A Llandeilo school choir has been named the best primary school choir in Wales.

Ysgol Teilo Sant fought off stiff competition from Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Llwyncelyn, Porth; Ysgol Gymraeg Llangennech and Ysgol Pen Barras, Ruthin to win the Côr Cymru Primary School trophy on Saturday, April 6 on the Great Hall stage, Aberystwyth.

Teilo Sant Choirmaster Nia Clwyd Davies said: “I’m immensely proud of the time and effort the children have put into preparing for this competition. And now their dedication has been rewarded.

“It is a great honour to accept this award. I would like to thank the children and their parents for all their hard work, it was the children’s talent that earned this success.

“If it wasn't for the accompanists - Gareth Gradell, Gruffydd Rhys, Siwan Fflur Dafydd and most notably Km Lloyd Jones, it would have been difficult if not impossible to compete.

"Thank you for your determination, support and friendship. Often the work of the accompanists is taken for granted, I am indebted to you.

“Thanks also to Gwawr Owen, Rondo and S4C for running a competition like this, ensuring that there is recognition and a platform for the efforts of schools across Wales.

"It’s a celebration of choral singing, and what is special about us as a nation.

"Our politicians and those willing to make cuts need to realise the importance of the expressive arts to the health and well-being of children and young people.

"It is a way of creating friendships, learning essential life skills, and escaping the pressures of the world. Music is as important as maths, language and science. Please don't underestimate it.

"It is too late when you’ve lost it. Congratulations also to the other three choirs and thank you for your friendship.

“The aim now is to focus on the Urdd Eisteddfod which is now on the horizon and all those opportunities that this festival offers to our youth.

"I feel privileged and a responsibility to work with children and young people, and despite the odd grey hair, they do keep me young.”

The choir’s repertoire of four songs was adjudicated by a panel of three international judges.

Soprano Elin Manahan Thomas, who was a commentator on S4C’s “Côr Cynradd Cymru”, also gave her vote to Teilo Sant’s performance.

Aled Rees, Headteacher at Ysgol Teilo Sant, added:“This group of children have only been performing together since September, which makes us only more proud of their achievement. Da iawn blant!”

The choir plan to celebrate in style this coming Saturday, by coming together to re-live the experience and have a sing-along.