A woman who has inspired generations of young people in her community will receive the SIr TH Parry-Williams Memorial Medal at this year’s National Eisteddfod in Wrecsam
The Medal is awarded annually to an individual who has made a genuine contribution to their local area, with a particular emphasis on work with young people.
Eilyr Thomas, of Llandissilio, Pembrokeshire, spent most of her working life as a teacher and headteacher in primary schools in the Maenclochog and Mynachlog-ddu area. Beyond her influential career in education, she has been active in the worlds of music and singing from a very young age.
She achieved great success on both local and national eisteddfod stages, particularly as a soloist and as a member of choirs and parties, and her contributions to the musical and cultural life of the community have been significant, and she remains an active and inspirational figure in everything she does.
She learned a few weeks ago that she would be honoured with the Syr TH Parry-Williams Memorial Medal at this year’s Eisteddfod.
She said, "When I found out, I was completely speechless – I couldn’t find any words at all. I’m not someone who wins competitions or anything like that, but this – I just couldn’t believe it. Of course, it’s an honour, and I’m very proud to accept it, although I’m also very nervous."
Thanks to Eilyr Thomas’s expertise and dedication, many young people have flourished – not only developing their vocal abilities but also growing into confident performers.
Many have gone on to achieve great success, including Jessica Robinson, who competed in the Canwr y Byd (Singer of the World) competition, as well as Trystan Llŷr Griffiths, Sioned Llewelyn, Esyllt Thomas, and Ffion Thomas – to name just a few.
Beyond individual coaching, Eilyr Thomas has also conducted choirs and vocal ensembles, creating unforgettable experiences for local children and young people. Her unwavering commitment has left a lasting impact, shaping the next generation of performers and nurturing a lifelong love of music in those she mentors.
Her musical expertise is widely recognised, and she is regularly invited to adjudicate at local, county and national eisteddfodau.
"The family was musical, and I suppose I showed some desire to sing, even though I was incredibly shy. Every time someone came to the house and asked me to sing, I’d hide behind the curtains – I could never face them," she said.
Eilyr Thomas’s voluntary contributions to the community extend far beyond her work with young people.
She led Cantorion Cleddau during the 1960s and is a dedicated member of Nebo Chapel, Efailwen, where she serves as secretary and Sunday School teacher.
She also volunteers at the Llandissilio Pensioners’ Club, helping to prepare meals, transport members to the hall, and organise fundraising activities for local charities.
She was honoured with the White Robe of the Gorsedd of Bards for her work in promoting the culture of her area, and is a former member of the Eisteddfod Central Council.
Sir TH Parry-Williams was a passionate supporter of the National Eisteddfod, and in August 1975, following his death a few months earlier, a fund was established to commemorate his valuable contribution to the Eisteddfod’s activities. The fund is administered by the Sir Thomas Parry-Williams Trust.
Eilyr Thomas will receive the Sir TH Parry-Williams Memorial Medal on the Pavilion stage at 12:30 on Tuesday, 5 August.
The National Eisteddfod Wrecsam will be held in Is-y-Coed from 2–9 August.
For more information, visit: https://eisteddfod.cymru
