A NEW feature of this year’s Llangollen International Eisteddfod was the Story Hub, which allowed groups and guests to combine and tell, listen to and exchange stories about previous Eisteddfod from years gone by.

The idea behind the hub, supported by Llangollen Council, is to keep a digital archive of what staff call "fascinating and captivating" stories from the local area and store them for years to come so that they can be looked back on in the future.

None were in a better position to tell such great tales of the International Eisteddfod than those who have volunteered on site for over half a century.

80-year-old Betty Roberts from Llangollen had been part of the hospitality committee at the Eisteddfod for several years, even stepping up as chair of the group. By now, she is still part of the Eisteddfod's committee and has been visiting the festival for 53 years in total.

Speaking to Reporter Arron Evans at the Story Hub, Betty said: "I've always loved the aspect of looking after people whilst they come over to visit.

"I used to be in charge of sorting out places for some of our guests to stay - from the VIP's to the acts themselves. I was once able to find last minute accommodation for 67 Hungarians who had come to perform.

"Seeing the smiles on their faces when they realised that we had sorted it out for them is what made my contribution worthwhile.

"I do miss the hospitality side of the festival, but I still love coming to visit every year."

The Story Hub is not just designed for the International Eisteddfod, but also for use throughout the year, as a way for residents to share and keep a record of any interesting stories they might like to share via audio and video interviews.

It is designed to help shape the future of the Llangollen Eisteddfod and the Town itself by allowing people to give their opinions.

Volunteer Charlie Jones said: "The Story Hub has been created to record what people love about the eisteddfod, their memories of it over the years right from its early days to the present and what it means to them.

“So far it’s been going well and many people have been in to speak to us - Jules Holland even paid a visit on Monday!

"We’d like to see as many people as possible coming in to see us over the course of the week and everyone will get a warm welcome.”