TWO famous sports stars could be seen around the Maes.

Former Pontypool and Wales number 8 Eddie Butler is working at the Eisteddfod this year, his first since 1984 in Lampeter.

The 16-times capped international said: “Because it’s in Gwent, there’s definitely an open and inclusive feel to it - all creeds and languages are welcome here, it’s been really great - the atmosphere has been fantastic.

“There’s the industrial feel to this site which gives it a mystical edge, the cultural experience here is very Ebbw Vale.”

Former Wales, Arsenal and Celtic striker John Hartson was in the General Office trying his hand at robot football.

The University of Wales, Newport, is holding Robocup, a robot World Cup, at the end of the week and Mr Hartson was putting his skills to the test.

Due to his playing career and living away in cities such as Glasgow, London and Birmingham, Mr Hartson, a fluent Welsh-speaker, was at his first Eisteddfod.

He said: “I’m honoured to be here, it’s a great day there’s plenty going on and it’s an absolute pleasure to be here with my fellow Welsh people. It’s well worth coming here and I’ve really enjoyed it.”