Thousands of people are expected to flock to the northwest corner of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park on September 29-30 for the fantastic Llandovery Sheep Festival 2012 supported by Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority’s Rural Alliances initiative.
The wooly, weekend extravaganza actually kicks off early this year on Friday, September 28th with a Macmillan Coffee Morning organised by Llandovery’s Mayor – Councillor Jill Blud – in Llandovery’s Market Square. During the evening Jac y Do, one of Wales’ most popular folk bands, will entertain the crowds with a lively Twmpath at The Castle Hotel; while there will also be a disco outside The Bear.
One of the aims of the festival is to remind people how versatile wool is and highlights include a wool sack race through the historic Market Square, Baaaaarobics with ‘Hammy the Hamster’ and ‘Sarah the Sheep’ and numerous stall holders selling high quality woollen gifts. There will also be guided walks to Poor Man’s Wood and Llyn y Fan and an amazing fireworks display on Saturday night. Saturday will also see the Sheep Dog Trials and shearing, while Llandovery will also play host to the UK’s National Rare Coloured Breed Auction at the Mart on Sunday.
Musical entertainment during the Festival comes in a variety of styles, with Beshley Thorp, Luke James, Llandovery Male Voice Choir, The Summer Singers, Amheus, Aunty Depressants, Desperation and The Jack and Graham Band all flexing their vocal chords.
Literary talent comes in the form of Welsh children’s author and illustrator Rob Lewis, along with ‘Bred of Heaven’ author Jasper Rees who will discuss his ‘hiraeth’ in reclaiming his Welsh roots and his adventures in trying to do so. The acclaimed Welsh Poet, Grahame Davies will also be reading a mixture of Welsh and English poetry.
There’s also plenty on offer to entertain children, including Dragon storytelling from Alchemy and circus entertainment from the talented and popular Organised Kaos crew.
Organiser of Llandovery Sheep Festival Fiona Walker said: “The previous two Llandovery Sheep Festivals have been an enormous success, and we’re confident that this year’s programme will attract even more Sheep Festival fans this time around – there really is something for everyone.
“Here in Llandovery we’re proud of our heritage and local folklore, and this Festival really shows off what’s great about this unique town.”
Catrin Parish-Marks, Sustainable Tourism Officer (Rural Alliances project) for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, added: “The Authority has supported this fantastic event since its inception in 2010. Dedicated volunteers from the whole community work together to ensure there’s a whole weekend of fun for residents and visitors. There is always a warm welcome in the vibrant community of Llandovery and we wish the organisers all the best for this year’s festival. Hopefully woolly jumpers will be optional.”
For more information about Llandovery Sheep Festival or to see the Festival programme please visit www.llandoverysheepfestival.co.uk.
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