Community

A celebration of Welsh culture: The Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2024

Published

1 month ago

May 31, 2024

THE Eisteddfod yr Urdd, one of Wales’ most cherished cultural festivals, is once again illuminating the spirit of Welsh youth and talent. Held annually, this year’s event is bursting with vibrant activities, new initiatives, and an array of cultural showcases that exemplify the rich tapestry of Welsh heritage. This year, The Urdd Eisteddfod is being held from 27 May to 1 June at Mathrafal Farm near Meifod, Powys

Triban Festival: A festival within a festival

The Triban Festival, a standout feature of the Eisteddfod since 2022, is back with a bang. Celebrating the best of contemporary Welsh music and culture, Triban Festival is set to enthral attendees today and tomorrow. This year, the festival is curated by five young visionaries, ensuring it resonates deeply with the youth. Aur Bleddyn, one of the curators, highlighted the invaluable experience gained through this role, emphasizing the festival’s youth-centric approach.

The Triban Festival promises a feast of live music, street theatre, comedy, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit for all attendees.

Health and wellbeing take centre stage

In a significant move, the Urdd has launched a new health and wellbeing residential course in partnership with PABO (Paid â Bod Ofn – Don’t Be Afraid), led by the pop band Eden. The ‘Sa Neb Fel Ti’ (There’s No One Like You) stage in the Nant Caredig area offers a non-competitive platform for individuals to celebrate their uniqueness through performance.

This partnership will extend beyond the Eisteddfod, with a dedicated ‘PABO Weekend’ at Pentre Ifan Residential Centre in September. Aimed at Urdd members aged 14 and above, this weekend will focus on health and wellbeing, fostering a supportive environment for young people to thrive.

Expanding horizons: The #FelMerch Project in India

The Urdd is also broadening its international impact with the launch of the #FelMerch project in India. Supported by the Welsh Government, this initiative aims to combat sexual and gender-based violence in Kolkata. Partnering with Her Future Coalition (HFC), young Welsh volunteers aged 18-25 will engage in education and support programmes for at-risk children and young people in India.

First Minister Vaughan Gething underscored the significance of this project in raising awareness and providing critical support. This initiative not only offers invaluable experience to Welsh volunteers but also aims to create lasting positive change in the lives of Kolkata’s youth.

Nurturing future talent: Young Cultural International Ambassadors

In collaboration with the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD), the Urdd has unveiled a new programme to cultivate the artistic talents of Wales’s youth. Six exceptional performers between 18 and 25 will be chosen from Eisteddfod yr Urdd Maldwyn 2024 competitions to become Young Cultural International Ambassadors. This programme, an extension of the successful Urdd Bryn Terfel Scholarship, will provide masterclasses and international performance opportunities, showcasing Welsh talent on a global stage.

Honouring excellence: Crowning Ceremony

A highlight of today’s events is the Crowning Ceremony, set to take place at 2:30 pm at the White Pavilion Stage. This year’s crown, crafted by jeweller Mari Eluned, symbolises prosperity, unity, and hope, featuring elements that reflect the Urdd’s contributions and agricultural heritage.

The competition tasked participants with composing prose on the theme ‘Terfynau’ (limits), judged by Elin Llwyd Morgan and Caryl Lewis. The ceremony promises to be a poignant celebration of literary excellence, with the winner announced live.

Literary legacy: Cyhoeddiadau’r stamp publications

In an exciting development, Cyhoeddiadau’r Stamp will publish pamphlets featuring the works of the main literary prize winners, including those of the Drama Medal, the Chair, and the Crown. This collaboration ensures that the winners’ literary contributions are celebrated and accessible, extending the impact of their achievements.

A day with Guto Rhun

Today’s President, Guto Rhun, brings a wealth of experience from his role overseeing Hansh content on S4C. His career, spanning from presenting on Radio Cymru to commissioning diverse content for S4C, reflects his dedication to nurturing new talent and voices in Welsh media.

In a Q&A, Guto shared fond memories of his time with the Urdd, emphasizing the confidence and opportunities it provided, which have been instrumental in his career. His representation from the LGBT community underscores the Urdd’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Anticipating tomorrow: Composer Medal and Eisteddfod Scholarship

Tomorrow’s events include the awarding of the Main Composer Medal and the Eisteddfod Scholarship. The Composer Medal competition, judged by Guto Pryderi Puw and Gareth Glyn, challenges participants to create original compositions in various formats. The scholarship will recognise the most promising competitors in the age group of Year 10 and under 19, providing support and encouragement for the next generation of Welsh talent.

The Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2024 is a testament to the enduring spirit of Welsh culture and the dynamic potential of its youth. From innovative festivals and health initiatives to international projects and prestigious awards, this year’s Eisteddfod is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and community. As the events unfold, they not only highlight the achievements of today but also lay the foundation for a vibrant cultural future.

Community

Pembrokeshire flies the flag for brilliant beaches

Published

4 hours ago

July 1, 2024

Luke Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE has once again underlined its status as home to some of the best beaches in Wales following another successful year of awards.

Seventeen Pembrokeshire beaches have picked up either Blue Flag or Green Coast Awards in the Wales Coast Awards 2024.

Proudly flying the Blue Flag in 2024 are: Tenby North, Tenby South, Tenby Castle, Newgale, Saundersfoot, Dale, Whitesands, Coppet Hall, Poppit Sands and Broad Haven (north).

The Blue Flag Award is recognised around the world as a symbol of quality.

A further seven county beaches also achieved Green Coast Awards.

The Green Coast Awards recognise the ‘hidden gems’ of the coastline which also have excellent quality of water but not the same level of infrastructure as traditional seaside resorts.

The Green Coast Awards went to Abereiddy, Freshwater East, Manorbier, Penally, Caerfai, Druidston and West Angle Bay.

Pembrokeshire County Council Leisure Services Manager, Gary Nicholas, said: “We are extremely pleased to have matched last year’s results with 17 of our fantastic beaches again being recognised in the Wales Coast Awards.

“This doesn’t happen by accident, it underlines the year-round efforts to maintain our beaches and keep the Pembrokeshire coastline a brilliant place to live and visit.”

Owen Derbyshire, Keep Wales Tidy Chief Executive said: “We’re delighted to see another successful year of Coast Awards here in Wales, with 49 stunning locations recognised among the world’s best.

“Achieving these prestigious awards means meeting rigorous standards put in place to ensure the safe enjoyment of visitors now and in years to come. This success is testament to the hard work of all involved in maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty of our Welsh coastline.”

Community

The Crymych Arms set to host Election Day special

Published

1 day ago

June 30, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Election Day, the Crymych Arms Community Pub is inviting voters to enjoy a special menu inspired by political figures. After casting your vote on Thursday, drop by for a Voter’s Meal and Drink. The pub, owned by the community, is offering a £10 voucher for the best names of political-themed meals submitted on their Facebook page by noon on Wednesday (Jul 3).

Some imaginative entries already include “Sunak Soup of the Day,” “Farage Fish & Chips,” “Starmer Steak Roll,” “Ap Iorwerth Apple Pie and Custard,” and “Davey Danish Pastry Selection.”

Don’t forget your Voter ID when you head to the polls, and join Crymych Arms for a post-election meal. There’s even talk of an exit poll karaoke!

The pub, which the community purchased in October 2023 after a two-year closure, reopened in December 2023, now stands as the village’s sole pub. Experience the refurbished venue and its lively atmosphere. For pre-bookings, call 01239 831435.

Community

Wales Balloon Festival faces challenges amidst mixed reviews

Published

1 day ago

June 30, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE WALES Balloon Festival at Carmarthen’s Nantyci Showground has faced a storm of criticism amid organisational challenges and weather-related disruptions. Running over three days, the event saw thousands flock to enjoy the spectacle, but many were met with frustration.

On Saturday (Jun 29), attendees reported gridlock, with some waiting over four hours to enter. Mark Matthews shared his ordeal: “Left Llanelli at 1:30 and finally got to the showground at 6:30. Missed all activities bar the balloons.” Similar issues were raised by others who found parking chaotic, with many unable to find spots despite prepaying.

Long queues to get into the Carmarthen Showground (Image: Richard Swingler)

Adding to the disappointment, the Night Glow show scheduled for Saturday was cancelled due to rain. Organisers apologised, emphasising that ballooning activities are weather-dependent. Jo Dean, however, expressed her frustration, noting, “It’s Wales. We get rain; this is not rain, it’s drizzle.”

Despite these setbacks, some attendees praised the vibrant atmosphere. Michelle Roberts described the day as “amazing,” with her children enjoying the tribute acts. GM Ev added, “We had a great time last night. Many people aren’t used to balloon events; they require specific conditions.”

High prices for food and rides also drew criticism. Nigel Owen commented on the lack of staff and inadequate health and safety measures, stating, “I don’t expect to help run your Park and Ride service.” Several attendees called for better planning and suggested alternative locations like Margam Park for future events.

As the festival enters its final day, there is hope for improved experiences. Attendees like Cara Thomas inquired about refunds, while others expressed optimism that logistical issues would be addressed in future editions.

The Wales Balloon Festival, despite its challenges, has provided memorable moments for many. Organisers face a crucial opportunity to learn from this year’s feedback, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable event in the future.