The sum, raised by local fundraising committees, is the largest amount ever collected by a local fund for a National Eisteddfod and played a vital role in enabling the week-long celebration of Welsh language and culture to be held in the area. Opening proceedings at Pentre'r Garreg Las, organisers took the opportunity to thank the many volunteers who spent years organising events, encouraging donations and bringing communities together in support of the Eisteddfod. He said: "Across the Garreg Las region, volunteers have spent countless evenings and weekends organising events, encouraging support, raising funds and bringing their communities together. "They have done so quietly, often without seeking recognition, simply because they believed in bringing the National Eisteddfod to our area. While the National Eisteddfod draws to a close, organisers say the record-breaking fundraising effort and the volunteers behind it have helped ensure the festival leaves a lasting mark on the region.