‘AN HONOUR AND A HALF’

Comedian Owen stunned as he’s recognised alongside rugby stars by the Gorsedd

APAIR of rugby stars, a top comedian and a former royal harpist are among those who will be honoured by the Gorsedd of Bards at the National Eisteddfod this summer.

A singing double act, a businessman and a former National Eisteddfod boss will also be honoured, along with several people whose roots are outside Wales but who have learned the language.

Gorsedd of Bards Recorder Christine James said they are honoured “for the way in which they have embraced and cherished the Welsh language and for their role in enriching our culture”.

She added: “These honours, presented annually, are an opportunity to recognise individuals from all parts of the country for their achievements and their commitment to Wales, the Welsh language and to their local communities across the whole of Wales.

“In line with the Gorsedd of Bards’ arrangements, all new members are admitted at the same level, irrespective of whether they are honoured with blue or green robes.”

Jonathan Davies and Ken Owens became national heroes as part of the Grand Slam-winning team at this year’s Six Nations Championship.

Both play for Llanelli Scarlets and Wales, and have also represented the British Lions.

On the field, they inspire their team-mates with uncompromising tackles and determined charges with the ball.

Anglesey-born comedian Tudur Owen has earned a reputation across the UK, making an impression at influential comedy festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe.

Responding to news of the honour, he said: “Who’d have thought? It’s an honour and a half.”

Ceredigion-born harpist Catrin Finch has performed at venues across the world, and was the official harpist to the Prince of Wales from 2000 to 2004.

She has recorded works by composers from every period, as well as forming a musical partnership with Senegalese musician Seckou Keita.

The music of John Jones and Alun Roberts – better known as John ac Alun – has attracted thousands of followers and they have supported many local and national charities.

Elfed Roberts retired from his role as chief executive of the National Eisteddfod in 2018 after 25 years in charge, and will be honoured for his contribution.

Gari Wyn Jones from Bangor trained as a teacher, but in 1990 he set up his own car sales business, Ceir Cymru.

He now encourages others to venture into business and is a young entrepreneur consultant for Menter a Busnes, visiting schools and colleges to offer advice.

Pierino Algieri is the son of an Italian prisoner of war brought up in the Conwy Valley, and learnt Welsh 40 years ago.

He has made his mark landscape photographer.

Others honoured this

include Berno Brosschott, who came to Pwllheli from the Netherlands 30 years ago, and Helena Miguelez-Carballeira, who is originally from Galicia and now lectures in Spanish Studies at Bangor University.

Surgeon Phillip Moore set about learning Welsh in order to help others.

Originally from Barbados, he started work at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor and immediately began learning Welsh as he realised patients would be happier discussing their symptoms and problems in their mother tongue.

Daniela Schlick, from Menai Bridge, was a finalist at the Welsh Learner of the Year competition in 2017, just two years after she moved from Germany.

Glyn Roberts, from Pentrefoelas, has been president of the Farmers’ Union of Wales for four years.

Although not from a farming background, he began his career as a shepherd after studying at Glynllifon College of Agriculture.

Bethan Kilfoil is news editor at RTE but is originally from

Mold.

She formerly presented BBC news programmes in Wales and then in Brussels as Europe reporter.

Among community leaders honoured by the Gorsedd are Gwenda Roberts, of Sarn near Pwllheli, who has been clerk of Botwnnog Community Council and secretary of the Llyn Sheep Society for 35 years.

Vivian Parry Williams is being honoured for his contribution to Blaenau Ffestiniog’s cultural and social life, and is an expert on the history of Ffestiniog and Nant

Conwy.

Robin Jones, from Penrhyndeudraeth, has been volunteering annually at the National Eisteddfod for 30 years.

He is also a well-known compere at Eisteddfod Stesion in Trawsfynydd, the area where he grew up.

Two teachers from Ysgol y Creuddyn in Penrhyn Bay are also among those to be honoured. Elin Angharad Davies is head of music and is a joint coach of this year’s Eisteddfod Choir. Gareth Evans is head of maths at the school, but his work has helped pupils studying mathematics across the whole of Wales.

The National Eisteddfod will be staged in Conwy county from August 3 to 10. The Gorsedd ceremonies will be held on Monday, August 6 and Friday, August 10.