Strong competition from far and wide
AGE was no barrier as the Anglesey and Gwynedd Older People’s Eisteddfod was held at Llangefni Town Hall.
The Eisteddfod was held on Friday, Septmbber 29, as part of Age Cymru Gwynedd a Môn’s activities on Anglesey to celebrate ‘Age Positive Week’.
Organiser Helen Ellis, said: “The standard of entries was exceptional again this, the ninth, year, with new people coming forward year on year.
“This year we received entries from as far afield as Dover and Gillingham in Kent.
“But the art and craft spotlight was on Ann Jones from Llangefni, who won eight firsts, two seconds and three thirds, thus securing the champion’s cup again for the second year running.
The winner of the Bard’s chair was amateur writer Stephen Marsden, from Llanddona.
Originally from Manchester, Stephen produced media for companies and organisations before retiring to Llanddona with his wife Meg (also a poet) three years ago.
They are both members of the ‘Just Write’ writing group, which meets fortnightly in Llangefni.
Stephen has also been keenly learning Welsh for two years, again in Llangefni, and is chairman of Beaumaris Film Night, run by a team of volunteers on the first Thursday of each month in the leisure centre.
“I started entering the Eisteddfod last year, and I love its range and the stimulation of the subjects,” he said.
“I’m absolutely thrilled and so proud to have won, just as I’ve had so much pleasure and fulfilment working through its challenges.
“Retiring can give such great opportunities to do more of what you enjoy, which locally includes being members of Llanddona Community Choir and the monthly book group.”
But like any other Eisteddfod this one also relies on the contribution of the team of volunteers that give their time freely to ensure that every competitor receives the best possible opportunity to demonstrate their skills, as a competitor or as a judge.
Helen added “The volunteers were very busy throughout the two days, preparing for the competition and looking after everyone throughout the day. Our gratitude and thanks to them all”.
The Eisteddfod is open to everyone over the age of 50 wherever you live, and people can compete in Welsh or English.
Helen, who is retiring as the Eisteddfod organiser, concluded: “It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to serve the Eisteddfod, from its humble beginnings nine years ago, to the extremely successful event it is today, and I look forward to competing in future years”.
For enquiries regarding the 2018 Eisteddfod, please contact Age Cymru Gwynedd a Môn on 01286 677711.