MORE than 10,000 people descended on Abergavenny yesterday as the National Eisteddfod continues its showcase of Welsh culture.

With a variety of performances, exhibitions, activities and stalls on the Castle Meadows site, there was something for everyone from the vocal ensemble in the Pagoda at 9am to the Battle of the Bands on the Open Air Stage which ran for more than four hours.

Many people seemed to mill around the main pavilion featuring the competition element of the event.

The distinct blue big top housing an array of stalls focusing on Monmouthshire’s crafts, history and art was very popular, with a kid’s sandcastle area, a handmade stall by the Abergavenny Crafty Women Group and a stand featuring the Black Rock Lave Net heritage Fishery.

Under secretary of state for Wales Guto Bebb MP was making his way around the site and said: “It’s been a fantastic visit so far, having the Eisteddfod here in Abergavenny is great and they have really embraced it.

“Every stand is so enthusiastic and they have really showed what the valleys of Wales has to offer.”

Sun shone for most of the day, with a brief drizzle failing to dampen anyone’s spirits.

A performance by Sian James in Ty Gwerin proved a popular hit especially with those of an older generation.

Across the first five days of the eight-day event, the county has played host to well over 70,000 visitors.

Sue Jones of Abergavenny Crafty Women, said: “It’s been very enjoyable all week, the kids crowning on Tuesday was great to see and it was so beautiful.

“This has been perfect for groups like us to raise our profile and reach and wider audience.”

Other stand out areas included the Pentre Llen Literature Village, the Cwt Drama stand and Babell Len by the Gorsedd Circle.

The Wales-Argentine Society put on a creative display to a packed pavilion in the Maes D centre for Welsh Learning before the Welsh Learner of the Year competition, which included an array of instruments from the harp to the guitar.

Gareth Davies, 20, was presenting from Cardiff University and added: “It’s been so much fun so far. Not speaking Welsh does mean it can be limited but there is loads going on.”