First day at the Maes
Post categories: Eisteddfod
| 14:50 UK time, Monday, 1 August 2011
Well, it's my first day at the National Eisteddfod of Wales, and I must first point out that I am an Eisteddfod virgin. My family are installed at the cottage and before I know I've arrived I'm off to the 'Maes'.
It's totally buzzing here for the procession of the Druids... or the Gorsedd as they are called. I love the whole pomp of the ceremony, but also the way they stop and have a bit of a chat with friends mid procession... oh we Welsh love a chat!
I can honestly tell you I haven't seen so much gold on show since I went to a Danny La Rue concert in 1978.
Wynne at the National Eisteddfod in Wrexham
The ceremony was very moving with former Welsh rugby international Robin McBride as the sword bearer; he has big shoes to fill with the sword bearer before him having been the late great Ray Gravell.
After the ceremony I got to interview the Archdruid Jim Parc Nest (T James Jones) and Robin 'sword bearer' McBride. They told me about the significance of the ceremony and how the sword is always in its sheath, as the Eisteddfod is a place of peace and all welcoming.
I just wonder if the Welsh forwards' coach will be taking the sword with him on Saturday to inspire the Welsh rugby team to beat England at Twickenham... well, needs must.
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