EBBW Vale officially welcomed the coming of the National Eisteddfod at the weekend with a proclamation ceremony in the town.

The week-long event comes to Gwent on July 31 2010 and Saturday marked the the beginning of the year-long countdown.

More than 2,500 people were out in force throughout the day, making the most of the sunshine and the spectacle.

Hundreds of people followed the march to the Gorsedd stone circle from the town centre before the hour-long ceremony, conducted in Welsh.

In a break with the norm, former Archdruid Selwyn Tolen held court as the current incumbent, Dic Jones was unable to take part due to illness.

Former Wales and Scarlets player Robin McBride was chosen to bear the sword and Sarah Baker was tasked with presenting the horn of plenty to the Arch Druid.

Flower girls from schools across Blaenau Gwent entertained the crowds with a dance performance.

Eisteddfod co-ordinator, Jo Thomas, said: "It's been phenomenal, today is very unique and the community have come together, the people of Blaenau Gwent are welcoming the Eisteddfod. The turnout speaks for itself."