Volunteers honoured by Urdd Award

Bryn and Marian TomosBryn Thomas, a lecturer at Bangor University's School of Education, along with his wife, Marian Thomas, have been awarded the John and Ceridwen Hughes Medal 2012 at the Urdd Eisteddfod

The Award is given annually to an individual or individuals who have made "a significant contribution to the life of the youth of Wales".

Bryn and Marian Thomas were nominated by Urdd members and parents in the Bangor area, as they have run the Bangor ‘Aelwyd’ (Branch) each week since 2004.

Mr Wyn Thomas, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Community Engagement and Welsh Medium), Bangor University said :
"This is a great example of community involvement by staff who have given many hours of voluntary time to social and cultural opportunities for young people in the area. Bryn Thomas and his wife Marian, are to be congratulated for receiving this deserved award."

Professor Gerwyn Williams, a lecturer at the School of Welsh, was one of the people who nominated the couple. He said: “The Welsh saying, 'if you want something done then ask a busy person' is as appropriate as ever when applied to this helpful couple. Their contribution is vital to maintain Welsh identity among young people of Bangor and the surrounding area."

Bryn Tomos said: “Finding out that we were to receive the Medal was very unexpected and a complete shock to Marian and myself, as well as being a great honour. We genuinely feel unworthy, and that there are other far more deserving people- and yet we are extremely grateful, among others, to the children for their committment. It’s a pleasure to go to the Aelwyd every Thursday. One doesn’t undertake this kind of activity with the intention of receiving any accolade. We’d both enjoyed the Urdd as younger members and wanted to return the favour. Of course it’s also great to be able to contribute something to the children of Bangor as well.”

Efa Gruffudd Jones, Urdd Chief Executive said: “The contribution made by individuals such as Bryn and Marian is priceless, and we are extremely grateful to them for their continuous work in the Bangor area. They offer brilliant opportunities every week to the young people, and the number attending is proof of the young people’s enjoyment. It’s also great that a couple from Eryri have won this year, with the Urdd Eisteddfod visiting Glynllifon.”

Publication date: 7 June 2012