As a boy growing up in the nineteen forties and fifties on a council estate in Mochdre, North Wales, Ray Hughes had no idea that his dreams would one day become a reality.
After leaving school Ray pursued a variety of jobs, including that of karate instructor – he was one of the first registered black belts, before becoming a high flier with British European Airways.
During his time with BEA, first as a Chief Steward and then as a Purser, Ray met and looked after numerous showbiz personalities, pop stars, screen idols and sports celebrities. Among these were Tommy Cooper, Doris Speed, Bill Nighy, Chuch Berry, Val Doonican, Peter O’Toole, Rod Steiger, Ray Rearden, Roger moore, Marianne Faithful, George Best, Jackie Stewart and Henry Cooper.
Ray’s flying days earned him his nickname “Skyman Taff”, and were filled with many thrilling and life-threatening situations, which inspired Ray to write his memoirs.
In later years, Ray became a director of Colwyn Bay Football Club and a Trustee of the YMCA Colwyn Bay.
Now retired, Roy proudly reminisces, surrounded by countless memories and mementos of those halcyon days.
“To travel world-wide and meet so many fascinating people has been a truly unforgettable experience: something that will always remain with me in my beautiful Welsh homeland”.
This book is available for loan from Colwyn Bay Library.
Raymond Johnson-Hughes: Skyman Taff’s Halcyon Days: Published by Baugh Publishing, Colwyn Bay in 2012.
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