What Memories Does Ruth Jones Rediscover in Porthcawl?

Ruth Jones, beloved for her role in Gavin & Stacey, has made a heartwarming return to her roots in Porthcawl, South Wales, alongside actor Steve Speirs for their new BBC show, Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love. The programme showcases their nostalgic adventures, including a cold-water swim and visits to childhood haunts, reflecting on Jones’ cherished memories of growing up in the seaside town.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Ruth Jones has returned to the screen in a new BBC show that captures her experiences in Porthcawl, where she grew up. The show, which airs on BBC One at 21:00 on Mondays, has received attention for its nostalgic content, featuring visits to local landmarks, family memories, and the vibrant community spirit of the seaside town. With special segments such as the Elvis Festival and a cold-water dip at Sandy Bay, it highlights both her personal journey and the cultural significance of her hometown.

Key takeaways

• Ruth Jones revisits her hometown of Porthcawl with Steve Speirs in a new BBC show.
• The programme includes nostalgic elements, such as home videos and childhood memories.
• Jones participated in community activities and local events, showcasing Porthcawl's charm.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of Ruth Jones returning to Porthcawl can be traced through significant milestones:

• 2007: Gavin & Stacey, co-created by Jones, debuts on BBC Three, leading to her widespread fame.
• 2023: Jones announces her new show, Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love, focusing on her hometown.
• October 2023: The show premieres, showcasing Jones's nostalgic connections to Porthcawl.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This week marks the premiere of Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love, which not only showcases Jones's return to her roots but also highlights local events such as the Elvis Festival. The show offers a fresh perspective on the actress's life and her emotional connection to the town.

What was already established

Ruth Jones has long been recognised for her role as Nessa in Gavin & Stacey, a show that has become a cultural staple in UK television. Her previous works have established her as a talented writer and actress, making her return to television a highly anticipated event.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The show's return aligns with a growing interest in regional culture and local tourism in the UK. Porthcawl, which has been a favourite holiday destination, may see an increase in visitors inspired by the show, potentially boosting the local economy.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Porthcawl, particularly those in hospitality and tourism, could benefit from increased footfall as viewers flock to experience the locations featured in the show. This might lead to job opportunities in the area.

Policy and regulation

As shows like Ruth and Steve highlight local culture, there may be renewed discussions about supporting regional productions in Wales. This could influence future funding and policy decisions by the Welsh Government to promote the arts.

Numbers that matter

• 21: The number of years the Elvis Festival has been running, now attracting around 40,000 visitors.
• 1,100: The number of homes planned for the site of the now-closed Coney Beach Amusement Park.
• 90 kg: The weight of the rescue dummy used during the RNLI training exercise, demonstrating community engagement in safety efforts.

Definitions and jargon buster

• RNLI: Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity that provides lifeboat search and rescue services.
• Coney Beach Amusement Park: A historical amusement park in Porthcawl that recently closed, known for its long-standing entertainment offerings.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Viewers can anticipate weekly episodes of Ruth and Steve, exploring more of Porthcawl's history and culture. This might also encourage local initiatives to preserve historical sites featured in the series.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the show progresses, there could be a growing interest in local tourism, prompting businesses to enhance their offerings for visitors inspired by the series.

Signals to watch

• Monitor local tourism statistics in Porthcawl to gauge the show's impact.
• Keep an eye on any new initiatives launched by the Welsh Government to support local arts and culture.

Practical guidance

Do

• Plan a visit to Porthcawl to explore the locations featured in Ruth and Steve.
• Participate in local events, such as the Elvis Festival, to experience the community spirit.

Don’t

• Don’t miss the chance to engage with local businesses that may offer themed experiences related to the show.
• Don’t overlook the importance of supporting local arts initiatives that may arise as a result of the show’s success.

Checklist

• Watch the latest episode of Ruth and Steve on BBC One.
• Research upcoming events in Porthcawl.
• Explore the local history and cultural sites featured in the show.
• Consider supporting local businesses during your visit.
• Engage with community initiatives that may emerge from the show's popularity.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the show's nostalgic themes resonate with many, there is potential for commercialisation of Porthcawl’s cultural identity. Additionally, as the community sees an influx of visitors, maintaining the charm and integrity of the town will be crucial. The ongoing redevelopment projects in the area, such as the transformation of the amusement park site, could alter the landscape significantly.

Bottom line

Ruth Jones's return to Porthcawl in her new BBC series not only rekindles personal memories but also shines a spotlight on the town's cultural heritage. For viewers, it offers a chance to explore a beloved local community, while for Porthcawl, it presents an opportunity for revitalisation and increased tourism.

FAQs

What is Ruth Jones known for?

Ruth Jones is best known for her role as Nessa in Gavin & Stacey, a beloved comedy series she co-created. Her new show highlights her connection to her hometown of Porthcawl.

When does Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love air?

The show airs on BBC One at 21:00 on Mondays and is available to watch on BBC iPlayer shortly after.

What activities did Ruth Jones participate in during the show?

During the show, Ruth Jones participated in various activities such as a cold-water dip, volunteering at a parkrun, and performing at the Elvis Festival.