The show's cast enjoying a birthday tipple in the Deri Arms

More than 4,000 episodes of Pobol y Cwm (People of the Valley) have been aired since the series began on the BBC on 16 October 1974.

Hollywood star Ioan Gruffudd is among the hundreds of actors who have starred on the streets of the fictional Carmarthenshire village of Cwmderi.

Rugby stars Ray Gravell and Jonathan Davies have been in the show, which is over 10 years older than EastEnders.

The drama, which is still made by the BBC but is now shown on S4C, was also the first UK TV soap to broadcast five nights a week.

Over its 30 years, the show has dealt with serious issues including cot death, rape and kidnapping.

The programme gave Gruffudd, star of King Arthur and Hornblower, his first professional role as schoolboy Gareth Wyn in the 1980s.

Pobol y Cwm facts The first episode was broadcast at 7.10pm on Wednesday, 16 October, 1974. Gillian Elisa (Sabrina), is the only remaining original character and cast member. In 1991, some episodes were bought by a Netherlands TV company and shown there with subtitles. It was broadcast on BBC2 with on-screen English subtitles during the early 90s. 4,036 episodes have been shown since 1974. If the actors are seen enjoying a pint in the Deri Arms, they are actually drinking shandy mix.

Since then, it has branched out into the digital world, and is now available on digital TV around the UK.

Iona Jones, S4C's director of programmes, said: "Pobol y Cwm has played a central role in S4C's Welsh language TV service since the channel's inception in 1982.

"Like any good soap, the show is the cornerstone of the schedule and has achieved cult status.

"The series' many loyal viewers and celebrity fans both in Wales and further afield is additional proof of its success over the years."

Producer Bethan Jones added: "Pobol y Cwm is a much-loved Welsh institution and it is a privilege to be charged with its production."

To celebrate the birthday, several special programmes will be shown in Welsh and English on S4C and BBC Wales between 11-17 October.

Documentaries include O Flaen dy Lygaid and On Show, a special edition of Dechrau Canu, Dechrau Canmol and a concert featuring cast members.

The Royal Television Society will also be presented with a Hall of Fame award on 17 October.

Meanwhile, fans of the show can chat live to Pobol actors Nia Caron (Anita) and Rhys ap William (Cai), researcher Alison L Edwards, and producer Bethan Jones via the Pobol Y Cwm website in a 30th anniversary chat.

Log on to www.bbc.co.uk/pobolycwm to send your questions in advance, and come back at 2030 BST on Tuesday 12 October (after the programme) to chat to the actors and the production team.

* Happy birthday, Pobol y Cwm