Coch Bach Y Bala : On The Trail of the Welsh Houdini Announcement Trailer

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It's the dying months of 1913, the guards at Ruthin gaol opened one of the cell doors to find a most peculiar sight. Instead of the prisoner lying in their bed, they found nothing save for a small hole dug into the wall of the cell. A strange story, but for the man now at large in the Welsh countryside, not an unusual one.

This is the extraordinary tale of a man who made a mockery of the British justice system, and how he met his bloody end. The story of John Jones, Little Turpin, the Welsh Houdini, or as he is most commonly known, Coch Bach Y Bala.

His final escape attempt in 1913 caused a media sensation. Newspapers from around the country reported on the incident; his subsequent death and funeral enshrined him into folklore.

Much of what's written about Coch is shrouded in myth. As with many rogues his backstory is a series of half truths, exaggerations and complete works of fiction. While busting some of these myths and telling the true story would be interesting, the legend of this individual is just as important as the truth. But it’s also important to explore those who fell foul to John’s deeds. While it’s true that over the last century many of his crimes have been glossed over or perhaps romanticized, he was still responsible for at least one serious crime. How does someone who caused misery for many become a folk legend?

By following newspapers, reports, historical accounts and more we will attempt to trace the life of Coch. From his early days as a small-time thief, to his time in England, his escape attempts and where he met his untimely end. We will explore the myths, the truth and ultimately how does the story of Coch Bach Y Bala resonate with people over a century later.

Music : Collapsing All Around : Amulets