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Grav in His Own Words

Grav in His Own Words

by Alun Wyn Bevan (Editor), Alun Wyn Bevan (Editor), Gwasg Gomer (Author)

  • Used

    Illustrated 2008

    $3.25
Synopsis

An autobiographical account of the late Ray Gravell, edited by rugby commentator and one of his close friends, Alun Wyn Bevan. Ray Gravell had started writing his autobiography before his untimely death; this volume includes his recollections, as well as many radio and TV interviews. Reprint; first published in 2008.

$3.25

Save:$18.09 (85%)

Quantity

4 in stock

More Information

Format: Illustrated
 Pages: 264
 Edition: First Edition
 Publisher: Gwasg Gomer
Published: 21 Oct 2008
ISBN 10: 1843239442
ISBN 13: 9781843239444

Media Reviews
Emotion and passion are the key words that sum up Ray Gravell, and this two part presentation is infused with both. The first part is autobiographic, in tandem with Lyn Jones, and was first published when his rugby career ended in 1986. The second part, compiled and edited by Alun Wyn Bevan, draws on his writing and presentations on various BBC and S4C programmes. The enigma of his personality is clearly revealed. His image as a rugby player is of a destructive centre of crash ball fame, but he loves to emphasise his creative skills in contributing to many tries. His up front field image contrasts with his lack of confidence in the dressing room, seeking constant reassurance from everyone before going out on to the pitch. Equally he admits that it was Carwyn James who inspired in him and indeed taught him the legends and traditions of Wales and its proud mediaeval ancestry. This fell on very fertile ground when he finds the role of sword bearer at the National Eisteddfod, which he did for ten years, to be his greatest honour. Ray Gravell played 485 games for Llanelli, 23 for Wales and 4 for the Lions, and that is always the order in which he portrays his record -- even in the amusing encounter with Peter OToole in the second part of the book. He was President of Llanelli until his death and it was pivotal in his life. All the major games are recalled: Llanelli v All Blacks 1972, Llanelli v Australia 1992, as well as Welsh highlights -- his first cap in 1975, the tours of Japan and Australia and the Lions of 1980. Extracts and anecdotes of his broadcasting life, acting forays, a new marriage and tight family circle and his work with the National Eisteddfod feature in the second part. The second part ends with the amputation of his right leg, and it is here where we see his courage and his ability to fight back till the end. Grav became a loved national figure whose warmth and sentiment were reciprocated by the Welsh community. This book is above all a tribute, not an analysis. As he himself said, he hated to decry people and kept silent if he couldnt praise. This book is a true memorial. Geoff Edwards It is possible to use this review for promotional purposes, but the following acknowledgment should be included: A review from www.gwales.com, with the permission of the Welsh Books Council. Gellir defnyddio'r adolygiad hwn at bwrpas hybu, ond gofynnir i chi gynnwys y gydnabyddiaeth ganlynol: Adolygiad oddi ar www.gwales.com, trwy ganiatd Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru. -- Welsh Books Council
Author Bio
Alun Wyn Bevan is an experienced broadcaster, rugby commentator and former first-class referee. He was born in Brynamman, and worked in the field of education for over 20 years. He now lives in Neath and works for Tinopolis television company in Llanelli. He was the author of Stradey Stories and St Helen's Stories.