Issue 153

5 Welsh Icons

26th February 2007

1. IVOR NOVELLO

The Welsh singer, composer and actor first became famous during WW1 with the song Keep the Home Fires Burning. During WW2 he went to prison for eight weeks for the mis-use of petrol coupons. Despite the profound effect this had upon his spirit, he continued to appear in various stage productions up until the day before his death, aged 58.

2. DYLAN THOMAS

Thomas' publication of Deaths and Entrances in 1946 triggered recognition that a truly great poet had emerged. He died in 1953, his last words being "After 39 years, this is all I've done." His legend lives on with his statue in the maritime quarter of his hometown, Swansea, and with the Dylan Thomas Prize, for young writers, established 2004.

3. KYFFIN WILLIAMS

Diagnosed with epilepsy as a young man, the doctor's advice to Williams was "As you are in fact, abnormal, I think it would be a good idea if you took up art." His reputation intensified by his use of a palette knife and he became an outspoken critic of the contemporary arts scene. He died of cancer in 2006.

4. ANTHONY HOPKINS

Hopkins was discovered by Laurence Olivier, who encouraged him to join the National Theatre. His most famous role was Hannibal Lector. He was nominated for an Oscar for The Remains of the Day and has gone on to win a BAFTA for Best Actor. He was knighted in 1993. Not bad for a Port Talbot lad.

5. TOM JONES

The overtly sexual Cardiff born singer rose to fame in the 1960's. Although his career slumped in the 70's, he celebrated the millenium with the President in Washington and was awarded an OBE in 1999. He now resides in LA.

Kate Fletcher