Penri Williams has been presented with the R. Alun Medal at the 2026 National Eisteddfod in recognition of more than 40 years of service to the Welsh language and the cultural life of Wales.
Born in Porthmadog and having lived in Rhondda Cynon Taf for many years, Penri has made a significant contribution to promoting the Welsh language in his community over several decades.
He is recognised for editing the local papur bro, Tafod Elai, for 38 years and for his involvement with several choirs, including Côr Godre’r Garth, Côr y Mochyn Du/Hen Notiant and Côrdydd.
Penri was also one of the founders of Clwb y Dwrlyn in 1979 and has played a central role in supporting Welsh language activities in the Creigiau, Gwaelod y Garth and Pentyrch areas, including helping revive the Plygain service and the annual visits of the Mari Lwyd.
Before retiring, he worked as an engineer at Aberthaw Power Station near Barry. Throughout his career and in retirement, he has used his technological expertise to support mentrau iaith, promote Welsh medium education, back cultural movements and strengthen the presence of the Welsh language online.
The R. Alun Medal is presented each year to a local community champion who has made a significant contribution to supporting and enriching the culture of their area. The award is given in memory of the late Rev. R. Alun Evans, a central figure in the history of the National Eisteddfod who served on the Council for many years and became a Fellow in 2007. He died just days after the Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod in 2023, aged 86.
Nominating Penri for the honour, Helen Prosser, chair of the Rhondda Cynon Taf 2024 Eisteddfod Executive Committee, said: “Penri’s contribution to the Welsh language and culture of the area is invaluable. He is one of those people you can always count on.
“We use the word ‘incredible’ far too often but the achievement of publishing 403 issues of the paper, has really been incredible. We as a new team are trying to fill his shoes but it is a challenge and a half.”
Penri discovered he had been selected to receive the medal while attending an Eisteddfod in Pontypridd.
He said: “I was waiting with the choir to sing and listening to Helen and trying to work out who she was referring to. I never expected her to name me, and it came as a great surprise. I feel deeply honoured and immensely proud to receive this recognition, and today has been a very special day.”
The family of Rev. R. Alun Evans also welcomed the announcement.
His daughter, Betsan Powys, said: “I’ve known Penri for years, and know from experience that he is someone who contributes quietly in the background, always asking how he can help. That’s true of him in all kinds of areas but most obvious to me, as a fellow member of Côrdydd.
“So, hearing that Penri will receive the R. Alun Medal this year was wonderful news. Talk about a ‘local champion’ that’s Penri.”
