A FILM on the life story of former Welsh professional boxer Joe Calzaghe scooped three awards from BAFTA Cymru this weekend.

Feature documentary, Mr Calzaghe, chronicles the rise of the super-middleweight / light heavyweight from his Newbridge roots to global stardom.

At the 25th BAFTA Cymru awards in Cardiff on Sunday, October 2, the film won three awards for 'Special Achievement in Film’ as well as awards crediting the film's sound and the work of director Vaughan Sivell.

Although Mr Calzaghe didn't attend the ceremony, he credited the filmmaking team who “put a lot of hard work into it” to create the finished product.

“The film isn’t just about boxing but about my life story and being an underdog,” he said.

“You get attached emotionally which shows how well (the film) has been done by the team. They took their time with it and did a great job with the story.

“Although I’m a very private person I see the film as something I can look back on and be proud of in years to come.”

Under the direction of coach and father Enzo Calzaghe, Joe finished his career undefeated streak as the longest reigning super-middleweight world champion in history.

“I get messages every day from grown men who have watched the film and cried at it," he said. "It’s very emotional and everyone can relate to it because it’s about family. That’s one of the great things about the film, it captures the real story.

"It was a team effort and I just want to say thanks to everyone who was involved.”

The ceremony was hosted by BBC Radio One presenter, Huw Stephens, at St David’s Hall, Cardiff and presenters included BAFTA-winning actress Sian Phillips, Michael Palin and actor Robert Pugh.

Other awards included Doctor Who winning an award for ‘Special and Visual Effects, Titles and Graphics’ and ‘Hinterland’ winning two awards for ‘Television Drama ‘ and ‘Actress’ Mali Harries.

An 'Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television' award was also presented to BAFTA-nominated Monty Python member Terry Jones, presented by friend and fellow Python, Michael Palin.

Reflecting on the festival, director of BAFTA Cymru, Hannah Raybould, welcomed the “fantastic opportunity” to celebrate the winners and reflect on the way BAFTA Cymru has developed.

“We look forward to the next 25 years of celebrating talent in this country and to working with all our nominees and winners on upcoming BAFTA Cymru events encouraging and inspiring emerging Welsh talent to become part of our vibrant industry,” she added.

For more information, contact: www.bafta.org/wales.