One of the most important events in the Welsh literary calendar - the chairing of the bard - was at the centre of events at the National Eisteddfod in St David's on Friday.

The prestigious accolade - perceived as the most acclaimed prize for poetry at the eisteddfod - has already proved to be a controversial issue.

The chair is a far cry from the traditional creation

The chair, which was awarded to the winner, Myrddin ap Dafydd, from Llanrwst, has been described as one of the most radically designed of the last 100 years.

It has been made by Pembrokeshire teacher, Robert Jones who says it represents the "struggles of life and social change" in the county.

Its design is a departure from the traditional wooden structure and is made of wrought iron, oak and avonite, with a Celtic cross on one armrest, and a blackthorn bush on the other.

"There are several symbolism within the chair," Mr Jones said.

"The base itself represents the earth or what gives life.

I can see why people are surprised by the chair it certainly is striking Elfed Roberts, eisteddfod director

"On the right hand side is a tree which is a blackthorn tree

"In my eyes I have made the tree the people because they have had to live off a meagre existence. In Wales the people have had to bend or change."

The chair's sponsors, the Pembrokeshire branch of the Farmers Union of Wales were unanimous in accepting the radical design.

The change has also been embraced by the organisers of the eight-day event which comes to an end on Saturday.

Dramatic change

Elfed Roberts, eisteddfod director said: "The crown has varied in design from year-to-year but there has not been any great development in the chair.

"I don't think the design of the chair has changed dramatically in the past 100 years - but this one has definitely.

"It certainly is different, I like it and it certainly grows on you.

"I can see why people are surprised by the chair it certainly is striking."

The chair was awarded for the best poem written in a strict metre called Cynghanedd.

Mr ap Dafydd won for his poem on paths.

He drew his inspiration from travelling thousands of miles in his capacity as Children's poet.

It is the second time he has won the chair, the first time was at the Rhymney Valley Eisteddfod in 1990.