Almost exactly ten years ago in September 1997 the first issue of Cambria appeared. A day later, with a wild sense of euphoria and hope, the ‘Yes or Wales’ campaign carried the day in the devolution referendum, and Wales won its own Assembly. We are proud to have grown in tandem with the new Wales.

Looking at our first issue again, I think it is one of the best we have produced. It has some glorious photographs and challenging, thought-provoking articles which are as pertinent today as they were then. The issue may not have been quite as polished as it is today, but it is every bit as relevant. Cambria has evolved, and will keep doing so, but there is a recognisable thread that holds the whole range of its issues together - the relevance, perhaps, of the past to the present and the future.

Where are they now, those contributors to our first issue? GwÔôynfor Evans is sadly no longer with us, but has left Wales one of the greatest legacies of any of her sons. Jan Morris goes from strength to strength, if such is possible, and was the recipient of the World Wide Welsh Award at this year’s National Eisteddfod. John Davies never seems to change or falter in energy and enthusiasm, and has been busy producing the first-ever Welsh encyclopaedia. Patrick Thomas’s charming, uplifting articles have appeared in ever issue but one, and that was due, appropriately, to a pilgrimage. Sion Jobbins has never missed an issue, and his observations and insights are keen, germane, controversial, and influential. Lord Elis-Thomas is, of course, now Llywydd of the National Assembly and one of the nation’s leading figures. Rhodri Pugh still contributes, as do the rest of us.

Cambria has inspired a number or initiatives and campaign which have had considerable impact on Welsh life. Sadly, despite all the efforts so far the Teilo Gospels are still held in Lichfield, but there are many who are still determined to see them return home! The National Botanic Garden, thanks to the brave and inspiring leadership of Alan Hayward, the hordes of volunteers and magnificent public support, is still here despite tricky times, still developing, and seems to grow more magical with every visit.

Do we have anything to celebrate? Cambria goes on from strength to strength. Despite the Jeremiahs and the whingers we have exceeded all expectations. Every day we come across people who still haven’t discovered the magazine, we acquire new subscriptions and receive appreciative letters from all over the world. As Jan Morris says ‘gallant Cambria marches on!’

Thank you, all of you, who read Cambria, without whom our existence would be futile. Thank you to our contributors who make it so readable, to our advertisers - many of whom have become a familiar part of the magazine, and to all those who have given their support, advice and kind good wishes. Here’s to another ten years. Diolch o galon!

Frances Jones-Davies
Editor

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