This weekend sees local people across Rhondda Cynon Taf decorating the area ahead of the Eisteddfod’s visit to Pontypridd this August
The county will be filled with colourful and bright decorations welcoming visitors to the Eisteddfod, held in Rhondda Cynon Taf for the first time since 1956.
Local children in the area have already started decorating, taking part in the festival’s art competition.
Working with the local council, the Eisteddfod sent a copy of a resource pack to all primary schools in the area. The pack included useful information about the festival, with the Eisteddfod’s very own Monopoly game, a fun and interactive way of engaging with the children about Welsh culture.
The children created Eisteddfod-themed artwork, and the winning entries are on display at Pontypridd Library until 11 August, on show for the thousands of visitors who’ll be arriving at the Maes during the week.
Three winners from each area were chosen. The Cynon area winner was Thomas Kew from Ysgol Gynradd Abercynon, the Rhondda first prize went to Stevie Jo from Trealaw Primary and a class project by Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Llantrisant came top in Taf.
Second and third prizes were awarded to Edgar Ap Hywel and Hatice Cakmak from Aberdare Park Primary, Kesha Bigwood and Kornelia Baranska from Trealaw Primary, and Ffion Evans from Ysgol Gynradd Pont Siôn Norton and Mali Jones Ysgol Gynradd Castellau.
Chair of the Eisteddfod’s local executive committee, Helen Prosser, said, “It’s been great to see our local communities coming together to decorate the area. You can sense the excitement with everyone looking forward to welcoming the festival in just under a month.
“A special thank you to the schools for taking part in our competition. We’ve been delighted to see so many schools getting involved. Don’t miss the opportunity to see their work in all its glory’’
The winning schools have received a banner to display outside the building.
The Rhondda Cynon Taf National Eisteddfod is held from 3-10 August in Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd. For travel information, tickets and activities, go to www.eisteddfod.wales.