Aberystwyth Town Council’s 15 August open day included a ceremony celebrating those whose dedication secured UNESCO City of Literature status for Aberystwyth and Ceredigion.

Councillors, community representatives, volunteers and members of the public marked the success of the Dinas Llên initiative, which saw Aberystwyth Ceredigion join the prestigious UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Aberystwyth Mayor, Cllr Emlyn Jones, thanked representatives from the Dinas Llên partnership for their contribution to a bid that has placed Aberystwyth Ceredigion on the international stage alongside renowned Cities of Literature around the world.

Organisation awards were presented to the Aberystwyth Ceredigion Dinas Llên Partnership, Books Council of Wales, Aberystwyth University, Ceredigion County Council, University of Wales Trinity St David, and National Library of Wales.

Individual awards went to Professor Mererid Hopwood, Dr Dana Edwards, and Dr Elinor Gwynn.

Speakers reflected on the area's unique literary traditions, from its long-established links with Welsh language literature and publishing to its vibrant contemporary creative community.

Celebrations continued on Neuadd Gwenfrewi’s lawn, where guests enjoyed tea and cake and listened to Aberystwyth Silver Band.

Alongside the celebration, visitors met town councillors and staff, learnt about the council and explored The Presbytery, Aberystwyth Town Council’s home.

Mayor Emlyn Jones said: "The UNESCO City of Literature designation is a remarkable achievement for Aberystwyth and Ceredigion and reflects a lot hard work by many dedicated people and organisations.

“We were delighted to recognise those efforts and celebrate this success with the community.

“The open day provided a fitting opportunity to showcase both the work of the Council and the cultural achievements that make our area so special.”

Town council thank everyone who attended the event and those who contributed to the success of Dinas Llên, ensuring literature, creativity and culture remain at the heart of community life in Aberystwyth and across Ceredigion.