A BALA actor has spoken about how his character in soap opera, Rownd a Rownd, reminds him of himself 10 years ago.

Robin Ceiriog has played Mathew, deputy head at the local school, for the past 10 years. And over the course of a decade, the 34-year-old actor has faced many challenging stories and seen many girlfriends come and go.

“Mathew is a version of me 10 years ago. I think everyone goes through an uncertain period at some stage in their lives as they try to find out what and who they are and he’s still trying to do that,” said Robin, who’s originally from Bala, but now lives in Llangollen.

“Mathew’s gone about finding happiness the wrong way. He’s looking for quick fixes and hasn’t found long-term contentment. His love life has forged ahead full speed and he’s had massive problems with gambling and that’s led to financial worries.”

Mathew feels embarrassed about his past gambling addiction and although he’s overcome that, it still plagues him. Only a small circle of people know about his problems and Mathew doesn’t want his addiction to become the talk of the town.

“He doesn’t want to reveal anything to Sophie about his gambling problem in case it causes tension between them. He’s scared that the story will spread, especially at work – where he’s a respected head teacher. Sophie’s mum, Glenda, likes to gossip and everyone would find out if she knew!”

As a result of his financial problems Mathew lives with his dad, Philip and his step mum, Alwena. Robin said.

“He feels frustrated and knows people are questioning why he’s still living at home at his age. They are wondering why a man with such a good job can’t afford his own home. He’s concerned about what people think of him.”

Gambling has been a huge problem for Mathew and his priority has been beating his addiction rather than finding a long-term partner. He has a long list of failed relationships and affairs but is this lothario about to settle into a relationship with Sophie?

“Mathew likes the stability Sophie is offering him and quite fancies the idea of a steady relationship. He hopes this will work but I’m not sure if this leopard will change its spots.”

Rownd a Rownd is on Tuesday and Thursday nights on S4C at 7.30pm.