Documentary on Flintshire musician set for release on BBC

Forever Running Backwards focuses on Bagillt musician Cal Roberts' journey through the highs and lows of his musical career, shedding light on his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, and his unwavering determination to foster a thriving music scene in North Wales.

It is being shown on BBC 2 Wales on Monday (July 29) at 11.05pm, and will be on iPlayer. 

Cal, aged 34, said: "Making this film and bearing my life to the camera, warts and all, was one of the most terrifying things I've ever done. That being said, Flintshire, and North East Wales as a whole often gets overlooked musically, and I will take any chance I can get to shine a light on our little creative corner."

The film captures Cal’s ambitious vision for the iconic Duke of Lancaster ship, located at Llannerch-y-Môr dock in Mostyn. He aspires to convert this landmark into an iconic music venue and festival site, breathing new life into the local music scene and attracting prominent artists to the area. 

Cal pictured at the Duke of Lancaster ship (Image: Mei Lewis)

It also features up and coming Bagillt musician Tom Collins, who Cal is supporting in the hope of him launching a professional career. 

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Luke Davies, the film's director who is also from Bagillt, said: "Forever Running Backwards" tells the inspiring story of Cal Roberts, a dedicated musician and producer from Bagillt, as he strives to transform the music landscape of North Wales.

"The documentary highlights Cal's collaboration with emerging local artist Tom Collins, to whom Cal has generously provided free studio time and producer support. Through his tireless efforts, Cal is not only advancing Tom’s career but is also nurturing numerous other local talents."

Tom Collins supporting The View in Wrexham. (Image: Mei Lewis)

Luke, aged 26, added: “Forever Running Backwards is a story of risk takers, rule breakers and opportunity makers, what Cal’s doing in and around North Wales for young and upcoming artists is amazing.

"I don’t know of many other people doing what it is that we’re doing. Tom too, the music he’s releasing, the bands he’s supporting, it’s magic. Not everyone will know who Cal Roberts and Tom Collins are right now. But they will, Just give it time. We’ve got great, big plans for North Wales."

Forever Running Backwards won Best Documentary at the It's My Shout awards - which celebrate new talent in the film industry. 

Cal playing at an open mic night at Connah's Quay Labour club. (Image: Mei Lewis)

Cal said: "Some of the talent on show was incredible, so we never in our wildest dreams expected to win. It feels so surreal."

To mark the release of the documentary, an event is being held at the The Stag Inn, in Bagillt, on Sunday afternoon.

Tom Collins, who is releasing a new single, is playing live and there will be a Q&A with Luke, Cal and documentary producer Anna Arietta. The event starts at 2.30pm and runs until 7.30pm.