Opportunity Wales

Help businesses to grow

Wales flanker Dan Lydiate has been named Six Nations player of the tournament

Lydiate, who won man-of-the-match awards in wins over Scotland and France, took 25% of the 30,000 votes.
He beat Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton, who secured 12% of the vote, while Italian captain Sergio Parisse finished third with 11.6% of the vote. Lydiate’s reputation was enhanced during the tournament for his number of big defensive hits culminating in an impressive display in Wales’ 16-9 Grand Slam clinching triumph over France And Wales captain Sam Warburton hailed Lydiate’s displays, especially against France. Wales dominated the Six Nations player shortlist as captain Sam Warburton, wing Alex Cuthbert and scrum-half Mike Phillips were nominated.

These are some words he added

“It’s something I didn’t expect to be honest,” said 24-year-old Lydiate.
“The feeling of being a Grand Slam winner, I thought nothing could top that.
“To receive this award now I can’t put words to it. I’m so happy and so chuffed.

Eisteddfod 2012 Welsh language cultural festival

The National Eisteddfod is a big Welsh language cultural festival that takes place annually, alternating between north and south Wales. In 2009 it was held in the town of Bala, Gwynedd. In August 2010 it will be held in Ebbw Vale, Blaenau Gwent, and then in Wrexham, in 2011.

It’s the largest cultural festival of its kind in Europe, and a key event in the Welsh calendar. Although events are conducted through the medium of Welsh, the festival itself attracts Welsh and English speakers. It is a mixture of daily talent competitions and evening concerts performers in 2009 included Rhydian X Factor and Only Men Aloud choir Last Choir Standing amongst other big names), gigs, plays and exhibitions. Competitions in the main pavilion vary from dance to recitation, singing to brass bands.

Everyone’s welcome; you’ll receive a warm welcome at the Eisteddfod, regardless of whether or not you can speak Welsh. As a celebration of Welsh culture, Welsh is the official language of the Eisteddfod, but a translation service is available. As you arrive at the Maes, those who require a translating kit can pick one up for the day. You can still enjoy arts, crafts, music and dance and soak up the atmosphere, without an in-depth knowledge of the language.

This year 2012 Eisteddfod will be in august 4-11th.

We will Keep you updated