Swansea’s Dewi Pws remembered in moving Eisteddfod tribute

The warm summer air at the Wrecsam Eisteddfod was filled with laughter, music and memory as Wales paid tribute to one of its most beloved cultural icons — Dewi ‘Pws’ Morris. A special concert titled Nwy yn y Nen, named after his award-winning 1971 song, brought together friends, fans and fellow performers to honour the late actor, musician and poet who passed away last August at the age of 76.

Born and raised in Treboeth, Swansea, Dewi Pws was a true son of the city. He attended Ysgol Gymraeg Lôn Las and Dynevor Grammar School before training as a teacher in Cardiff. But it was his irrepressible creativity and mischievous charm that led him to a life in the arts — a journey that would span over five decades and leave an indelible mark on Welsh culture2.

At the Eisteddfod tribute, many wore red neckerchiefs — a nod to Dewi’s signature look — as they sang along to classics like Lleucu Llwyd and Nwy yn y Nen. His wife, Rhiannon, shared that Dewi would have been “thrilled” by the celebration, joking that he’d have loved not being expected to perform — just to sit back and enjoy.

Dewi first rose to fame as the lead singer of Y Tebot Piws, and later helped form Edward H Dafis, Wales’s first supergroup. His musical contributions were matched by his acting career, with standout roles in Pobol y Cwm, Rownd a Rownd, and the iconic rugby comedy Grand Slam. He also held the title of Children’s Poet for Wales in 2010 and was inducted into the Gorsedd Cymru as an honorary druid.

The idea for the tribute concert came from fellow musician Cleif Harpwood, with Mei Gwynedd curating the performances. Singer Meinir Gwilym, who performed at the event, recalled Dewi’s humour and encouragement: “He gave us joy and confidence. It’s an incredible and emotional honour to be part of this.”

Though Dewi’s voice may no longer echo live across Welsh stages, his songs continue to play on the radio, stirring warm memories and laughter. As Rhiannon put it, “Knowing he hasn’t been forgotten brings comfort.”

From Swansea’s sandcastles to the national Maes, Dewi Pws built a legacy of joy, rebellion and creativity — one that will continue to inspire generations to come.

📸 Stream the tribute concert via S4C Clic

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