THE 2020 Urdd Eisteddfod in Denbigh has been postponed.

Urdd Gobaith Cymru made the announcement this morning and the Eisteddfod will instead be held in the region in 2021.

This is just one of a number of decisions made by Urdd Gobaith Cymru to deal with the current Coronavirus situation.

All three of the Urdd's residential centres, including Glan-llyn in Llanuwchllyn, will be closed from Friday, March 20 until further notice.

In addition, all local and regional Eisteddfodau have been cancelled, as have all sporting competitions.

All community activities have also been cancelled until further notice.

After news of its cancellation, the Urdd Eisteddfod will now be held in Denbigh in May 2021 and the Urdd is in continuous discussion with its broadcasting partners S4C and BBC Radio Cymru regarding the options around celebrating our members’ talents on a different platform in 2020.

Cancelling major events and closing its residential centres clearly present significant financial challenges to the Urdd and initial estimates suggest a financial hit of nearly £4 million from the measures announced.

The Urdd is in discussion with all its partners, including the Welsh Government regarding the huge impact the current situation will have on the Urdd, its workforce of 320 and the young people and children of Wales.

Urdd chief executive Siân Lewis said: “It’s hugely disappointing for all involved to have to close our centres and cancel our events, but the safety and wellbeing of our staff, members and supporters is paramount.

"Our aim now is to safeguard the organisation through planning a sustainable future and utilising our energy, commitment and values to helping Wales cope with this crisis.

“The movement, formed nearly a century ago with a firm commitment to Wales and wider humanity, will discuss the current situation with Government ministers and also explore how the Urdd and its staff could best be deployed to meet the mounting challenges facing the elderly and most vulnerable in Wales.”

The Urdd is in direct contact with all its stakeholders regarding the situation and will be updating them on any developments as swiftly and frequently as possible.