Monmouthshire County Council held a celebration of all things Welsh at County Hall in Usk this week to celebrate St David’s Day.

Councillors and officers were joined by schoolchildren, a singer and representatives of Monmouthshire’s Ukrainian community to mark the day.

As much a celebration of the Welsh language as of the country itself, the event started with addresses from Council Leader Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby and Deputy Chair Martyn Groucutt, before children from two Welsh schools in Monmouthshire performed poems and songs.

Ysgol Gymraeg Trefynwy and Ysgol Gymraeg Y Ffin both performed entirely in Welsh and it was noted that both schools have seen their pupil numbers swell considerably in recent years.

A Welsh speaking guitarist/singer, Mansel Davies, performed well-known Welsh songs including Myfanwy before the pupils were invited to have a look inside the council chamber after sampling the selection of Welsh cakes.

A moving speech was presented by members of the Monmouthshire Ukrainian community in which the similarities between the two countries were explored.

Leader of Monmouthshire County Council, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, said: “It was wonderful to listen to the children singing and reciting in Welsh.

“The Welsh language is such an important part of the history of Wales and also of its future. Learning Welsh at a young age gives children such an asset for the rest of their life.

“I am proud of the work we are doing here in Monmouthshire to promote it.

“Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus.”