Free entry for the first time to the Urdd Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay

The Urdd Eisteddfod gets underway in Cardiff Bay today and for the first time in its history it will be free for those attending.

It is the first time in a decade that the week-long festival, Wales' largest competitive event for young people, is being staged in the Welsh capital.

More than 90,000 people are expected to visit the Maes centred around the Wales Millennium Centre.

Throughout the week the Senedd will house the Urdd Eisteddfod’s Art, Design and Technology exhibition and the Pierhead will become the Learners’ Pavilion.

Around 15,000 children and young people under the age of 25 will compete during the week in various competitions such as singing, dancing and performing

There will be more than 100 stalls on the Maes along with competitions, games and shows.

Last August the National Eisteddfod was held in the Bay.

A record 500,000 people visited the event - treble the numbers in 2017 hailing it a success by organisers. It's hoped the Urdd Eisteddfod will reap the same success now entry fees have been abolished