This week the Urdd celebrates 100 years!

Wales has benefitted from an organisation that has helped to protect the Welsh language, and has also brought many happy memories.

The Eisteddfod has provided school children with a platform to gain skills and develop their confidence from a young age, and the sports clubs and societies provide opportunities to keep fit and compete on local and national levels.

Since its creation in 1932, Gwersyll Llangrannog, the residential centre, has welcomed thousands of young people from all parts of Wales to enjoy its facilities, experience new activities, develop their independence and to meet new friends, all through the medium of Welsh.

Ceredigion MS Elin Jones said: “One of my fondest memories of the Urdd Eisteddfod is winning the Under 15 Branch Choir competition with the Lampeter Branch, conducted by Twynog Davies, and of course the experiences of going to the Llangrannog and Glanllyn centres.

“Later on, I also worked in the kitchen in Llangrannog whilst I was a student. These are all experiences that I’ll never forget.

"The Urdd has provided such a wide array of opportunities for so many young people over the generations. A huge congratulations to the Urdd for its centenary, for everything it has offered young people in Wales and for always being so ready to invest and modernise.

“Thank you to all those who are, and all those who have been, so dedicated and given so much time and effort to ensure that generations of children have and still do benefit from this fantastic organisation."

As part of the Urdd’s 100th anniversary celebrations last week, Ceredigion County Council’s buildings were lit red, white and green after dark to mark the occasion.

Councillor Ellen ap Gwynn, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, said: “Today is a big day for the Urdd, as it embarks on a year of celebrations to mark the 100th birthday.

"We would like to congratulate the organisation on 100 years of dedicated service to the Welsh language, and to young people in Wales.

"So many people have benefited from being members of the Urdd, it is a chance to meet new people, build courage by competing, have fun in the residential centres across Wales, as well as many other invaluable contributions. Thank you very much and happy birthday.”

Since 1922, Urdd Gobaith Cymru has provided opportunities for over 4 million children and young people to enjoy sporting, arts, residential, humanitarian and voluntary experiences through the medium of Welsh.

A spokesperson for the Council said: "Ceredigion has a strong relationship with the Urdd where the clubs and schools offer a variety of activities for young people.

"It is also the home of one of the residential centres, Gwersyll yr Urdd, based in Llangrannog.

"We would like wish the Urdd a very happy birthday and look forward to continuing to support the movement as it offers opportunities for children and young people to compete, enjoy and socialise through the medium of Welsh."