Eisteddfod lifts alcohol ban

It will be the first time the event has allowed drink on its field in its 150-year history.

This, plus fireworks, buskers and colourful street performers are part of a vision to improve this year's Eisteddfod and give it more of a carnival atmosphere.

Visitor numbers have been strong in recent years, but the festival has been losing money. Leading organisers met at the weekend to discuss possible changes to its image.

A special meeting of the Eisteddfod council agreed to the changes after demands that it allow more corporate hospitality functions on site.

John Hughes, of Allt-Yr-Yn, chairman of the executive committee for the Newport Eisteddfod, said: "This will bring more of a fiesta atmosphere, with fun activities and attractions like performers on stilts.

"The idea is to broaden its appeal, particularly in an area like Newport, where Welsh speakers are in the minority.

"I'm pleased Newport will be the first place to see the changes. We were last time when we had the first female emcee."

Mr Hughes said the event's founding fathers had a strict outlook on drink. He said: "Conditions have changed now. We don't want to encourage drunkenness but it's unlikely to be a problem."

The Newport Eisteddfod runs from July 31 to August 7 at Tredegar House. Tickets went on sale yesterday.

Councillor Glyn Jarvis, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: "Anything that will encourage youth to visit helps ensure the future of the Eisteddfod. All events seem to offer drink these days. If it's handled sensibly it can only be good."

Chief Inspector Julian Knight, who is planning the policing of the event, said: "The availability of alcohol shouldn't affect a family event that's about expressing the diversity of Welsh culture."

Sioned Davies, assistant organiser of Newport Eisteddfod, said the festival's last visit to Newport in 1988 also saw wider facilities for non Welsh speakers and greater sponsorship.