Age Cymru praises S4C film
Published on 09 April 2014 02:30 PM
Age Cymru is calling for more TV and radio programmes that show age and ageing in a positive light.
It comes after an S4C documentary film about a 75-year-old climber picked up an award at a prestigious film festival.
‘75: Byth Rhy Hen - 75: Never Too Old', follows Jeremy Trumper of Gwynedd, as he fulfils his ambition of climbing The Devil's Tower in the USA.
The film - produced by Slam Media for S4C, won the silver medal for Best Climbing Film at the Sheffield Adventure Film Festival ShaFF 2014.
Commenting on the success of the film, our Head of Policy and Public Affairs Graeme Francis says:
"Well done to Jeremy Trumper, to his climbing partner - the legendary Eric Jones, to S4C and Slam Media for producing such an extraordinary film.
"That two men in their 70s can climb a 12,000 ft mountain, or would even contemplate such a feat, will surprise many.
"‘75: Byth Rhy Hen - 75: Never Too Old' powerfully challenges stereotypes about older people's abilities, expectations and place in society.
"Jeremy Trumper and Eric Jones are also both great role models and we need more programmes like this."
The programme, broadcast on S4C 12 months ago, follows Jeremy and Eric, who is 73, from Eifionydd to the USA where they take on the 12,000 foot Devil's Tower.
S4C Content Commissioner Llion Iwan says:
"This is a documentary that celebrates life, the strength of spirit and realising dreams.
"It's inspirational to follow Jeremy and Eric, two talented and charming people.
"Congratulations to everyone involved in this memorable, uplifting production."
Jeremy Trumper started climbing when he was fourteen, as a Scout on climbing trips led by famous climber Showell Styles.
It was his wife, Margaret who was responsible for igniting Jeremy's obsession with the Devil's Tower in the first place.
Jeremy explains:
"One Christmas she bought me a book which was full of amazing climbs all around the world, and that's when I first came across the Devil's Tower.
"And since then I've been obsessed with the idea, and determined to climb to the summit. It was such a great feeling, and I was so glad to have Eric Jones by my side.
"I couldn't have found a better friend to come along on the adventure."
Producer Aled Llŷr from Slam Media, who led the filming team that followed them there in autumn 2012, adds:
"What delighted me most about this story was their friendship.
"They are both fine men - their values and friendship are something special.
"I hope the programme inspires the viewers, however old they are."