The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has a new chairman.

John Gambles, a retired education officer and teacher, has been appointed as the new chairman of the festival.

Mr Gambles has been a volunteer with the Eisteddfod since 1987.

He previously served as vice-chairman and chaired the board’s executive committee.

Mr Gambles said: "I am immensely proud to have become the new chairman of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

"Since 1947, the festival has played a leading role in promoting peace and internationalism through music and dance.

"Every year, we welcome the world to our beautiful part of North East Wales and to play a leading role in delivering the festival is an enormous privilege."

Mr Gambles, who was the deputy headteacher at Ysgol Dinas Brân in Llangollen, said that the festival has more than 600 active volunteers.

He said: "Together, we deliver something truly special and precious to all of us.

"Sadly, many festivals are no longer, victims of the pandemic and economic pressures, and we have found the last few years extremely challenging.

"As chairman, I will work hard to help lead our strategy to become more resilient and self-sufficient and become less dependent upon on government grants by moving towards becoming an all-year-round organisation.

"This will also help to strengthen the local economy and ensure that Llangollen, a town with a big voice, continues to play its part in modern Wales."

Mr Gambles also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor, Professor Chris Adams, who will remain on the festival board.

Mr Gambles said: "Chris took over as chair at a time of great difficulty and navigated us through tough times.

"His commitment to the legacy of the Llangollen Eisteddfod continues and he will play a key role in our heritage and peace offerings.

"Our message of peace and internationalism is as relevant today as it was in 1947."

The new chairman pledged to continue supporting the festival's partnership with Cuffe and Taylor.

He also aims to ensure the continuation of the festival's core message of peace.

The new vice-chairman will be Llangollen resident Grant Calton, a business founder and investor in the music, film, and television industries in Europe and Australia.

Mr Calton is a partner at Ironbridge Capital and a business mentor to The Prince's Trust and the Guild of Mercers.

The newly elected board members are Fiona Brockway and Morgan Thomas.

Former chairman Dr Rhys Davies, a GP, is also set to make a return to the board.