Carol yr Ŵyl competition returns to S4C

Carol yr Ŵyl is back for the first time since 2019, and the cute factor will be off the scale with primary school children singing original carols and hoping to win the title – Carol yr Ŵyl 2022.

The singer Bronwen Lewis, will be judging for the first time this year and will guide us on a festive tour across Wales. She will also be joined by another of Carol yr Ŵyl’s judges, the musician Robat Arwyn, as we hear the efforts of 11 primary schools that have reached the shortlist this year. From the nativity story, to the war in Ukraine to Santa’s gifts there will be plenty of variety.

Performer Bronwen Lewis is delighted to be on the judging panel for the first time, and to be enjoy new and original songs: “It’s been a pleasure listening to all of it, and co-judging with Robat Arwyn. I am amazed at the standard of the competition, as someone who loves a good, memorable song, many of these carols have been stuck in my head!”

The locations take us from the Llechwedd quarry to the gardens of Cardiff Castle and a church which is now a centre for refugees from Ukraine. Come and experience some Christmas magic in the company of some of Wales’s young singers.

Robat Arwyn has judged in the past. He said: “It’s a unique competition and focuses everyone’s attention on the message of Christmas – the innocence, the hope, the love and the joy – and that applies to all of us, whatever our religion, whatever our beliefs.

“It is a privilege to judge the competition, and it’s great to hear lots of original carols for the first time, sung by children. What better! Catchy tunes, memorable words, beautiful singing, and we’ve been moved to tears. It’s all very special!”

Carol yr Ŵyl airs on Friday 23 December 8.25, S4C