A 100-year-old man’s dedication to Llanwrtyd Eisteddfod has been recognised with a new award.

Austin Gwesyn-Pryce, who lives in Llanidloes, was an active committee member for many years when he lived in the area.

In recognition of his “avid” support, a trophy was awarded in his name to the most outstanding Welsh-medium competitor.

Mr Gwesyn-Pryce, who was president of the morning session, was unable to attend the Eisteddfod on Saturday, September 28, however his daughter Gail Gwesyn-Pryce awarded the trophy to Aberystwyth teenager Ioan Joshua Mabbutt.

Organisers praised the “high standard” of competition at Victoria Hall during the 69th cultural celebration.

County Times:

The chairing ceremony, one of the Eisteddfod’s most prestigious prizes, was won by Hedd Bleddyn, of Penegoes, Machynlleth, for his poem ‘Y Llyn – The Lake’.

Llangammarch Wells competitor Simon Lilly came second in the competition which was judged by the Prifardd Gwenallt Llwyd Ifan, from Talybont, near Aberystwyth.

Television director, Judith Dine, who was raised in Beulah, was the evening president.

Susan Price, secretary, said: “She gave an inspiring and heartfelt speech about growing up in Beulah and competing at Llanwrtyd Eisteddfod as a youngster.

“She also reminisced about her late mother, Carol Raisin’s, love of competing at local eisteddfodau.”

Iona Jones, of Llandaff, Cardiff, was the music adjudicator and Caroline Holley, from Llanwrtyd, adjudicated the art competitions. Beulah’s Hilary Cox was the accompanist for the morning session and Gareth Wyn Thomas, Capel Hendre, for the afternoon and evening sessions. Conductors throughout the day were Gill Lloyd, Michelle Davies, Elfed Jones and Steve Mason. Stewards were Annabelle Thomas, Iwan Price, Wynne Price, John Davies and Anwen Price. A mid-day lunch for the adjudicators was provided by Edna James and family and refreshments in the hall were provided by Delyth Jones and Mary Williams.

Both morning and afternoon sessions were “very generously” sponsored by Charcroft Electronics, Dol y Coed, Llanwrtyd.

Organisers thank everyone who competed and supported the event including the adjudicators, conductors, stewards and refreshment providers.

“We look forward to hosting the 70th Eisteddfod,” they said.

Eisteddfod Llanwrtyd will next be held on Saturday, September 26, 2020.