Extraordinary local people who went the extra mile to welcome the National Eisteddfod to Pembrokeshire have been recognised at a special ceremony.

Pentre’r Garreg Las opened on Saturday by celebrating community champions, and praising volunteers from across the three counties who worked tirelessly for their local fundraising committees.

Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Cllr Delme Harries said: “Across the Garreg Las region, volunteers have spent countless evenings and weekends organising events, encouraging support, raising funds and bringing their communities together.

“They have done so quietly, often without seeking recognition, simply because they believed in bringing the National Eisteddfod to our area.

“Their efforts have been nothing short of remarkable.”

Local committees raised more than £528,000 over recent years to ensure the festival could be welcomed to the area, the largest amount ever raised by a local fund for a National Eisteddfod.

It is hoped that local groups will continue to engage and promote community spirt after the Eisteddfod.

Cllr Harries added: “We also hope that what has been created through this campaign will leave a lasting legacy.

“The friendships formed, the community spirit strengthened and the partnerships built over the past few years will, we hope, continue long after the final curtain falls on this year's Eisteddfod.”

Pentre'r Garreg Las, Pembrokeshire County Council and partners’ area on the Eisteddfod Maes, is showcasing and celebrating the county, with a full programme of talks, performances and demonstrations throughout the week.