November 11, 2026 - 253 views
Welsh-language broadcaster S4C has cancelled plans to make a three-part television drama about convicted paedophile former head teacher Neil Foden, who was jailed for 17 years for abusing four girls.
The series, provisionally titled Y Pennaeth (The Head Teacher), had been scheduled for broadcast in 2027, with actor Mark Lewis Jones due to portray Foden.
Announcing the decision, S4C said it had concluded that proceeding with the production would not be appropriate, adding that the wellbeing of those affected by the events must come first.
In a statement, the broadcaster said: "S4C has an important role in telling stories that shine a light on matters of public interest.
"However, following careful consideration, we have concluded that it would not be appropriate to proceed with the drama series provisionally titled Y Pennaeth.
"This is S4C's decision, and we apologise for the distress this has caused."
Foden, who was originally from Old Colwyn, was head teacher of Ysgol Friars in Bangor when he committed the offences.
As previously reported by Bayside, he was sentenced to 17 years in prison in 2024 after being found guilty of 19 offences involving four girls, including pupils at schools where he held positions of authority.
The case shocked communities across North Wales and raised serious questions about how Foden had been able to abuse his position of trust over a number of years.
His conviction followed a major investigation and a series of court proceedings which exposed the extent of his offending.
S4C has now confirmed that the drama will not go ahead, saying its decision followed careful consideration of the impact on those affected.
