A PAIR of Coleg Llandrillo’s art and design students who recently excelled at the Urdd Eisteddfod county competitions will now represent both their college and county at the all-Wales finals.

Kayley Owen and Elijah Tabberner scooped six first places and two thirds between them after competing in several of the art, craft and technology competitions.

Both students are studying on the Level 3 Extended Diploma in art and design course at the college’s Rhos-on-Sea campus.

Kayley, 17, from Llanrwst, was awarded first place in five categories: creative 2D work, modified photographs, black and white photographs, print-making, and jewellery making.

Elijah, 18, from Colwyn Bay, gained a first and two third places.

They will both go on to represent Coleg Llandrillo and Conwy county at the Urdd National Eisteddfod finals, as first and second placed entrants automatically qualify for the national final.

READ MORE:

Conwy town clerk agrees settlement after disagreement led her to resign

Sentence and ban for Colwyn Bay man guilty of drink- and drug-driving in Gwynedd

Kinmel Bay man who died following Conwy crash drove into back of lorry

Kayley said: “I am really proud of my achievements so far as I have worked really hard, and I am really looking forward to the national finals.

“The course is fantastic, especially the practical aspects, and my favourite medium is mixed media.

“After the course finishes, I will be staying on at Coleg Llandrillo to study for a foundation degree in art & design before going onto university.”

Elijah added: “Photography is my passion: I grew up around photography as my dad’s a huge fan.”

Elijah is also going to study for a foundation degree at Coleg Llandrillo, but in photography.

One of their tutors, Tim Williams, said: “It's been a real privilege to teach the group this year and to see how these students are really fighting back following the pandemic.

“Their output is incredible and the creativity that emanates from their studio is inspiring.

“It's the icing on the cake that two of them, Elijah and Kayley, have been selected for the final round of the Urdd National Eisteddfod.

“I wish them both the best of luck and will keep my fingers crossed for a medal or two.”

Liz Prosser, deputy manager of computing and creative industries, added: “Kayley and Elijah have both done fantastically to get to this stage.

“They will now get the opportunity to take part and showcase their range of skills in a national competition, and celebrate their Welsh culture, too.”