WITH many British holidaymakers opting to holiday at home this year, Llangollen could receive a record number of visitors as it plays host to the International Eisteddfod.

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, which takes place from July 6-12, is expected to attract more than 4,000 competitors and 50,000 visitors from more than 50 countries.

The minister for heritage, Alun Ffred Jones, said: “Llangollen festival has always had a large impact on the tourist map of Wales, with 50,000 international performers and festival-goers visiting Llangollen each year.

“The festival is a unique Welsh event which not only celebrates our own culture but also brings together cultures from around the world. To have such a vibrant international festival on our own doorstep is something we are very proud of here in Wales.”

Established in 1947 to promote peace and goodwill between nations through music and dance, the festival continues to thrive and shows no signs of relenting under the current economic climate.

Mervyn Cousins, the festival’s executive director, said: “Ticket sales for this year’s festival are selling well, with almost all tickets sold for International Children’s Day on the Tuesday of the festival.

“We have also seen an increase on ticket sales for Wednesday’s International Song and Dance Day and Saturday’s International Family Day compared with sales for this time last year.

“The uptake on ticket sales for Saturday’s family day suggests that families are this year choosing to spend their holiday time in the UK visiting local events.”

This year’s festival will include an extra day of activities on Sunday, July 12.

For tickets or further details, call 01978 862001 or visit www.llangollen2009.com.