The area of Wales with closest links to English culture has voted to invite the National Eisteddfod to the area, a century after it last hosted the event.

Welsh speakers in Monmouthshire number just 7% of the population, but on Wednesday, councillors decided to put in a bid to hold one of Europe's largest cultural events.

For too long Monmouthshire has missed out on the benefits of hosting Welsh cultural events

David Waring, Monmouthshire council

The National Eisteddfod - a celebration of Welsh song, dance and prose - was last held in the county in 1913, in Abergavenny.

Following a vote by council members, Monmouthshire council, has decided to invite the event to the area in 2010.

Council leader, David Waring said: "I am delighted that the cabinet has taken this decision.

"But, we must remember that this is only the first step and now the county as a whole has to convince the National Eisteddfod that we are capable of hosting and making a valuable contribution.

Flower girl takes part in the crowning ceremony

"Hosting the event will not be easy and it will require a huge contribution by local people.

"But, all the effort will be worthwhile - for too long Monmouthshire has missed out on the benefits of hosting Welsh cultural events and it is high time we changed that situation," he added.

The county would have to raise a sizeable proportion of the estimated �1.5m cost of running the event, but the economic benefits to the area are substantial.

Two years ago, thousands of visitors to the National Eisteddfod at Llanelli contributed more than �6m to the area's coffers.

Monmouthshire council has already appointed a Welsh language and cultural tourism officer Ffion Griffiths, who said old perceptions of "English" Monmouthshire were changing.

The eisteddfod focuses strongly on tradition

"I found that there is a lot of support for the Welsh language. People feel that they have missed out on the chance," she said.

"Some people have said I have been lucky to have grown up in a Welsh-speaking atmosphere.

"The Eisteddfod does give a huge boost to the economy but it also brings language-based activities."

Monmouthshire Comprehensive School's head of Welsh Llinos Vincent said it would be an excellent idea.

"I think it would be excellent for the pupils to compete in all kinds of competitions, bringing awareness for the language and culture."