New avenue to explore Grav’s personality

RAY Gravell was a one-off character who became a legend in his own lifetime.

Much has already been written about Ray and the latest is The Stories of Grav compiled by the tenor Rhys Meirion that will be launched in Neuadd Pontyberem on Friday, November 9, at 7pm.

Ray was a man that stood out from the crowd and his warrior-like figure enhanced his reputation both when he played and later during his acting and broadcasting days.

Ray, who played on 23 occasions for Wales, had a long career with the Scarlets and captained the club between 1980-1982. He was a mem- ber of the team that beat the New Zealand All Blacks playing in the centre with another ex-Carmarthen Grammar School boy Roy Bergiers. He also played for the British and Irish Lions in South Africa during the 1980 tour.

His untimely death left a chasm, but the memories of his larger than life personality lives on and has found a new avenue in Rhys Meirion’s book that will be launched in Pontyberem. The book will also be recorded by Llyfrau Llafar Cymru/ Talking Books Wales for people who are blind or partially sighted.

Following the launch there will be a concert featuring Rhys, Elin Fflur, Aled Wyn Davies and Theatr, Ieuenctid Menter Cwm Gwendraeth Elli.

It is a line-up to grace any theatre and it is expected that the demand for tickets will be exceptionally high.

The night is sponsored by Castell Howell and will start at 7.00.

Tickets are £15 and £5 for children. Outlets include: Neuadd Pontyberem 01269871075; Menter Cwm Gwendraeth Elli 01269871600; Swyddfa Llyfrau Llafar Cymru 01267238225; Siop y Pentan Caerfyrddin 01267235044; Mansel Thomas 01554890172; Any member of Llyfrau Llafar/Talking Books Wales Committee.