Eisteddfod 'a welcome song' at Margam Park
A new welcome song, Cân y Croeso, was created for the 2025 Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr festival. Over 1,800 children helped Bronwen Lewis and Huw Chiswell make the song.
The children met at Margam Park, dressed in red, white, and green, to record the music video. The song was later chosen as BBC Radio Cymru’s Track of the Week and is now available to stream.
The festival wants more children to get involved, including those new to it. The young performers are excited to welcome visitors to West Glamorgan in May 2025.
Grants and funding
This project was funded £7,615 by the Heritage Culture and Tourism Grant Fund.
The grant supported:
- the creation of the welcome song
- the recording sessions
- the music video produced with Afanti Media
- community celebrations leading up to the Eisteddfod
Project features
Children took part in creative activities, including:
- singing with professional songwriters
- performing in a large music video
- learning about Welsh music and culture
- they joined parades, concerts, and jamborees funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
These activities gave children a chance to:
- express themselves
- build confidence
- feel part of a major cultural event
- celebrate their local heritage
Making a difference
Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts at the Urdd, said:
“The Eisteddfod lets us reach children who have never taken part before. We’re glad the local youngsters are excited to welcome everyone to West Glamorgan in 2025. We are grateful to the Local Executive Committee for securing these opportunities.”
Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism and Wellbeing, added:
“We look forward to welcoming this celebration of language and culture to Margam Park. We hope many children take part.”
The welcome events were funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund.
