TV presenter goes back to his roots (From Barry And District News)

TV presenter goes back to his roots

ONE BARRY man certainly doesn't need to log on to Friends Reunited for his old school pals to keep up with him - all they have to do is tune into Sky Sports News.

Rhodri Williams is rapidly becoming well-known and well-respected as a sporting journalist. But despite rubbing shoulders with athletics' elite, as well as many mainstream TV personalities, he still holds the town in high regard.

Rhodri lived in Meas-y-Coed the majority of his childhood and went to various local primary schools including Ysgol Sant Baruc.

The 36-year-old now lives in London but spends a lot of his time in Barry. Apart from his role as a TV presenter, which included hosting shows like Animal Hospital, he's also a businessman. He is part owner of 'One', the popular bistro in Penarth and part owner in the Cameo Club in Cardiff.

He told the News: "Another 'One' is also going to be in the new Millennium Centre in Cardiff. It will be a great place for people to go." Barry is close to his heart and he is excited by the changes he can see happening.

He said: "I don't miss Barry because I'm here so often. When I meet people in the street it's like I've never been away."

As a child Rhodri went to watch Barry Town and is saddened by the club's slide into the second tier of the Welsh League.

The avid sports fan said: "It gives any town a lift if their football team are doing well. I remember when Cardiff City made it in to the Championship, crowds went up."

He played for Barry Rugby Club and was captain of Brynhill Golf Club as a youngster.

Rhodri visits his parents and loves to come home to the town's tranquillity.

He added: "It's amazing when I come home because I wake up in the morning and it is so quiet. It is the total opposite of spending time in London.

"I love the fact that I'm from Barry. It was great growing up here. I remember spending many hours in the Knap pool. The pool was so popular and today it would be one of the greatest assets to the town."