SUMMER deserted the National Eisteddfod in Abergavenny yesterday - but not the crowds.

Umbrellas and plastic ponchos replaced sunglasses and sandals, but there were plenty of people braving the increasingly sodden Maes on the third full day of the event.

For those seeking shelter, there were packed programmes of performances and the main pavilion was proving a popular attraction.

"It's been a lovely day, despite the weather. There's so much to do, and it's such a friendly atmosphere," said Debbie Taylor, from Cwmbran, who was visiting with her mum Carol Moore, who lives in Bristol.

"I performed at the Eisteddfod in Newport back in the 1980s when I was a teenager, but its the first time I've been to one since. I'm glad we made the effort."

It has been a tremendous Eisteddfod so far for Gwent performers, with winners during the first three days including: Usk Brass Band (brass bands, section three); Tredegar Town Band (championship, section one); Serenni Morgan, of Pontypool (solo piano, under-16); and Anna Collard, of Newbridge (accompanying on the piano - Eleri Evans Memorial Prize).

Runners-up include Abertillery & District Youth Brass Band (brass bands, section three); Millie Jones, of Gilwern (solo woodwind, under-16); Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw, Pontypool (presentation in word, dance and song); and Rowena Smith and Georgina Belcher, of Abergavenny (open instrumental duet).

First Minister Carwyn Jones also visited the Eisteddfod to launch a consultation on proposals for growing the number of Welsh speakers to one million by 2050.

"In 2011 we introduced legislation to protect the future of the language, and we are confident the discussion we are launching today will continue to help us grow the language so it thrives as a vibrant, living part of our communities," said Mr Jones.