With Pembrokeshire welcoming the Garreg Las Eisteddfod in 2026 - a brand-new, energetic version of the classic Hela’r Twrch has been released by local school children. The song, composed by the late Richard Jones with lyrics by Gareth Ioan, was recorded by around 220 Year 5 pupils from local schools during Gŵyl Hirddydd Haf in June. The annual festival is held at the Urdd Centre in Pentre Ifan by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Education Department and Menter Iaith Sir Benfro, and this year offered the perfect opportunity to begin welcoming the Eisteddfod to the area. Originally composed for the 1995 Urdd Eisteddfod Bro’r Preseli youth show, Hela’r Twrch traces the legendary story of Culhwch and Olwen while celebrating the heritage and identity of the Preseli region. The original voice on that recording was none other than Lowri Evans, and she returns - along with two of the area’s most recognisable voices, Einir Dafydd and Cleif Harpwood - to welcome another Eisteddfod to the region. Joining the trio is musician Mei Gwynedd, who arranged, recorded and produced the new version. The result? A track full of energy and local pride! The track is available on all streaming platforms, with a colourful video also premiering on YouTube. Catrin Phillips, Welsh Language Development Officer for Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “There is so much pride in our area – this work captures the energy and talent of our young people, and it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the Welsh language and culture as we look forward to welcoming the Eisteddfod.” Councillor John Davies, Chair of the Garreg Las Eisteddfod Working Committee, added: “The excitement is already building! The communities of Pembrokeshire, south Ceredigion and west Carmarthenshire are full of energy and creativity as they raise funds and prepare for 2026. This song captures that spirit perfectly.”
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