Llangollen Eisteddfod: Volunteers praised for dedication

To celebrate the 77th Eisteddfod in North Wales, hundreds of volunteers have selflessly given their time to the cause to ensure the event runs smoothly.

While most are from Denbighshire and Wrexham, many have travelled across Wales and the UK to attend.

Shea Ferron showing off his winner's medal to Ian Lebbon, Mel Wilkes and our Welcome Hosts. (Image: David Hennigan)

Due to the increased profile of the Eisteddfod, a number of people have volunteered for the first time.

Ysgol Dinas Bran provided Welcome Hosts, Ushers, Litter Pickers and Programme Sellers, and have run the very successful Craft Tent alongside 20 pupils from Morgan Llwyd - who were 100% bilingual.

The young volunteers were overseen by Ian Lebbon and MEl Wilkes alongside members of the festival's marketing committee. 

Ian, the Chairman of the Marketing Committee, said: "We would like to praise both schools - whose pupils were an absolute credit.   

"The festival is an excellent introduction to the world of volunteering and public service on a world stage.

"Our festival is a unique opportunity to participate in the organisation and production of a world class music and cultural event and gain experience of global cultures. 

"Many of our young people who start helping as Welcome Hosts or volunteering spend a lifetime helping our amazing peace festival."

The Welcome Host was set up by LIME Marketing Committee after 2012 Olympics to improve the Visitor Experience at the festival.

Some 400+ students have been through the process and have benefited from the experience gained.

Shea Ferron first got involved in the Eisteddfod as a Welcome Host in 2017.

This year, he won the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Voice of Musical Theatre on the Main Stage at the Llangollen Pavilion.

Shea headed straight to the Welcome Host tent when he won the competition.