Ruth Jones returns to her Porthcawl roots with Steve Speirs for new BBC Cymru Wales special

Following the success of Ruth and Steve: From Merthyr with Love, the pair will reunite for a second nostalgic weekend in Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love.

This time, Jones will take her long‑time friend and fellow actor Speirs back to her hometown, exploring the seaside town where she grew up. The programme promises a mix of laughter, reflection and never‑before‑seen home movie footage, as the duo revisit the places and people that shaped Jones’ early life.

Ruth Jones said:

“Two of my favourite things in one place. Porthcawl and Steve Speirs… double bubble! I can’t wait to show my dear friend all the best bits of my hometown and the history of this beautiful seaside oasis, catching up with my family and school mates in the process.”

Steve Speirs added:

“My great friend is going to take me on a trip around her hometown of Porthcawl. I said, ‘It’s all about ice creams and donkey rides, isn’t it?’ Apparently I’m very wrong, and I can’t wait to be shown the Porthcawl Ruth knows… but I’m definitely buying an ice cream!”

From Porthcawl roots to national treasure

Born in Bridgend and raised in Porthcawl, Ruth Jones MBE has become one of Wales’ most celebrated performers and writers. She co‑created and starred as Nessa in the hit BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey, which won multiple BAFTAs and returned for a record‑breaking Christmas special in 2024.

She went on to create and lead the Sky One comedy‑drama Stella, and has appeared in acclaimed dramas including Little Dorrit and Fat Friends. Beyond television, Jones is also a bestselling novelist, with Never Greener, Us Three and Love Untold all reaching the Sunday Times charts.

Her contribution to Welsh culture has been recognised with an MBE for services to entertainment, a BAFTA Cymru Special Recognition Award, and the First Minister’s Special Award at the St David Awards. Earlier this year she also received a Special Recognition honour at the Pride of Wales event in Swansea.

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James Corden and Ruth Jones, the creative minds behind the beloved BBC sitcom 'Gavin & Stacey', are reportedly reuniting to write and star in a new comedy series for Apple TV+. The pair, who co-created the show and played key roles in it, will work on a 10-part UK-based comedy-drama featuring an all... [More info]

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Gavin and Stacey star Ruth Jones gets a ‘tidy’ welcome at the St David Awards

The Bridgend-born co-writer of the show wondered ‘what’s occurring’ when she was celebrated for her massive success in capturing the heart of the nation and putting an international spotlight on Wales.

The programme was watched by millions of people and Ruth was recognised at the St David Awards for her outstanding contribution to cultural life of Wales.

The star was joined by Llanberis Mountain Rescue team, who were awarded for their extraordinary dedication to saving people’s lives.

In its 12th year the national awards of Wales recognised people from across the country in areas like volunteering, bravery, business and the community.

Judges commended Llanberis Mountain Rescue team for their bravery, saying it was crucial for mountain safety.

Other winners include Justin Biggs who risked his life by rescuing two people from inside a car, which was upside down in the water near Cardiff Bay Yacht club.

Speaking at the ceremony at the Senedd, First Minister, Eluned Morgan said: “I am thrilled to celebrate the huge success that Ruth Jones has achieved, she has showcased the warmth and wit of the Welsh people. We are proud to have such a huge talent here.”

“Ruth Jones (through Ness in Gavin and Stacey) has given us permission to laugh at ourselves as Welsh people, and at the quirky things we do and say, and because of that we have become more confident and relaxed as a nation which has led to an outpouring of love for the Welsh people across the world.”

“Ruth Jones has done more to put our country on the map than anyone else in decades – and we could not be more proud of her.”

“This year’s awards are my first as First Minister, making it really special to me.”

 “It has been a privilege to celebrate an amazing group of talented and courageous people. The finalists are an inspiration to us all.”

Chair of the St David Awards 2025 Advisory Panel Professor Jean White CBE said: “Being part of the judging process is sometimes emotional when you hear stories of bravery and people overcoming adversity to succeed. It makes me feel very proud to be Welsh.”

All winners received a St David Awards trophy designed and made by leading ceramic artist Daniel Boyle from Ceredigion.

The winners are:

#Bridgend #GavinStacey #RuthJones #StDavidAward #WelshGovernment

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Mecca Bingo offers FREE bingo to anyone named Gavin or Stacey this Christmas

The ‘lush’ offer pays homage to one of the show’s iconic moments; when Stacey and her family head out on Dave’s Coaches to play bingo – because, as Dave says, “Bingo is the game.”

Mecca is giving fans the chance to experience the excitement themselves and anyone lucky enough to be named Gavin or Stacey can head down to any of Mecca’s venues in Wales between Monday 23rd and Sunday 29th December to claim their free main game session and experience the fun of bingo, and the chance of winning a big money prize.

Kim Jones, general manager of Mecca Bingo Swansea said:

“We’re so excited about this year’s Christmas finale, we’re marking the occasion with a free session offer for all the Gavins and Staceys out there.

“So, grab your lucky dabbers and head down to Mecca for a cracking night out this festive season.”

For details of opening and session times over Christmas, please check directly with venues or head to www.meccabingo.com/bingo-clubs. Over 18s only. Terms and Conditions apply.

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