LLANGOLLEN International Musical Eisteddfod (LIME) officials say they will 'adapt the format of the event' after they suspended the traditional live competition strands for 2021.

The decision comes following the continuing uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic.

LIME organises say they recognise that there 'continues to be significant uncertainty about the possibility of mass events in Wales in the summer of 2021' and that Covid-19 restrictions around the world have had a 'significant impact on the groups of choirs and dancers that would usually attend' their event.

They are now looking at 'digital options' and a 'weekend hybrid event' in order to keep the hugely-popular event going in one way or another, with details set to be confirmed in late Spring.

A statement from LIME Chairman Dr Rhys Davies read: "There continues to be significant uncertainty about the possibility of mass events in Wales in the summer of 2021, which means that it is unlikely that we will be able to welcome audiences and our international participants in the usual way.

"We also recognise the commitment required from the groups and individuals to showcase their cultures and take part in our competitive strand, which would undoubtedly be impacted by the current Coronavirus restrictions.

"These circumstances mean that we have decided to suspend the traditional live competition strands for Llangollen 2021, and reimagine our event in a way that can be delivered safely but which will still capture the magic of our international Eisteddfod.

"Customers who have retained tickets from 2020, who are impacted by this will be contacted in the next week to confirm their ticketing options.

"We know that it will be a disappointment to many that we are not able to put on our usual Eisteddfod this year. But please be reassured that we remain committed to our Eisteddfod’s founding mission of bringing people together through music and dance, which will be at the heart of our alternative approach to Llangollen 2021. We thank you for your understanding and as ever, we are grateful for your support."

In 2020, LIME tookk their event online for the very first time, which proved to be a success among its supporters worldwide.