THE Celtic Media Festival 2018 will be held in Llanelli, it has been announced.
Organisers have teamed up with Carmarthenshire County Council, the University of Wales Trinity St David and other partners to bring the festival to the town – an endorsement of its growing reputation as a cultural hub.
The Festival is an annual three-day celebration of broadcasting, film talent and excellence from Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Wales, Cornwall and Brittany.
It is supported by broadcast, film, cultural and economic development organisations, and attracts decision makers for independent and commissioned films, TV programmes and commercials.
The town will become a hub for anyone working in and inspired by the media industry, with an awards ceremony, gala dinner and activities including key note speeches, workshops and seminars.
It is expected to boost the local economy by some £200,000 with businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry set to benefit the most.
Cllr Emlyn Dole, Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Celtic Media Festival to Carmarthenshire. We worked hard with the University of Wales Trinity St David and other partners to bring this festival to Llanelli amongst a strong field of competition.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to increases awareness of the range of media opportunities already available in Carmarthenshire, and those being created by the Yr Egin development in Carmarthen including the relocation of S4C.
“The festival will bring a wide range of talented people together to celebrate media and culture, and will open doors for many people as they network with like-minded people. It will also no doubt be an inspiration for young people who are starting a career in the media industry.
“This event confirms that Llanelli is a great player on a large stage when it comes to events and conferences with a buoyant and well-engaged culture and tourism sector. With anchor facilities such as the purpose-built Ffwrnes Theatre and Stepney Studios; an increasing range of visitor attractions such as Llanelly House and Machynys Golf Club and the increase of bed spaces and quality accommodation, Llanelli certainly has plenty to offer.
“We’re proud that organisers of the Celtic Media Festival recognise the range and scale of opportunities here in Carmarthenshire. We look forward to a vibrant week of events in May 2018.”
The Celtic Media Festival 2018 will be hosted by Llanelli from Wednesday May 2 to Friday May 4. Find out more on the festival’s website www.celticmediafestival.co.uk
