Julian Cayo Evans was born at 'Glandenys', Silian, near Lampeter. He was educated at Millfield and the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester. In 1955, he was called up for National Service and saw active service in Malaya.
Cayo-Evans is best known as a leader of the Free Wales Army a paramilitary Welsh Nationalist organisation which first surfaced in 1963. The FWA were intent on arousing the curiosity of the national press; members of the organisation including Cayo even made an appearance on the David Frost show.
Cayo Evans and his troops paraded in military fashion. They carried Welsh Dragon banners and wore peaked caps emblazoned with the insignia of the White Eagles of Snowdon.
Cayo was active in the FWA throughout the 1960s and along with other members of the organisation was convicted of conspiracy to cause explosions and other public order offences following a 53 day trial in 1969. The trial culminated on the 1 July 1969. Cayo was sentenced to fifteen months imprisonment.
Cayo married Gillianne Mary Davies in 1965. They had three children but were divorced in 1975. He died on 28 March 1995 at the age of 57.
In 2000, the brewery Tomos Watkin renamed the Apollo Hotel, Cardiff to "The Cayo Arms".
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your comments
John Nurcombe,Melton Mowbray
I first met Cayo when a student at the RAC.He was very proud of his time in the Army and produced photos of his service in Malaya. I believe he also served in the Pembroke Yeomanry.I was living in Bristol when the incidents occurred in 1969.It made interesting reading.Yes,he was a character.
Mon Nov 30 09:26:18 2009
Justin Glover
I was a child of the seventies and this true hero was ignored in school along with all other forms of Welsh History and culture, 'Fi Godwn Ni Eto' (We wil, rise again) indeed and the fact that we are us and not them, we are not included on the flag of the so called union jack and long may that be the case.However let a free independent wales move forward to work with neighbours free and independent however working together with the reset of the countries of the world for the betterment of all.
Sun Oct 4 19:27:02 2009
Sion Conlin, Maesyrhandir.newtown
Cayo is still with us, he and dennis coslett will live forever in our hearts and souls.true heroes. fe godwn ni eto!(We will rise again).
Mon Mar 24 20:16:00 2008
Rhys Davies from Builth Wells
More people like Cayo Evans are one of many things that Wales needs. English tyranny walked over the peaceful protests of the villagers of Capel Celyn, but were pretty shook up by the Free Wales Army. We can do it today...
Mon Dec 3 08:25:43 2007
Edwina Emery
I knew Cayo and the beautiful house.In the late fifties I used to have suppers in the kitchen with Johnnie Elder and Cayo, and we would go and look at his stallions afterwards.I never realised I was listening to history in the making. I would like to hear from Johnnie if anyone knows his whereabouts.He was a man with a mission, and deserves recognition.
Thu Nov 22 16:21:17 2007
Dai Jones, Maesteg
Cayo spoke and acted on passion, it's a pity we can't get it together these days.
Sat Oct 20 16:00:25 2007
R Williams, Brecon
'We shall rise again' is a solemn promise that will echo down through history to a time that is right, be it a hundred years or a thousand from now.
Tue Sep 4 08:16:58 2007
Mark, Barry, Vale Of Glamorgan
A Glyndwr of modern times, quite romantic. A legend who's escapades should be taught to our children at school. Wales need's more sons like this man.
Wed Jul 18 09:11:50 2007
Dave Booth
I knew Cayo for a number of years and he is a legend and should be number 1 in the hall of fame.
Mon Jun 18 10:48:26 2007
Charlotte from Llanelli
Cayo should be an inspiration to us all. He was a true patriot of Wales and worked hard to keep what he believed in alive... a true Welsh Hero
Fri Apr 20 12:59:06 2007
John Blackburn, Halifax, West Yorks.
I knew Cayo quite well. A charismatic character indeed. He was inclined to stand outside 'Y Llwyn Eiddew' wearing a black lace shirt, drape jacket, and wellies, playing the piano accordion. He had a chaotic private life. For me, he was part of the spirit which inhabits Llambed - one of eccentricity and determined individuality. Sadly missed.
Wed Feb 28 17:05:50 2007
Dean from Bridgend
Welsh Hero who stood up and said `no` to English Tyrany
Wed Feb 21 12:56:00 2007
Paul of Lampeter
Local folk legend. Grew up with stories of tanks in his garage. A real characater whom with his men tried to give Wales back her pride and history.
Mon Feb 19 09:40:48 2007
Smiljana Gecek, Northamptonshire
yes he is legend.
Tue Feb 13 09:44:53 2007
Gareth ap Siôn from Caerdydd
All in all, a true 20th century Welsh hero.
Tue Feb 13 09:44:28 2007
Sian Evans, Ceredigion
He was a bit of a boy towards the establishment, but had a real heart of gold.
Mon Feb 12 10:19:06 2007
Charmian from Rhondda ( previous Llanfair Clydogau
Cayo should undoubtedly win prime position in the Hall of Fame, He was influential. controversial. handsome, a good father and friend.
Sun Feb 11 11:39:45 2007
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