery...	0:43:52	0:43:58
-..but it was my faith -in Glyndwr Walker.	0:43:58	0:44:03
-He was wonderful to me.	0:44:03	0:44:07
-I still attend chapel.	0:44:07	0:44:09
-I think it's very important -to have faith in life.	0:44:09	0:44:15
-# Sing to the Lord	0:44:19	0:44:24
-# Sing to the Lord #	0:44:24	0:44:29
-Delme has been a member -of this chapel in Bancyfelin...	0:44:29	0:44:34
-..since he was a boy.	0:44:34	0:44:36
-# May sweetly go to heaven	0:44:36	0:44:41
-# A sacrifice of praise unto him #	0:44:41	0:44:46
-I remember meeting Delme.	0:44:46	0:44:48
-I'd seen photographs -and heard about him and his story.	0:44:48	0:44:52
-I was surprised that he was such -a faithful member of the chapel.	0:44:52	0:44:56
-You would not expect someone -who has gained such success...	0:44:57	0:45:01
-..to be in chapel every Sunday.	0:45:02	0:45:04
-The chapel and his faith -are very important to him.	0:45:04	0:45:09
-"And when they had sung a hymn, they -went out onto the Mount of Olives."	0:45:12	0:45:18
-He sits in the back seat.	0:45:19	0:45:20
-If he was any further back, -he'd be on the road!	0:45:21	0:45:24
-This is quite typical of Delme.	0:45:24	0:45:26
-He doesn't like to be -in the spotlight.	0:45:26	0:45:29
-He's a very humble man.	0:45:30	0:45:32
-He's also physically strong.	0:45:33	0:45:35
-If there's any manual labour -or building work to be done...	0:45:35	0:45:39
-..he's always willing to help -and is very skilful with his hands.	0:45:39	0:45:45
-We're proud of his success -on the rugby field...	0:45:49	0:45:53
-..but we're glad -he hasn't forgotten his roots.	0:45:54	0:45:57
-He holds the village of Bancyfelin -in high regard.	0:45:57	0:46:00
-I don't think he realizes that the -village thinks very highly of him.	0:46:01	0:46:05
-He does -get on your nerves sometimes.	0:46:06	0:46:09
-In Carmarthen, a group -of friends have gathered...	0:46:09	0:46:12
-..to celebrate -Delme's 70th birthday.	0:46:13	0:46:16
-It's a guardsman stretched out.	0:46:19	0:46:21
-# Happy Birthday to you	0:46:21	0:46:24
-# Happy Birthday to Delme	0:46:24	0:46:28
-# Happy Birthday to you! #	0:46:28	0:46:31
-Hip, hip!	0:46:31	0:46:33
-Hip, hip! - -Hooray!	0:46:33	0:46:34
-Hip, hip!	0:46:35	0:46:36
-Hip, hip! - -Hooray!	0:46:36	0:46:38
-It's a pleasure to be here.	0:46:39	0:46:41
-I've spent a lot of time in his -company and he's a lot of fun.	0:46:42	0:46:46
-The lads who are here tonight -all visit him from time to time.	0:46:47	0:46:50
-Everybody thinks the world of him.	0:46:51	0:46:53
-He's a real gentleman -and a dear person.	0:46:53	0:46:56
-Nobody has a bad word -to say about Delme.	0:46:57	0:46:59
-He's very loyal and very genuine.	0:47:00	0:47:03
-He's got a heart of gold.	0:47:03	0:47:06
-It's a wonderful evening -spent with good friends.	0:47:06	0:47:11
-These are lifelong friends.	0:47:11	0:47:15
-I don't have many friends but -the friends I do have are good ones.	0:47:16	0:47:20
-He's a giant of a man...	0:47:22	0:47:24
-..an amazing captain and -no-one could match him as a player.	0:47:24	0:47:29
-Delme Thomas is a legend in this -area, in Wales and the rugby world.	0:47:30	0:47:35
-This great lock forward, -veteran of three Lions tours.	0:47:36	0:47:41
-Delme's special in many ways.	0:47:41	0:47:44
-He had talent, he won the ball -and didn't break the rules.	0:47:44	0:47:49
-He knew how to win.	0:47:49	0:47:50
-He knew how to be a captain -and always performed on the pitch.	0:47:51	0:47:55
-I don't think anybody -wants to be 70...	0:47:59	0:48:01
-..but I've enjoyed myself.	0:48:02	0:48:04
-I wouldn't change -anything in my life.	0:48:05	0:48:09
-I've had a great life -and been very lucky.	0:48:09	0:48:13
-S4C subtitles by Tinopolis	0:48:32	0:48:34
-.	0:48:35	0:48:35

Delme Thomas: Brenin y Strade

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