I was born in Bristol (of course) but my dad was born in Wales - Barry to be precise (if you know the Halifax bank in Barry Holden Road that’s his ancestral home - they rent it from us to this day)
I grew up embracing both English and welsh identities - English first because of my birth, but welsh a close second. I only wanted Wales to lose if England were their opponents - or would be negatively affected by Wales winning.
All this took a huge knock when, after being made redundant in 2003, I attended UWIC university in Cardiff - and encountered anti-English sentiment in a scale that I’d never experienced before (nor since I might add). It was subtle, but absolutely there. When spoken, it was said with a twinkle in the eye and a smile, but it was there - and worst of all, it appeared to be ENCOURAGED by the municipal authorities. For example, the Manics were performing a concert whilst I was there and ‘As long as we beat the English’ posters were everywhere. I’m not ‘snowflake’ enough to call that racist and try and report it or anything - but I felt it was banter taken to its limits (not just the Manics posters, but my whole experience in Cardiff).
I admit that for a while I turned against my Welsh roots and wished them to fail in all sporting events. I never stooped to name calling or anything Neanderthal- but I was angry and upset for a few years.
I’ve mellowed again now, but I suppose where I’m going is that ones sense of nationality is sensitive and easily angered when stuff - more than likely intended as no more than harmless banter - is not once, but many many times rammed down ones throat.
I am back in love with my Welsh blood now btw - but I haven’t worked in Cardiff since 2004!!!!