When local lad Aled Lloyd came home from the RAF during the Second World War with two pairs of boxing gloves, young lads at Ysbyty Ifan near Betws-y-Coed spent every Saturday afternoon outside the old smithy, practising their boxing.

One of those lads was Orig Williams, who went on to establish himself as a major boxer, wrestler and strong man.

"The deacons had a thing or two to say on a Sunday though, when young lads arrived at chapel the following morning bruised and battered, nursing black eyes!" said Orig.

And 45 years after he started his career, Orig brought an American wrestling event to Llanrwst Leisure Centre on 26 January, 2008, when Welsh wrestlers, some trained by Orig, battled it out against ex-World Wrestling Entertainment stars in a Wales versus America spectacular.

Representing Wales were Bari Griffiths from Porthmadog, better known as 'Ten Foot'; Dafydd Vaughan from Llanynys in the Vale of Clwyd, and Geraint Clwyd from Rhyl.

Youngsters were also given a chance to try their hand at light wrestling in two categories.

The event raised funds for the 2008 Urdd National Eisteddfod at Gloddaeth Isa Farm, Penrhyn Bay, from 26-31 May.