Council Leader hails success of Margam Country Park Urdd Eisteddfod

This year’s Eisteddfod yr Urdd at Margam Country Park attracted a record-breaking 119,593 registrations to compete. There was also a 42% increase in the number of Welsh learners taking part compared to last year,

In total, 17 schools from Neath Port Talbot were positioned either first, second or third during the finals week with many more taking part in the earlier qualifying rounds.

Cllr Hunt said: “These were remarkable results reflecting the talent and dedication of our young people. Along with others in the Gorllewin Morgannwg (West Glamorgan) region, Neath Port Talbot proudly secured 3rd place overall—a testament to the hard work of Neath Port Talbot’s pupils, teachers, and families.

“At a time of financial and employment stresses it has been uplifting to see our county borough in the national headlines for all the right reasons.

“This is a prime example of how major events can deliver benefits – and we are confident many of those first-time visitors who came to this hugely popular event will return in the future.

“It was also fantastic to see local businesses contributing directly. Both the Urdd Crown and Chair were created locally using steel from Tata. The Crown was crafted by Nicola Palterman and Laura Thomas of Jewel and Grace in Neath, while the Chair was designed and created by Angharad Pearce Jones from the Brynaman area.

“So the Urdd has truly put a positive spotlight on Neath Port Talbot and reminded us—and shown the rest of Wales—that this is a proud, vibrant, and resilient place.

“Let us build on the momentum the Urdd Eisteddfod has given us.”

#CllrStephenHunt #Margam #MargamCountryPark #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #Urdd #WelshLanguage

Smurf-tastic News! The Smurfs return to Welsh screens after 25 Years

For the first time in a quarter of a century, everyone’s favourite three-apples-high mischief-makers are returning to Welsh television screens, with S4C announcing the return of Y Smyrffs —this time with a fresh coat of paint, new voices, but the same iconic blue heart.

The little blue legends who’ve entertained children (and more than a few nostalgic grown-ups) for generations are smurfing their way back into our homes – this time speaking the language of the land of song.

Y Smyrffs, as they’re affectionately known in Welsh, will reintroduce familiar faces like Smyrffen (Smurfette), the wise Tada Smyrff (Papa Smurf), and the not-so-lovely villain Craca Hyll (Gargamel), all with brand-new Welsh voices to bring their magical world to life.

Visitors to the Urdd Eisteddfod Dur a Môr, were treated to an exclusive preview of the first two episodes – Trwyn a Hanner (Who Nose?) and Y Robot Magu (Diaper Daddy) delighting viewers, young and old.

Born from the brilliant pen of Belgian cartoonist Peyo in 1958, The Smurfs have been a global phenomenon for over six decades—scampering through comic books, animated series, blockbuster films, and childhood memories worldwide. Now, S4C say they’re ready to charm a whole new generation of Welsh-speaking fans.

“The Smurfs have always been about togetherness, community, and a splash of silliness,” said Sioned Geraint, S4C’s Content Commissioner – Children and Learners. “We’re thrilled to bring these timeless characters back in Welsh, and we know that both kids and nostalgic parents will fall in love with Y Smyrffs all over again.”

The return ties in with the globally popular 2021 animated reboot currently airing on Nickelodeon and streaming on platforms like Netflix. And with the buzz surrounding the recently announced Smurfs movie—starring none other than Rihanna as Smurfette, and smurfing into cinemas in July 2025—Smurfmania is officially back in style.

Expect to see all the familiar blue faces: Peniog (Brainy Smurf, likely still annoying everyone with his “I told you so!”), Chwithig (Clumsy) tripping over himself into trouble, Horwth (Hefty) flexing his muscles at every opportunity, and of course, Tada Smyrff guiding the village with wisdom, patience, and the occasional magic potion. “All you need is a little imagination… and a lot of smurfiness!” Tada Smyrff might say—and he’d be right.

Fans of the original Welsh dub will be delighted to hear that many of the classic character names remain intact, offering a comforting dose of nostalgia. Smyrffen still sparkles with her trademark charm and curiosity, while Craca Hyll, with his cat Archalen in tow, continues his never-ending (and always failing) mission to catch a Smyrff.

Véronique Culliford, President of the Peyo Company and the daughter of Pierre Culliford (aka Peyo), creator of the Smurfs said : “I am very proud of this upcoming launch on S4C. The local languages approach has always been central for us and this new release in Welsh-language will be the 50th language release for our TV series! Kids and parents along can already expect a lot of fun watching Y Smyrffs on S4C. Mae’r Smyrffs yn ôl!”

Whether you were glued to the TV with a bowl of cereal in the ’80s or you’re introducing Y Smyrffs to your own children for the first time, there’s something undeniably timeless about these pint-sized pranksters.

Each Smurf might look similar, but they each bring something special to the table—team spirit, loyalty, humour, and heart. And in today’s world, that kind of smurfy magic is more welcome than ever.

So, grab your popcorn (or paned o de), switch on S4C, and get ready to say “Shwmae!” to Y Smyrffs. Because whether you’re young, or just young at Smurf, there’s always room for a little more blue in your day.

#S4C #Smurfs #tv #WelshLanguage #YSmyrffs

Record-breaking numbers to compete at next week’s Urdd

Following the final rounds of the Urdd’s Composing and Creating Competitions (homework), the organisation is proud to announce a record-breaking 119,593 registrations to compete in this year’s festival, which also includes a significant rise (of 42%) in the number of young Welsh learners compared to last year.

Organisers have also confirmed details for the shuttle bus service running between Port Talbot (Parkway) train station to the Eisteddfod Maes throughout the week. The service is free to the public, running between 06:30 and 21:56 or 23:26 (depending on which day).

Thanks to a £200,000 support package from the Welsh Government, lower income families can access the Maes for free once again this year.

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “Eisteddfod yr Urdd is for all. Seeing more young people and more Welsh learners than ever choosing to take part this year proves that the Eisteddfod is meeting the needs and the interests of the young people of Wales, providing them with valuable opportunities to experience activities and opportunities to build their self-confidence through the medium of Welsh. A huge thank you in advance to the hundreds of volunteers helping us at the festival next week.”

As well as competitors, local talent and celebrities be visiting the Eisteddfod, including the festival’s President Jeremy Miles MS, and five Presidents of the Day: actor Steffan Rhodri, famous for his role as ‘Dave Coaches’ in Gavin and Stacey, presenters and sports stars Lowri Morgan and Sarra Elgan, entrepreneur Emyr Afan from Afanti and singer and TikTok star Bronwen Lewis, who also performed the Eisteddfod’s Welcome Song alongside Huw Chiswell.

Triban Festival continues on the maes over the weekend (30-31 May). Friday night will be a tribute to Welsh musician and performer Dewi Pws, with artists including Mei Gwynedd and band, Dadleoli, Taran, local schools and more. Saturday will be an evening with Huw Chiswell, Bronwen Lewis, Aleighcia Scott and other popular artists. 

The Urdd and the local Council say they acknowledge the incredible work and dedication of local residents who have worked tirelessly over the past three years to raise money for the event.

Neath Port Talbot Councillor and Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing said: “As we eagerly anticipate the National Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025, I am delighted to welcome this prestigious event to our beautiful county. The record-breaking number of registrations and the increase in young Welsh learners highlight the festival’s growing impact and importance. We are proud to host such a vibrant celebration of Welsh culture and arts at Margam Country Park. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in organising this event and look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to experience the best of Neath Port Talbot.”

Live broadcasts on S4C and BBC Radio Cymru

For those unable to attend this year, S4C will be broadcasting the competitions from the Red, White and Green pavilions from 8.00am every day and they will be streamed on Clic.

For the first time, it will also be possible to look back on the streams and re-watch competitions, by watching Clic on desktop devices. The streams will be available for a period of 3 days after the competitions have taken place and it will be possible to ‘spool’ the stream by watching on a computer or laptop. This will be available from the ‘Our picks’ section at the top of the Clic home page.

S4C’s live daily programmes will be hosted by Trystan Ellis Morris and Heledd Cynwal between 10.30am and 6.30pm and a highlights programme will air every night at 8.00pm. These programmes will be available on demand on Clic and BBC iPlayer with English subtitles.

BBC Radio Cymru and the Ifan Evans programme will be broadcasting daily live radio shows on the Maes between 2pm and 5pm, with Jac Northfield joining in. All winners will also be featured across the station and BBC Cymru Fyw will share the latest daily news and stories online.

The main daily ceremonies will take place in the white pavilion at 2pm: Monday, Chief Artist and Art Medal; Tuesday, the Drama Medal; Wednesday, Welsh Learners Medal and the Bobi Jones Medal; Thursday, the Chairing; Friday, the Crowning; Saturday, Main Composer Medal.

#Eisteddfod #MargamCountryPark #NeathPortTalbot #PortTalbot #Urdd #WelshLanguage

Morriston couple win Urdd award for dedication to promoting Welsh language and culture

David Gwyn and Pamela John from Morriston have been announced as the winners of the John and Ceridwen Hughes, Uwchaled Award at Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr Parc Margam a’r Fro 2025.

Known as pillars of the local community, the married couple have dedicated themselves tirelessly over the decades to promoting the Welsh language and culture among the children and young people of the area. The John and Ceridwen Hughes, Uwchaled Award recognises outstanding volunteers who have made a significant contribution to the life of young people in Wales. Considering David and Pamela’s contribution, it comes as no surprise that they are this year’s winners.

In the early 1960s, they established ‘Aelwyd yr Urdd Treforys’ in the vestry of the Tabernacle Chapel in Morriston. For the first time, it gave young people in the area an opportunity to socialise through the Welsh language. It was a place full of buzz and enthusiasm, and under David and Pamela’s leadership, the ‘aelwyd’ competed regularly at Eisteddfod yr Urdd, at the National Eisteddfod and at the Cerdd Dant Festival. It also hosted many a Noson Lawen (light entertainment concerts) throughout south Wales.

Presenter Heledd Cynwal had the honour of announcing the news at Tabernacle Chapel, Morriston, yesterday.

Helping local young people to “discover their Welshness”

Among more than 100 members of ‘Aelwyd yr Urdd Treforys’ that would meet every Friday evening were musician and composer, Geraint Davies (from the folk group, Mynediad am Ddim), and the late singer and actor, Dewi Pws. The latter once stated in an interview that he “discovered his Welshness” at the age of fifteen at the Urdd Aelwyd in the Morriston chapel.

Musician Geraint Davies (and composer of ‘Hei Mistar Urdd’) said: “I was fifteen when I joined Aelwyd Treforys in 1968 and without doubt it changed my life. David Gwyn and Pam John had been at the helm for some time and would be for many years afterwards. Remarkably, with some unruly individuals, they managed to establish choirs, folk dance groups and Noson Lawen performers that were among the finest in Wales.

“There was an open door for Welsh speakers and non-Welsh speakers alike at a time when secondary education in Swansea was all in English. This was the antidote – being immersed in the Welsh language every Friday night and sometimes on Saturday as well. The big bonus was that David had a bus driving licence, so it enabled us to travel regularly to other aelwydydd, to national events, and as far away as Scotland in 1970. It broadened our horizons. I found a life partner in that aelwyd too, and I’m one of many who did so.

“They’re still active years later – running the activities of ‘Cymdeithas Gymraeg Treforys’ (Morriston’s Welsh Society). Thank you and congratulations David and Pam!”

Before retiring, both worked in education and loved supporting and promoting the young people of the area. David was Headteacher at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Lôn Las and Pamela was a teacher there. Both have also been active on various local committees and on Eisteddfod sub-committees and have fundraised locally. They celebrated their Diamond Wedding last summer.

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, said: “These are two well-loved and popular individuals who have contributed so much to the Welshness of the area where this year’s Eisteddfod is held. They are fully deserving of the John and Ceridwen Hughes, Uwchaled Award 2025. We need volunteers and people like David and Pamela in our local areas: people who are willing to dedicate their precious time to support young people. Their contribution is invaluable and we’re grateful for their tireless work over the decades.”

David and Pamela will be honoured in a special ceremony at Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr 2025. The John and Ceridwen Hughes, Uwchaled Award is given by Dewi and Gerallt Hughes, in memory of their parents, John and Ceridwen Hughes, who were very active in youth work.

#Morriston #Urdd #WelshLanguage

Local volunteers to be honoured at Eisteddfod yr Urdd after decades of work for the youth organisation

Each year, individuals who have made a special contribution to Wales’ largest youth organisation are honoured by the Urdd. This year, attention turns to West Glamorgan, and four volunteers will be named Honorary Presidents of Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025 in a special ceremony on the Maes (the festival ground).

The four Honorary Presidents of Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr 2025 are Davida Lewis, Janet Jones, Menna Bennett Joynson and Wayne Pedrick.

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “The four who are being honoured this year have given over 160 years of support to the movement. Volunteers play a vital role in the work and reach of the Urdd, and we’re delighted to recognise the dedication of these particular four volunteers at a special ceremony at the Eisteddfod on Monday, 26 May.”

Davida Lewis

Brought up in Swansea, Davida Lewis has spent her life in the Eisteddfod’s local area. She established two local choirs: ‘Côr Plant Waunarlwydd’ in 1965 and ‘Côr Waunarlwydd’ in 1970. The choirs have had considerable success locally and internationally for 60 years. The choirs still exist, and even though Davida has transferred the reigns to a new conductor, she still enjoys participating as a member. Being awarded the title of Honorary President at the Eisteddfod in her own area will be a crowning achievement, after her wealth of experiences and successes in Eisteddfodau over the decades.

Janet Jones

Brought up in Loughor, Janet has lived in Neath for over 40 years. Music is in her blood and over the years she has competed regularly on stages, winning several major prizes at Eisteddfod yr Urdd and at the National Eisteddfod.

Janet is the conductor of ‘Parti Llwchwr’. She has shared her musical talents by teaching children to sing and perform at Eisteddfodau and numerous events over the years. She established ‘Adran Nedd’ in 1993 to offer cultural and Welsh experiences to the youth of the area. Following the success of the group, she established ‘Uwch Adran Nedd’ to continue to provide experiences to older children.

She has also been an active member of the Neath and Afan Local Committee, as well as Chair of the Regional Committee. Janet is one of the Vice-Chairs of the Executive Committee for this year’s Eisteddfod yr Urdd.

Menna Bennett Joynson

Menna was born in Llanidloes before her family moved to Llanuwchllyn and then to Aberystwyth. She grew up in a musical and cultured household and was familiar with singing and participating in Eisteddfodau from an early age. At Eisteddfod yr Urdd, she has had considerable success in the field of ‘cerdd dant’, while she also coached pupils to sing and compete in her role as a music teacher at Ysgol Rhydfelen.

In 1976 she moved to Swansea with her husband and raised three children locally. Menna established ‘Adran Sgeti’ in 1978 which later developed into ‘Aelwyd yr Urdd Sgeti’. Over the years, they went on to have considerable success at Eisteddfod yr Urdd. Menna was appointed music teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr and a peripatetic harp teacher in the area. She talks of her gratitude to the Urdd, adding that all the experiences she and her pupils have had have greatly enriched her life.

Wayne Pedrick

Wayne’s first experience of Eisteddfod yr Urdd was through his children, Lisa and Aled, when they were pupils at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Gwaun Cae Gurwen and Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera. Both loved to compete, with Aled winning the 2003 Bryn Terfel Scholarship at the Tawe, Neath and Afan Eisteddfod.

Wayne worked at the local coal plant, and in 1998 he got a job as a peripatetic brass teacher. In that role, he encouraged and supported his pupils to compete at Eisteddfod yr Urdd, both as soloists and as an ensemble.

He was appointed Head of the Peripatetic Music Service in Neath Port Talbot in 2016 and helps run three youth and junior orchestras, three youth and junior brass bands and a Youth Choir and Big Band. Wayne also regularly adjudicates instrumental competitions at regional and national Eisteddfodau.

Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr will be held at Margam Park between 26 and 31 May. Tickets for Eisteddfod yr Urdd, including for the Triban Festival which will be held on the festival ground, are available at www.urdd.cymru/en/eisteddfod/ 

#choir #Eisteddfod #Loughor #Margam #Music #Neath #Urdd #Waunarlwydd #WelshLanguage

Good drama; enjoyed, solid 8/10⭐ on IMDB from me.

But I'm puzzled.

You could just do "a production in Welsh."

Or you could portray a Welsh speaking community in the drama, complete with code switching when appropriate.

But this is definitely set in Newport, not a Welsh speaking city. Plus there seems less use of English than would be realistic.

So is something being conveyed by that choice that I'm missing?

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt33981048/

#film #TV #Welsh #drama #WelshLanguage

The Hobbit takes a Welsh twist at Morriston Library

Adam Pearce will be talking about how he translated JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit into Welsh for the first time at two events – one in Welsh, the other in English at 1pm and 2pm, respectively.

Translated as Yr Hobyd, The Hobbit tells of the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Middle Earth, dragons, treasure and a ring of gold and Adam Pearce brings it all to life through the medium of Welsh.

To go along to the event on Saturday, you must book free tickets by calling 01792 516770 or by emailing Morriston.library@swansea.gov.uk

Elliott King, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Equalities, said: “Any fan of a book that was already legendary before the amazing films brought it to an even wider audience, will want to find out more about how Adam translated The Hobbit into Welsh.

“The Hobbit has already been translated into many languages, from Dutch and Latin to Esperanto and Faroese, but never into Welsh. So to have Adam at one of our libraries discussing how and why he did it, is quite a coup.”

Adam has previously translated H.G. Wells into Welsh and works by T. Gwynn Jones and Daniel Owen from Welsh into English.

His translation of The Hobbit has been prepared in accordance with J.R.R. Tolkien’s own instructions for translators of his work and officially licenced by the Tolkien Estate.

Included are J.R.R. Tolkien’s original illustrations and new Welsh versions of the two maps featured in the original novel.

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

Read more Swansea news.

#books #Morriston #MorristonLibrary #SwanseaCouncil #WelshLanguage

Unix tip of the day:

Remember that the command is "rot14½" if your locale is set to the #WelshLanguage.

#Unix

@jaz

Isn't it ROT-29 in Welsh, though? (-:

#WelshLanguage #infosec

Lower income families offered free entry to Eisteddfod yr Urdd at Margam Park

The offer comes thanks to £200,000 financial support by the Welsh Government.

Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “On behalf of the Urdd I would like to thank the Welsh Government for their financial support and enabling us to offer an Eisteddfod for All in Margam Park. The cost-of-living crisis is putting such a strain on families, and we want to ensure that a family’s financial situation doesn’t mean children having to miss out on experiences with the Urdd.”

The Cabinet Secretary for Welsh Language, Mark Drakeford said: “The Urdd Eisteddfod is one of the cultural highlights of our Welsh calendar and a fantastic way for families to use, hear and experience the language. Cymraeg belongs to us all and this funding ensures financial barriers won’t stop families from enjoying the Urdd Eisteddfod. We’re proud to support the Urdd and help more people connect with Cymraeg through this important event.”

The Urdd as an organisation has committed to offer free entry to Local and Regional Eisteddfodau to families or individuals who are eligible for free school meal vouchers, the school uniform grant or the Educational Maintenance grant scheme.

Leading up to the Eisteddfod, the Urdd say they will also be working with Neath Port Talbot Council, the Welsh Local Government Association and local organisations who support lower-income families to make sure that those who could benefit are aware of the low-income tickets.

Entry tickets to the festival go on sale 19 March and early bird tickets will be available until 1 May.

Eisteddfod yr Urdd is one of Europe’s largest youth touring festivals, and thousands are expected to compete at the final stages of the festival in Margam Park between 26 and 31 May 2025. 

(Lead image: Urdd)

#Eisteddfod #MargamCountryPark #NeathPortTalbot #Urdd #WelshLanguage #youngPeople

Valentine's Day words in Welsh! 😍 #welsh #cymraeg #ValentinesDay #learnwelsh #dysgucymraeg #welshlanguage

Swimming in Welsh! 🏊 #welsh #welshlanguage #learnwelsh #dysgucymraeg #cymraeg

Directions in Welsh! 🧭 #cymraeg #welsh #welshlanguage #learnwelsh #dysgucymraeg

Hei, Dysgwyr Cymraeg!
Hey Welsh Learners!

Let's give a big TŵtCymru croeso (and lots of follows) to @welearnwelsh who have just joined here.

🥳 :wales_flag: :draig: :daff: :leek:

#welsh #cymraeg #WelshLanguage #LearnWelsh #DysguCymraeg

Basic verbs in Welsh! 😀 #welsh #cymraeg #welshlanguage #learnwelsh #dysgucymraeg

Mind Ffion talks about our Welsh Language campaign on TV | Mind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQV45sYSBL0&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=mastodon Mental Health #WelshLanguage #LanguageCampaign #Ffion #TVInterview #YouTubeContent

Pagan Community Notes for week of Jan 16, 2025:

A new conference is coming to Portland, Oregon; Imbolc preparations at Circle Sanctuary; ATC’s Dusty Dionne becomes chairman of the local parks board; concerns about representations of the Welsh language and culture; and more news.

https://wildhunt.org/2025/01/pagan-community-notes-week-of-january-16-2025.html

#pagan #witchcraft #imbolc #welshlanguage #welshculture #religiousfreedomday #spiritnorthwest

Mind Ffion talks about our Welsh Language campaign on TV | Mind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQV45sYSBL0&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=mastodon Mental Health #WelshLanguage #LanguageCampaign #Culture #Mind #MentalHealthAwareness

Mind Ffion talks about our Welsh Language campaign on TV | Mind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQV45sYSBL0&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=mastodon Mental Health #WelshLanguage #LanguageCampaign #Ffion #TVTalk #CulturalAwareness

Anyone else watching Cleddau? It’s another one of those dark Welsh dramas that S4C does so well. It’s on the iPlayer & I highly recommend it (if you’re OK with subtitles)

#S4C #Cleddau #Welsh #WelshLanguage #Cymru #Cymraeg