ENCOURAGING musicians to write and compose new songs was one of composer and performer Alun 'Sbardun' Huws' main interests.

Following the Penrhyndeudraeth musician’s death in 2014, his widow, Gwenno, decided to set up a competition for the best original folk song in order to attract young musicians to compose.

"Sbardun was passionate about writing new Welsh songs," said Gwenno, "and encouraged musicians to do so often.

“He had given help for many to do so, inspiring them to take risks.

"The intention of Tlws Spardun is to continue his wishes, and I hope that the Trophy and the financial prize attract young musicians to do that."

On Wednesday afternoon the Trophy and the cash prize of £500 were presented to Elliw Jones.

She used to sing with the group Tant but she also performs on her own.

Best known as one of the founding members of Y Tebot Piws, Sbardun was also a member of several other well-known bands such as Ac Eraill and Mynediad am Ddim.

And as well as composing songs to be performed by himself and his bands, he also wrote songs for others, among them Bryn Fôn, Brigyn, Linda Griffiths and Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog.

He worked for the BBC and ITV as a highly respected researcher, scriptwriter and producer for many years.

The special competition was held at the Monmouthshire Eisteddfod 2016 and the first winner was Elidyr Glyn from the Caernarfon area.

He said at the time that winning the competition was a big boost to his confidence.

Elidyr Glyn went on to win Cân i Wales in 2019 with 'Fel Hyn 'da Ni Fod', and with Bwncath he has released three successful albums since then.

Alis Glyn from Caernarfon was the winner of the trophy last year at the Wrexham National Eisteddfod with her song 'Llinyn Arian'.

Aged eighteen, Alis was the first girl to win the Trophy, and also the youngest to win it.

The song was released as a single in April this year.

To celebrate ten years since the competition was established, all of the previous winners were invited to attend.

In the Battle of the Folk Bands the new group Mantach came out on top.

The group of five young and exciting folk musicians played their first gig in Llanfyllin just six weeks ago.