Urdd Eisteddfod competitions get under way in Denbigh

All of the action begins at 9am this morning, with the year two and under solo in the Coch pavilion.

Over in the Gwyn pavilion, it's the year six and under folk dancing competition at 9am.

At the same time, in the Gwyrdd pavilion, it is the learners' year six and below dialogue (ymgom) competition.

All of these kick-off a busy week on the Maes.

Denbighshire County Council is gearing up to welcome visitors from across Wales and beyond to the county as final preparations are made ahead of Eisteddfod yr Urdd.

The festival, an important event in the cultural calendar for children and young people puts the spotlight on celebrating Wales’ culture, heritage and tradition.

It is also a great opportunity to showcase the county, its attractions and scenery to the thousands of people attending the Eisteddfod for the day or for a short break.

Leader of Denbighshire, Cllr Jason McLellan, said: “As a council we’ve been working closely with the Urdd to make the event a tremendous success, especially given that the Urdd is celebrating its centenary year.

Cllr Jason McLellan (Image: Submitted)

“This is a great opportunity to welcome people to our beautiful county, with its historic towns and villages, delightful countryside and scenic coastline.

"Many Eisteddfod visitors will be staying locally in accommodation right across the county and the wider North East Wales region.

“The Eisteddfod itself is being hosted on the outskirts of Denbigh against a backdrop of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

"We hope that many people visiting the Eisteddfod will take the opportunity to visit our towns and villages and sample for themselves the wide range of services, businesses, places to visit and attractions on offer.

“Our hope is that people will be delighted by the warm welcome in Denbighshire and will be encouraged to visit our picturesque county again in the future.”

Lower Denbigh county councillors Rhys Thomas and Mark Young are also looking forward to the Eisteddfod.

READ MORE: Bryn honoured with day president role

Cllr Thomas said: "The Vale of Clwyd is decked out in red, white and green and we are ready to finally welcome the Urdd Eisteddfod to Denbigh.

"This is going to be a fantastic week of competition and also a celebration of the centenary of this massive youth movement.

"This will draw thousands of competitors, their families and visitors to the area and we are all ready to give them a warm welcome."

Cllr Young added: "Urdd is crucial to maintaining our cultural and national identity. I can’t think of anywhere in Wales better to celebrate its 100th year than Dinbych with its historical connections and passion for performing arts!

"It’s especially significant this year because of the impact  on the youth from the pandemic.

"This event allows them to come together to socialise, share their talents and enjoy all that the Urdd offers young people."