A SEMI-RETIRED clergyman with strong links to the Tivy-Side has recently published his life story.

A native of Glamorganshire, Canon Aled Williams has spent virtually the whole of his life in West Wales.

A graduate of the University of Wales, he was ordained following theological training in Cardiff, to a curacy in Llanelli, prior to becoming a vicar for eight years in the Boncath and Crymych areas where his roots lay on his mother's side of the family.

The book, written in both English and Welsh and entitled Milestones/Cerrig Milltir charts Canon Williams’ career intertwined with his many interests as a musician, teacher of Welsh to adult learners, translator, poet, actor, researcher, gardener and small-time farmer.

And it has certainly been a labour of love for the 69-year-old, taking three and a half years to write in both languages.

“I have led a long and fairly interesting life and my main inspiration behind the book more than anything else was that I wanted to preserve memories for my three grandchildren,” said Canon Williams.

“People often say ‘if only I had asked’ but my grandchildren are only small now. In 40 or 50 years time they may well be asking those questions and hopefully having something written down on paper for them about my life will provide a few answers and they will get to know more about me and their family history.”

“It has certainly been worthwhile.”

To buy your copy, priced £9.95, contact Canon Williams at Cwmawel, Llanllwni, Pencader, Sir Gaerfyrddin, SA39 9DR; email pedrbrefi@btopenworld.com or call 01559 395802.