Wales forced to stop team meeting as epic moment unfolds outside hotel
Players were blown away by a special moment that took place in the midst of the match day chaos and left them with tears in their eyes
The Red Wall sing outside team hotel
Welsh supporters sang so loud outside the team hotel at Euro 2025 that Rhian Wilkinson was forced to stop a team meeting.
The moment occurred ahead of Wales v Netherlands in Lucerne, Switzerland, last weekend. Around 4,000 of The Red Wall descended upon the streets of the Swiss city, walking in unison with Dutch fans from the fan zone to Allmend Stadion, which is a 2.5km stretch. In what was a superb display of passion and pride to kick off the footballing action, there was one moment that slipped under the radar.
As some Welsh fans marched through the streets, they noticed the Cymru team coach parked down a side street, discovering where the team were based for the game.
Spotting an opportunity to give their players one final boost ahead of the game, the fans started singing.
In an interview with WalesOnline out in Switzerland, Wales star Ffion Morgan's parents spoke about experiencing this surreal moment.
"We were walking up the street and everybody was singing," began mother Ruth Morgan.
Article continues below
"And obviously we passed the end of the road where they (Wales) were staying in their hotel. The bus was constantly parked outside. So of course the fans saw it, started gathering around the bus and started singing the Welsh national anthem.
"So I was videoing it, not thinking anything of it - I'll just send this to Ffion later on. Then I got a text from Ffion saying: 'Oh my gosh, we are in a team meeting and all we can hear is the national anthem outside the window. Rhian has stopped the meeting and we are all looking out the window and there are fans everywhere!'
"I texted her back saying: 'Yeah, it's us, we're there! We're standing behind the bus.'
"She sent me the video of the fans on the bus from the team room and I sent a video from outside the team room, so it was quite a surreal moment really - we were sharing exactly the same experience but from two different angles.
The Red Wall sing outside hotel (second angle)
"Rhian was speaking and she had to stop because the noise of the anthem from outside was just incredible, they all got up off their seats looking out the window and they were all comparing goosebumps. She said everybody had tears in their eyes, it was such a special moment.
"She was saying, to have that just before the game was such a boost for all of them. They had such a backing from the fans, it was great."
Speaking about the march itself, mum Ruth said it was "incredible".
"We were in the fan zone first, which was equally as incredible," she continued. "Because when you looked around the fan zone it was just all red, all bucket hats, there was hardly any orange there at all, fabulous.
"They had the music on, everyone was singing and dancing in the fan zone. Then the announcement came: 'We're leaving!' - Yma O Hyd, Oggy, Oggy, Oggy, everything was going off. It was quite emotional really, because people recognised us so they were coming out to us and wishing us luck. We're definitely going to be there on Wednesday and Sunday."
Dad Phylip added: "One of the moments for me, was one of the dads that was out, he said: 'It feels as if I'm in heaven'. I said: 'Why is that?' He says: 'I'm mad about sport'
"He was there in 2016 and now he's able to be there with three of his young kids, because it's a really safe environment. They were making a family holiday of this, all of them are out able to enjoy football, which he loves.
Article continues below
"It is without all of the edge that comes with men's football. Even in the fan zone we felt really safe. Controlled alcohol and everything, that was a big thing for me, when we were walking with the fans, that it was just a really nice, joyous place to be with everyone."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
Jiffy's most remarkable feat yet as he pieces himself back together for big day
Jiffy's most remarkable feat yet as he pieces himself back together for big day The Wales rugby legend has done an outstanding job as president of Velindre Cancer Charity Jonathan Davies goes again for charity (Image: John Myers) Jonathan "Jiffy" Davies is one of Wales' greatest ever rugby players, but his greatest achievement in life has been his incredible commitment to raising money for Velindre Cancer Charity. It is a cause very close to his heart after his father, Len, and his first wife, Karen, passed away from cancer. It was the contrasting nature of their treatment and his desire to help others which drove the dual-code international to get involved with Velindre. Davies first got involved with Velindre Cancer Charity in 2007 and became a patron before getting promoted to president in 2009. The 62-year-old has overseen, coordinated and participated in numerous fundraising events over the years, raising over £50m for Velindre Cancer Charity. This Sunday Davies will be taking part in his annual 50 mile bike ride which starts at the Cardiff City Stadium and finishes outside Rock restaurant in Swansea. But this year will be a tougher challenge than ever before after a difficult year for the legend following two major surgeries. A full knee replacement back in September was followed by a major back operation that saw him have a metal cage and four screws inserted in his back and left him feeling like he's been "run over by a bus". Pulling out of this event, was never an option though. Article continues below Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. "I pinned my hat to Velindre very early on because of the treatment my wife had and how difficult it was for me and my family along with my mother when my dad was being treated in Cambridge," Davies tells WalesOnline. "Sometimes you just take things for granted until somebody gets cancer and then you soon realise how important it is to have something like this on your doorstep. "I've just got to thank everyone who has put money in. "It's an amazing ride and one of many rides people do throughout the year. "It's one of those things where I do my little bit to help and keep it up." Jonathan Davies is raising money for Velindre Cancer Charity (Image: Adrian White Photography) Davies will be joined by over 300 people on the bike ride, including Welsh rugby legends Alun Wyn Jones, James Hook and Dwayne Peel. The well-respected rugby pundit has always put great stock in his fitness but this year will be more challenging than ever, given his inability to prepare as he would wish. "I've had two operations leading up to it but I'm back on the bike now," he said. "I had a knee replacement last September and I had a cage put in my back last December. "The operations went well. "I haven't trained as much as I'd like to but I'm feeling okay. "I've not prepared as well as I'd like to have but I've been on the bike a couple of times around the Gower. "The weather seems to be very hot so it will be tough but it's all about getting the numbers up and raising money for a good cause. Join WalesOnline Rugby's WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free "My body is alright but I'm not a cyclist. "I'm just going to take my time and enjoy the day. "We've managed to get over 300 people which is great but I'd like to get more than that over the next couple of years if I can. "It's 50-odd miles for us but there's a couple of other stops where you can do less if you want to and join in." Velindre Cancer Charity has been a godsend for those who have suffered with cancer and their families. There is a plan to build a second Velindre Cancer Centre in Coryton and Davies is committed to continue raising money for a cause close to his heart. "Cancer rates are getting worse and worse," he told WalesOnline. "They think it's going to be one in two soon. "It's always creeping up and there are a lot of people I know now currently going through treatment. "I want to help everyone that's had cancer and I want to help their families who are going through it. "It's a horrible place to be in but hopefully one day all the cancer charities all over the country and the world really if we can find a cure for it that would be the most amazing thing. "We are just doing our little bit really because I know how difficult it is whether it's yourself, family or friends. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here. "Velindre are amazing. "The staff have been amazing and there's a new hospital opening in 2027. "Hopefully it will be bigger and better. Article continues below "Hopefully we can get people treated a lot better in Wales with better facilities but it is still a horrible disease. "I just raise money and give it to people who know better how to use it. "It's gone towards a lot of research, some outstanding staff and some new equipment."
North Wales Live
an hour ago
- North Wales Live
Beautiful Welsh holiday home on private island with stunning sea views named among UK's best
It's one thing to have a glorious sea view. It's quite another to have an entire tidal island to yourself. Ynys Faelog, just a short stroll from Menai Bridge in Anglesey, is exactly that, a rare slice of "island life" without having to charter a boat. And it's not just us who think it's pretty special. The unique Welsh property has just been shortlisted for the accomodation with the "best view" at the Sykes Gems 2025 Awards, the annual celebration of the UK and Ireland's most memorable and high-quality holiday homes. The awards are split into categories such as best view, of course as well as Best Farm Stays, Best for Beaches, and Best for Couples, plus regional titles such as Best in North Wales and Best in Mid and South Wales. You can see Wales' regional shortlist top 10, here. Every finalist has been picked for outstanding service, stand-out style, and a thoughtful guest experience that makes you start planning your return before you've even checked out. Unsurprisingly, Ynys Faelog ticks all those boxes. Perched in two lovely acres of gardens and woodland, this six-bedroom home is surrounded by the beautiful yet treacherous Menai Strait on all sides. It's connected to the mainland by a private causeway, both vehicular and pedestrian, which is accessible at all tides (though the car route is tide-dependent for high waters above 5m). Up to five cars can be parked privately on the island itself, with extra spaces just a short stroll from the pedestrian causeway. Being on an island doesn't mean being completely cut off, though. Menai Bridge is only 300 metres away on foot. This landmark suspension bridge was built nearly 200 years ago by Thomas Telford. When it opened in 1826, people hailed it as a brilliant feat of civil engineering, and it remains in use today. In the nearby small and underrated town of Porthaethwy (Menai Bridge), you'll also find an array of restaurants, cafés, delis, and independent shops. The marina is close too, with a slipway, overnight mooring, and refuelling facilities. For everything else, you've got the rest of Anglesey, the North Wales coast, and even Eryri within easy reach. The large house is clearly designed for sociable stays. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living room is flooded with natural light, with enough space for twelve people to cook, eat, and lounge without getting under each other's feet. The kitchen is well equipped with a double electric oven, induction hob, wine chiller, and two dishwashers, which is sensible because washing-up queues are not part of anyone's dream holiday. Upstairs, there's a second sitting room with elevated views of Beaumaris and Bangor Pier. A balcony runs along the seaward side, home to a wood-fired hot tub that's just begging for an evening dip with a cheeky glass of fizz. The sleeping arrangements are very flexible. There are two super-king bedrooms upstairs (both can be set as twins on request), two super-kings on the ground floor, and a twin that can also be zipped into a king. All bedrooms have Smart TVs, and most have their own bathrooms, five in total, split between baths, showers, and a handy utility shower room for sandy toes and muddy paws. Dogs are welcome, too. You can bring up to two well-behaved small or medium breeds, so even doggos can get a taste of island living. If you can tear yourself away from the dreamy views, the grounds are made for lazy afternoons or group activities. There's a tennis court, croquet lawn, and wrap-around gardens with seating areas, a charcoal barbecue, and designated viewing points over the water. Guests also have access to a private walking trail towards the Menai Strait, plus a small, shared beach area with the neighbouring cottage. And because the island is tidal, you'll get those magical moments when the causeway is covered, the water laps just below your windows, and it feels like the rest of the world is miles away, even though Waitrose is only a ten-minute walk. Ynys Faelog is also well-positioned to explore the historic Anglesey coast. Beaumaris Castle and a pier are only a short drive away. You can read about what to do in Beaumaris here. You're also right on the Menai Strait, home to a notorious stretch of water known as the Swellies. If you traverse these waters on a boat trip, you'll be entering a treacherous body of water with rapid tidal flows and a history of shipwrecks. The tide here is wild, rushing in from both ends and colliding with full force over a seabed dotted with hidden rocks. The haunting remains of shipwrecks beneath are a stark reminder that not everyone has made it through unscathed. According to Menai Heritage, the site on which the town of Porthaethwy sits is believed to have been inhabited for thousands of years. Stone axes dating back to the Neolithic Period (3000-2000 BC), burial urns, and axes from the Bronze Age (2000-1000 BC) have been found in the area. Several significant Roman discoveries, including a hoard of 37 coins dating back to the 3rd century, have also been made in the area. The area where the Menai Suspension Bridge crosses is also a historic site. As it's the narrowest stretch of the perilous Menai Strait, it likely was an important crossing point for thousands of years. There's no better way to explore the pretty place than to take a stroll around it. Download the All Trails app for a route that takes you toward the Belgian Promenade. According to History Points, the promenade was built in 1916 by a group of Belgian refugees who had fled their homes along the strait from Ynys Tysilio (Church Island) to Carreg yr Halen. During the First World War, refugees from German-occupied Mechelen (or Malines) in Belgium were accommodated in Menai Bridge. In gratitude for the town's hospitality, they built this promenade along the Menai Strait from Ynys Tysilio (Church Island) to Carreg yr Halen, completing it in 1916. The promenade was rebuilt in 1963, and Eduard Wilhelms, the only surviving refugee, performed the ceremonial reopening in 1965. It was resurfaced in 2000 as part of a millennium project. Follow the 3.5km route for epic views of the Menai Strait and bridge, interesting historical spots, and plenty of seating areas. Food-wise, Porthaethwy may be a small town, but it's punching above its weight in the culinary world, with Michelin-starred dining on offer. Unlike any other restaurant in Wales, the Michelin-starred Sosban and the Old Butchers is located in what used to be a butcher's shop. Its dishes are created using the best of what's available locally on the day. In 2025, the tiny restaurant retained its one Michelin star, with chef and owner Stephen Stevens refusing to let standards drop. Judges said: "Stephen Stevens' surprise menu utilises a wealth of North Wales ingredients in dishes that provide bold flavours and original, personal touches, demonstrating an innate understanding of cooking techniques and flavour combinations – the cod with fermented onion fudge is superb." They serve surprise tasting menus only, and you may face a long wait for a table as they fill up months in advance. This is understandable given their four AA rosettes and coveted Michelin star. For other dining options, you could also check out Freckled Angel, Bangor-born chef-owner Michael Jones' small plates combine Welsh ingredients with international flavour combinations. Previous dishes include king prawns with chorizo croquette and charred corn, and twice-baked perl las soufflé with balsamic grape. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Looking for adventures further afield? Nearby, the wildlife at Coed Cyrnol Nature Reserve, the tropical butterflies at Pili Palas, and the dramatic landscapes of the National Park are all within striking distance. Cross back onto the mainland, and you'll be in Bangor in minutes, where Penrhyn Castle, Eithinog Nature Reserve, and Bangor Promenade await.
North Wales Live
an hour ago
- North Wales Live
North Wales golf attraction hit by Tiger Woods 'cease and desist' order now set to open
Britain's first US-style golfing attraction will open on Anglesey next week. The 18-hole 'mini golf' course has undulating Astroturf holes, white areas for bunkers and can be played at night under floodlights. The venture, in Llangefni, will have a pizza shack along with a 'Halfway House' bar where players can enjoy a tipple or two before resuming their rounds. Unlike traditional crazy golf courses, it's meant to be a miniature version of the real thing. Windmills or clown mouths are conspicuous by their absence. The other thing missing is its original name – it was meant to be a homage to PopStroke, a company backed by Tiger Woods that has pioneered upmarket mini golf in the States. But on hearing the venture's name, lawyers representing the golfing superstar issued a 'cease and desist' letter. All usage was to be banned in print and online within 14 days. Golf professional Matthew Wharton, who owns the Golf Môn complex in Llangefni, initially toyed with the idea of ignoring the ultimatum. 'It was a bit of a game, to be honest,' he said. 'I'd always hoped Tiger's lawyers would be in touch because of the publicity it would generate. But my wife was less keen - she didn't like the idea of legal action." He added: 'I promptly changed the venture's name at Companies House and we haven't used it since. The new name is perfect anyway as it references the Welsh language. 'We live in a Welsh language heartland and, really, I always wanted the name to reflect that. I'm a Mancunian but the rest of my family are Welsh.' Golff Bach, he said, is pitched at both seasoned golfers and total beginners. The idea is to make the game more accessible and relaxed in an US-accented atmosphere. This includes the food, with bagels and pizzas on offer from Popty Pizza, a course-side restaurant with a wood-fired oven. 'Come for the golf, stay for the pizza,' is the venture's motto. It's a very different offer to that of Golf Môn's near neighbour, the Oriel Môn art museum and gallery. Restaurant floor space was recently doubled with the addition of a large fully glazed extension. A 'glass box', as Matthew likes to describe it. 'It gives panoramic views of the course and the trees around it,' he said. 'I've put feeders in the trees to encourage wildlife, along with a red squirrel gym. We're lucky in being one of the few places still to have red squirrels and if they're around you can watch them from the glass box.' The Halfway House will offer snacks as well as beer and wine: pizza slices will be available here too. Golfers who over-indulge after nine holes may find their form dipping during their rounds. Another new addition is a reception building with an Adidas golf clothing store. This also hosts a state-of-the-art Trackman simulator, available to rent by the hour for indoor golfing on world-famous courses. Matthew, a former Llandudno and Bangor golf professional, self-funded the lot. 'I've not paid myself for two-and-a-half years,' he said. 'It's been hard work but this has been a cherished dream for a long time and I hope the results show it was worth it.' The final challenge, three days before opening, was the DIY asphalting of surrounding paths. Some 500,000 tonnes of road-building stone was used to fashion Golff Bach's contours before they were overlaid with artificial grass. Some holes are more difficult than others but all are banked at the sides to prevent the need for boundaries. The Golf Môn complex preserves the sport's legacy in Llangefni, being based on an old municipal course and driving range. The council facility closed in 2018 and was sold off but a driving range remains: 16 covered bays offer big hitters the chance to smash balls at scrap cars and a double-decker bus. As Golff Bach is floodlit, it will offer later opening hours than most golf courses, transforming it into an evening dining experience as well as a daytime activity. It's a concept already popular in the US, where PopStroke offers upmarket clubhouses, ice cream parlours and kids playgrounds. Since 2019, 17 courses have been built and three more are under construction. Up to 50 courses were envisaged originally. Now the company's 'aperture' has widened to 150–200 locations. According to Matthew, the concept may be heading to the UK, where upmarket crazy golf is already starting to take off in southern England. 'But ours will be the first of the mini golf concept in Britain,' he said. 'And we want it to be the best.' Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday The Golf Môn complex is open seven days a week, 9am to 9pm. The Golff Bach mini golf course opens on Monday, August 18. More details can be found here.
