Keith Davies AM has met with the National Eisteddfod’s Chief Executive ahead of this summer’s festival. In August, Llanelli will play host to the National Eisteddfod, the first held in Carmarthenshire since 2000.
Between 2-9th August, Llanelli and its surrounding communities will showcase to Wales and further afield all that it has to offer. Held in the Millennium Costal Park’s festival fields, it will also incorporate Y Ffwrnes Theatre.
In the meeting with the Eisteddfod’s Chief Executive Elfed Roberts, Keith Davies AM was keen to discuss forward planning ahead of the week and events scheduled during it. Mr Davies raised the issue of publicity and promoting the festival within the town, and his hope that the Eisteddfod would have a lasting legacy in the area.
Fundraising efforts have been wide ranging, with local targets almost met and more efforts are underway to engage local businesses. A recent cross party Census Working Group in Carmarthenshire County Council recommended keeping local fundraising committees in place after the Eisteddfod to support related community activities in the future.
Keith Davies AM said:
“I warmly look forward to Llanelli hosting this year’s Eisteddfod. It is a great festival to celebrate the Welsh language and culture. I hope we can incorporate our unique local identity with events inside and outside the Maes to create a vibrant atmosphere.”
“It’san opportunity for Llanelli tourism and local businesses. Estimates indicate that we can expect 150,000 visitors during the week.”
“For me, preparation means ensuring we have suitable transport at convenient times, and that neighbouring communities and our town centre are accessible. If we can shape this to showcase what we have to offer, visitors will return again – perhaps to celebrate Kidwelly’s 900th birthday in 2015.”
“My meeting with the organisers was constructive. Publicity ahead of the event is crucial to show there is something for everyone. We must recognise there are lots of ways to do this. As well as Wales-wide advertising and online information, closer to the time we need a local publicity campaign to involve local people and enhance the atmosphere.”
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