Born in 1380 in the manor of Rumney to a tenant farmer. My father already had 3 sons who helped on the farm, and because I was his favourite, he wanted something better for me. He arranged an apprenticeship with a term of 7 years with Hywel a ‘Flying Barber’ who regularly came to our manor.

I followed Hywel from town to town as he offered his services. I learnt all about the four humours and their treatment such as bloodletting and cupping, how to deal with tooth worms, and how to pull teeth. I also learnt about amputation, but unfortunately there wasn’t much call for that. As well as learning to heal, I also learnt how to bathe, cut hair, shave, trim beards and even to give enemas.

With my apprenticeship completed, I ventured out on my own. Armed with my instruments and knowledge I set about establishing my own circuit, and moved from village to village in the western parts of Wales.

It was only by coincidence that I found myself in the midst of battle at Mynydd Hyddgen, tending to men who had fought for Owain Glyndwr. Seeing an opportunity to further my skills and fill my purse, I stayed with the Welsh rebels through the battles of Bryn Glas and Pwll Melyn.

After the revolt had been quashed I had to return to my itinerant lifestyle for several years, but opportunity presented itself once again when I came across the estate of Penywaun near Brecon, owned by Llewellyn ap Hywel. It was here that I met Llewellyn’s son Dafydd, who was the same age as me. When Dafydd got the call to go to France with King Henry, I went with him.