Welsh learner of the year has a real cosmopolitan feel

The Welsh Learner of the Year 2017 will be announced today. Here, Anna Lewis profiles the contenders...

WITH contestants including a German national and a man still living in England, the shortlist for the 2017 Welsh Learner of the Year has been announced.

The competition is one of the main events in the annual Eisteddfod being held in Angelsy, with the winner receiving £300 and a trophy for their dedication to learning Welsh.

Judged by actress Nia Roberts, author R Alun Charles and Jenny Pye, all four finalist will receive a handmade copper trophy created by students from Coleg Menai. courses and attending weekly Welsh classes, summer schools and day schools.

After developing an interest in Welsh culture and history, Hugh now studies archaeology through the medium of Welsh with Rhys, an archaeologist and former singer and bass guitarist of Welsh band Anhrefn.

Hugh said, “I’ve enjoyed my experiences learning Welsh and I intend to continue to study.” of Deiniolen where speaking Welsh plays an important part of daily life.

After enrolling in evening language classes in England before moving, Emma now speaks Welsh every day to students and staff in her job at Bangor University.

She is also part of a Welsh language action group where she helps years, Richard has used his language skills to grow in confidence.

Richard, who lives in Llangefni with wife Delyth, started learning Welsh to find work in the area.

Since then he has developed an interest in Welsh language and culture and its use.

Through the help of his wife, inlaws and classes at Bangor University, Richard now uses Welsh every day at work and at home.

He said: “Learning Welsh has made such a difference to my life.I now go to Welsh shows and gigs, and enjoy meeting new people in Welsh.”

Judged by actress Nia Roberts, author R Alun Charles and Jenny Pye, the four finalists will each receive a handmade copper trophy created by students from Coleg Menai. The winner who will be unveiled at 4pm at Maes D, also receives £300 and a trophy.