Cymru captain Angharad James and former Cymru international Joe Allen will be honoured by Gorsedd Cymru at Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las in August.
These honours, presented annually, recognise individuals from all parts of the country for their achievements and their commitment to Wales, our language and their local communities across the whole of Wales. This year’s individuals will be honoured at special ceremonies on the Eisteddfod Maes at Llantwd, Pembrokeshire on Monday 3 August and Friday 7 August.
Angharad James captained Cymru at last summer’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 finals, our first appearance at a women’s major tournament. James was also the youngest player, men’s or women’s, to reach 100 caps when she reached the milestone in 2022.
Joe Allen’s sixteen-year Cymru career saw him represent his country in three major tournaments; two UEFA EURO finals (2016 and 2020) and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Allen’s performance at the UEFA EURO 2016 finals in France played a vital part in Cymru’s historic run to the semi-finals and earned him a place in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament.
As well as their successes on the pitch, both individuals have been positive supporters of the Welsh language, regularly taking part in media activities in the Welsh language.
Speaking about the honour, Angharad James said “Being recognized by Gorsedd Cymru is one of the biggest honours and privileges a Welsh person can have, and it means the world to me and my family. I am proud every time I wear the shirt of my country, but I am equally proud of how I can use the Welsh language across the world, both on the pitch and during media activities.”
“My love for Wales and the language comes from my Pembrokeshire upbringing and my time in Ysgol y Preseli. Being honoured by Gorsedd Cymru at my home county makes it extra special. Hopefully I can inspire other children in the area and across the country to use and celebrate the language in the same way.”
Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las is held from 1-8 August. For more information go to www.eisteddfod.wales.
