The National Eisteddfod Council has heard that this year’s festival in Wrexham was one of the most successful in recent years.

Organisers confirmed that thousands of visitors flocked to the Maes in Is-y-Coed on the outskirts of Wrexham during August, with the event covering its costs. This year’s National Eisteddfod also welcomed more new Welsh speakers than ever before, with 17 per. cent of visitors saying that attending the festival or taking part in pre-event community activities helped them learn Welsh or inspired them to start learning the language.

Post-event research revealed that the number of first-time visitors has more than doubled since the 2016 Monmouthshire and District Eisteddfod – the last time the festival was held near the border. In addition, 93 per cent of visitors said they plan to return in the future.

The council’s meeting marked the final session chaired by Gethin Thomas, who received warm thanks for his dedication and service as council chair and vice president of the Eisteddfod Court. Vice-chair Heulwen Jones also completed her six-year term, and tributes were paid to both.

The meeting also confirmed that Siân Eirian will succeed Gethin Thomas as council chair, with Elfyn Llwyd appointed vice chair. Both will begin their three-year terms in January.