In just over fifteen months, the eyes of Wales will be on the south Wales valleys and the Rhondda Cynon Taf National Eisteddfod. The preparations for the festival’s first visit to the area for almost 70 years have already begun, and organisers have released the chance to sponsor or donate their major prizes today.
For the first time, organisers are inviting expressions of interest from individuals, groups, and organisations to present the main awards, with a panel discussing and selecting the successful applications. According to the local Eisteddfod Executive Chair, Helen Prosser, organisers are keen to cast their nets as widely as possible.
"We’re aware that some individuals, groups and organisations have been disappointed in the past as they’ve missed out on the chance to present the Chair, the Crown or another significant medal or award.
“We believe in doing things slightly differently here in Rhondda Cynon Taf, so we’ve issued an open invitation for anyone to express an interest in presenting a major prize or award, and we’re looking forward to receiving lots of applications for these honours before the closing date on 18 May.
"We've had so much support from all over Wales. People are very keen to be part of the Eisteddfod here in the Valleys. So many people from all over Wales and beyond have a connection with someone or something in the area. We’re grateful to everyone everywhere for their friendship and desire to be part of our National Eisteddfod next year."
Cllr Rhys Lewis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language, added: “This is a once in a lifetime event for many people and we want all our communities to be part of the Rhondda Cynon Taf National Eisteddfod.
“This is a unique opportunity to get involved in sponsoring or donating one of the main prizes at the National Eisteddfod and play a part in helping our County Borough – and its communities – to keep making history.”
All the information on how to express an interest in sponsoring or donating one of the main prizes at the Rhondda Cynon Taf National Eisteddfod is available here, https://eisteddfod.wales/2024-main-prizes and the closing date is Thursday 18 May.
The Rhondda Cynon Taf National Eisteddfod is held from 3-10 August next year.
Posted on 10/05/2023