Thousands of people have visited the Royal Welsh Showground over the last two days as the Urdd Eisteddfod has taken over Llanelwedd.

The showground, which is near Builth Wells, is packed with groups of excited children with parents and teachers who are preparing for the competitions and enjoying what the famous event has to offer.

This morning started with 120 youngsters from local primary schools who came together at the pavilion on the field to present the story of Gerallt Gymro.

Surrounded by delicious smells and glittery face paint, guests have been lucky enough enjoy the festival during the sunshine whether they are observing or taking part.

Over the last two days the first of 15,000 children and young people, aged 5-25, have happily started to show off their talents in a wide range of competitions including singing, dancing, hairdressing, cookery, and art and design.

Around 90,000 people in total are expected to visit Europe’s largest youth festival during half term which is returning to the area for the first time in 40 years.

The competitions started yesterday, however concerts were taking place in Brecon and Builth Wells to mark the Eisteddfod’s arrival over the weekend.

The Urdd Eisteddford, which has been in the planning since 2015, includes a fairground and 80 stalls selling everything from books and art to official merchandise and food.

Some of the main competitions that will see will see the winners crowned in the pavilion at 4pm each day are the Art Design and Technology Medal and Scholarship; The Composition Medal; The Learner’s Medal; The Drama Medal; The Chair and The Crown.

An Eisteddfod app, which is available for free from the online shop, has also been developed to give visitors a full list of activities.

Councillor Myfanwy Alexander, Powys council’s cabinet member for education and the Welsh language, said: “It is not an overstatement to say that the whole area is has fallen under the Urdd’s spell. Volunteers have raised not only money for the Eisteddfod itself, but have also raised awareness of it.

“There has been a significant increase in the number of competitors, especially from the Brecon and Radnorshire area, and the young people of Powys have already enjoyed successes in the art and craft competitions.

“The Eisteddfod offers a platform for our talented young people, whether they be fluent in Welsh or learners, and also includes those in our special schools.

“It is a fantastic opportunity also to welcome visitors from all parts of Wales and beyond; we are confident that people will come to the Eisteddfod for a few days, and after seeing what Powys has to offer, will return to explore the area further.”

Daily tickets to visit the Eisteddfod field as well as the evening shows can be bought from the Canolfan Groeso (Welcome Centre) on the field or via their website. For further information call 0845 2571639.