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0:00:17 > 0:00:23- VILLAINS AND HEROES
0:00:31 > 0:00:35- The sea has played a crucial role - in Welsh history for centuries.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37- It's provided us with food...
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- ..enabled us - to travel far and wide...
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- ..and allowed us to trade, - by importing and exporting goods.
0:00:46 > 0:00:51- People in coastal areas are aware - that the sea can claim lives...
0:00:51 > 0:00:54- ..as well as provide employment.
0:01:04 > 0:01:05- In 1859...
0:01:06 > 0:01:09- ..this church, Cwm yr Eglwys, - Pembrokeshire...
0:01:10 > 0:01:13- ..lost three of its four walls - in a violent storm.
0:01:13 > 0:01:15- The fourth wall still stands...
0:01:16 > 0:01:19- ..a lonely witness - to the sea's destructive powers.
0:01:26 > 0:01:30- Over the years, the wild waves - that surround the Welsh coastline...
0:01:31 > 0:01:33- ..have attracted wild souls.
0:01:34 > 0:01:37- Pirates, smugglers - and shipwreckers...
0:01:37 > 0:01:41- ..have been romantic figures - in our seafaring legends.
0:01:41 > 0:01:45- Junior school children know about - the infamous Bartholomew Roberts.
0:01:46 > 0:01:50- Our poets and authors have - immortalized these villains.
0:01:51 > 0:01:55- But what's the real story - lurking in the background?
0:02:03 > 0:02:06- Pirates are the sea's most famous - villains.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10- Since we learnt how to sail, people - have roamed the ocean waves...
0:02:11 > 0:02:13- ..murdering and plundering.
0:02:16 > 0:02:20- Although Britain abolished - the death sentence in 1965...
0:02:20 > 0:02:26- ..piracy was a capital offence - until 1998.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34- Perhaps it's inevitable - that a seafaring nation...
0:02:34 > 0:02:36- ..would breed some wild men...
0:02:38 > 0:02:41- ..including some world famous - pirates.
0:02:47 > 0:02:51- Author Dafydd Meirion studied - the history of Welsh pirates.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55- I met him in Angle, - near Milford Haven.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59- The small village once - attracted its share of pirates.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03- The British fleet - wasn't particularly strong...
0:03:04 > 0:03:06- ..before the days - of the Spanish Armada.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09- Pirates had free rein - to attack ships.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12- This changed - after Spain attacked England.
0:03:13 > 0:03:18- More ships were built, making - them more difficult to attack.
0:03:18 > 0:03:22- But the government - actively encouraged pirates...
0:03:22 > 0:03:25- ..to sail to West Africa - and the Caribbean...
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- ..to attack the Spanish, - French and Dutch.
0:03:29 > 0:03:32- The incentive to travel - was to make more money.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37- It was further away - and there were far more treasures.
0:03:37 > 0:03:40- Spanish ships - were full of gold and silver.
0:03:41 > 0:03:46- It was an opportunity - to get rich quick.
0:03:49 > 0:03:51- It was a dangerous profession.
0:03:52 > 0:03:56- Yes. The average lifespan of - a pirate's career was 3 to 4 years.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01- Very few lived to old age - - Henry Morgan was an exception.
0:04:02 > 0:04:07- Although they stole treasures - worth millions of pounds...
0:04:08 > 0:04:10- ..very few managed to hang on to it.
0:04:10 > 0:04:14- They died young, frittering - their money on drink and women...
0:04:14 > 0:04:18- ..or burying it. Many were - unable to return and retrieve it.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23- Bartholomew Roberts, or Black Bart, - wanted to live fast and die young.
0:04:23 > 0:04:26- He wasn't interested - in a long, boring life.
0:04:26 > 0:04:28- Was adventure the appeal?
0:04:29 > 0:04:32- Times were hard, - whatever your profession.
0:04:33 > 0:04:38- Life was hard - for farmers and sailors alike.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44- Keeping on the right side of the law - wasn't a profitable business.
0:04:45 > 0:04:49- But pirates acquired wealth - beyond their wildest dreams...
0:04:50 > 0:04:53- ..compared to a lifetime - of working the land.
0:04:57 > 0:05:03- A pirate's life could be lonely, - despite the creature comforts.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- They'd be at sea - for months at a time.
0:05:07 > 0:05:12- They would plunder wine or rum - from merchant ships.
0:05:13 > 0:05:17- It was tempting to savour - their spoils before selling it on!
0:05:18 > 0:05:22- In this way, - pirates and sailors differed.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26- Only officers - drank on the merchant ships.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29- But on pirate ships, - everyone drank...
0:05:29 > 0:05:32- ..apart from Black Bart, - who was teetotal.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35- That's why he was so successful!
0:05:35 > 0:05:38- He was the most sober on board - and knew what he was doing!
0:05:41 > 0:05:44- The pirates that sailed - from Wales to the Caribbean...
0:05:45 > 0:05:47- ..are still familiar to us today.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51- But not every pirate sailed - to the ends of the earth.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56- Harri Morgan belonged to - a latter period of Caribbean piracy.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01- Long before that, piracy was common - along the Welsh coast.
0:06:01 > 0:06:07- Piracy was practised - even before Roman times.
0:06:07 > 0:06:10- In later centuries, - it was rife during Edward I's reign.
0:06:11 > 0:06:15- During - the 13th and 14th centuries...
0:06:15 > 0:06:18- ..when coastal trade increased...
0:06:18 > 0:06:21- ..ship owners became pirates!
0:06:22 > 0:06:25- They made lots of money - with little effort.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29- What sort of goods - are we talking about?
0:06:30 > 0:06:34- Not gold, silver, - treasures or rum even in this case!
0:06:36 > 0:06:39- They stole claret, - expensive wines and clothes.
0:06:40 > 0:06:43- They mainly stole fairly - commonplace goods - wool and grain.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47- Those were in demand - and therefore easy to sell.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56- To understand Wales's appeal - to pirates...
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- ..we should take into account - the nature of the Welsh coast...
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- ..in the 13th and 14th centuries.
0:07:05 > 0:07:10- From Chester to Chepstow, the coast - was bustling with activity.
0:07:11 > 0:07:14- Hundreds of small boats - sailed from harbour to harbour.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19- One area of Wales - was particularly busy.
0:07:24 > 0:07:28- By the 19th century, next to London, - and York in the north of England...
0:07:28 > 0:07:32- ..Bristol - was England's largest city.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37- The appeal of Bristol's busy harbour - was great.
0:07:37 > 0:07:41- Ships sailed in - from Ireland, Iceland and Europe.
0:07:52 > 0:07:58- The Bristol Channel was one of - the busiest waterways in the world.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02- Evidence of this activity - is still visible.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06- There is a location of interest - on the outskirts of Magor...
0:08:06 > 0:08:09- ..not far from the new bridge - over the Bristol Channel.
0:08:10 > 0:08:16- Archaeologist Paul Sambrook - explained its significance.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20- How was life here - in the Middle Ages?
0:08:21 > 0:08:23- It was very unlike - what we see today.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27- The marsh reached out - considerably more.
0:08:28 > 0:08:32- The sea hadn't claimed - as much of it then.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37- A degree of erosion has happened - since the Middle Ages.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40- Some of the land has been lost.
0:08:40 > 0:08:46- There was a harbour - somewhere under the waves.
0:08:46 > 0:08:48- It has been completely lost.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53- The sea wasn't as close - to this point as it is today.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- There must have been - a community here, too.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59- Of course. People lived here.
0:08:59 > 0:09:03- There were women and children - and the men worked on river boats.
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- They traded here, too.
0:09:12 > 0:09:16- In 1994, a team of archaeologists - discovered one of the boats...
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- ..that contributed - to the hustle and bustle.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23- Although it sank 600 years earlier, - it was in a remarkable condition.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31- Moisture preserves wood - - whether it's water or peat.
0:09:32 > 0:09:37- The boat was abandoned in mud - on the shores of the estuary.
0:09:37 > 0:09:41- It was hidden - and kept moist over the centuries.
0:09:42 > 0:09:48- More than half the boat - was preserved for over 600 years.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50- But it was tricky - to retrieve the boat!
0:09:51 > 0:09:55- It was a dangerous operation. - The site was quite far out to sea.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59- The boat could only be reached - at low tide.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- The archaeologists worked - a maximum of two hours a day.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07- The tide comes in very quickly here.
0:10:07 > 0:10:10- It was hard and dangerous work.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13- They decided to raise the boat...
0:10:13 > 0:10:16- ..before the sea - caused further damage.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- What does the boat tell us - about the period?
0:10:21 > 0:10:25- The boat clarifies - a number of issues.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28- It proves that trade existed between - south Wales, Devon and Cornwall...
0:10:29 > 0:10:30- ..and even further afield.
0:10:31 > 0:10:36- This type of boat was mainly used to - sail from minor Gwent estuaries...
0:10:37 > 0:10:41- ..and cross the Bristol Channel - with iron and other produce.
0:10:42 > 0:10:46- They returned with goods - from the opposite bank.
0:10:47 > 0:10:48- Pottery was found here, too.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50- Pottery was found here, too.- - That was an exciting discovery.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54- Fragments of pottery have been - found in the riverbed mud.
0:10:55 > 0:10:59- It creates a picture - of life as it was here.
0:11:00 > 0:11:03- Such pieces of evidence are rare.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07- It's unusual for something - as large as a boat to survive...
0:11:07 > 0:11:10- ..with part of its cargo - still aboard.
0:11:10 > 0:11:15- We can see how the boat was built, - how it was used...
0:11:15 > 0:11:18- ..where they sailed - and what they imported.
0:11:19 > 0:11:23- This simple little boat - has quite a tale to tell.
0:11:26 > 0:11:30- The Magor boat wasn't full - of priceless treasures...
0:11:30 > 0:11:32- ..as it crossed the Bristol Channel.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37- But that doesn't mean - the pirates would have ignored it.
0:11:40 > 0:11:44- Perhaps the iron ore would not have - been of much interest to them...
0:11:44 > 0:11:48- ..but anything that could be sold - to the people of south Wales...
0:11:48 > 0:11:50- ..would be a target for pirates.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56- As Bristol harbour grew...
0:11:56 > 0:12:00- ..so did the types of ships - that sailed the Bristol Channel.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03- The cargo of the new, - substantial ships...
0:12:03 > 0:12:07- ..was more attractive - than the modest little Magor boat.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20- 888
0:12:28 > 0:12:32- A coastal vessel was discovered - in the Bristol Channel, near Magor.
0:12:33 > 0:12:38- But another important discovery - was made nearby.
0:12:40 > 0:12:45- While digging the foundations of - Newport's new art centre in 2002...
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- ..workers found - a number of wooden rafters.
0:12:48 > 0:12:52- It became apparent that the rafters - belonged to an ancient ship.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00- The discovery caught - the imagination of local people.
0:13:02 > 0:13:08- The rafters are being examined - and treated in a city warehouse.
0:13:10 > 0:13:14- Hefin Meara is a full-time member - of the restoration team.
0:13:15 > 0:13:17- He started - as one of the volunteers...
0:13:18 > 0:13:20- ..who lifted the rafters - out of the mud.
0:13:20 > 0:13:24- What happened - after you got hold of the rafters?
0:13:24 > 0:13:30- They were transported to this - warehouse and placed in water tanks.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33- They must be kept wet at all times.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37- Once they dry out, - they crumble and lose their shape.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40- Any information would be lost.
0:13:40 > 0:13:42- Are they brought here one by one?
0:13:43 > 0:13:46- They're cleaned one at a time...
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- ..so that we can - glean information from them.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- A layer of mud covers everything.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54- Iron nails rust quickly.
0:13:54 > 0:13:59- The dirt must be removed before - we can see the detail on the timber.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03- There's a stark contrast between - the treated and untreated wood.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08- It's a tricky, time-consuming - process.
0:14:08 > 0:14:13- We can see the detail on the timber.
0:14:14 > 0:14:15- What next?
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- We carry the rafters - to the documentation table.
0:14:26 > 0:14:31- A computer programme enables us - to create a 3-D image of the timber.
0:14:32 > 0:14:36- We can see how they lost - their original shape in the ground.
0:14:37 > 0:14:40- They're folded digitally - to their former shape.
0:14:40 > 0:14:44- It helps us recreate - the actual shape of the boat.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47- The computer records - every single detail on the wood.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51- What are these pieces?
0:14:52 > 0:14:58- Wooden nails that held - the frames of the boat in place.
0:14:58 > 0:15:00- This strengthened the boat.
0:15:01 > 0:15:05- Iron nails held the exterior planks - in place.
0:15:07 > 0:15:12- We record the nails, to work out - how each rafter was put together.
0:15:12 > 0:15:14- From that point, - we can recreate the boat.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19- From what you already know, - when was the boat built?
0:15:19 > 0:15:22- From the work we've already done...
0:15:22 > 0:15:26- ..we know that a section used to - repair the boat dates back to 1465.
0:15:26 > 0:15:30- We've dated the wood on the hull - to 1469.
0:15:32 > 0:15:36- We haven't been able to determine - when the boat was built.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39- That will happen - over the coming years.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44- After that, we can determine - the origin of the wood.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48- We'll be able to tell - whether it's a Welsh boat...
0:15:48 > 0:15:50- ..or whether it came from abroad.
0:15:50 > 0:15:55- Wood used to repair the boat comes - from the Forest of Dean, Gloucester.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58- But we've more work to do...
0:15:58 > 0:16:02- ..before we can determine - where the original wood comes from.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05- You've an idea - of the boat's sailing routes.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08- From relics discovered onboard...
0:16:08 > 0:16:11- ..we know - there's a Portuguese connection.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- We found 15th century - silver Portuguese coins.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18- We found Portuguese pottery, too.
0:16:19 > 0:16:23- We knew it sailed - between Portugal and Wales.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29- If it sailed to Portugal, - it might have sailed to France...
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- ..Gascony and the Bay of Biscay.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37- We also found pieces - of leather from a shoe...
0:16:37 > 0:16:39- .and sailors jerkins.
0:16:40 > 0:16:45- We know what sort of clothes - they wore on board.
0:16:45 > 0:16:51- We're working out the material's - country of origin.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56- There's a gap in our knowledge - of the history of boats.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- Hopefully, this will fill that gap.
0:16:58 > 0:17:03- Exactly. - It's a perfect 15th century model.
0:17:03 > 0:17:08- 'The Mary Rose' in Portsmouth, - dates back to the 16th century.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11- The German Bremen Cog - dates back to the 14th century.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18- This is a perfect example - from the 15th century.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- It's important to the history - of European sailing and exploration.
0:17:24 > 0:17:28- Portuguese sailors - sailed around Africa.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31- They were setting their sights - on America.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34- Everything was changing. - Once the world seemed small.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37- Suddenly, there was - a big wide world out there.
0:17:41 > 0:17:46- Through studying - the Magor and Newport remains...
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- ..we can paint a vivid picture - of life on the Bristol Channel...
0:17:49 > 0:17:51- ..more than 500 years ago.
0:17:52 > 0:17:56- Places that are insignificant today - were important harbours.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00- Ships laden with goods - sailed back and forth...
0:18:00 > 0:18:03- ..to provide - for the local population.
0:18:05 > 0:18:10- Bigger ships imported and exported - goods from Europe.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13- It's hardly surprising - that so many pirates...
0:18:14 > 0:18:16- ..lived on the shores of the Severn.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18- Here was the best booty - in the world!
0:18:21 > 0:18:26- International pirates - were drawn to the Bristol Channel.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29- But they weren't all foreigners.
0:18:29 > 0:18:33- The majority of them were raised - in Wales and England.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37- The pirates - weren't necessarily working class.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46- The aristocracy - and governing classes...
0:18:46 > 0:18:49- ..played a key role - in the history of Welsh piracy.
0:18:52 > 0:18:55- I returned to Pembrokeshire, - to Carew Castle...
0:18:55 > 0:18:58- ..to meet up with Dafydd Meirion.
0:18:59 > 0:19:03- What was the connection between - the pirates and the aristocracy?
0:19:03 > 0:19:07- The pirate leaders - were of noble birth.
0:19:08 > 0:19:12- Sons decided - that adventure at sea...
0:19:12 > 0:19:16- ..was better than staying at home. - It worked in a variety of ways.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19- They knew influential people.
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- This gave them free rein - to steal from coastal areas.
0:19:23 > 0:19:27- They were also responsible - for the markets.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29- They could sell the stolen goods.
0:19:31 > 0:19:34- They were often local magistrates.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37- They were responsible - for law and order!
0:19:37 > 0:19:40- But they turned - a blind eye to piracy.
0:19:41 > 0:19:44- Pirates sailed around the coast, - attacking and plundering ships.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- Did anyone challenge - these aristocratic families?
0:19:52 > 0:19:57- The London authorities were unhappy. - Ship owners were up in arms.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01- But the Welsh coast was very far - from London in those days.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04- Every now and then, - an order came from London...
0:20:04 > 0:20:07- ..demanding to know why the pirates - weren't being reprimanded.
0:20:08 > 0:20:12- A few were caught - - not the captains or close family...
0:20:12 > 0:20:16- ..but minor pirates - were thrown into prison.
0:20:18 > 0:20:22- But the pirates made them wealthy.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25- They didn't go out of their way - to catch the pirates.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30- Where were the goods sold - once they were brought ashore?
0:20:31 > 0:20:35- Aristocratic families ruled - the markets in strategic places...
0:20:35 > 0:20:38- ..Cardiff, Milford Haven - and Cardigan.
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- ..Pwllheli in Lleyn, - and Beaumaris on Anglesey.
0:20:43 > 0:20:47- The Bulkeley family were in charge - of trade in Beaumaris.
0:20:47 > 0:20:51- They even supplied - a relative of theirs...
0:20:52 > 0:20:56- ..a London lawyer, - with stolen goods.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59- He collected orders for the goods.
0:21:01 > 0:21:06- Did people realise - they were stolen goods?
0:21:07 > 0:21:09- The aristocracy certainly knew.
0:21:09 > 0:21:14- Compared to legal merchandise, - the pirated wines were very cheap.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17- The working class - was excluded from this trade.
0:21:17 > 0:21:22- They bought cheap grain, rather - than the more luxurious items.
0:21:23 > 0:21:27- The aristocracy knew they were - stolen and took advantage of it.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29- There was big money to be made.
0:21:30 > 0:21:35- Certainly. Big money - millions - of pounds by today's standards.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39- The money enabled them - to live lives of luxury.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- They built huge coastal mansions.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45- They restored castles - - like Carew Castle behind us.
0:21:45 > 0:21:51- Piracy money built many minor - mansions in Anglesey and Lleyn.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59- Sir John Pero owned Carew Castle, - in Pembrokeshire.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02- He was the illegitimate son - of Henry VIII.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- He was one of the most powerful - aristocrats in south Wales.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10- There's a suggestion - that he was a pirate...
0:22:10 > 0:22:14- ..plundering fishing boats - off the Canada coast.
0:22:15 > 0:22:20- He certainly used his influence - to protect Welsh pirates.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22- He also took his share of the booty.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28- According to history, he sheltered - the Welshman, once described...
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- .."as the empire's most - dangerous pirate" - John Callis.
0:22:34 > 0:22:35- He was from Monmouthshire...
0:22:36 > 0:22:38- ..and belonged to the Herbert family - of Glamorganshire.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- He had a good start in life.
0:22:41 > 0:22:45- He was a tailor's apprentice - in London before turning to piracy.
0:22:45 > 0:22:48- He took advantage - of his family connections.
0:22:48 > 0:22:52- He could attack ships along - the coast of Wales and England...
0:22:53 > 0:22:59- ..and even further afield. His - family controlled several markets.
0:22:59 > 0:23:03- They kept his activities hidden - from the London authorities.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06- Like many other pirates, - it was extremely useful...
0:23:06 > 0:23:10- ..to belong - to these powerful families.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13- Was it the norm - to keep it in the family?
0:23:13 > 0:23:16- They were all related.
0:23:16 > 0:23:21- It was one big family, with - close ties to English royalty.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26- Elizabeth I's - relations lived in south Wales.
0:23:27 > 0:23:31- Her attempts to stop piracy - off the British coast failed...
0:23:32 > 0:23:37- ..because the aristocracy - profited from piracy.
0:23:40 > 0:23:44- Piracy in the British Isles was - at its peak in the Elizabethan Age.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- But towards the end - of the 16th century...
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- ..the government started - to invest in the Royal Navy.
0:23:52 > 0:23:56- Soon, the crown ruled - the British coast.
0:24:04 > 0:24:09- Pirates decided there were - richer pickings in the Caribbean...
0:24:10 > 0:24:12- ..with the Sovereign's blessing.
0:24:12 > 0:24:16- Plenty of ships transported - South American gold back to Europe.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25- The pirates didn't disappear - from Wales overnight.
0:24:25 > 0:24:30- But they were less of a threat - to the honest seamen...
0:24:30 > 0:24:32- ..who sailed the Welsh coast.
0:24:43 > 0:24:45- 888
0:24:50 > 0:24:55- The pirates were - attention-seeking villains.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58- Having a bad reputation - was an advantage.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02- So frightened were - the crews on board cargo ships...
0:25:02 > 0:25:05- ..that some surrendered - without putting up a fight.
0:25:08 > 0:25:12- But the smugglers - depended on anonymity...
0:25:12 > 0:25:14- ..and on avoiding attention.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- Unlike the pirates, the names - of smugglers are unfamiliar to us.
0:25:22 > 0:25:26- But dramatic accounts - of their adventures have survived.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31- Smuggling is certainly part - of the Welsh seafaring legends.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37- Smuggling is remembered - in some place names.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41- There's Tobacco Cave, in Solva, - Pembrokeshire.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44- Behind me is The Toll Peninsula.
0:25:45 > 0:25:49- It's a reference to the tax - smugglers were keen to avoid.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02- Tony Jones, from Rhiw in Lleyn...
0:26:02 > 0:26:05- ..divides his time between - his work as a professional sailor...
0:26:06 > 0:26:08- ..and the pleasure he derives...
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- ..from researching - Lleyn's seafaring history.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14- Smugglers' exploits fill the stories - that he's collected.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20- From the middle of the 18th century, - for 100 years...
0:26:21 > 0:26:27- ..the Lleyn Peninsula was - an important place for smugglers.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- There are so many - small beaches here.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35- Almost no-one lived - in these remote places.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39- The small ships would come ashore - in the early hours.
0:26:40 > 0:26:46- They unloaded tea, brandy, - rum and French lace.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- They smuggled anything - that you couldn't buy locally...
0:26:50 > 0:26:54- ..or that was too expensive to buy.
0:26:56 > 0:27:00- The government raised high taxes - on imported goods.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04- This made them impossibly expensive.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07- They weren't always luxury items.
0:27:08 > 0:27:14- In 1808, salt was four times more - expensive in Lleyn than Ireland.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19- Everything was salted - in the pre-refrigerator days.
0:27:20 > 0:27:25- Herring was the dominant catch - in this area.
0:27:26 > 0:27:30- It was distributed through Porth - Ysgaden, Nefyn and Porthdinllaen.
0:27:31 > 0:27:34- Cheap salt was crucial - to the local economy.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37- For the people of Lleyn...
0:27:38 > 0:27:42- ..clandestine Irish Sea crossings - were a profitable business.
0:27:44 > 0:27:48- Unlike pirates, smugglers didn't - have aristocratic benefactors...
0:27:49 > 0:27:52- ..to protect them from the law, - should something go wrong.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00- Three local men sailed to Ireland.
0:28:01 > 0:28:05- They loaded the boat with salt - and sailed into Porth Colmon.
0:28:06 > 0:28:11- They sold it. It was less - than half the price of local salt.
0:28:14 > 0:28:16- But someone identified them.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21- The three were sent - to Caernarfon prison.
0:28:22 > 0:28:26- The fate of two of the three men - is unknown.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- But the story of the third, - William Williams, lives on.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34- He lost so much weight in prison...
0:28:34 > 0:28:38- ..that he was able to squeeze - through the bars of the window!
0:28:39 > 0:28:44- He made a rope out of his bedding - - just like in a cartoon!
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- He came home.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51- His mother dressed him as a girl.
0:28:51 > 0:28:55- She took him to Liverpool - and he crossed to America.
0:28:55 > 0:28:57- He lived out his life in America.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02- Anyone caught smuggling - was severely punished.
0:29:03 > 0:29:05- In the 18th and 19th centuries...
0:29:06 > 0:29:10- ..stealing was almost as bad - as murder in the eyes of the law.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19- Many an unfortunate soul - was hanged for sheep stealing.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21- Smugglers weren't common thieves.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24- They avoided the high taxes.
0:29:25 > 0:29:28- They stole - from the government purse.
0:29:29 > 0:29:33- It's little wonder smugglers stopped - at nothing to avoid being caught.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38- They always landed - in the middle of the night.
0:29:39 > 0:29:44- They must have been accomplished - sailors to navigate these rocks.
0:29:45 > 0:29:49- They landed as the tide was coming - in - never when it was receding.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54- They would unload their goods - as the tide came in.
0:29:54 > 0:29:59- Because the boat was lighter, - it never got stuck.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04- Despite the smugglers' cunning...
0:30:04 > 0:30:08- ..tax officers - did occasionally catch them.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- After they were caught, their boats - were confiscated and sold.
0:30:14 > 0:30:18- But the only people who could afford - the boats were other smugglers.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22- One boat was sold back - to smugglers four times.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26- The government decided - the boats should be destroyed...
0:30:27 > 0:30:30- ..if they were what was known - as 'smuggler rigs'.
0:30:31 > 0:30:35- The swift boats were destroyed - and never set sail again!
0:30:37 > 0:30:40- Thanks to their fast boats - and seafaring skills...
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- ..many smugglers avoided - the authorities.
0:30:48 > 0:30:52- Although some smugglers were caught, - smuggling still thrived...
0:30:52 > 0:30:57- ..providing an endless supply - of commonplace and exotic goods...
0:30:57 > 0:31:03- ..even in places - as remote as Aberdaron, in Lleyn.
0:31:04 > 0:31:10- On the 5th of May, 1776, - a French ship anchored in the bay.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14- Ten men came ashore.
0:31:14 > 0:31:19- They had ten brandy barrels - and a tea chest.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24- They wanted the people of Aberdaron - to pay 10 for the lot.
0:31:24 > 0:31:28- They refused - - not because they were mean...
0:31:28 > 0:31:33- ..but because they already - had plenty of brandy and tea!
0:31:37 > 0:31:41- In a society that wasn't overly - worried about the crown's power...
0:31:41 > 0:31:43- ..or the Treasury's power - to tax them...
0:31:43 > 0:31:47- ..the smugglers played a key role - in the black economy of rural Wales.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55- In addition - to the smugglers and pirates...
0:31:55 > 0:31:58- ..there was another group - of coastal villains.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02- Shipwreckers are a part - of Welsh seafaring mythology...
0:32:02 > 0:32:05- ..as well as that - of Britain as a whole.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09- If you travel around - the Cornwall or Scottish coasts...
0:32:09 > 0:32:12- ..you'll hear tales - about remote villages...
0:32:13 > 0:32:17- ..where evil residents - lured boats onto rocks...
0:32:17 > 0:32:20- ..in order to steal their cargo.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26- But there is little evidence - to support their actual existence.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- There are several examples - of people in coastal areas...
0:32:32 > 0:32:35- ..plundering - the cargo of shipwrecked vessels.
0:32:35 > 0:32:36- But yet...
0:32:37 > 0:32:41- ..there is very little evidence - that people in coastal areas...
0:32:41 > 0:32:44- ..deliberately set out - to lure ships onto rocks.
0:32:44 > 0:32:49- There's even less evidence that - sailors were murdered once ashore.
0:32:49 > 0:32:54- Experts believe - the shipwreckers are nothing more...
0:32:54 > 0:32:56- ..than imaginary characters...
0:32:56 > 0:32:58- ..dreamed up - by authors like Daphne du Maurier.
0:33:02 > 0:33:05- But one tale of shipwreckers - is perfectly true.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08- It happened in Wales, nowhere else.
0:33:11 > 0:33:17- There is only one documented court - case of people found guilty...
0:33:17 > 0:33:20- ..of deliberate shipwrecking.
0:33:21 > 0:33:24- The group become known as - 'The Thieves of Crugyll'...
0:33:24 > 0:33:27- ..a reference to Crugyll Beach, - in Rhosneigr, Anglesey.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- The case was held - in Beaumaris Court.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36- I went there to meet Gwawr Davies.
0:33:37 > 0:33:40- She explained to me who - 'The Thieves of Crugyll' were.
0:33:41 > 0:33:45- They were local Rhosneigr people - in the 18th century.
0:33:45 > 0:33:49- When a ship sailed close to shore, - or a shipwreck occurred...
0:33:49 > 0:33:53- ..they rushed to see - what they could take or steal.
0:33:54 > 0:33:58- They were from all walks of life, - from landowners to paupers.
0:33:58 > 0:34:01- Women and children - rushed to see what they could find.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- How often were they hauled - in front of the court?
0:34:07 > 0:34:09- Not many were caught.
0:34:09 > 0:34:13- They were hard to catch, - because they worked at night.
0:34:14 > 0:34:18- Local people didn't want - to report them to the authorities.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- There are two court cases - in particular.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25- The first involved - 'The Loveday and Betty' in 1740.
0:34:26 > 0:34:30- A ship anchored close to the shore, - seeking shelter from a storm.
0:34:31 > 0:34:35- The locals raided the ship...
0:34:36 > 0:34:41- ..even though - the crew was still onboard.
0:34:43 > 0:34:45- Three men were arrested.
0:34:46 > 0:34:48- The court case was held - in Beaumaris.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52- The judge was drunk for the three - days that the court was in session.
0:34:53 > 0:34:57- They were let off, although - their guilt was obvious to all.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00- What about the second case?
0:35:00 > 0:35:02- What about the second case?- - The second case is much more famous.
0:35:02 > 0:35:02- The second case is much more famous.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04- It happened thirty years later, - in 1773.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- 'The Charming Jenny' was sailing - from Dublin to southern Ireland.
0:35:09 > 0:35:13- Its captain decided to seek shelter - in Holyhead during a storm.
0:35:13 > 0:35:18- Unfortunately, the ship - struck the rocks at Crugyll.
0:35:21 > 0:35:25- There were four people on board, - including the captain and his wife.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29- Three drowned. - Only the captain survived.
0:35:30 > 0:35:34- It is said that his wife - managed to scramble ashore.
0:35:35 > 0:35:36- No-one's sure what happened to her.
0:35:37 > 0:35:41- Perhaps she was murdered - in order to steal her belongings.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- A number of local people - were tried at Beaumaris Court...
0:35:46 > 0:35:48- ..thanks - to the captain's perseverance.
0:35:49 > 0:35:52- The unhelpful magistrates - couldn't agree what to do.
0:35:53 > 0:35:58- The captain believed a Shrewsbury - hearing would be more sympathetic...
0:35:58 > 0:36:00- ..because it was in England.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04- Two people from Rhosneigr - were tried.
0:36:05 > 0:36:09- They were sentenced to death - - but only Sion Parry was hanged.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12- No-one's sure - what happened to the other one.
0:36:13 > 0:36:14- He was probably transported.
0:36:15 > 0:36:19- As the only one of its kind, - it was an important case.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22- Was it a deterrent?
0:36:23 > 0:36:27- I think people were shocked - that someone was hanged.
0:36:28 > 0:36:30- They realised the seriousness - of the offence.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33- It didn't happen so often - in Anglesey after that.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39- Despite the importance - of 'The Thieves of Crugyll'...
0:36:39 > 0:36:41- ..the case is an exception.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46- Historians have tried in vain - to prove...
0:36:46 > 0:36:49- ..that shipwrecking - was a commonplace event.
0:36:50 > 0:36:54- They're colourful stories - but are they just stories?
0:36:55 > 0:36:56- I wonder.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00- Some say people waved lanterns and - torches to lure the ships aground.
0:37:01 > 0:37:04- Some claim they hung lanterns - around the necks of cows...
0:37:04 > 0:37:08- ..to make them look like boats - in the harbour. We don't know.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11- These two cases - occurred during a storm.
0:37:12 > 0:37:14- Perhaps the elements - were enough to bring them ashore.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21- The Anglesey shipwreckers...
0:37:21 > 0:37:24- ..were the only ones - who were brought to justice.
0:37:26 > 0:37:30- But despite the lack of evidence, - it seems unlikely that Anglesey...
0:37:30 > 0:37:33- ..was the only place - in the British Isles...
0:37:33 > 0:37:36- ..where deliberate - shipwrecking happened.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47- 888
0:37:52 > 0:37:56- We've already mentioned pirates - and shipwreckers.
0:37:56 > 0:38:00- It's all too easy to forget the - worst enemy of all - the weather.
0:38:01 > 0:38:05- Storms and thick fog - sent ships crashing against rocks...
0:38:06 > 0:38:09- ..in the days before radar - and satellite navigation.
0:38:15 > 0:38:18- Although it was impossible - to calm the waves...
0:38:18 > 0:38:22- ..help was soon at hand - for sailors in peril...
0:38:22 > 0:38:24- ..as Dafydd Williams explained.
0:38:25 > 0:38:29- On a misty day, we sailed - to The Skerries, north Anglesey.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- Some sort of lighthouse has always - been on the main island since 1717.
0:38:38 > 0:38:44- There have been shipwrecks - on every corner of the island.
0:38:45 > 0:38:48- There must have been - close to a dozen.
0:38:49 > 0:38:52- Perhaps there are many - that we don't know about.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- These islands - pose a serious threat to ships.
0:38:58 > 0:39:02- The enterprising William Tench - had a brilliant idea.
0:39:02 > 0:39:06- He kept a bonfire alight on - the island to warn passing ships.
0:39:07 > 0:39:11- He taxed every ship - that safely negotiated the rocks.
0:39:12 > 0:39:17- He was convinced - he'd make his fortune...
0:39:17 > 0:39:22- ..by charging one penny per ton - on each passing ship.
0:39:24 > 0:39:30- There wasn't a lighthouse on The - Skerries in the early 18th-century.
0:39:32 > 0:39:37- But the remains of a bonfire - are visible to this day.
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- This is the location - of the first coal fire.
0:39:41 > 0:39:44- There are still traces of coal here, - after all these years.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48- The scorch marks are still visible.
0:39:49 > 0:39:53- The heat was intense.
0:39:55 > 0:39:59- The coal came in boats from Cemlyn - or Henborth on the mainland.
0:40:00 > 0:40:05- Seven men once drowned...
0:40:06 > 0:40:08- ..carrying coal to The Skerries.
0:40:11 > 0:40:13- There were several setbacks.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17- In addition to seven men - losing their lives...
0:40:17 > 0:40:21- ..William Tench's son drowned - while working on the island.
0:40:21 > 0:40:26- Although Tench invested heavily, he - didn't profit from the enterprise.
0:40:27 > 0:40:32- The right to operate a lighthouse - was transferred to his descendants.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38- His son-in-law, Rev Sutton Morgan, - built a stone lighthouse here.
0:40:39 > 0:40:44- He persuaded the authorities - to allow him to increase the toll...
0:40:44 > 0:40:46- ..on passing ships.
0:40:49 > 0:40:51- By the mid-19th century...
0:40:52 > 0:40:56- ..it was the last British lighthouse - in private hands.
0:40:58 > 0:41:08- Trinity House bought The Skerries - for close to 500,000 in the 1850s.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11- An enormous sum!
0:41:11 > 0:41:18- I shudder to think how much - that would be in today's terms.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22- Hundreds of millions, most probably.
0:41:26 > 0:41:28- Maritime technology - has been transformed...
0:41:29 > 0:41:31- ..since the days - of the original lighthouse...
0:41:31 > 0:41:35- ..the light and a foghorn - still warn sailors of the perils.
0:41:36 > 0:41:40- It is comforting to hear - the foghorn on such a foggy day?
0:41:40 > 0:41:44- When we approached The Skerries, - although we knew where we were...
0:41:45 > 0:41:49- ..I opened the window on board - to hear the foghorn...
0:41:49 > 0:41:52- ..in case the electronics - were playing up.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55- But I like to hear the noise.
0:41:55 > 0:41:56- But I like to hear the noise.- - FOGHORN
0:41:56 > 0:41:57- But I like to hear the noise.
0:42:02 > 0:42:06- Lighthouses are still - a comfort to sailors today...
0:42:06 > 0:42:10- ..but modern technology enables them - to see obstacles and dangers...
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- ..even in the thickest fog.
0:42:13 > 0:42:18- Technology has changed the nature - of the lighthouses themselves.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21- There are no lighthouse keepers - in these automated times.
0:42:22 > 0:42:26- Once again, technology ensures - the light revolves...
0:42:26 > 0:42:29- ..day after day, - year in, year out.
0:42:33 > 0:42:37- But technology alone - can't protect the Welsh coastline.
0:42:38 > 0:42:43- Even today, hundreds of sailors get - into difficulties at sea every year.
0:42:44 > 0:42:46- Someone has to save them.
0:42:51 > 0:42:54- The Coastguard - is the official body in Britain...
0:42:54 > 0:42:57- ..responsible - for defending the coast.
0:42:57 > 0:43:01- But saving lives - isn't their responsibility.
0:43:01 > 0:43:03- That's the role of the lifeboats.
0:43:04 > 0:43:07- The service is financed - through public generosity.
0:43:08 > 0:43:10- It depends on the sacrifice - of volunteers.
0:43:15 > 0:43:19- Hugh Owen works for the Burry Port - lifeboat in Carmarthen Bay...
0:43:20 > 0:43:23- ..although he wasn't - brought up there.
0:43:25 > 0:43:27- Originally, I'm from Cwm Twrch.
0:43:27 > 0:43:31- I attended a dance in Llanelli - one Saturday night.
0:43:31 > 0:43:36- I met the woman - I'd marry a year later.
0:43:37 > 0:43:40- We moved to Burry Port - when we married.
0:43:41 > 0:43:43- You didn't have - a sailing background.
0:43:43 > 0:43:45- Not at all.
0:43:46 > 0:43:49- The only background I had was - a little canoeing on the Thames...
0:43:50 > 0:43:54- ..or sailing the lake in Swansea's - Singleton Park.
0:43:54 > 0:43:56- That was all.
0:43:57 > 0:44:02- I saw an advertisement - for volunteers in the local paper.
0:44:02 > 0:44:05- I decided to join the lifeboat.
0:44:06 > 0:44:09- I was one of the first to join.
0:44:11 > 0:44:15- Hugh Owen belongs to the second - phase of the lifeboat's history.
0:44:16 > 0:44:20- The original Burry Port station - was established in 1887.
0:44:21 > 0:44:24- It serviced the merchant ships - that sailed into Carmarthen Bay.
0:44:25 > 0:44:29- But as the coal ports - of south Wales became busier...
0:44:29 > 0:44:33- ..shipping in the Burry Port area - became less frequent.
0:44:33 > 0:44:38- The original station closed - on the 2nd of April, 1914.
0:44:39 > 0:44:42- By the latter part - of the 20th century...
0:44:42 > 0:44:45- ..the seafaring habits - of the Welsh had changed.
0:44:46 > 0:44:50- The waters around Burry Port - became busier once again.
0:44:53 > 0:44:57- In the 1950s and 1960s, people - had more time on their hands...
0:44:57 > 0:45:00- ..and more money to spend - on leisure activities.
0:45:00 > 0:45:04- They came here to fish or sail.
0:45:05 > 0:45:09- More people used the harbour, too.
0:45:10 > 0:45:15- We had a nasty accident a mile - up the coast towards Llanelli.
0:45:16 > 0:45:22- A father and son lost their lives - in a little boat.
0:45:27 > 0:45:32- The Burry Port lifeboat station - reopened in 1973.
0:45:33 > 0:45:38- The crew have been kept busy - saving those in peril at sea.
0:45:40 > 0:45:43- Since the station reopened - 32 years ago...
0:45:43 > 0:45:47- ..the crew have saved - over 100 lives.
0:45:48 > 0:45:51- Tourists walk on the sand.
0:45:51 > 0:45:55- They don't realise - the tide's coming in behind them.
0:45:55 > 0:45:57- Because it follows the river...
0:45:57 > 0:45:59- ..the tide comes in - from several directions.
0:45:59 > 0:46:01- They often get caught out.
0:46:01 > 0:46:04- They imagine they're quite safe...
0:46:05 > 0:46:08- ..but the tide can rapidly - surround and maroon them.
0:46:09 > 0:46:14- A couple decided - to go skinny-dipping.
0:46:15 > 0:46:17- They left their clothes on the sand.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- The incoming tide - washed their clothes away.
0:46:21 > 0:46:25- They were stranded - and rather red-faced.
0:46:26 > 0:46:28- But we went out and saved them.
0:46:29 > 0:46:33- It was great fun for the crew - but embarrassing for them!
0:46:34 > 0:46:37- How many people get into - difficulties in their boats?
0:46:37 > 0:46:41- Boats can break down, - or run out of fuel...
0:46:42 > 0:46:46- ..or sea water contaminates the - diesel. That's normally the case.
0:46:48 > 0:46:51- But a worse fate awaits some people.
0:46:52 > 0:46:54- Several rivers - flow into the estuary.
0:46:54 > 0:46:59- The tide follows the course - of the rivers and leaves sandbanks.
0:47:00 > 0:47:05- The sandbanks cause trouble - for incoming boats.
0:47:06 > 0:47:11- If they don't know the area well - - they see where they want to go...
0:47:11 > 0:47:15- ..and steer a course towards it, - instead of following the river.
0:47:16 > 0:47:19- Have you ever been frightened - at sea?
0:47:19 > 0:47:22- When I'm out on the lifeboat...
0:47:24 > 0:47:26- ..I'm not frightened at the time.
0:47:26 > 0:47:30- I concentrate on the work in hand.
0:47:31 > 0:47:36- But back on land, - I lie in bed at night, and think...
0:47:36 > 0:47:38- ..'that was a rough night.'
0:47:40 > 0:47:44- That's when I'm frightened - - not while I'm actually there.
0:47:44 > 0:47:48- Thank goodness for that - - or I couldn't do the work.
0:47:48 > 0:47:53- I've never refused to go out, - none of the crew has refused.
0:47:54 > 0:47:58- If we get a call, everyone - wants to go out and do the job.
0:47:59 > 0:48:04- If the weather isn't too rough, - the station manager decides...
0:48:05 > 0:48:08- ..whether the boat is launched, - or not.
0:48:09 > 0:48:11- The crew always wants to go.
0:48:11 > 0:48:15- The manager stands back - and studies the weather.
0:48:15 > 0:48:19- He makes sure it's safe - for the lifeboat to be launched.
0:48:19 > 0:48:22- It's not worth going out - in atrocious weather...
0:48:22 > 0:48:25- ..and getting into danger ourselves.
0:48:32 > 0:48:37- Welsh sailors have always - had a healthy respect...
0:48:37 > 0:48:40- ..for the waves, - the tides and the currents.
0:48:41 > 0:48:44- That's the attitude - of experienced sailors.
0:48:44 > 0:48:47- But as sailing has become - a more popular leisure activity...
0:48:48 > 0:48:52- ..not all weekend sailors understand - the treacherous nature of the sea.
0:48:56 > 0:48:59- They can be grateful that - the lifeboat volunteers are there...
0:48:59 > 0:49:02- ..to lend a hand to those in danger.
0:49:27 > 0:49:29- S4C Subtitles by GWEAD