MONMOUTH Male Voice Choir members are having their final rehearsals before competing at next week’s National Eisteddfod in Abergavenny.

Deputy Conductor Matt Watkins who sings in the top tenor section said: “We are in our final preparations for next week and it will be a very important day. We have sung at the Royal Albert Hall and at the Principality Stadium and now competing at the National Eisteddfod for Wales will be a unique experience.

“We know there is pressure on us as the local choir but we also know that we should have a lot of supporters cheering us on.”

The Choir was formed only four years ago and this will be its first Eisteddfod experience. They will be sing three pieces as part of their twelve minute programme and each piece must be performed in Welsh.

Matt Watkins said: “It is wonderful that Monmouthshire is hosting this year’s Eisteddfod. Abergavenny held the Eisteddfod in 1913 so it is a great honour for us all that it is returning a century later.

“As a Choir we appreciate all the hard work that so many people have put in to making it happen. The Eisteddfod always leaves its mark wherever it takes place and we sure that it will leave Monmouthshire more culturally enriched.”

Monmouth will be the first of eight choirs to perform in the competition for choirs over 20 voices. The competition starts at 1.00pm on Saturday 6th August. Supporters can attend the competition which takes place in the Eisteddfod Pavilion by buying tickets on the day for £20.