Merthyr Tydfil

From the Myfanwy Theatre, Mark Steel performs for the residents of Merthyr Tydfil – the town in South Wales with a love of boxers and revolution.

Mark checks out the town’s history and compares it with Cardiff.

And he investigates the Welsh language – talking to a teacher, who compares it to modern Welsh. He also takes a look at the local pubs – and is surprised to discover that Merthyr Tydfil is the home of the Welsh Mormons.

Mark finds out about the impact of the Merthyr Rising, which was the biggest insurrection in British history since the Civil War. Plus, the history of boxing in Merthyr Tydfil.

Series in which the comedian visits towns across the UK and creates a stand-up show for the locals.

Producer: Julia McKenzie

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2009.