A CAMPAIGN is under way to designate Llangollen as the 'Festival Capital of Wales'.
The town has been famous for its International Musical Eisteddfod for 60 years, but during that time it has also seen a number of other high-profile festivals established on its tourism calendar.
Llangollen Enterprise Partnership has asked the town be granted the title by the Tourist Board.
Llangollen Enterprise Partnership chairwoman Judith Dodd said: 'We have been extremely fortunate in having the International Eisteddfod and the facility in which it takes place, the Royal International Pavilion, which is capable of hosting large multi-purpose events.
'This, allied to other smaller venues in the town itself, has helped attract events organisers from all over the UK and ensure the tourism season of Llangollen is extended accordingly.'
Events such as the Balloon Festival, Llangollen Fringe, Food Festival and Jazz Festival all contribute to visitor figures in excess of a million, generating £42m into the economy.
Gwyn L Williams, chief executive of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: 'The recent investment announced into the Royal International Pavilion of almost £600,000 is another example of why Llangollen should be regarded as the Festival Capital of Wales.
'These monies will be invested into a year-long festival of events, concerts and workshops, building on the international theme established by the Eisteddfod but, more importantly, being dispensed into satellite venues in the town itself.
'This will automatically see an increase in visitor numbers to the town and Pavilion.'
Investment of more than £10m in the past five years has seen the infrastructure of the town develop as a true festival venue with improvements and new builds of accommodation, restaurants and tourist attractions.
Mr Williams added: 'I strongly believe Llangollen should be designated the Festival Capital of Wales, with all the many varied events that take place
.'
